Mini vacation

[emeraldsedai]

The only real downside of non-car-ownership (for me) is that one's orbit contracts significantly: every now and then an urge to get out of the city strikes, and it's not easy to satisfy.

So when my good pal

Comments

[executrix]

Can't you get the license renewed by just paying an extra fee? Even if they make you take the test again, you still know how to drive.

[emeraldsedai]

There's a non-trivial logistical problem involved in borrowing a car to take the test with. Legally, the car's owner has to drive me to the DMV, then wait around while I go through the process. It probably also wouldn't hurt me to practice a time or two before trying to pass the test--I haven't driven now in over a year.

But yes, I can renew my license, and I probably will.

Want a Job? Get Some Experience

[executrix]

I've never learned how to drive, hence no driving test--I thought they would supply the test vehicle! Because I can easily imagine someone having a driver's license but no car. Can you get someone to get a ZipCar you'll pay for and drive you over? (Presumably on the way back you'll be a once-again-licensed driver.)

Re: Want a Job? Get Some Experience

[emeraldsedai]

As a backup plan, that would probably work. I don't know anybody with a Zipcar membership (because it's really only worthwhile if you have no actual car expenses of your own--and they won't renew my membership unless/until my I have a valid license again). But I've got a couple of sisters with cars, so I imagine we can figure something out.

Watch out for

[cattraine]

the speed traps in that area, they specifically prey on out of state cars and ticket you on the spot, then tell you you can pay the fee right there ($200.00 usually) or go to court.

Re: Watch out for

[emeraldsedai]

Good to know. My friend, who will be doing all the car-driving, is a regular visitor to Montana--both sides of the state--so I'll leave the risk to her. As for biking around Hamilton, it looks like there are back roads so I won't have to ride on the highway.

[prime_meridian]

Ah, the Bitterroot Valley where yours truly grew up. You'll have to pass through the itty bitty burg of Victor on your way to Hamilton. Wave as you pass by. :)

And Montana is wonderful in late September. Have a lovely time.

[prime_meridian]

Oh and if you bike out to Daly Mansion, take lots of photos. :) I'm not sure how close you can still get, but Tammany Castle isn't far from there and is a beautiful building. :)

[emeraldsedai]

That looks interesting! From the map, it looks like it would make a good bike jaunt from where we're going to be staying. Fun! Thanks for the tip.

[emeraldsedai]

Yes, the Bitterroot Mountains--such a great name. I'd forgotten that you're a Montana girl. I'll watch for your wee burg. :D

[decemberleaf]

"I'm hoping that a gray haired lady on a folding bike won't raise too many eyebrows." What a great addition to local color! :) You may get other people doing it too.

[emeraldsedai]

I suspect that my tendency to think of people living in that vast, different country of the American West as "other" is showing here. To be honest, a gray haired lady riding a folding bike would be a wee bit strange even here in Portland.