DESTINATION MUMBAI BOOK 2

Transcription

1 Global Adjustments DESTINATION MUMBAI BOOK 2 Global Adjustments 1

2 Copyright 2007 Global Adjustments Services Pvt. Ltd., 76/96, Greenways Road Extn., R.A. Puram, Chennai , India. Published by Global Adjustments Services Pvt. Ltd., Chennai For book enquiries: info@globaladjustments.com Global Adjustments Services Pvt. Ltd. Rustom Court, 2nd Floor, Dr. Annie Besant Road Opp. Podar Hospital, Worli, Mumbai Tel: / mum@globaladjustments.com All rights reserved in any media. No part of this publication may be produced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the publisher.

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW OF THE CITY... 5 THE PEOPLE OF MUMBAI... 7 BECOMING A TENANT... 9 GETTING TO KNOW THE UTILITIES AROUND YOUR HOME IN MUMBAI PLACES OF INTEREST - MUST SEE AND MUST DO! USEFUL HINDI PHRASES CONSULATES, EMBASSIES AND CULTURAL CENTRES...29 SCHOOLS AND ADULT EDUCATION HEALTHCARE, MEDICAL AND EMERGENCY SERVICES...39 GETTING AROUND AND OUT OF MUMBAI COURIER SERVICES SHOPS AND SERVICES DINING AND NIGHTLIFE PLACES OF WORSHIP FITNESS AND LEISURE Global Adjustments 3

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5 INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW OF THE CITY Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is India s commercial capital. This city, which is alongside the Arabian Sea, was once a cluster of seven islands - Mahim, Colaba, Smaller Colaba, Parel, Mazagoan, Worli and Matunga. The original inhabitants were the Kolis, or the fisher folk, who worshipped the goddess Mumbadevi. They built a shrine for the goddess on the largest of the seven islands and the name Mumbai was born, from which Bombay was derived by the British. Now, the seven islands have retained their names only as districts of the city. Historically, Hindu dynasties ruled Bombay till 1348 AD. In 1534 AD the islands were ceded to the Portuguese by the Sultan of Gujarat in a treaty. In May 1662, it was handed over to Charles II of England as part of the dowry for the Portuguese Princess Catherine Braganza, following their marriage that same year. In 1665, the British Government took possession of the islands and leased them out to the East India Company in 1668 for an annual rent of 10 in gold. The East India Company was primarily responsible for the land reclamation and unification of the seven islands. Thus, over a period of 250 years, Bombay was transformed from a neglected group of islands to a major Indian port. Global Adjustments 5

6 Introduction and Overview of the City Today, Mumbai is the capital of Maharashtra and is the most cosmopolitan of all the Indian cities. It is sometimes referred to as the New York of the India because of its skyscrapers and glamour and the pace of its urban life. Mumbai s most famed landmark is the Gateway of India which was built in 1911 to honour King George V on his arrival to India. Over the last century, Mumbai has become the economic powerhouse of India and has the biggest sea-port in the country. Fifteen per cent of the total organized workforce of India is based in Mumbai. The population has grown in leaps and bounds and today is close to 18 million. Mumbai is the manufacturing centre for chemicals, tyres, petrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, plastics, rubber goods, autos and engineering goods. The movie industry in Mumbai is famous for the number of films it churns out each year and is a constant source of entertainment in India and abroad. To be in Mumbai is to fall in love with the city s mix of traditions and cultures. The city s cosmopolitan outlook incorporates many different festivals which are celebrated as if it were a miniature India. Mumbai is an active city, alive and full of interest and for many people, their introduction to India. It has its Beverly Hills, its Bronx, its super rich and abject poor, Victorian monuments and Buddhist relics, gleaming highrises and cardboard shanty towns. Mumbai is, in other words, a paradise and a paradox. I N D I A MAHARASHTRA Arabian Sea Bay of Bengal MAHARASHTRA MUMBAI Indian Ocean Arabian Sea 6 Global Adjustments

7 THE PEOPLE OF MUMBAI The people of Mumbai are rooted in their tradition and culture, though outwardly westernization can be glimpsed in all facets of life. While music, dance and the performing arts are cherished and nurtured in this city, the people here equally enjoy fast food and a night out at the local discotheques. Families in the middle class place a huge value on good education and careers and most homes will have at least a couple of members holding either a medical, law or an accounting degree. English is understood and spoken by most people in this class. Exposure to western culture is very high and many families have children and other relatives settled overseas and visit them occasionally. People here are warm and welcoming, even to strangers. Many have found that residents of Mumbai go out of their way to help newcomers get around and get to know their city. Religion is inexorably intertwined into everyday life, no matter which faith people practice. Superstitions and myths guide many activities and even find their way into work life. Learn to work your way around inauspicious times and bad days as the people of Mumbai Global Adjustments 7

8 The People of Mumbai will attribute a lot of value to auspicious times and days before they embark upon anything constructive be it a new job or a new business. Almanacs are frequently consulted for all important occasions such as setting dates for weddings and naming babies, ground breaking before construction, house warmings, inaugurations of offices and factories and much more. Traditionally, the attire of Mumbaikars (as they are locally known) is the salwar kameez which is harem-style pants teamed with a long top and a scarf (dupatta). The men wear a kurta, a loose, collarless shirt and pyjama, loose drawstring pants. At the workplace, formal wear is largely the norm. Women continue to wear Indian garments either the sari or the salwar kameez. Younger women are increasingly opting for western formal office wear. Men are invariably in formal trousers, shirts, ties and a jacket or even business suits. You will find most women heavily dressed up for evenings out and formal occasions the women of Mumbai love displaying their beautiful silk and brocade saris, designer salwar kameez sets and their jewellery! 8 Global Adjustments

9 BECOMING A TENANT Real estate practices and tenancy laws in India are quite different from international norms. We would advise you to use our expertise to help you find the ideal home in India, negotiate the complex clauses of the lease agreement and help you move in. Property owners tend to list their homes with multiple brokers, usually with no formal agreements whatsoever and prospective tenants have very little control over negotiations unless they are represented by well known realty service providers. Selecting your home and working out the rental agreements are the most crucial decisions that you will be making in your early days in India, and we are here to help you ensure that you find the best home and have a hassle-free move in. Most cities typically have expatriate housing zones and Mumbai is no different. The popular expatriate areas are Bandra, Colaba, Cuff Parade, Nariman Point, Worli, Khar, Powai, Juhu, Juhu Vile Parle Scheme and Andheri. Juhu and Worli sea face are particularly attractive as they are nearer to the ocean; Bandra Kurla and Khar are also attractive as they are close to the international schools and away from the congestion of the city. We can help you look up these districts on the city map and work out the travel times to your office, Global Adjustments 9

10 Becoming a Tenant the airport and train stations, the business district, entertainment, medical and shopping facilities and schools. As your Destination Service providers, we have on our listings some of the best properties that Mumbai has to offer for expatriate style living and we ensure that you get a fair deal on the terms and conditions in your lease agreements. For first time renters in India, here is some information that will come in handy during your property viewing visits and negotiations: Rent Depending on the landlord, rents may be paid in advance or after your stay and the rent due date is determined during lease negotiations. Rents are negotiable, as are the escalation clauses the average annual escalation is somewhere between 10-15% of the base rent. Deposit Deposits are normally set at months rent in advance. This deposit is fully refundable after deduction of damages (if any) and without interest at the end of the lease term. Deposits are paid when the lease is signed and may run into hundred thousands of rupees. Mumbai landlords are open to receiving higher deposits and a lower rent. Lease termination notice Typically three months notice must be given to terminate a lease. This clause forms a part of the lease agreement. Maintenance costs Maintenance costs vary according to the property. An apartment will typically have a monthly maintenance charge to cover upkeep of the common areas as well as security. Maintenance of installed durables (air-conditioners and generators) is negotiated during the lease agreement discussions. 10 Global Adjustments

11 Becoming a Tenant DESTINATION MUMBAI Appointments to view All viewing appointments are arranged through our office. Based on your schedule and preferences, we will book appointments and our Destination Services executives will accompany you for all property viewings and subsequent negotiations. Service fee Global Adjustments charges a service fee once you approve of the property and the lease papers are drawn up. Our service fee terms and conditions will be explained to you by our executive prior to setting up your viewing schedules. Global Adjustments 11

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13 GETTING TO KNOW THE UTILITIES AROUND YOUR HOME IN MUMBAI Living in Mumbai is a unique experience you come across something new each day! Consider this a wonderful learning experience, be patient about things which you cannot figure out and keep your sense of humour handy for things that you cannot change! These are failsafe formulas for a happy and peaceful stay here. Mumbai will teach you acceptance and tolerance, qualities that our ancient religions have instilled in us for centuries. Here are some important facts that you will need to know when living in Mumbai: Water The city gets most of its water supply from various sources through pipelines which fill the sumps (underground tanks) in homes. The water is then pumped into overhead tanks. In apartments, the maintenance staff ensures that the pumps are run everyday to give you uninterrupted water supply. In villa style homes, the occupants need to ensure that the pumps (commonly referred to here as motors ) are kept running and are serviced regularly. Your Global Adjustments 13

14 Getting to Know the Utilities Around Your Home in Mumbai staff the maid, security guard or gardener can be trained to run the motors every day. If you wish to chlorinate your water you can use locally available bleach liquids and pour some in the sump every day. Some homes will also have a second source of water bore wells or ground water. This is usually used for the garden and for the bathrooms as the water may not be fit for drinking (due to its dissolved mineral or salt content). Ground water is also pumped up to overhead tanks by motors. Drinking water Please do not drink water straight from the tap or anywhere else unless it has been boiled or chemically treated. We encourage you to buy branded bottled or packaged water which comes in clear plastic dispensers of varying sizes. Packaged drinking water is safe and we recommend going for a reputed international brand. Supplies of drinking water are available in all convenience stores as well as large grocery outlets. Cooking gas The medium of cooking here is usually liquefied petroleum gas. Piped gas supply has recently been introduced in the suburbs in Mumbai. Cooking gas comes in cylinders which are hooked up to your stove top. There are government and private suppliers of cooking gas and you will need to set up an account with them by paying a deposit. Government suppliers may have longer waiting lines than the private suppliers, who are likely to provide you with an immediate connection and supply. Waste disposal Although recycling is not commonly practiced in Mumbai, we encourage you to separate your wet trash from the dry trash and keep aside all newspapers, plastic, glass and tins to be sent away for recycling. There are many shops in the neighborhood that will take your daily papers, cans, bottles and other 14 Global Adjustments

15 Getting to Know the Utilities Around Your Home in Mumbai DESTINATION MUMBAI recyclables for a price. They come home to collect it or you can have your maid/driver take it across to the shop. Wet trash is to be bagged and disposed of in the bins that are kept in the yard in apartment complexes. If you live in a villa, please have your maid dispose of the bags at the nearest bin on your street. Trash collection is the responsibility of the city, and this is done regularly by trash vans. Garden refuse can be recycled as organic manure for your plants and shrubs. Electricity Electricity supply is generally reliable in Mumbai, except during the monsoons when power cuts are frequent. Power surges, on the other hand, are common. Before plugging in any sensitive electrical equipment such as a laptop or PC, you should consider investing in a voltage stabilizer or UPS. You can have uninterrupted power supply by installing invertors or generators in your home to kick in during a power outage. While negotiating your lease agreement, we recommend that you ask the property owner to provide for this. Telephone/internet connectivity Telephone and internet services are provided in Mumbai by the state government owned MTNL, Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited, and many private service providers. It is usually a little faster to get connectivity from private service providers. Often, telephone and broadband internet connectivity are bundled together to give you a better deal. Breakdowns around your home Electrical appliances are liable to be affected as a result of the electricity supply s fluctuations in voltage. This risk may be minimized by installing a stabilizer in your residence, either centrally or for each sensitive appliance, depending on your needs. Plumbing, carpentry and masonry maintenance work may also be required around your home occasionally. You may check out the local Yellow Pages for service providers in your neighborhood. Global Adjustments 15

16 Getting to Know the Utilities Around Your Home in Mumbai Keeping the bugs away If you live in a villa style home with a garden, we recommend that you get the garden sprayed for mosquitoes on a regular basis and ensure that your household staff do not leave stagnant water anywhere as this is a breeding ground for them. Have your windows fitted out with nylon netting which allows you to keep your windows open while keeping the bugs out. The most popular brand of netting, Netlon, is easy to fix and maintain and comes in two options fixed and removable. You may look for the nearest service provider for Netlon fittings in your local Yellow pages. Roaches, flies and ants are common because of the climate in Mumbai. Roach bait and ant bait discs are very effective it is advisable to bring a considerable supply of this in your cargo. Local sprays are also available, which work quite well. We recommend you enter into an annual contract with a pest control service so that a service is done prior to your moving in and repeated every four months. Contact us for pest control service providers. Rodents can be another problem if your kitchen and garden areas are not kept clean of garbage. Ensure that none of your trash cans is left open or any garbage strewn in the garden area. Wipe down all kitchen surfaces thoroughly after cooking and keep all drains clean by pouring bleach or a drain cleaner frequently into them. We also recommend that you shut your kitchen windows at night. 16 Global Adjustments

17 PLACES OF INTEREST - MUST SEE AND MUST DO! Mumbai is a beautiful city filled with ancient monuments and places of leisure, while excursions out of Mumbai allow you to explore historical places, hill stations, and beaches. Mumbai is literally the gateway to India and a perfect hub for exploring India. To help you plan your sightseeing and your weekend getaways, here are a few must-sees and must-dos: In Mumbai: Gateway of India George Wittet drew inspiration from 16th century Gujarati architecture in the construction of this masterpiece. The monumental archway was designed to welcome George V and Queen Mary to India in It is located on the Apollo Bunder Pier with access to the 6th century Elephanta caves and other cruises. Prince of Wales Museum The Prince of Wales Museum was styled after Indo-Saracenic architecture, also by George Wittet. The yellow and blue basalt structure is flanked by colorful greenery and houses a unique collection of artifacts. Global Adjustments 17

18 Places of Interest - Must See and Must Do! Jehangir Art Gallery To complement the historic artifacts found in the museum adjacent, Jehangir Art Gallery is the place where today s Indian artists display their art. If you cannot find the artists in the gallery, check the Samovar Coffee Terrace, where the view of the museum gardens is picture perfect. Mantralaya The Mantralaya, located on Madame Cama Road, is an administrative building that houses the members of the Maharashtra State Government. More modern in its architectural structure, it is official in its appearance as well as function. Fashion Street This bazaar, located on M G Road, sells inexpensive export surplus cotton fabric and readymade clothes. Since these are seconds, there may be minor quality defects that a buyer should keep an eye out for. Bargaining is expected. Rajabai Clock Tower Inspired by Giotto s Campanile of the Florence Cathedral, The Rajabai Clock Tower at Mumbai University was planned by George Gilbert Scott and completed in It previously played Rule Britannia, God Save the King, Handel s Symphony and sixteen other tunes, but now has a regular chime on the quarter hour. Flora Fountain Also known as Hutatma Chowk, the fountain boasts carvings of roman mythology, pinnacled with the spring goddess, Flora. It commemorates Sir Bartle Frere, under whose governance Mumbai s public buildings expanded rapidly, and is appropriately centrally located today. Marine Drive From sunrise to sunset, this highly frequented thoroughfare is considered Mumbai s crowning glory, and has been dubbed the Queen s Necklace as a re- 18 Global Adjustments

19 Places of Interest - Must See and Must Do! DESTINATION MUMBAI sult. The streetlights provide a breathtaking view by night and by horse-drawn rides (Victoria gaadi s) or hovercrafts alike, it exhibits a magnificent scene. Nehru Centre This embodiment of Nehru s vision for India s rise from agriculture to modern industry was designed by I M Kadri. It houses the Discovery of India Exposition, which tells India s story from prehistoric times to Indian Independence in 1947 through replicas of art and architecture in photographs, dioramas and audio-visual installations. Nehru Planetarium In 1977, late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi dedicated this planetarium, located on Dr. Annie Besant Road, to her father, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Designed with children in mind, it has highly rated education programmes and includes a computer lab, mobile science exhibitions, an inflatable dome planetarium and a science library. Mahalaxmi Race Course The site of the annual Indian Derby, with seasons starting in November and culminating in February, this oval racing ground was constructed by Major J E Hughes. A posh restaurant located within the grounds, Gallops, styled after British colonial palaces, serves a mélange of Indian and Western cuisines. Races take place on the grounds through April. Victoria Terminus CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus), or the Victoria terminus, is among the finest railway stations in the world. Designed by F W Stevens, it was a location of 17th century Portuguese criminal hangings. The animals and birds carved on the dome represent progress, shrouding its dark past in lively suburban beauty. J J School of Art and Architecture Named after its founder, Sir Jamsetjee Jeejabhoy, in 1857, the Sir J.J. School of Art is the most prestigious school of art in India. Rudyard Kipling was born Global Adjustments 19

20 Places of Interest - Must See and Must Do! on its campus, and his father, Lockwood Kipling, was a principal of the school. His house still stands in the campus garden. Crawford Market (Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Market) Opposite the Mumbai Police Headquarters, Crawford Market (named for Arthur Crawford) is a mix of Norman and Gothic architecture. Renamed after Mahatma Joytirao Phule, it was the first Indian building to be lit by electricity. Mumbai s largest market covers 22,471sqm and holds produce, meat, hardware, bamboo ware, and imported food items. Hanging Gardens The Pheroz Mehta Gardens on B G Kher Road span the slope of the Malabar Hill, earning them the nickname Hanging Gardens. Built in 1880 over reservoirs that supply 30 million gallons of potable water to Mumbai, the gardens are a popular location for early morning and late evening walks among residents. Kamala Nehru Park Opposite the Hanging Gardens, a children s park built in 1952 is playground to children of all ages. From the park, named after Pundit Jawaharlal Nehru s wife, a scenic view of Marine drive may be seen. Outside the park there are abundant snack and refreshment stands. Mani Bhavan The Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, once resided in Mani Bhavan. It has been converted into a museum with dioramas, books, letters and other personal articles that give us a peephole into the scenes of Gandhi s life. Banganga Of great mythological significance, Banganga achieved its name when Lord Rama shot an arrow into the ground ushering Bhagirati, a tributary of the Ganges, to provide his army with water. The site of the oldest settlement in Mumbai (Shilahari dynasty (c ), Banganga now houses several temples, hermitages and gymkhana. 20 Global Adjustments

21 Places of Interest - Must See and Must Do! DESTINATION MUMBAI Chowpatty Beach Chowpatty, or four channels, is at the foot of the Malabar Hill on Marine Drive. The Ganesh festival in September and the boat festival at the end of the monsoon are among many religious ceremonies that take place on the beach, making it a site of great importance to Mumbai. Chor Bazaar Literally Thieves Market, was originally named Shor or noisy Bazaar, an apt name for this house of bargains. Many second-hand household goods including furniture and miscellaneous trinkets from the four corners of the earth are marketed by generations of traders at this market. Kalbadevi This predominantly Muslim area is a network of small corridors and laundry-draped houses where you can purchase stationery (Abdul Rehman Street), fabrics, (Mangalda Market), jewelry (Zaveri Bazaar) and other household goods (Bhuleshwar Road and Lohar Chawl). Also there are the Jamma Masjid and Mumbadevi (patron goddess of Mumbai) Temple. Excursions out of Mumbai: Elephanta Caves: Named by the Portuguese for the large stone Elephant near the shore, Gharapuri, as it was previously known, is a site that no art historian should miss. It was created between 450 and 750 C.E. and houses beautiful carvings and etchings as well as a nonpareil view of the Mumbai harbour. Shrewardhan Harihareshwar These golden beaches span 170 km running parallel to the Mumbai-Goa highway. There are many tours of the beaches, and tourist offices have information on accommodation for those who wish a quiet vacation on the sandy shores. Global Adjustments 21

22 Murud-Janjira The gate-keeper village of Murud is best known for being the oasis point before embarking on a journey to the island fortress of Janjira. The cannons along its bastions were to protect the palatial residences and mansions of the Siddis. It may be reached by road or boat from Mumbai. Vajreshwari Warm Springs There are 21 therapeutic sulphur springs found in a 2km radius around a temple dedicated to the mother goddess, Vajreshwari Mata. The ride to the temple by bus is typically an hour in duration. Marve and Manori Beaches Marve is a relatively quiet village about 50 kms north of Mumbai where, unlike Juhu beach, vendors are not pervasive. Manori beach is accessible from Marve by ferry boat, and private cottages are available for rent. Around the fishing village there is an old Portuguese church and a cashew grove. Ganapatipule Places of Interest - Must See and Must Do! If you are aquatically-inclined and want to get away from the city, Ganapatipule is the best destination. Wind-surfers frequent the beaches, and for a rough n tough time, you can camp out in the MTDC tents. Resorts and other accommodation are also available. The Ganesh temple at the location is very famous.

23 USEFUL HINDI PHRASES Remember to stress the first syllable English One Two Three Four Five Six Seven Eight Nine Ten Twenty Fifty Hundred Thousand v Hindi Ek Dho The-en Cha-r Pa-nch Che-y Sa-ath Aa-t Nau Dus Bee-s Pacha-s Sau Hazaa-r Global Adjustments 23

24 Useful Hindi Phrases English Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday Morning Evening Night Tomorrow Yesterday Hello I m sorry How are you What is this? Go away Yes No Thank you Hindi Somvar Mangalvar Budvar Guruwaar Shukravar Shanivar Ravivar Subeh Shaam Raa-th Kal Kal Namaste Maaf keejiye Aap kaise hai Yeh kya hai? Jaao Haa Nahi Shukria Phrases/words in Indian English English Airconditioner Area Backyard Bed Boot/trunk of car Cellular phone Day care Indian English A.C. Nagar Backside Cot Dickey Mobile Creche 24 Global Adjustments

25 Useful Hindi Phrases DESTINATION MUMBAI English Died Eggplant Envelope Elevator Fiancé/e Friends and family Gas Goat meat Graduate Liquor shop Maid Moving house Not in town Office boy Okra Percolated coffee brew Photocopy Power Pregnant Restaurant Sidewalk/Pavement Small change (money) Snack Spare tyre Tuk-Tuk Vacation Verandah Note: Antonym of postpone is prepone Indian English Expired Brinjal Cover Lift Would-be Near and dear Petrol Mutton Pass Wine shop, although it stocks no wine Bai Shifting Out of station Peon Lady s Finger Decoction Xerox Current Carrying Hotel Footpath Chutta or chillar Tiffin Stepney Auto Leave Balcony Global Adjustments 25

26 The following chapters provide you with listings of services, shops and much more to help you settle down better in Mumbai and enjoy the city without having to worry about where to find what. It was compiled from the recommendations of expatriates and longtime resident Indians. While we have included listings of a wide range of shops and services, this list is not meant to be exhaustive. The contact numbers and addresses were verified to be correct as of the date this book goes to print, and may have changed subsequently. Global Adjustments Services Pvt. Ltd. neither vouches for the accuracy of the contact information herein, nor endorses/recommends any of these organizations in this publication. The company therefore takes no liability or responsibility, direct or implied, for the quality of their services. The reader is encouraged to exercise necessary discretion in choosing a suitable service provider. Should you need additional information or wish to verify the contact details listed, we recommend that you check the local Yellow Pages Directory.

27 CONSULATES, EMBASSIES AND CULTURAL CENTRES CONSULATES AND EMBASSIES Afghanistan Consulate General of Afghanistan 115, Walkeshwar Road Malabar Hill Tel: Australia Consulate General of Australia 36, Maker Chambers 220, Jamnalal Bajaj Marg Nariman Point Tel: Web: ausgovindia.com Belgium Consulate General of Belgium Morena Global Adjustments 27

28 11, M.L. Dahanukar Marg (Carmichael Road) Mumbai Tel: / mumbai@diplobel.be Web: diplomatie.be/mumbai Brazil Consulate General of Brazil 406, Sharda Chambers 33, New Marine Lines Tel: / Canada Consulate General of Canada 6th Floor, Fort house 221, Dr DN Road Nariman Point Tel: Chile Consulate General of Chile 58th Street, 17 MIDC, Andheri East Tel: Czech Republic Consulate General of Czech Republic 5, Marcopia 5, Dr. G Deshmukh Marg Cumballa Hill Tel: gkbombay@bom3.vsnl.net.in Denmark Consulate General of Denmark L & T house Narottam Morarjee Road 28 Consulates, Embassies and Cultural Centres Ballard Estate Tel: / Finland Consulate General of Finland C 305 Dharam Palace NS, Patkar Mag Churchgate Tel: finconsumumbai@shrenuj.com France Consulate General of France Hoechst House 7th Floor, Nariman Point (next to NCPA) Tel : / Germany Consulate General of Germany 10th Floor, Hoechst House Nariman Point (next to NCPA) Tel: / Greece Consulate General of Greece Baharestan, 30A Juhu Tara Road Juhu Tel: Indonesia Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia 19, Altamount Road, Gowalia Tel: / Iran Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Iran 1st Floor, Swapna Lok Global Adjustments

29 Consulates, Embassies and Cultural Centres 47, Nepeansea Road Malabar Hill Tel: / Ireland Consulate General of Ireland Kamanwala Chambers, 2nd Floor Sir PM Road, Fort Tel: / Italy Consulate General of Italy Kanchanjunga Building, 1st Floor, 72, Dr. G Deshmukh Marg, Cumbala Hill Tel: Web: italianconsulatemumbai.com Japan Consulate General of Japan 1, ML Dahanukar Marg Gowalia Tel: Malaysia High Commission of Malaysia Rahimtoola House Homji Street, Fort Tel: / Maldives Consulate of the Republic of Maldives 212A, Maker Bhavan III New Marine Lines Tel: / Maldives@vsnl.com DESTINATION MUMBAI Mauritius Consulate of the Republic of Mauritius 115 C Wing, 11th Floor Mittal Tower, Nariman Point Tel: / Mexico Consulate of Mexico Uniphos House 11th Road, Madhu Park Khar (West) Tel: Netherlands Consulate General of the Netherlands 1st Floor, Forbes Building, Charanjit Rai Marg, Fort Tel: bom@minbuza.nl New Zealand Consulate of New Zealand Aashinana 5, Altamount Road, Gowalia Tel: Norway Consulate General of Norway 16, Nowroji Mansion 31, Nathalal Parekh Road, Colaba Tel: / Peru Consulate of Peru 3rd Floor, Ador house, 6, Dubash Road, Fort Tel: Global Adjustments 29

30 Philippines Industry house 159, Churchgate Reclamation Next to Hindustan Petroleum House Nariman Point Tel: Russia Consulate General of the Russian Federation Palm Beach 42, Nepeansea Road Malabar Hill Tel: / Saudi Arabia Royal Consulate General of Saudi Arabia 4th Floor, Maker Towers Cuffe Parade, Colaba Tel: / Singapore Consulate Republic of Singapore 10th Floor, Maker Chambers IV 222, Jamnalal Bajaj Marg Nariman Point Tel: / South Africa Consulate General of the Republic of South Africa Gandhi Mansion 20, Altamount Road, Gowalia Tel: / Consulates, Embassies and Cultural Centres Spain Consulate of Spain 3rd Floor, Ador House, 6, K Dubash Road, Fort Tel: Sweden Consulate of Sweden 4th Floor, Crystal 79, Dr. Anne Besant Road, Worli Tel: Switzerland Consulate General of Switzerland 102, Maker Chambers IV 10th Floor, 222, Jamnalal Bajaj Marg Nariman Point Tel: / British Deputy High Commission Maker Chamber IV, 222, Jamnalal Bajaj Marg Nariman Point Tel: USA Consulate General of USA Lincoln House 78, Bhulabhai Desai Road Breach Candy Tel: / Web: usembassy.state.gov/mumbai 30 Global Adjustments

31 Consulates, Embassies and Cultural Centres DESTINATION MUMBAI Chambers of Commerce Indo American Churchgate Tel: Indo China Vile Parle Tel: Indo French Fort Tel: Indo German Colaba Tel: Indo Italian Prabhadevi Tel: Indo Japanese Fort Tel: British Business Group ANZBAI Tel: (Australia & New Zealand Business Association) CULTURAL CENTERS Alliance Française Theosophy Hall Sir V Thakersey Road, 40, New Marine Lines Tel: / Max Mueller Bhavan Prince of Wales Museum Annex Kala Ghoda, Fort Tel: / / British Council and Library Mittal Tower C, 2nd Floor, Nariman Point Tel: / Cultural Centre of Russia 31A, Dr. G. Deshmukh Marg Gowalia Tank Tel: / National Centre for Performing Arts NCPA, Sir Dorab Tata Marg, Nariman Point Tel: / Global Adjustments 31

32 Consulates, Embassies and Cultural Centres

33 SCHOOLS AND ADULT EDUCATION Daycare Centres / Playschools / Schools American School of Bombay (ASB) SF2 Block, Bandra - Kurla Complex Road Bandra (East), Mumbai Tel: Fax: Casa Bambino Montessori Ground Floor, Khatau Mansion, Oomer Park, Warden Road, Mumbai Ecole Mondiale World School Gulmohar Cross Road, No.9, JVPD Scheme, Juhu, Mumbai Tel: / Fax: Global Adjustments 33

34 Dirubhai Ambani International School SCL 5, G Block, Bandra - Kurla Complex Bandra (East), Mumbai Tel: / DSB Inernational School (Deutsche Schule Bombay) 76, Bhulabhai Desai Road Breach Candy, Mumbai Tel: / Fax: Kangaroo Kids Plot No. 44, Gulmohar Cross Road No.1, JVPD Scheme, Juhu Tel: / Branches also at: Bandra (W) Tel: Colaba Tel: Ghatkopar (E) Tel: Goregaon (W) Tel: Lower Parel Tel: Little Angels Montessori Neel Nandini Groud Floor, 8th Road, Khar (W) Tel: / Kookaburra Playgroup and Nursery Theosophical Colony Juhu Tara Road, Juhu Tel: Wonderyears Playgroups 2 B/2, Film Centre, Ground Floor 34 68, PMM Marviya Road Tardeo. Tel: Just Kiddin Hiranandani Gardens Tel: Dimple Ahuja Lake Castle Apartments Hiranandani Gardens Powai Tel: Sunflower Nursery School 36, Ridge Road, Malabar Hill Tel: / Fun Factory 41 A, Kesar Villa Pali Hill, Bandra (W) Tel: Adult / Continuing Education DSB International School (Sports, languages, crafts, cooking for adults and children) Bhulabhai Desai Road Breach Candy Tel: / Weavers Service Centre 15A, Mama Parmanand Marg Cumbala Hill Tel: Bombay Paperie Schools and Adult Education Offers courses on making cards, paper animals, puppets, glove pup- Global Adjustments

35 Schools and Adult Education pets or paper dragons using handmade paper. 59, Bombay Samachar Marg, Sonawalla Bulding Opp. The Bombay Stock Exchange Fort Tel: / Indo American Society Courses offered: Photography and many others The Kitab Mahal, Groud Floor Sukhadwala Marg, Fort Tel: DESTINATION MUMBAI 404A, Shree Mangal Society Shree Ram Nagar Borivali Mob: Shari Academy of Professional Photography and Digital Imaging Mahalakshmi Mills Premises Mathusadas Mill Compound NM Joshi Marg Lower Parel Tel: Body Alliance Ankur Parekh, a choreographer, teaches both adults and children various forms of dance. Home visits undertaken. Global Adjustments 35

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37 HEALTHCARE, MEDICAL AND EMERGENCY SERVICES 24 x 7 Pharmacies Bombay Chemist New Marine Lines, Near Bombay Hospital Tel: Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Shop 1 & 2, Bandra Geetanjali 234, SV Road, Bandra (W) Tel: Bombay Hospital Trust (attached to Bombay Hospital) Bombay Hospital Avenue New Marine Lines Ground Floor Tel: Extn.252 / 356 Carmichael Medical 19, Dr. Deshmukh Road Near Jaslok Hospital Cumbala Hill Tel: / Global Adjustments 37

38 Dilip Drug House (attached to Nanavati Hospital) S.V. Road Vile Parle (West) Tel: Extn.527 Lilavati Research Center Chemist (attached to Lilavati Hospital) A/791, Bandra Reclamation Bandra (West) Tel: / Kripps Drug House 8, Rajat Apt, Bhau Saheb Marg off Nepean Sea Road Malabar Hill Tel: / Noble Medicals Attached to Asha Parekh Hospital Swami Vivekananda Road, Santacruz (W) Tel: Pharmacies for Imported Medication: Orthofit (Supplies support products imported from USA and Germany) M1A, Shamilar Apt 571, AK Marg behind Shalimar Hotel, Cumbala Hill Tel: Kosmochem Maskati House, 76, Mohamad Ali Road Mandvi Tel: / Healthcare, Medical and Emergency Services Lab Services Florican Medical Centre (Computerised Pathology Lab) 405, Doctor House Opp Jaslok Hospital Dr. G Deshmukh Marg Cumbala Hill Dr. Amins Pathology Laboratory (Home visits also) 901, Tulsiana Chambers Nariman Point Tel: X-Ray Clinic (Routine X-rays, modern clinic with sonography and endocardiology) Dr. RM Shah Memorial Clinic 147, Waterfield Road Bandra (W) Tel: Kidney & Blood Pressure Clinic (Home visits if urgent) 108, Lady Ratan Tata Medical and Research Centre MK Marg, Colaba Tel: Ambulance Services Lilavati Hospital Bandra Reclamation Bandra (W) Tel: St John Ambulance Association Fort, Tel: Global Adjustments

39 Healthcare, Medical and Emergency Services A Rodrigues 16th Road, Near BPM School Santacruz (W) Tel: Breach Candy Hospital Tel: Opticians Lawrence & Mayo 274, Dr. DN Road, Fort (Outlets in cumbala hill also) Tel: Vision World 6, OM Chambers 130 Turner Road Bandra (W) Tel: Gangar Opticians Chinoy Mansion 162, Warden Road Cumbala Hill Tel: Patani Opticals Mini Purab Apartments 42, Ridge Road, Opp Jain Temple Malabar Hill Tel: Doctors General Practioners: Dr. Rati Godrej (Also a consultant at Breach Candy Hospital) Mob: DESTINATION MUMBAI Dr. Ashish Sawkar (Also a consultant at Breach Candy Hospital) Mob: Dr. Rohit Burman (Also a consultant at Breach Candy Hospital) 202, Doctor House Dr. G. Deshmukh Marg Opp Jaslok Hospital (Cumbala Hill) Tel: / Dr. Anil S Mehra 41, Pali Hill Nargis Dutt Road (Bandra West) Tel: By appointment only Dr. Rui Fernandez Jain Chambers, Near Bandra Station Next to Saga Department store Tel: / Dr. Anil Ballani Lilavati Hospital A/791, Reclamation, Bandra (West) Tel: / By appointment only Hiranandani Hospital Hill Side View Hiranandani Gardens Powai Tel: / / Global Adjustments 39

40 24 hours (Call for appointment) Tel: / Cardiologists Breach Candy Hospital Tel: / Dr Farrouk Dr Dalal Jamshed Dr Ichhaporia Bommi Dr K G Nair Dr Pahlajani Dev Dr Sharuk Golwala Lilavati Hospital Tel: / Dr Prakash H. Ballani Dr Ramesh R. Dargad Dr Nitin S. Gokhale Dr Vidya Suratkal Dermatologists Dr Wadhwa Satish 504, Doctor House Opp Jaslok House Dr G Deshmukh Marg Tel: Dr. Malavika Kohli 306, Doctor House, Opp Jaslok House Dr G Deshmukh Marg Tel: / Healthcare, Medical and Emergency Services Dentistry and Orthodontics Dr. Phiroza Venkatraman (Paediatric Dentist) Dr. Arun Venkatraman 401, Doctor House AK Marg Kemp s Corner Tel: / Dr. Firdoz (Dentist) Tel: Dr. Neetika Modi Sunflower Hospital VM Road JVPD Scheme Juhu Tel: / Orthodontist Aesthetic and General Dentistry Centre 88, Lady Ratan Tata Medical Centre Colaba Tel: / Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr. Sanjay Desai Jaslok Hospital Dr. G. Deshmukh Marg Cumbala Hill Tel: Dr.Dilip Nadkarni 3/1, Saraswat Colony Off Linking Road Santacruz. Tel: Global Adjustments

41 Healthcare, Medical and Emergency Services Pediatricians Dr. Deepak Ugra Dr. Farooqui s Polyclinic 4, St. Martin Road, Bandra (W) Tel: Dr. Mahesh V Balsekar Bombay Mutual Terrace Sandhurst Bridge Opera House (Operates at Hiranandani and Breach Candy) Tel: / Dr. Ajit Gajendragadkar (Visits the American School) Nucleus Polyclinic 4, Boran Road Opp. Elco Arcade, Bandra Tel: Physiotherapists Dr. Desai Samir Lilavati Hospital Bandra (W) Tel: / Dr. Neepa Shah 101, Doctor House Opp Jaslok Hospital Cumbala Hill Tel: / Radiologists Dr. Sanjeev Mani 14th Road, 1st Floor, Jani Arcade Building Khar (W) Tel: DESTINATION MUMBAI Other Specialists Can be contacted at any of the leading hospitals Veterinarians Dr. Rustom Barucha 6, Kashibai Navrange Road, Gamdevi Tel: / Royal Vet Clinic (Home visits by appointment only) 97/B-4, Kallina Village, Old CST Road, Kalina, Santacruz (E) Tel: / Dr. Tina Rustomjee (Used by several expats in Central Mumbai) 21-22, RN Gamadia Polyclinic Gamadia Colony Road Tardeo Tel: / Dr. Nazneed P Anita Room No. 20, RM Gamadia Polyclinic 19, Gamadia Colony Road, Tardeo Tel: Hospitals Breach Candy Hospital 60 A, Bhulabhai Desai Road Tel: / Bombay Hospital 12, New Marine Lines, Near Liberty Cinema, Churchgate Global Adjustments 41

42 Tel: / / / Jaslok Hospital 15, Dr. G Deshmukh Marg Opp. Doctor House Peddar Road (Cumbala Hill) Mumbai Tel: Hinduja National Hospital Veer Sarvakar Marg, Mahim Tel: / / / Lilavati Hospital Bandra Reclamation Bandra (West) Tel: / Healthcare, Medical and Emergency Services Nanavati Hospital S.V. Road, Santacruz Tel: / / / Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital Hiranandani Gardens Powai Tel: / Emergency Services Police 100 Fire 101 Ambulance 102 Call Alert (Crime Branch) 103 Heart Brigade Global Adjustments

43 GETTING AROUND AND OUT OF MUMBAI Getting around Mumbai is easy several options are available, from public transport, auto rickshaws, trains to private taxis and rental cars. For the uninitiated, we would not recommend public transport as most routes are crowded and travel times long. Though the city has no designated walking zones, some explore-worthy areas are best done on foot as any other means of transport will not allow you to enjoy the sights, sounds and the smells of this marvellous city! Call-a-taxi services Contact any of the following taxi companies at least two hours prior to your departure time. State the desired pick-up time and provide them with your address and destination. Payments are usually by cash. Coolcabs Tel: / / Mob: Autoriders 4/A, Vikas Centre 104, SV Road, Santacruz (W) Tel: / 59 Global Adjustments 43

44 Getting Around and Out of Mumbai Car Hirers (Recognised by the department of Tourism, India) 1403, Arcadia Building, NCPA Marg, Nariman Point Tel: Euro Cars Bandra (W), Tel: Cool Cab Mob: Meeru Taxi Tel: Rent-a-car You need to plan a day or two ahead if you would like to rent yourself a car. The rental companies require you to be at least 25 years of age, in possession of a valid international driving license which is at least three years old and free of any endorsements. A security deposit will be taken and payment is via credit cards or cash. Adarsh Rent-A-Car Pvt. Ltd. Kedia Apartments, Malabar Hill Tel: / 3777 Andheri: / Aero Wheels Rent-A-Car A-9, Ekta Apt, Sahar Airport Road Near Hotel Leela, Andheri (East) Tel: / or Amaze Rent-A-Car Smruti, 11 NSRoad, Juhu Tel: Amsons Tours and Travels Pvt. Ltd. 1, Kapadia Chamber Behind Metro Cinema, Churchgate Tel: , Global Adjustments

45 Getting Around and Out of Mumbai Anand Auto Hirers 3 Little Gift, 19th Road Khar, Mumbai Tel: Ashoka Travels Hindustan Building, 16/A Sleater Road, Grant Road Tel: / / Auto Options Shop No. 15, ONGC Building No.4, Bandra Reclamation Bandra (West) Tel: , / Auto Quick Saraswati Niwas, French Bridge Grant Road Tel: / Autoriders Rent-A-Car 4/A Vikas Centre, 104, S.V.Road, Santacruz (West) Tel: / 95 Car Hirers 1403 Arcadia Nariman Point Tel: / / Comfort Travels 41 Garment House, Dr.A.B.Road, Worli Tel: Deshpande s Auto Rental Pvt. Ltd. 5 Ajmal Road VileParle (East) Tel: / DESTINATION MUMBAI Nina Kars Raghavji Nivas, 10 Dadi Seth, 1st Lane, Babulnath Grant Road Tel: / Regency Travel & Trade 7 Samarth Niwas Tejpal Scheme 4 VileParle (East) Tel: / Rent-A-Car D/14 Godrej Baug, Nepeansea Road Tel: / RNK Suite #12, Kaliandas Udyog Bhavan Century Bazar Lane Prabhadevi Tel: Royal Cars 7/27 Grant Building, Arthur Bunder Road Colaba Tel: , , Rushabh Rent-A-Car A-103, Cinderella, Near Hiranandani Hospital Powai Tel: / Shriji Auto Hirers Suite # 7, Dheeraj Heritage, 2nd Floor Santacruz (West) Tel: (10 Lines) Global Adjustments 45

46 Getting Around and Out of Mumbai Sudarshan Automobiles 5 Vaid Mahal 128/30 Walkeshwar Road Malabar Hill Tel: / Vikers Car Rental Tel: Wheels Rent-A-Car 1488, Hargun House Dr.A.B.Road, Worli Tel: / Buses Mumbai s red double-decker buses are one of the best ways to travel short distances in the city (except the rush hours). Fares generally cost only a few rupees and are paid to the conductor once you are on board. The challenge with bus travel is figuring out where the buses go since the route maps sold at news stands are not always reader-friendly. It is best to inquire at the bus station. Somebody will always be able to help you. Autorickshaws and Taxis Three-wheeler transport is available only in the suburbs (northwards if Bandra). Auto-rickshaws have outdated meters that have not been reacalibrated in a long time, but the drivers carry a tariff chart with the current fares. After midnight the fare is 25% extra. Black and yellow metered taxis as well as newly introduced blue air conditioned metered taxis are available. Autorickshaws are not allowed in the central area of the city. This means there are no auto-rickshaws between Colaba and Mahim in the west and Colaba and Sion in the east. Railways The Indian railways are the virtual lifeline of the country, catering to both freight and passenger traffic on a gigantic scale. It is Asia s largest and the world s second largest railway system under a single management. 46 Global Adjustments

47 Getting Around and Out of Mumbai DESTINATION MUMBAI Mumbai has a suburban rail system that connects the suburbs with the city and stations in between. The trains provide transport for the hundreds of thousand of commuters that travel throughout Mumbai everyday. The trains are fast and cheap but they are extremely overcrowded and are not often used by expats. If you have to travel more than 25 kms from one end of the city to the other, and are willing to brave it, the local train is an option. You can take a first class ticket and travel in the first class coach marked with green stripes. For ladies, coaches are available in second class, as well as first class. Please beware of pickpockets in trains. Airlines Domestic - Many private airlines and the government-controlled Indian fly out of Mumbai airport, linking cities all over India. Indian Tel: / Jet Airways Tel: / Kingfisher Airlines Tel: Toll free: / / Spice Jet Tel: Toll free: Go Air Tel: / Air Deccan Global Adjustments 47

48 International - Mumbai International Airport is host to several international carriers with multiple connections to most major destinations across the world. Air France Tel: / /8885 / Air India Tel: / / Toll free: (BSNL lines only) Air Mauritius (Mauritius) Tel: / 5397 / Air Canada Tel: British Airways Tel: / / 04 Delta Tel: / Emirates (Dubai) Tel: Gulf Air (Bahrain, Muscat) Tel: / Getting Around and Out of Mumbai Japan Airlines Tel: / Jet Airways (Colombo, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore) Tel: Toll free: Kuwait Airways (Kuwait) Tel: / 4235 / / Lufthansa (Frankfurt) Tel: / / Malaysian Airlines (Kuala Lumpur) Tel: / Oman Air (Muscat) Tel: / / Pakistan International Tel: / Qantas Tel: / Royal Nepal Tel: / 98 / 99 Singapore Airlines (Singapore) Tel: / 2747 / Global Adjustments