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Friday, 20 December 2013

Yeh Hai Bombay Meri Jaan!!! (Darling this is Mumbai!!!)

This week I finally managed to get away for three days to my neighbouring city, Bombay (Mumbai). I had always wanted to see this throbbing pulse of our country and I can't say I was disappointed. Of course, I did not go all over the city. It was mostly in the Colaba and Fort areas. 

Sunset at Marine Drive 
This is where you can hangout in Mumbai. Sit close to the rocks, right next to the Arabian sea with close friends, munch on some crispies and discuss life. Unfortunately, my better half had no such intentions and we decided to walk from one end of Marine Drive right up to Oberoi's before taking a left and then walked all the way to the Gateway of India!!!


Leopold Cafe (notice the bullet hole on the glass at left)





I had heard a lot about Leopold cafe and made it a point to visit. Had a sumptuous breakfast there. Christmas decor added to the festive spirit.




Cafe Samovar


The Jehangir Art Gallery at Kala Ghoda is a wonderful space to see art installations, exhibits and browse at the shop. At the end of it you get to eat at Cafe Samovar located right inside the building. As you can see, I was one of the first customers of the day for lunch .
 
Rhythm House

Candies at Pali Hill


Cafe Mondegar



Prince of Wales Museum


Could not resist the pull of Rhythm House, the music store where I heard you get whatever music your heart desires. So in I went and came out with a heavy bag and a light wallet.






My daughter urged me to go to Candies for lunch. Am glad she did. This beautifully done up three
(or is it four?) storied restaurant has seating space created out of all nooks and crannies. So you simply collect your meal on the ground floor or first floor and walk around deciding where to sit.





Close to Leopold Cafe is Cafe Mondegar and Mario Miranda's characters provide you company from the walls and the crockery. The men working here call themselves Mondy's crew. Had a delicious breakfast here.














Spent a couple of hours in this exquisite building. So much to see in the museum and so little time. Will have to go again on my next trip.







The Gateway of India

The Gateway of India was the place we came back to each day and night. And mind you, both times the effect on you is entirely different. The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, on the opposite, simply enhanced the experience!