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Bombay (Mumbai), India
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The Hollywood of India, Mumbai (previously known as Bombay) is a unique city pulsating with energy, life, and excitement. You can find everything from vibrant street scenes and the country's best nightlife, to an abundance of shopping. The city serves as both the financial and entertainment capital of India, so you are just as likely to see a famous "Bollywood" movie star as you are a high-powered businessman. With all there is to see and do, you will discover that Mumbai truly lives up to its billing as the "City of Dreams."
Don't Miss
An architectural marvel, the Taj Mahal Palace and Towers, in its highly desirable waterfront location, provides breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Built in 1903, the hotel offers a unique blend of Indian class and Western style. An extraordinary example of luxury and elegance, the Taj Mahal Palace has hosted royalty, heads of state, business tycoons, celebrities, and hopefully soon, you!
Sporting Adventures
Cricket is the most popular sport in Mumbai and is usually played in cricket grounds around the city. If you're unfamiliar with cricket, the game's rules are a bit similar to baseball. But a lot more runs are scored in cricket, so be ready to jump off your feet and do tons of cheering. You can catch a game at one of the city's two international cricket stadiums, the Wankhede Stadium or the Brabourne Stadium. Or if you're more into action sports, there are several adventure sports organizations throughout the city that offer everything from paragliding to bungee jumping.
Shopping for Bargains
With bazaars and markets literally covering the entire city, it's very possible to shop till you drop in Mumbai. Chor Bazar is one of the best, and while there you'll find a phenomenal collection of antiques, wooden articles and leatherware. At the northern end of the city is Crawford Market, which is famous for flowers, fruits, meat and fish. And if you enjoy colorful carpets, head to Mereweather Road. Here the prices are slightly higher, but the range is extensive. You won't find a magic carpet, but there is certainly something special about shopping here.
Local Flavours
Mumbai is a food connoisseur's delight. Ranging from roadside snacks to five-star cuisine, you'll have a wide range to choose from. Khau Gullies are the places to go. "Khau" means "to eat" and "Gully" means "lane." And that's exactly what they are: lanes lined by food stalls filled with a variety of freshly prepared cuisine. There are several Khau Gullies in Mumbai, and you can't go wrong with whichever one you choose. After all this eating, you may leave with a Buddah belly of your own!
Currency
The currency in India is the rupee. Be sure to have a big supply of small currency notes, as change is very hard to find. Most large establishments will accept credit cards, but it is still a good idea to carry Indian currency.