Since moving to Penang in January, I've relied on my feet, the bus, and the occasional borrowing of our car (a Honda City not Civic; it's like a Corolla, but not quite) to get around. It's worked pretty well, except for those middle-distance trips that make getting to the bus station in the heat and then waiting up to a half-hour for the bus to arrive in the heat not quite worthwhile. On those days I think, well, maybe I could just drop Pelle off at work tomorrow instead and then just run errands all day in the car. Not very eco-friendly and a little idiotic... I am living in Penang after all, so I must take advantage! Explore! Be brave! Get into the 'local' groove!
So with the reassurance of an expat friend who cycles everywhere, I've taken the plunge. With lots of scooters on the roads but not too many bikes, cars are a little wary, so politely give way. She was dead serious and with 2 years of experience here, I couldn't help but believe her. I wanted to believe her. I am happy that I believed her -- I have returned from my first forays around town so far ended unscathed.
With the help of Kamal at Cyclone Cycle here in George Town I chose a single-gear cruiser with a basket and bell, kickstand and helmet. To reduce her Sound of Music-ness, I went with a hate it/love it shade of neon olive drab. Olive and I now make quite a pair on the roads of George Town, timidly crossing lanes and going really far out of our way to avoid high-traffic roads.
It's all good. Hey, I'm just totally proud to be channeling a bit of Stumptown in George Town.
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