Mumbai, India, is large and bustling enough to intimidate even the most experienced of business travelers. With over 20 million people, vibrant colors, rich cultural history, thriving business and constant traffic, Mumbai is a powerhouse located on India’s west coast. But a city this vast and brimming with industry and culture takes planning to travel to. This is where an agent is essential. With years of experience planning luxury business travel for clients worldwide, BlueOrange is ready to help you plan your trip to India with this Mumbai travel guide.
An Essential Mumbai Travel Guide
What You Need to Know
Originally called Bombay, the city’s name was officially changed to Mumbai in 1995. Locals are still likely to call the metropolis Bombay out of habit. Often referred to as “The City that Never Sleeps,” Mumbai is not only the economic and financial capital of India, but it is also well known for its luxury economy.
Located on an archipelago, the city is made up of seven, densely populated islands. As a result, the population is limited in area and space, causing congestion for traffic on the roads and sidewalks.
India is a cashless economy. This means that paper money isn’t traded during transactions, rather you can pay via credit and debit cards, bank electronic fund transfers or virtual wallets. This can make tipping more difficult for travelers, so be sure to ask your waiter or the people at the front desk of your hotel to add additional money to your bill to cover the gratuity.
Where to Stay
For unmatched modern luxury consider reserving rooms at The Oberoi, Mumbai. Voted as the Number 2 “Best City Hotel” in Asia by Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, The Oberoi combines unexpected touches, like pillow cases embroidered with your name, with modern design and luxury. Plus, this hotel offers an sweeping views of the city skyline and Arabian Sea.
If you’d rather enjoy a more historic rooming arrangement, then reserve your stay at the Taj Mahal Palace. Combing lavish decor and luxury amenities, the Taj Mahal Palace offers a glance of British colonialism while making their guests comfortable with modern amenities and touches. Take a yoga class each morning by the pool or admire the authentic Indian art in the public spaces. You’ll never forget your stay here.
Transportation
Mumbai’s bus system is recognized as the best in India. A large network of busses travels the city regularly. Trains and taxis are also available to visitors to Mumbai. If you are concerned with safety, though, then consider relying on UberX or other comparable services that vet drivers.
Traffic in the large city is abundant, so consider staying in a hotel near your business destinations.
What to See and Do
Save time after business meetings and events for seeing the sights. Mumbai’s most-recognized attraction is the Gateway of India. Built in 1924, this landmark celebrates India’s chief ports and a major attraction for tourists just arriving in India.
Also consider taking the ferry to Elephanta Island to see the basalt caves. With 20-foot-tall Shiva reliefs that are 1,500 years old, this temple is a historic look into India’s storied past and ecosystem. Be on the lookout for playful monkeys.
Explore the city’s many markets and bazaars for an authentic look at the culture and color of Mumbai. Chor Bazaar offers antiques and collectables and fresh foods and spices surrounded by historic architecture. Or head to Linking Road to experience shopping for cheap shoes or clothes in an open-air environment.
Mumbai is a delight for your senses and passport. Traveling to Asia and India doesn’t have to be overwhelming or scary with the support of an experienced travel agent like BlueOrange. Let this Mumbai travel guide inspire your next business trip in India, and contact BlueOrange to start planning today.