new member

it appears you guys have a great forum and some very sharp people contribute.  i'm new.  ordered samsung eternity 2 days ago, should be here monday.  therefore not at all versed in phone details yet.  i see there is great interest in the gps mode on the phone.  i look forward to using that as well.  my ? is as follows: to use the gps via amaze and the like is there a way around purchasing a data plan and subscription service?  also, any advice for the new kid here as to what i should do set my phone up in order to get the most out of it right out of the gate?