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weekend away

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EXPERIENCE

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Words by Tanya Siqueira

a city of close to 20 million people, Mumbai was fashioned from an archipelago of islands, reclaimed over five centuries. Often dismissed as grotty and overpopulated, this metropolis has an indomitable spirit and an unquenchable thirst for progress.
Welcome to the noise and systematic chaos that is Mumbai. A city where Bollywood films and the Bombay Stock Exchange co-exist peacefully, it spells opportunity for anyone enterprising enough to try. Get a great head start on Day One. Try a heritage walk (www.bombayheritagewalks.com) through the citys art district, pavement bazaars, and little-known lanes, and introduce yourself to some of Mumbais stunning Victorian architecture. From faux ethnic jewellery to a vintage vinyl record, its easy to find a great bargain if youre willing to engage in a little friendly haggling. Wind down Day One with a stroll along Marine Drive Promenade, tender coconut in hand, and watch the sun set over the citys ever-changing skyline. Mumbais serpentine coastline guarantees an abundant supply of fresh seafood. A dinner for two at sTay aT
hotel marine plaza A beautifully designed boutique hotel with a stunning view of the seafront, Hotel Marine Plaza offers a chic alternative to a five-star experience and at a competitive price. 29 Marine Drive (+91 22 2285 1212) www.hotelmarineplaza.com

Trishna in the Fort area will definitely leave you satiated and is well worth the spend. Shabby dcor aside, dont leave without trying the butter-garlic crab and prawn koliwada washed down with a sublime sol kadhi, a chilled kokum, and coconut milk drink. Move to the suburbs on Day Two and find out why besides being Asias largest slum, Dharavi is also the centre of small-scale industry in the city. Sign up for a personal tour or join a group at www.realitytoursandtravel.com to be guided through the journey either on foot or on bicycles. While the city offers a choice selection of food, Mumbais signature vegetarian delight, the vada pav, is yet another must-try. Earlier heralded as purveyors of poor mans food, Jumbo King with its outlets across the city provides the citys answer to McDonalds with different types of the lightly spiced potato patty sandwiched in a loaf of bread. For the more adventurous, surrender your fears and sample some of the street food. Dont be afraid to ask vendors to tone down the piquant flavours if you are unsure of how much heat (spiciness) you can handle. Its hard to play silent spectator in a city that draws you into its vortex of excitement, sometimes at an exasperating pace. Try not to fight it, simply close your eyes and dive right in. Expect to be pleasantly surprised.

dhobi ghat, mahalaxmi A group of close to 200 diligent laundrymen have no problems airing the citys dirty laundry at this unique open-air washing area thats been around for the past century. chhatrapati shivaJi maharaJ vastu sangrahalaya Formerly known as the Prince of Wales Museum of Western India, this 106-year old heritage structure has a number of representative collections from various sections such as archaeology, Indian miniature paintings, and a stunning natural history section. www.themuseummumbai.com

alphonso mangoes Touted as the king of fruits, the mighty Alphonso mango is the undisputed leader of the pack. This seasonal fruit is available from March to May and makes its way onto the menu in delicious milkshakes and desserts.

connect Mumbai, india distance: 2,302 km Flight time: 3 hours, 25 minutes Frequency: daily
Oryx April 11