Vespa Primavera 150
For those of you who think I'm talking my own book, I am! But, if you want to look and feel fabulous, get a Vespa. You don't even need to ride it, you just need to have one. My wife bought me a Vespa Primavera 150cc for my birthday, and I couldn't be happier! I remember owning a Honda Elite 80 scooter way back in high school (when I rocked a mullet). Well, the mullet and the Honda are symbols of a bygone era, but Vespas were cool then and they're cool now! I decided against the larger, more powerful models, as I will be using this in a very limited fashion (I promise Loupers Mom and MIL) and don't need it to commute long distances.
While you may think Vespas are meant for Rome or Florence, don't count them out for other cities! Like everything else, there is a time and a place for a scooter. I'm learning very quickly the uses I have for it ... to commute to soccer at Riverside Park (hey Geezers), run a quick errand, or travel to a locale where I know there won't be car parking when I'm over my monthly parking ticket allowance. With a scooter (versus a bicycle) you have to follow the traffic rules, which means you aren't always maneuvering and pedaling; therefore, you can relax in the comfort of your helmet, listen to the sounds of the city (no earphones), and stop and take in the view (at lights). For me, the Vespa has been a game changer -- Flag me down, and I'll give you a ride!