The Monsoons are one of the most beautiful
and bustling seasons of Goa and for people who drive 4x4s, it’s the most
perfect time of the year. The only woman off-roader from Goa, Maithili Bhobe,
avers, “Off-road trails during monsoons are amazing. Just getting on them is a
stress buster for me. You get connected to nature while driving down into the
deep green forests. I have actively been participating in such off-road drives
with my husband Kapil Bhobe for the last two years. To drive onto the terrains
and puddles is a thrilling experience.” Ask her why there are no lady off-road
drivers in Goa, and she replies, “Well, off-road driving is an adventurous
activity that is bound to get your dirty; there’s also risk involved. These
could be some of the main reasons why they stay away from it.”
The lead singer of the band Lynx, Sandy
Gago E Pacheco, who is always spotted on Goan roads with her Mahindra, says,
“It’s awesome to actually drive one’s 4×4 during the rains. It’s exhilarating,
especially when you switch from any normal car to a 4×4. Also, towing is
possible with a 4×4.”
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Goan roads are way better than the roads in
other parts of the country and exploring the place in a 4×4 is one of the best
things to do. And it is not only the Goan women drivers who enjoy this
activity; foreign nationals also enjoy driving 4x4s on Goan terrain. Melanie
Cordeaux from England, who has been driving a Mahindra on Goan roads for nine
years, says, “Goa is blessed with scenic beauty. It adds charm during rains. My
friends and I go to the hinterlands of Goa for picnicking. And driving my
Mahindra always gives me immense pleasure.”
Melanie further explains, “Though it is
exciting, driving here has got its drawbacks too. I take utmost precaution. For
me, drive here is an altogether different experience. In England, vehicles and
pedestrians obey the rules, while here I have to keep checking on both sides of
the road, keeping a lookout for unexpected pedestrians or overtaking vehicles.”
Though these ladies inspire others to drive
4x4s without any hesitation, they also have a message to share; they firmly say
that before setting out on any trail, get one’s vehicle checked as maintenance
is compulsory to avoid any problem. Carry much needed equipments along so that
you may have a successful ride without any glitches.
