Dede Sophie

2020 has been a tough year for all of us, but it has also been a year when the rain gods have been mighty kind to us. The monsoons in 2020 have been more than normal and this has ensured that all the waterfalls, streams, rivers, lakes, reservoirs and dams are brimming full with water. And what better place to experience the abundant monsoons up close than the waterfall region of Karnataka that we all know as Uttara Kannada. A gorgeous monsoon holiday destination here is Unchalli Falls, a loud waterfall that is created by a 381 feet drop in the Aghanashini river. The waterfall holiday to Unchalli falls begins when you find yourself on the beautiful winding ghat roads of the Sirsi-Kumta highway and the view gets even better when you turn off the highway at Aminahalli to go towards Heggarni. Persistent rains, pretty little villages surrounded by fresh paddy, lush green landscapes and a single lane road give you company. Green mountain peaks show you their face as you climb and descend the

Peugeot’s new 308 small family car is the latest version of the hugely successful nameplate with more than seven million worldwide sales over the generations, writes Trish Whelan.  The new 308 is built on a multi-power platform developed to incorporate a petrol engine along with an electric motor whilst preserving space on board and boot volume. Particular attention was given to weight reduction and balance to make sure the driving experience is as rewarding as possible.  The 308 has always been one of the best-looking small cars on the market but with this latest model the Lion brand has dared to change the body shape quite dramatically. Peugeot were very brave in their design continuing the model as a hatchback and bucking the current trend of upscaling cars to crossovers or SUVs. The result is a car that looks dynamic from every angle. And gorgeous!  The change in style includes an extended wheelbase that stretches the car’s silhouette and offers more space for rear passengers. A 20

More than eight in ten Irish motorists don’t believe the national target of 945,000 electric vehicles on the road by 2030 will be achieved, writes Brian Byrne. In a poll of 5,000 motorists carried out on behalf smart mobility services specialist Easytrip, the main barriers to them buying an EV are the high purchase price, the status of the public charging network, and the driving range. The recent increases in the cost of electricity has also emerged as a factor, although low running costs remain the top reason to buy an EV, according to the survey. Some 34pc of respondents said they are considering the purchase of a new car during this 231 registration period. Almost four in ten of these are looking to hybrids, 27pc are considering EVs, and 23pc diesel. Just 9pc are looking at straight petrol cars.