How to Plan your Travel, Stay & the Cost?
Now a day’s least you need to bother is about the stay and transport. Thanks to the era of aggregator that has made it possible with ease. You have Goibibo, Yatra, MakeMyTrip and many more. All you need to do is log in to these sites or download their app and you are ready to go. Before selecting your place to stay or travel ensure to check the ratings on the trip advisor. Usually, you can rely on the ratings of the place.
I went to Mumbai from Delhi so I booked my flight tickets online. It cost me just Rs. 8000 both sides. If you don't have time constraint than you can also plan to go by train. The fastest train will take 15 hours to reach there. If you plan to go by plane than it will take you just 1.5 hours, however, you need to spare some time for security check-ins which can take you an additional 2 hours for arrival and departure.
Stay:-
If you haven’t visited Mumbai earlier then It may be tedious to choose your stay. To make it simpler just check your budget and the reviews to make it easier. If you are going solo then you can also check many of the places based on the duration you plan to stay.
How I did the Stay Hoping?
During my recent visit to Mumbai of just 3 days I managed to do the stay hoping. Its different kind of fun. For those who are keen to do it, you can do it easily. It’s always advisable to book the venue in advance. I initially booked Zostel for first 2 days and last day in accommodation in one of the most happening vicinity i.e. Juhu.
However, since it was my first time in zostel, 1st day was enough for me for a room shared by 8 people. I got a good idea of zostel, it was occupied by all lively young people. In my room, there were a group of girls who came from Indore to share IIT fest. All were good and friendly but I was thrilled to explore other places. So I stayed in another amazing place that was quite innovative. Stay was like a taking a trip in some ac coach. It has very apt name urban pod, rooms were like a pod. There was an access card for accessing every pod which had complete privacy. Their canteen was well maintained and had good variations in buffet. The shower was very refreshing and hygienic. I thoroughly enjoyed my stay there.
My last day in Mumbai was in a hotel near Juhu. I was able to get the complete view of Juhu beach from my hotel.
What all you can Explore in Mumbai?
- Gateway of India
Gateway of India is one of the ancient monuments in Mumbai. The beauty of this place is you will get picturesque view of many beautiful artifacts. You can see the famous hotel Taj just opposite to it. It’s surrounded by Mumbai seaport which also promises eye-capturing view. You surely can get some of the best clicks here. If you plan to travel solo then also you will not have any dearth of professional photographers. They take a very nominal charge per click.
- Mumbai Seaport
I thoroughly enjoyed my ferry ride amidst Mumbai seaport. You certainly get amazed and mesmerized by the beauty in the middle of the sea in the Mumbai seaport. The ride is reasonably cheap. It will cost you just Rs 200 for to and fro ride. Both side it will take you more than an hour. This is a connecting point between the gateway of India and elephant caves too. However, the transit journey is itself worth a try.
- Elephanta Caves
This is one of the historic caves in Mumbai. Just after a ferry ride from Mumbai Sea port, you can visit these caves. It’s at least 4-5 km away from the port. If you are willing to take a walk and climb almost 100 steps stairs then only plan to visit here. If you like to take a historical visit then this building is worth a visit otherwise you can give it a miss by just enjoying some eateries near the port.
- Marine Drive & Chaupati
Marine drive is one of the most relaxing places in Mumbai where residents relax in the evening across the seashores. The subtle communication of the Arabic sea is complete detox and can heal you in and out. This place is also known for the couple who want to have some cozy time.
- SiddhiVinayak Temple
It is one of the popular temples in Mumbai and across India. If you wish to avoid huge cue than try visiting there early morning. There will be people who will be chasing you for VIP lane of not less than Rs. 1000 which is not worth. If you wish to get in a shorter queue then you can join that by paying just Rs. 50. Prasad are available at various prices. Outside the temple, they will try to push you in Rs. 500 but inside you can get it in just Rs. 100 as well. One of the unique things about this temple is you can convey your wish in the ears of the messenger of Ganesha. You can visit it just after having viewed Siddhi Vinayak and surrendering your Prasad and prayers. For those who believe in Hindu Gods must visit here. You can feel very positive here.
- Juhu Beach
Juhu beach is one of the famous beaches in Mumbai. In fact It is one of the largest beach in the city. This area is known to be inhibited by celebrities. You can also have privilege to try some of the local cuisines here. One of the best street foods is pav bhaji. Taste is authentic and special. You can also try some local kulfi and ice balls. Besides that you can take a walk across the seashores to experience is outwardly poise. Luckily the place where I stayed was just opposite to the beach. I could see the view right across my place of stay.
- Essel World
Essel World is one of the ancient amusement parks located in the outskirts of the city. If you would like to try some one the unusual rides then you can visit there.
- Worli Sea Link
It is one of the beautiful bridges in between the sea. It’s created to build better connectivity between the roads. However, it is beautiful to watch and enjoy the ride there as well.
How did I Celebrate New Year Eve in Mumbai?
One of my objectives of visiting Mumbai was to have rocking welcome for the coming year 2019. Of course visiting a new city and their famous spot was itself a good change & grand welcome. In addition, I also connected with a few of the local there and plan to party to a nearby place where I stayed. By the way, I connected with them on a social media a few days back. We planned about the New Year eve in advance. Our tickets to the club were booked in advance. Nevertheless, the place was jam-packed. However, we managed to enter inside and danced like crazy. Before we could realize it was 12 and we clocked in another year. We wished our near and dear one’s and winded off at midnight. I couldn’t miss my much-needed sleep too as I had a flight to catch very next day.
Welcoming beautiful year at a different city is always thrilling and best experience in spite of all odds. One of my resolutions is to spend New Year at a new place. Main purpose of doing so is you can enter in the New Year with relaxed and fresh mind. With that note wishing all very Happy New year 2019.