Mumbai (Bombay), India - Getting In Touch With Your Fellow Man
India is one of the most populous nations in the world. The city
of Mumbai, better known as Bombay, carries this notion to
ridiculous ends.
Mumbai - Bombay
Mumbai is located on the west coast of India and is a sight to
be seen. Until 1997, the city was known as Bombay, but the
government for some esoteric reason changed the name. "Mumbai"
was the name used by locals for years and refers to a local
goddess. Most of the city buildings and agencies still
incorporate Bombay into their names. I know it gets confusing
which is more or less a good way to describe the city.
A little know fact about Bombay is the geographic nature of the
city. When originally settled, the city was actually a
collection of islands. As the need for land has grown over the
years, the water has been pushed back to the point where all the
islands are now connected in one land mass. How's that for a
topic at a party?
Serenity
If you're looking for a serene vacation destination, Bombay is
simply the worst place you could go. Upwards of 17 million
people live in the city. Spend a week there and you'll feel like
you've rubbed up against every one of them. The city is so
packed with people that getting from point "A" to point "B" can
take forever. You will not find a secluded restaurant, tourist
attraction or spot on the beach. Don't even begin to think
otherwise.
Attractions
Bombay is full of interesting things to see if you can get to
them. Victoria Train Station is definitely worth taking in for
the unique architecture and absolute masses of people. The
gardens at Horniman Circle are good for a stroll and one place
where you won't feel completely overwhelmed with masses of
humanity. For a humorous time, you can hit the beaches looking
for one of the movie crews. Yep, Bombay is the home of the movie
industry in India and is often referred to as "Bollywood."
In reality, the best thing to see in Bombay is Bombay. Just get
out and walk. You'll see snake charmers, vendors hawking
everything under the sun, the occasional elephant and taxi
drivers that put a New York cabbie to shame.
Poverty
India has serious poverty issues in the larger cities. Bombay
has a brutal poverty problem. As much as 30 percent of the
population is living in severe poverty. By severe, I am
referring to people living in cardboard shacks with no running
water and so on. Even the most seasoned traveler will be
overwhelmed. If you are going to visit Bombay, be prepared for
it emotionally.
Whether you call it Bombay or Mumbai, there is no denying the
uniqueness of this city. Some travelers can't stand it while
others find it intoxicating. Of course, you'll never know if you
don't give it a visit.