"Fair local rate" is indeed a bit ridiculous compared to actual local rates in some countries, but compared to roaming these rates are quite good. If I want to use my NL plan in India, my provider charges me €20 for a 2GB bundle or €2,50 per MB (yes, MB, not GB!). If I would only be there for a week or so, I would probably not bother with the trouble of getting a local SIM (and in some countries that is not even possible if you are not a resident).