You can check the warranty status here: https://selfsolve.apple.com/agreementWarrantyDynamic.do
If it is in warranty they will replace it free with either a new or refurbished phone. There is no way to know which, and by looking at it you won't know whether it is new or refurb.
If it is out of warranty the replacement will cost $199. You can probably find someone to repair it for a little less, but there are no standards or certifications for non-Apple repair shops, so you are taking a chance.
They will not transfer your content; you will have to take it home and do it on the same computer you synced the old one too (just be sure to sync and back up before going).
If traveling is a hardship you can also call Apple and arrange a replacement by UPS or FedEx.