48 Hours in Mumbai

Taj Mahal Hotel Mumbai

This hotel extends beyond merely being a place of lodging -- thanks to the attacks of 11/26 it has become an institution in Mumbai. Though the price of a room is exorbitant (especially compared with the $12US I spent on my room elsewhere), this is a must-see site. The lobby is, arguably, the best smelling room in all of India, but to get there you need to pass through extensive security. If you get hassled, just tell them you are going to dine in a restaurant inside. Speaking of restaurants, the prices of food match the prices of rooms, but for a fine dining experience, I recommend Souk, a Lebanese restaurant on the top floor. To read more about it, visit: http://unpoppedcollar.com/post/152615107/security-guards-surround-the-perimeter-metal

Gate of India

There aren't many "touristy" things to do in this city, but the Gate of India is one. Beware of scam artists that surround you while you check out this impressive arch.

Leopold Café

Another place that gained fame thanks to the 11/26 attacks, this bar/cafe features a nice mix of locals, expats, and foreigners all coming together for mediocre food and cold beer. You can even order "beer by the metre" -- though hopefully you are sharing it, not keeping it all to yourself! To see photos: http://unpoppedcollar.com/post/153243814/beer-by-the-metre-at-leopolds-in-mumbai

Mocha Coffees & Conversations

If you're a westerner traveling in India for any length of time, you have had the inevitable craving for some western style food. Unfortunately, most Indian renditions fall short. Mocha Bar, though, is a hit: delicious sandwiches, paninis, and wraps for meals, and some decadent and delicious ice creams and milkshakes to accompany them. Prices are reasonable ($2-$5US for a meal), and it's a nice break from dal and curd!

Dome

Dome Bar, at the top of the Intercontinental Hotel along Marine Drive is outrageously expensive -- $8US+ for a beer -- but think of it as an experience. Their location on the roof of the hotel, overlooking Marine Drive and the Mumbai skyline make the crazy prices worth it. Go up for sunset drinks.

Crawford Market

This place is absolutely insane. Just a crazy bazaar selling anything and everything you can imagine with people, animals, and everything else coming at you from every angle. Just wander around for a bit, and you'll know what I mean. Check out some photos of it here: http://unpoppedcollar.com/post/155215464

Taj Mahal Hotel Mumbai

This hotel extends beyond merely being a place of lodging -- thanks to the attacks of 11/26 it has become an institution in Mumbai. Though the price of a room is exorbitant (especially compared with the $12US I spent on my room elsewhere), this is a must-see site. The lobby is, arguably, the best smelling room in all of India, but to get there you need to pass through extensive security. If you get hassled, just tell them you are going to dine in a restaurant inside. Speaking of restaurants, the prices of food match the prices of rooms, but for a fine dining experience, I recommend Souk, a Lebanese restaurant on the top floor. To read more about it, visit: http://unpoppedcollar.com/post/152615107/security-guards-surround-the-perimeter-metal