For most people, Mumbai is the entryway into India. As the center of a growing South Asian economy, there’s no better place to experience the historic culture and rapid modernization of the country. Here’s how to do it in a day with less than $100.
South Mumbai is the place you want to be, home to the city’s downtown area and numerous historic attractions. It’s a good place to see if you want to hit a few landmarks during the day before going out for the night. If you’re not staying downtown, start your day by arriving at Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, locally known as VT station (Victoria Terminus after Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee). The building is a beautiful combination of High Victorian Gothic and traditional palace architecture.
From VT station, head south toward the waterfront. However, I recommend taking a rickshaw for a quick stop at the Chor Bazaar, which translates to “thief’s market,” after its reputation for selling stolen goods. Most of the wares are actually second-hand items, but there’s a legend Queen Victoria’s violin once went missing and turned up in the market. Today, it’s known as a great flea market selling everything from antique furniture to old Bollywood posters to recycled automobile parts. If you’re buying, remember haggling is customary.
Head further south for lunch at Leopold Café, a restaurant on the Colaba Causeway popular with tourists and backpackers. The food isn’t great — a combination of Indian and international fare — but you can’t beat the atmosphere. If you have time to relax, be sure to order a tall beer tower and enjoy the people watching. Before heading out for the night, get your photo op at the Gateway of India, the ceremonial entranceway for English royalty arriving in Mumbai.
Downtown Mumbai has quite a few places for drinking, but if you want to check out the music scene you should head to Blue Frog. The venue functions as a combination club/lounge/live music venue, featuring a variety of performers. At night, there will probably be a DJ, but consider stopping in on Sunday for their weekly jazz brunch.
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