I bought a phone in China and it can be set to use the English language. Also phones can be unlocked (for a small fee ) especially if they are from a top named company.Best to ask about that. Tri band phones are better as you can use them in oher countries. Expensive ? Varies from city to city and also the time of the year. Payment plans also vary. Mine is cheap especially after 10 pm and before 8 am. You need to make more enquiries before buying.