Things To Do In Mumbai
Mumbai also formerly known as Bombay is one of the most popular cities in India. Whenever I hear about Mumbai, I think of Bollywood. As part of our trip to Indian a few months back, we spent 4 days in Mumbai. Mumbai lies on the west coast of India and has a deep natural harbour, surrounded by Arabian sea. We did a few things in Mumbai and took it easy as it was the last part of our trip and we thought it would make sense to just relax.
Sofitel Mumbai is our hotel of choice. It is located in Bandra East. We were upgraded to a Junior suite – very big with a nice chick decor. I absolutely love Sofitel MyBed™, it was really really comfortable! Food was good – large selections of cuisines to choose from and I definitely enjoyed my breakfast on a daily basis.
Have a Thali!
Thali is an Indian meal that is made up of a selection of various dishes, usually served with rice and naan bread. There are many variations of Thali from region to region. Small bowls are placed on a round steel tray (thali). The usual dishes are rice, dhal, vegetables, roti, lamb, chicken, chutney, fish and etc. I wanted to go to a restaurant that is famous for serving Thaili but couldn’t make it. So, I had mine customised at Sofitel. It was more of a Southern-Style Indian Thali, absolutely yummy!
Dhobi Ghat
Dhobi Ghat is a well known open air laundromat in Mumbai. This is a unique feature of Mumbai. The Dhobi (traditionally laundryman) collects dirty linens, wash and return neatly to the customers. There was row upon row of concrete wash pens, each fittied with its own flogging stone. The clothes are soaked, thrashed on the flogging stones, then tossed into huge vats of boiling starch and hung out to dry. Then, there are ironed and piled into neat bundles.
Gateway of India
Gateway of India is a monument built during the British Raj in Mumbai. It is located on the waterfront in the Apollo Bunder area overlooking Arabian Sea. The Gateway has also been referred to the Taj Mahal of Mumbai. The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel – a very luxury hotel is just next to Gateway of India.
Gateaway of India is an representation of the Indo-Saracen architectural style, with many features of the 16th century Muslim architectural excellence. This monument almost stands as an identity of the city – flanked by the ocean on one side & the monumental Taj Hotel to the other.
Chowpatty Beach
Chowpatty Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Mumbai. Located in the heart of the city, this beach is most popular for its local delicacies which most people enjoy whenever they visit Chowpatty Beach. Watching the glorious sunsets from this beach is a sight worth seeing! This beach is a retreat from a tedious routine for many. There are also many food stalls, from where you can enjoy and savour several mouth-watering dishes. Some local snacks such as Bhelpuri, worth a try!
Aer Lounge – Four Seasons Hotel
Aer Lounge at Four Seasons Hotel is probably the best place to get a panoramic view of the city and sea. It is a rooftop bar at 34th floor. For men, it is compulsory to wear long trousers, no bermuda or shorts allowed. I really enjoyed my time there that I forgot to take photo! Below are taken from Four Seasons Hotel’s website.
