Thanks for your kind advice and empathy, David – indeed there’s something to be said for getting back up on the horse (or airplane, or scooter, or car)! And yes….ever grateful that it wasn’t worse.

🙂

Thanks David! My partner is recovering very well, and you are right – better the hospital than the grave. We are both very lucky.
Indeed….in the weeks preceding the accident I had been thinking about what it would be to drop the scooter, but rested on my riding experience (I have many years of riding motorcycles in my repertoire), and defensive driving skills.
But like you say, there’s no accounting for other drivers sometimes – which is exactly what happened. This other driver was on the phone, didn’t signal, and came into our lane and hit us head-on with no time to react or evade.

I don’t necessarily feel shy about riding again, but practically speaking a scooter no longer makes sense with my own injuries and especially those of my partner. So we’ll be getting a car! 🙂

Hi Thanh – There are a few places to get scooters in Grenada; one of the main places is Hubbards, in Mt Gay. I believe the price is around $6,000EC dollars (about $2,000US).
But you can also get scooters (at varying prices and conditions) at some of the lots closer to Grand Anse where you’ll probably be living. Ask around once you’re here; it won’t take you long!
And please…..be safe.

Hi Olivia – This post has just become pretty ironic for me, as I was on the scooter last week and got in a head-on collision with a car (who was in the wrong and made the crash unavoidable). I’m recovering from a nastily concussed head wound and various body injuries that make mobility difficult. And my partner is in the hospital for 2 months – in traction.

With this in hindsight, I’d feel irresponsible if I didn’t recommend that if you’re going to get a scooter in a foreign country, give yourself the best chance of staying upright and only do it if you’ve ridden a scooter/motorcycle before and can ride confidently and defensively. Although this crash was unavoidable, my riding experience has helped me stay safe more than a few times.

Ha-ha-ha;

In all seriousness, I appreciate this post. That picture of Saigon has definitely scared me off big city traffic, but I think I will hire a scooter in a smaller town like you did. It does seem like the most practical way to get around. And something you can’t get the opportunity to try out back home.. =)

Yeah it does make a great story for when someone notices the scars:p
And the post is in the making!:)

Hey Sofie – I’m glad you’re okay, and at least you can get some bragging rights from your remaining war wounds! 🙂
I must say – I’m used to riding a motorcycle with a helmet and full protective gear on; riding a scooter with no helmet or jacket reminds me how imperative it is to ride safely, even if I’m not going fast.
I think your adventure would make an excellent post! 🙂