For those who have lived through many monsoons in Goa, the current one reminds us of the times when staying indoors was the only option. The heat has disappeared and staying indoors with windows closed and fans off takes one back to the Goa of the 1970s.
Heavy rains have taken a toll on the infrastructure – read 'our roads' – and therefore, where you travel to is important.
Goa is now looked upon as a destination during the rains, especially since room tariff to rent-a-bike rates are available at half the price or, sometimes, even less.
Riding two-wheelers in Goa, when it rains as heavily as it currently has been, is dangerous because the tarred roads seem to give way leaving behind a trail of potholes – some of which can be dangerous.
Walking is the best option, though one would need to keep a safe distance from stray dogs as with the season shutters down, most strays are left to fend for themselves for food as their benefactors are not around. Stray dog bite cases are, therefore, on an increase.
For those opting to stay in North Goa, the party scenes are on, but the roads to most of the clubs are treacherous.
Sea Lounge by Curlies at South Anjuna is open, but getting there is a problem and getting out is even worse.
Chapora Street jumps to life late in the evening, and there is nothing better than finishing one’s evening there with a mixed fruit salad with avocado topping at Scarlet Juice bar. The place is open from 9 am till midnight.
For those seeking a taste of South Indian food, Jaws at Vagator is open from 8 am till 11 pm, and is the only place that provides a taste of the South in a Goan ambience.
“We have a South Indian chef who specialises in dosas,” confesses one of the business partners, Priya Mendonca.
If you are a night to early morning drinker, then Mango Tree, next to Jaws, is one place that will help you quench your thirst. The cuisine at Mango Tree is open from 10 am to 4 am of the next day. Definitely the best place in North Goa for non-stop eating and drinking during the rains.
Cavala at Baga is open during the night and day, but is worth a visit during the night, when it comes alive with music that suits the Indian and Goan taste. The food here is worth the trip.
Britto's, another restaurant in Baga, needs no introduction because it has one of the finest kitchens rolling out authentic local meals, and the desserts here are a must-have.
The seas are extremely rough at this time of the year, and the undercurrents could leave you in grief.
Avoid climbing rocks for selfies as most are very slippery. And, don’t venture into the water without ascertaining the depth.
Avoid standing below trees if caught in a sudden downpour or standing in dilapidated structures because trees are good conductors of lightning and dilapidated structures tend to crumble.
(As the monsoon continues, GT will take our readers on a trip through Goa during the rains).