Yesterday we had quite the adventure shopping for a bike for Colt. We did not ship his bike from the states because we had to use air freight. The bike that fits him now from Walmart in the states was around $75 new. Great, basic bike.
We've been getting tips from the missionaries here, who are extremely helpful, about various things, including bikes. Benton, the other MK boy in Nalerigu, has outgrown his old bike and needs one, also. So, we looked at a new store a few days ago and saw that the adult bikes were about 125 cedis (exchange rate currently is $1 to GH1.10). So whatever the price is here, it is a little under that in American dollars. We didn't see any bikes Colt's size there.
So, yesterday we went out to a few outdoor markets. The Esalas (another missionary family) said they buy used American bikes for their kids. They get a better deal and the bikes last longer. It took us awhile to find the spot. When we asked about the first set of bikes, Joel was told for each used bike that they were 700 cedis! (Something under $700)! Needless to say, we did not buy one of those.
Later, Joel found more bikes and asked about the price. The bike was too small for Colt and was quite beat up, likely not to last much longer. The price started at 400 cedis. Joel bargained and immediately the man said he'd give it to us for 35 cedis! No prices in-between! But, we decided since it was too small and not in good shape not to get that one.
We went back to the new store (Game is the name) and found one bike that was Colt's size for about 116 cedis. It was very nice-looking and seemed to work well. Colt rode it around the store a bit. Once back to the guest house, the chain fell off within minutes, though. So, we went back to Game to return it. No problems getting our money back. So we are back to looking for a bike for Colt. He has had a good attitude about all of this, though. It sure is more exciting and adventurous to buy a bike here rather than in the states.
I'm making spaghetti for lunch so need to close now. Love and miss you all. Let us hear from you.
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2 comments:
Hollie - are you good at bargaining? That's one skill I think I would have to improve if living overseas. It's a must, I think. I'm glad you guys were able to return the one bike and get your money back. Good luck finding another one.
We have shopped at Game in South Africa. Hope you guys can find another bike soon! Good to talk to you yesterday, Luke thought that was pretty cool! Have a great day.
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