MUMBAI\BOMBAY
Trip Start
Jul 28, 2007
1
13
90
Trip End
Nov 10, 2008
Mumbai (Bombay),
India
Sunday, October 14, 2007
I must say Mumbai is much better than Delhi! First, there are no autorickshaw, cyclorickshaw and cows are hardly seen anywhere! So the traffic is not too bad. On the other hand, taking a taxi is more expensive! The local trains are extremely cheap and very convenient! They have ladies only wagon which are great especially during rush hour! There are a dozen of men hanging out the other wagon at that time! The first time I took it, I saw 3 tranvestis. I thought, good idea, then you don't have to take this overcrowded men wagon! But, on my next visit, a tranvesti got on the train, clapped his hand and the ladies all smiling gave him a few roupies! I couldn't believe it! Why on earth would they give money to this guy while other people who are handicaped and starving are begging!!
Dhoby Gault
! When he asked me for money I told him I don't beg when I dress like a man! Later on, as I was reading a book (Holy cow again) I thought these guys may actually be eunuchs that were casterated without conscent????With all the British era buildings, the nice shops and restaurants you could forget for a minute that you are in India. But you just have to turn around to find a Chai or samosa vendor! Of course there are beggers, but in general, I don't feel harassed here like I do in Delhi! With all the trendy restaurants, markets, Bollywood movies and apparently the good nightlife, living here could be nice if you are willing to spend a bit of money to enjoy yourself!
There aren't a lot of places to visit though. There's Elephanta Island, where I haven't been yet. The beach and Marine Drive are a popular place to be for the sunset and there are loads of markets which I have been really good at avoiding!
I will most likely have to come back to Mumbai, so I am saving some things to do and see for the next time.
