Mumbia – A new adventure
Mumbai Relocation: the hardest thing is, to fit everything in one box.
It was quite a whirlwind, relocating to Mumbai. Indeed, while there were discussions for a few months, all was only finalised within a few weeks of departure!
Despite it being a temporary move of 6 months, there was a lot to do in a short space of time. Really, it was like a mini move, with the stress included. Personal goods were packed off to storage, while furniture was left for the temporary tenant of our apartment.
Mumbai relocation – heavy baggage
We usually travel light, but there were some home comforts we couldn’t live without for the 6 months, so the 2 large suitcases, and the 2 cabin bags where full, and just about got past the scales. Knox decided to take his organic flour of all things. “White powder’ going through customs would be interesting, especially since knox sported a shiner on his eye, after an elbow, during a regular Thursday evening football game. Lol
I wasn’t the best either at being a wallflower, avoiding the new scanners, due to radiation. And demanding a pat down only, to be carted of to a private room.
People can gawk all they like, but my health and morals are more important .
We flew with BA from Belfast at £373 return (total for 2) for the short 1 hr flight, plus £65 for an extra hold bag. For us, who usually avoid putting luggage in the hold, it was a different experience having to bag drop 3 pieces of hold luggage. Needs must and all that.
Sofitel Heathrow – getting to Mumbai in stages
We opted for the Sofitel, connected to terminal 5. We usually go for the Premier inn, as it does everything it says on the tin. However, we pushed the boat out (£172, including breakfast) and went for the sofitel due to its 5 minutes walk from terminal 5 and then easy access to connecting trains to terminal 3.
As we were gold members, we got up graded to a luxury king, and a welcome drink at the bar. I choose a glass of their finest champagne – Laurent Perrier (well they didn’t say certain beverages were off the menu lol), while Knox opted for an ale.
The room was typical corporate style, but spotless, comfortable and a phenomenal complimentary breakfast. At £172 compared to our usual Premier Inn at £50 – £80. However, there were no transport costs to and from the hotel.
How we travelled to Mumbai?
We flew with Virgin Atlantic and upgraded to Premium economy £4,800. That includes the upper class seats on the return leg. The flight was uneventful and friendly, with a nice glass of complimentary bubbly. It took approx 9 hours, including a delay while the plane was de-iced.
Entry requirements for India
I (Miko) got the usual tourist visa, multiple entry, which lasts for up to a year (I used my British passport this time). I received the visa confirmation , which was done online, literally the next day. Super fast. The British tourist visa, including the admin fee, costs £33.
Employment visa needed for Mumbai working.
I (Knox), on the other hand, had more hoops to jump through. My work requirements, and 6 months length, meant that I had to depart from the Business e-visa and get a manual “sticker” employment visa.
The initial process was dealt with through an online form, where I had to add employment details and upload a photo that would be the same as a physical photo sent with the application. I also needed letters from my UK and Indian office as well as certificates from the Indian government version of Companies House to show the correct registration of the company. Once all gathered, I had to make an appointment at the Indian embassy Belfast office.
Frustrating Bureacracy
As you can imagine, there was a lot of running about, emails, and messages to get together gather all the info at work. I also needed copies of both my passports. It was practically a book that I brought to VFS Global – the Indian Visa and Consular services office in Belfast.
This took two trips, that had to be booked in on separate occasions, as they highlighted other requirements, such as my signed employment letters, from both UK and Indian offices, had to be addressed to The High Commission of India London. Bureaucratic frustrations!
Once completed correctly and handed over at the counter, it took approximately a week to arrive! Much quicker than expected, after the initial documentation challenges. The employment visa cost £422 plus the cost to get photos taken, with an emailed link, of £15 at Snappy Snaps.
Arriving in Mumbai
After a lengthy delay at immigration, we were greeted by the hotel driver at approximately 4:30 am, before arriving at the hotel around 5am.
Miraculously neither customs in the UK or Mumbai questioned us about the ‘white powder! Well, except for the Bicarbonate of soda which got tested in Heathrow lol
Mumbai living
Our home in Mumbai is at the Marriott Executive Apartments / Lakeside Chalet On first inspection, they were just like the pictures and had most of the comforts from home.
Room with View – A garden oasis in Mumbai
There is a lovely view of the garden and eagles would perch themselves on the big tree outside our window on occasion.
Open plan living with separate ensuite bedroom.
This included a separate living room/ dining area and the kitchen also provided a 4 ring hob, an oven, and a dishwasher. Just what I (Knox) wanted to get my cooking mojo going.
There was a lovely decorative welcome message on the bed. The room would be serviced whenever we wanted and a complimentary breakfast was also offered when we desired it.
The crows certainly loved when we joined the morning buffett lol
Mumbai fitness and recreation.
The hotel facilities would surely keep us occupied, such as 2 pools, a sauna, spa, tennis courts and a gym. There are also yoga classes on a Sunday morning for all the bright and breezy people.
Personally, we like to get out running around the local area to explore and blend with our surroundings. However, Mumbai streets aren’t the best for such activity as the paths are uneven, broken, or often non existent and the traffic would take you out. For now, it would have to be the gym. Knox may get a chance to have a game of football with his colleagues.
The hotel restaurants and bars
As well as this, there are also several restaurants, bars and a nightclub (named Nox!) onsite.
The bar staff also give us a posh complimentary dessert. An almond and pistachio mix in choux pastry.
The presentation was amazing!
Nawab Saheb – Posh Indian restaurant!
We ate one night, so far, at the Westin hotel, just up the hill, at one of the restaurants called Nawab Saheb.
The food, hospitality and beautiful surroundings were divine, although super expensive for Indian standards.
It seems Mumbia, in certain areas, is on a par with London.
We would definitely go back though, for a treat, and to see again the lovely genuine smiles of the staff!
The pretty side of Mumbai!
The pretty views of the lake from the hotel was a welcome change to Belfast city, as well as the being completely different from the mad hustle and bustle outside the Lakeside bubble.
The lake wasnt for swimming though, as we spotted a couple of crocodile in the distance!
The last time we saw crocs was in Costa Rica and these two would give them a run for their money!
Construction next door!
Unfortunately, there was construction work going on beside the hotel. Therefore, the advertised serenity was lacking. Frustrating when all we get is noise, EVERYDAY! We manage to block it out most of the time and we are dealing with it. Some unruly guests, on occasion, are another story! Furthermore, there is the lack of sound proofing between the rooms. Neighbours partying to 5am has been an issue, especially when the night team and security appear ill equipped to deal with the situation.
We joke about who loves their noise most; India or Mexico, as in Mexico it was as bad, whether that was people or festival noise – it was all going on lol.
Home cooking
We were glad to have the full cooking facilities in the apt. Indeed, it was a vital aspect for the extended stay. We had to make a home, which meant being mainly self sufficient rather than eating out all the time.
Anyone who’s ever tasted Knox’s cooking knows why! This settled us in nicely with our first home cooked meals.
Yes, I (Knox) even have got into making my homemade breads, including delicious soda farls.
Shopping
When we weren’t at the shops directly, we discovered plenty of online stores, we were especially interested in the organic stores. It was amazing to see that one particular store, called ‘Swiggys’, instamart delivered the goods within 13 minutes from ordering! Speedy Gonzales! We also were fond of using the organic Farmers market.
Local shops
We aren’t ones to trap ourselves in the resorts or hotels, its a must to get outside and immerse ourselves into the local culture, no matter where we are in the world.
So we took a right turn, explored, and got a few bits and pieces to the amusement of the locals and the hotel. ‘Ma’m, we can do this service for you’. Basically translating into, ‘Ma’m please don’t get your precious little hands dirty’ .lol
To the left, fast food Mumbai style
Most people staying at the hotel / apts use the shopping service all the time. Each to their own, but we couldn’t imagine being confined to the grounds all the time! Our last blogs a few years ago during the pandemic, shows how much us free birds can’t be held in a cage.
The area outside the hotel, was quite different from modern Mumbai. It almost seemed like we were going back in time in some areas of Powai.
There certainly was a lot more stares, being the only white faces and I found myself as a woman, getting leered at a lot.
On the left turn, we took at night, it was more a shack restaurant street, compared to the more general stores, spice, fruit and veg markets of the right turn from the hotel lane.
Our K9 friends
Its not surprising we befriended many packs of dogs in both sections.
After initial barking from one tan lady, it didn’t take long for the pack leader, ‘Big daddy’, to let Lady know we were alright. Yes. we have names already. I can see some tears on the horizon!
Within a week they’ve started following us, just outside the hotel grounds.
It seemed I was now part of their pack after feeding them bits of meat from the breakfast buffet. I’m sure the kitchen staff are confused after we told them we are vegetarian lol
Then there was one little boy we came across in the evening time. (I named him Brownie, because of the colour of his coat and because he was so sweet).
It was love at first sight. Even though his ribs stuck out and he had some sort of growth on the side of his head, the joyful spirit of his waggy tail was infectious, despite his state. Although, he had those sad puppy dog eyes that pulled at the heartstrings.
So after some loving, we went and got him some chicken rice at the closest shack, which he picked out the chicken carefully to eat, and left most of the rice!
We will be keeping an eye on him and research a close animal rescue, to see if he can get a check up and some medical attention.
Chandivali – a small corner of huge Mumbai
For a more ‘town’ feel. A rickshaw or cab will bring you to one of the many districts of Mumbai. One 70 rupee rickshaw ride brought us to an area called, Chandivali.
It is basically like a European city centre, where you can pick up all you need.
There’s even lovely bakery selling a selection of delicious cakes.
We purchased many kitchen items, including a juicer (for £12, cheap as chips), from a little independent store. And, even though the store was tiny and filled to the brim with items of all kinds, the store owner filled every nook and cranny. When we asked for a particular item, he somehow, under all the organised mess, knew were to find it.
We did try to enter a bigger supermarket. A bit like the commercial ones back home, but Indian style. However, bizarrely they had a check point, a bit like airport security, including a frisk search. We decided to give it a miss, a few cleaning sponges wasn’t worth the hassle! And, we made the right choice as it meant more independent traders got our cash. Yes, cash still exists here, thankfully!
The climate
The climate is hot. Around 30 degrees in winter, but not overbearing at this time of the year. Put it this way, you sweat less. However, wait till March/April onwards lol. The temperatures will steadily climb to 40+ and will drip with humidity.
However, looking to the horizon, in the direction of the other side of the lake and the big bustling apartments around tight winding streets, all you see is smog. Some days you cant even see the tall imposing buildings because of it. Which is concerning really. Look in the other direction and its a proper blue sky. I love the blue skies. Its kinda like back in the Uk/ Ireland when they chemtrail over a bright, clear blue sky and you just know the next day it will be a blanket of grey.
Saying that, there is and will be plenty of days to go for a walk, or to lounge by the pool, read a good book (Tina by Niall Harbinson) and soak up some vitamin D.
Working in Mumbai
The commute to the office was very different to Belfast’s 25 minutes walk. It usually took between 40 mins and an hour to get to one of the offices, Thane or Airoli.
The team I work with are good fun and I settled into the work quickly. It is a totally different experience living and working in a country rather than just touring through it. The important thing was to get into a good Rhythm. The office rule is no round collars. Therefore, I have brought a slash of colour to the office with my range of Hawaiian shirts. They have a proper collar afterall!
Cost of living in Mumbai
Mumbia is not cheap, especially when you’re like us and buy organic foods or speciality ingredients. Saying that, you can get fruit and veg extremely cheap at the market stalls (I’m sure they add a few rupees though because we are westerners)!
Hotel prices are still very similar to the UK/ Ireland for the ‘nicer’ restaurants, bars or stores. Due to higher taxes than Goa, beer and wine prices are akin to UK off license prices. Still cheaper to buy there and drink in the garden, rather than from the hotel bar. As long term guests, we get away with it.
Once we had our mainstays in, then it was the usual refresh of perishables. In the end, as long as we stayed away from the hotel bars and restaurants, our weekly spend would be reduced by at least half compared to Belfast.
Safety
Mumbia is a city of approximately over 23 million. And, every area is different. Off course on the most tourists parts you may not get a second glance, unless they want to earn some dollar), but in certain areas in the suburbs you do get gawked at, especially as a white woman. As with any big city, you just need to use common sense. While there is attention, it is generally one of curiosity rather than anything sinister. However, as we would anywhere, show appropriate alertness.
Other safety issues is crossing the roads. Sometimes they can be on the same dangerous level as Vietnam. But you gotta take your opportunity and run for it!
Accidents Happen
Traffic mishaps happen. In the mayhem of Mumbai traffic, its a wonder more accidents don’t take place. Most of the time, the prangs happen due to cars and bikes swerving in and out, horns blaring, to get a few feet further forward. Even if the car is stopped, one has to take care as opening car doors in tight spaces can mean it gets pulled backwards and off its hinges. The main hope is that no-one gets injured.
Luckily no one was hurt, only the door and a hefty mechanical bill!
Water
The tap water is not for drinking in India, and that includes brushing your teeth. Infact keep your mouth shut tight in the shower to! Bottled water is widely available for drinking, cooking and teeth brushing. We use Bisleri because its a local brand and not the usual nestle, Pepsi, or Coca-Cola brands. The hotel also did H2O bottled filtered water. This was great and we use it loads.
Entertainment
As stated above there is a nightclub in the Westin with a dj if that’s up your street.
And, off course all the restaurants, spa, sauna and fitness activities.
The tennis courts were also a great way to get fit, and a change from the gym. The fitness part is running after the ball, as we surely miss the ball half the time lol
We had some catching up to do with our friend Varsha who called over, creating our own entertainment under the gazebo, or by the pool.
We hadn’t seen her in a year, when we all spent time together in Goa, so a lot of laughs were had.
Lounge on a hammock
Many hours were spent swinging on a hammock. Lazily rocking gently under the tree, in the shade is certainly good for the soul.
Pool
Lounging by the pool or taking a dip for a swim was also a favourite pass time.
Even with the construction going on in the background, it took our minds off it, when spotting the wildlife.
It was beautiful to watch the eagles soar in the sky or come to dip their feathers in the pool to cool down.
Sightseeing
Since we have already been to Mumbai several times, we had already done some of the main attractions. However over the next few weeks we will be fitting in some of the main tourist sightseeing highlights so you can imagine immersing yourself in the culture.
Watch this space for the next blog piece.
Transportation
There’s plenty of transportation to get you around the city. Whether that’s a rickshaw (auto), a scooter,a cab, an mini bus, an a/c limo or the like, or an Uber. For shorter journeys the rickshaws are more fun and dirt cheap, with a little haggling! (Although now some have joined Uber to, so you will get a set price)!
Then there are the local buses and trains. The trains are often jammed packed and an experience in themselves.
Good for views though.
The Mumbai vibe
At the hotel, there is a mix of long term stays, business makers, conference goers, and Indian holiday makers. So you see the stuffy suits, mixed with the colourful saris, or western getup!
There are quite a few expats working here also, some are living at the hotel for up to a year, so some even bring their pets over from the states or Europe etc.
The vibe is quite relaxed so far and some small talk has been had with the owners of the pet dogs. I’m even tempted to put a lead on one of the strays and pretend its my pet. I’m sure they would love to cool down in the pool! Lol
We even had the Kolkata Night-Rider coaches staying! If you know your cricket, you’ll know who they are!
We have certainly got into a rhythm in Mumbai living and looking forward to the months ahead.
