25% of Americans to connect internationally over holidays

"Our findings show that nearly two out of five American adults have family and friends living abroad, and during men tend to prefer traditional methods of communication when it comes to staying in touch, women appear to be opting for alternative methods like social networks. I think the larger trend is that women are making smarter communication choices, which has the reciprocal affect helping them save money while a time of year where nearly everyone can benefit from a little more cash in their wallet," said Andreas Bernstrom, CEO of Rebtel.

Women are most likely to reach out to friends outside the US, finds the report, with most reaching out through social networks; one-third plan to use video chat services to catch up. Men, in the meantime, are most likely to connect with family members abroad via phone/landline.

- 71% will connect via email- 43% will connect via mobile device- 45% will connect through social networks- 33% will use text messaging Back to video chat services like Skype, 30% of men and 33% of women say they'll try to visit with family through video options during 9% will use VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services and 22% will use IM services.