You can buy an Apple iPhone without a contract and without activation for a considerably higher amount (just like any other cell phone). The iPhone requires activation in order for anything other than emergency calls to work.
I usually get familiar with the product first. I go to stores like Best Buy, and some Walmarts now have cellular service, then I shop online once I know exactly what I want.
You can buy it strait from apples web store @store.apple.com. If you are concerned in regards to being out of the country, apple has a variety of different countries to choose from. Also, when you...