Local Trains
by Vijay_sakpal
One must see the local trains during peak hours of the working day. How commuters travel in the local trains is just an amazing thing to watch in Mumbai. This will show the general publics' unity and equality to travel together. Mumbai is my Birth Town
Hospitals & medical attention - Travel Insurance
by M.E.R.V
I had a series of acute conjunctivitis while in Mumbai and it wasn't helping much especially when I was walking around all day. I got some extremely medicated smelling eye wash in one of the roadside pharmacies which made it worst I seriously thought I was definitely going blind by the end of the day. I then visited Breach Candy Hospital as recommended by Lonely Planet as India's best medical services in North Mumbai. I was, as a foreigner, placed straight in front of the queue which is pretty not bad...lol! I was seen by the doctor within minutes. You do not need any identification, you pay right after your consultation which was very affordable comparing to western standards. You get your prescription and buy your medicine at the pharmacies. It definitely turned out way easier than I thought it would be. Travel insurance is a must to India so make sure you don't forget that before you leave for your holiday.
Namaste instead of hand shakes
by OlivierB
India is a very conservative society where interaction between male and female is very limited in public settings. When you meet someone make sure you do the "namaste" greeting instead of shaking hands. The men will expect a handshake from another man but men should not have body contact with women. Therefore do not shake hands with women you meet but instead show repect by doing namaste !
Bombay-ites are friendly...
by shalin
Bombay-ites are friendly people,they love talking!Be nice to them,smile and thank them and they'll remember you for life!!
Some Language Tips:
Shukriya: Thank You
Kithna Hai? : How much is it
Ek: One, Do: Two ,Teen: Three (if you need any more numbers-feel free to ask me!):)
Namaste : a greeting like Hi,can be used all times of the day or night (but we dont use it all that much!)
I would recommend learning some hindi words using the VT Language guide.
For handicrafts and arts, visit The Bombay Store, Sir PM Road, tel # 2885048, 2873443 and Central Cottage Industries Emporium, Apollo Bunder, tel # 2027537,2026564
Roadside snack
by HarShe
These type of "shop" are a common sight along major highways in India. Mumbai-Pune road has recently been upgraded and travellers can take a break at one of these stops for a quick snack or drink.
BUT BEWARE! only buy eatables & drinks which are either properly cooked and sealed. Fresh produce may smell and look yummy, but can cause diarrhoea or other illnesses such as Typhoid, Hepatitis etc.