How difficult and/or expensive is it to use an actual (VOIP I think) phone to call with Skype? The main reason I prefer an actual phone is because I don't want to have to sit right in front of the computer to call with Skype. Does anyone have any experience with this?

You can use a phone with the proper equipment. Vonage is just that, basically Skype with a plug for your phone. There are wireless Bluetooth headsets that you can use with Skype. My dad uses it all the time since he is in Japan. I'll ask him what he uses and get back to you.

thankjs for that. to be sure, my home phone is fucked and dont seem to work anymore, so any phone would have to be connected to the computer. But yeah, Bluetooth in general is a good idea re wireless