One of the first items of business when we arrived was to get a couple of pasolas (scooters). After 2 weeks of walking everywhere in the blazing hot sun, we finally bought them. Here we are on our pasolas headed home after teacher-training. Most people here get around on pasolas or motorcycles. Cars are too expensive to buy and maintain, particularly given that the salty air eats up everything and the gravel roads and potholes are killers on a car. You will often see three, four and even five people on a pasola, moms carrying newborns, and 10-year olds driving around. Stop signs, turn signals, etc. are all deemed optional, so you really have to pay attention. As Erik says – It’s like that old videogame Paperboy, but with real lives at stake!(Note to family members who are a bit disturbed by this image- Usually I have one passenger and Erik has the other two. Still not totally safe, but safer than what you see here.)
So good to see you and your latest rides and riders! We think of you often.
ReplyDeleteSince most of the other commenters are females, I thought I'd give a shout out to Erik. You da man, E-dog!
ReplyDeleteI was never very good at Paperboy -- I especially had trouble with the training course. I guess that means I'd be in real trouble on a pasolas in the DR.
It's amazing how you find yourself doing things in a 3rd world country that you'd never do in the States (e.g., riding 4 on a scooter).
I'm impressed and envious at the same time.
So glad that your family gets to experience this unforgettable time together.