Your bleisure travel guide to Mumbai
Mumbai, often referred to as the City of Dreams, is not only a bustling metropolis housing the financial nerve center of India. It also offers a peek inside the country’s rich history and culture, thriving gastronomical scene and influential haute couture. So if your next business trip is set to take you there, there’s a lot you can squeeze in for a well-rounded experience.
Where to stay
Located on the coast of the Arabian Sea, Mumbai boasts a myriad of luxury hotels with views over the waters as well as art deco buildings. One of these is The Taj Mahal Palace in Colaba. Built in 1903, it has been witness to some of India’s historic moments. This iconic hotel offers unparalleled luxury with stunning views of the Gateway of India. For something more practical, the Hilton Mumbai International Airport provides a contemporary retreat for business travelers with its strategic location. Meanwhile, the majestic ITC Maratha in Andheri is home to an Ayurvedic spa and significant artifacts of Maharashtra.
The Grand Hyatt in Santacruz and President near Marine Drive offer a perfect blend of luxury and convenience. Each of these accommodations, besides several other luxury properties like St. Regis and The Oberoi, promises an experience as memorable as it is comfortable.
What to do
It goes without saying that people visit and live in Mumbai for more reasons than simply doing business. The city is also a cultural melting pot. During your stay, begin your journey with the Mumbai Maiden cruise, an unforgettable ride that takes you along the city’s coastline – providing panoramic sunset views of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link and other landmarks. For those with an eye for fashion, delve into the creations of renowned designers like Sabyasachi Mukherjee, who epitomizes the grandeur of Indian couture. The city is also a paradise for shopaholics, with places like Bungalow 8 and The Mill offering a curated selection of unique, locally crafted items.
Additionally, art enthusiasts can include galleries such as the Jehangir Art Gallery, Method and Tarq in their itineraries. To add a touch of glamor, embark on a quest to spot the homes of Bollywood celebrities, something that will also give you the chance to explore some of Mumbai’s iconic residential neighborhoods.
Where to eat
It would be a shame to visit India and not explore the country’s range of gastronomical offerings. Begin your culinary journey at The Table in Colaba, where global influences meet local ingredients. The Bombay Canteen, with its innovative take on traditional Indian dishes, is a must-visit for those seeking a contemporary culinary experience. For a taste of Mumbai’s history, explore the quaint Irani cafes like Britannia in Ballard Estate, where time seems to stand still amid vintage decor and delectable Parsi cuisine. Another place you must consider is Tanjore Tiffin Room in Bandra, which brings homestyle Tamil Nadu meals straight to your plate.
If you’re in the mood for international flavors, savor the Italian delicacies at Americano or the Japanese cuisine at Wasabi by Morimoto. Complete your exploration with a visit to Araku, an Indian specialty coffee brand that offers a cuisine-agnostic, ingredient-focused menu at its newly opened restaurant in Colaba. The dishes here are inspired by the tribal cuisine of the people of the Eastern Ghats. And then, known for offering the best of Gujarati cuisine, visit Swati Snacks for a range of vegetarian delicacies. Finally, make a trip to the iconic Leopold Cafe & Bar in Colaba, which has been a hub for locals and travelers alike since 1871.