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In the last few decades, Mumbai has transformed itself from a simple city to a mega polis with thriving markets, endless opportunities in the labor market, business houses, ultramodern housing system which helped attract millions of people from different parts of India and abroad to live and be a part of Mumbai. The city's culture is very cosmopolitan and its trendy atmosphere is infectious. Marathi is the official language although English and Hindi are widely spoken and understood. The presence of Fast Food outlets on almost every road speaks about its fast paced life. Pau Bhaji, Bhel Puri and Kababs are some of the most readily available foods, but the people of Mumbai seemed to prefer Bada Paws (a kind of burger). Mumbai is also the seat of the Hindi Film Industry, known as Bollywood, which produces the largest number of films every year in the world. Since it is one of the favorite destinations amongst travelers in India, the city has exclusive boutiques run by some of India’s most famous fashion designers, as well as large ethnic markets, mini bazaars and all kinds of shopping. Some of the most interesting places to visit while in Mumbai are: Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Market (Crawford Market) A busy market area, famous for having some of best fruits and vegetable products in India. Seasonal fruits are always a good buy here. Best recommended in the morning hours. Jehangir Art Gallery This gallery is a showcase for contemporary art, located near the Prince of Wales Museum. Artist's Plaza, just outside the gallery is a good place to buy Indian paintings. Open daily from 11am to 7 pm. Prince Of Wales Museum If you are
interested in seeing Victorian architecture in India, this museum is the
best place to visit. Designed by George Wittet and completed in 1923, it
is one of India's finest museums of artefacts, paintings and sculptures
- the collection spans across many time periods of India's rich history.
Open daily except Monday between 10.30 am to 6 pm.
Jet Airways connects Mumbai from almost all parts of India making it one of the easiest destinations to arrive to from anywhere within India. It is also connected with major trains from all cross India, enabling travelers to arrive without any hassle. Accomodation in Mumbai Salvation Army Red Shield Hostel (91 22 22841824) on the Mereweather Road is the cheapest place to stay while in Mumbai. Apollo Guest House (91 22 22045540) is on the Colaba Causeway and has clean rooms. Hotel Prosser’s (91 22 22841715) on the Henry road and is one of the few options to look for in the Colaba area. Shelley’s Hotel (91 22 22840229) and Harbor View Hotel ( 91 22 22821089), Garden Hotel 9 91 22 22841476), YMCA ( 91 22 22025053 ) are some of the mid range price options to look for in Colaba. There is no shortage of hotels in Mumbai and you can always find the one that suits your budget. If you are interested for a home stay, contact the Government of India's Tourist office at the airport. You can also go to the Indian embassy in your home country for details. Changing Money The American Express Travel Services office near the Regal Cinema in Colaba is the best place to exchange foreign money. Thomas Cook on D N Road can also exchange money.. Foreign exchange counters are also available at the arrival hall of the international airport. It was an wonderful experience being in Mumbai and I look forward to visiting the city for a longer stay in the coming years as the real thrill of the city is visible only when you are here for few weeks and not for just a few days. I wanted to share more about my first trip to Mumbai, but I have no option other than to switch off my laptop as the Jet Airways flight is ready to take off for Delhi. Will be with you next month from New Delhi… Till then, keep exploring…. The following are Rajeep's previous articles for the magazine:
Rajdeep Bhattacharjee
is a Travel Writer and can be contacted at rajdeep@ecotourism.cc
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