You can NOT use a prepaid SIM with this thing, I just tried. So instead of 30 dollars a month it looks like I will be spending 65 or so.
I didn't read the entire thread but call T-mobile and tell them you're traveling abroad in a week and need an unlock code.
The phone will be unlock and you can cancel your contract and do as you please.
T-mobile still have a $200 ETF which I'm surprised they haven't raised for their premium phone.