Many businesses are now using Skype ( Voice over internet protocol ).
It's a free download.
You can use it with a laptop, netbook or Ipad.
I take my netbook when I travel & use this.
On the personal side, my wife talks to her family in the Philippines every night for an hour or so, with or without video, all for free.
Saved me a small fortune on calls.
Otherwise, when you get to your country of choice, buy a pre-paid phone over there.
Much cheaper than using your own countries phone.
Another very cheap way, is to buy a phone card when in your destination and use that to call back home.
Email is still a good way of keeping in touch for many things, including letting your clients know that you are away until the 12th of never, presuming that you notify them prior to leaving.
Shorty.