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This City Bekons

Too many things to do, not enough time? Well, a visit to Mumbai is a perfect example of that. I visited the city hoping to relax and spend some time with my grandparents. The result? Walking, hassle, traffic, pollution, and more walking. But the experience? I'd give it five stars!

The city, formerly known as Bombay, exudes charm, antiquity, sophistication, and modernity. It is a cosmopolitan and culturally diverse city. In the 19th century, Bombay became home to immigrants from all over India, who were drawn to the many golden gates of opportunity that the city opened. Mumbai has amassed a  population of 21.3 million civilians across its seven islands. It is home to a picturesque shoreline facing the Arabian along with a stunning skyline. An endless row of intriguing shops, top-of-the-class eateries, magnificent historical monuments, and lovely Victorian architecture are seen while on a casual walk in the city. Sound exciting? Well, I have a tour ready for you of Mumbai, the city that never sleeps. 

THINGS TO DO IN MUMBAI: 


1) The Mumbai Local Train System
The rails of Mumbai isn't really a tourist destination, but it is the easiest, fastest, and most hassle-free transportation system in Mumbai. The trains have been running on those rails since 1888, and have historical and logistical significance. The rails are the bloodline of the city and its million passengers. Victoria Terminus or CST Station is the most popular (and populous) historical railway station, which has been bestowed the UNESCO World Heritage Site title. The influence of Gothic art on the 130-year-old terminus can be seen on the intricate stained glass painting on the grand window pains, filtering the sunlight to give the interiors a warm, yellow glow.

2) Double-Decker Buses
Outside Victoria Terminus, one can spot the quaint, little figure of the double-decker buses. This bus carries passengers with two stories and is largely popular in the United Kingdom as a method of transport. The double-decker buses found in Mumbai, however, aren't large and modern. But they let the experience speak for itself...







3) Marine Drive (A.K.A Queen's Necklace)
This boulevard outlines Mumbai's natural bay. It's a breathtaking view both in the daytime and nighttime, where one can see the sharp skyline and the night's lights. The aerial view of the yellow headlamps and red rear lights of the car traffic resemble the precious diamonds and brilliant rubies of a Queen's Necklace.


4) The Taraporewala Aquarium

This aquarium probably holds more historical significance rather than wonder and amazement, to be honest. No, you will not find a great white shark or a crocodile. You will, however, find a variety of exotic small to medium size fish from all over the world. And you will find the skeleton of a crocodile and a couple of fossils. To top it off, you can brag that you visited India's oldest aquarium. That's pretty cool.



5) Chowpatty Beach
If you don't visit Mumbai for its amazing, coarse-sand beaches, then you're missing out. Chowpatty Beach is a hot-spot in the city and is home to the best street food (in my opinion.) There's nothing better than glancing over the coral hues of the sunset; listening to the advancing crash and receding silence of the waves - all while stuffing your mouth with a scrumptious Sev Puri Dahi Puri chaat. Bliss!



6) The Nehru Planetarium

This is a daytime or noon activity to rest those aching ankles and slip into mysteries of astronomy and science. The Nehru Planetarium has an exceptional show, which gives a tour: starting with the Mumbai sky and then expanding to the depths of the universe and its stars. The Mumbai Nehru Planeterium is one of the five which were established in populous cities across India, and are named after India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru. 

7) Malabar Hill 
Malabar Hill is an area with the typical old-world style that you would expect from a city such as Mumbai. The characteristic of architecture in Malabar Hill's houses starkly contrast the rising heights of their modern, steel cousins. The proximity to the water is an added bonus, giving a panoramic view of the bay. 

8) Kamala Nehru Park
A little beyond Malabar Hill lies the Kamala Nehru Park, our final destination on this list. It is the perfect location for a sunset stroll or picnic. It serves as a peaceful retreat where
you can hear the chirping of the birds - a sound that is overtaken by the obnoxious honks of vehicles in the city. The park displays a variety of beautiful flora and fauna, with a look-out point to see the harbor and skyline. 
  
                       





Other popular locations that I would also recommend are: 
Gateway of India, the Tata Taj Mahal Hotel, and Prince of Wales Museum.

What I haven't covered yet: FOOD!
I am a foodie who enjoys all cuisines, and I have a soft spot for the east Asian cuisine. And, guess what? Mumbai has the best Korean and Japanese restaurants. Sushi and mochi, here I come!


So, will you visit Mumbai?
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