You could also use Talkatone or Whistle apps to make direct phone calls (in the States, they are free). You get a "normal" phone number and you can dial any other phone, landline or cell. You can also receive calls (and I think you can send texts via Talkatone ... not sure). In addition, with Talkatone, you can tie it into your Google account and use that phone number versus getting another.
They are both free in the App Store and work fine for me - YMMV. I actually used Talkatone one time to get help with a blown tire. Worked great.
Marilyn