Using unlocked Bell Bold 9700 in Europe

Hi all
I am thinking of unlocking my Bell BB 9700 for my trip to Europe. When I get to Rome, i would like to buy a SIM card and put it in.

Has anyone done this with a Bell phone or does anyone think this will work? I would like to use BBM and check email while there. Also, what would this cost?

Thank you all!

It will work no problem. You will need to find a carrier that supports BIS. Orange is a popular brand that supports BIS which gives you unlimited BBM and email for around 25$