Many good comments above. Here are mine:
1) Definitely get an automatic and save yourself from the added difficulty.
2) Don't get a big car, get a smaller one. Country roads are beautiful but, amazingly narrow in many places and the locals will be frustrated if you drive like a slow poke plus you'd be likely to clock the left side mirror eventually. Plus, gas costs will surprise you even with a small car.
3) I didn't find that driving on the left side of the road took much getting used to. You know what did? Driving from the right side of the car. Eventually adapted but, the whole time, I kept looking rightward for the rearview mirror. It was easier in St Lucia where I was driving from the usual, left front seat and on the left side of the road.
4) It's true that your increased driving focus will prevent you from seeing as much along the way. You may want to consider only driving part of the trip and doing short tours (3 or 4 days) in some areas.
Bon voyage!
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