Travelling to Mumbai for the first time? Here's a handy first timer's guide

Bird's eyeview of Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Mumbai

Mumbai is vast, Mumbai is crazy, Mumbai is safe, Mumbai is glitzy! What not we get to hear about this city each and every day! While hundreds come to Mumbai for vacation, some thousands come here to earn their living. This city give dreams, this city gives meaning to life. In case you are a first timer to Mumbai or one of those who are planning to make way for the ‘City of Dreams', then here is a smart handy guide for you to follow:

1. Download the m-indicator app: This is the first and foremost thing you need to do with forgetting. The m-indicator app gives updated and detailed information on Mumbai local trains, bus routes, taxis, autoricjkashwas, ferries and long distance trains. You can easily track the train , ferry or bus timings, auto and taxi fares fares and bus and ferry routes without anyone's help.

2. Keep your walking shoes ready: Mumbai is known for the long chaotic traffic jam. So, if you need to travel few kilometres or around 500 metres, it is better to walk down rather than taking an auto, bus, taxi or cab. It will save time and money too!

3. Get prepared to travel by local trains: Mumbai local trains are famous everywhere. And why won't these be? It is the lifeline of the city used by thousands of people every minute. You will see many people hanging on the doors, while many trying to adjust their legs in a packed compartment. But, be assured, you will surely make way inside the compartment amidst the crowd. The train will make sure that you reach the destination on time.

4. Visit Marine Drive during sunset: This is probably the best place in Mumbai to relax and wipe off your day long stress. Take a walk along the promenade or sit on the benches and let the sea breeze blow away your day long toil. After the sun sets in, hang out in nearby cafes or restaurants for a refreshing drink or delicious dinner.

5. Buy vegetables and groceries from railway station areas: Every street adjacent to the railway stations are lined with shops and temporary vendors. Be it vegetables and fruits, or clothes and household stuff, the station areas are great places to shop for daily needs. Remember, these places offer the fresh fruits and veggies, something you might not get everywhere.

6. Learn some basic Marathi: You may face language barrier in the initial days. It is good to know basic Marathi in advance to interact easily with locals. Also, this will protect you from getting cheated by strangers.

7. Carry loose clothes: Mumbai's coastal climate will make you sweat, so it is good to wear loose cotton clothes. Though sea breeze makes the evening cool and pleasant, daytime is quite hot and humid. Also, keep make-up kit away because your lip gloss or face powder might get washed away by sweat!

8. Learn to read Hindi numerical: All buses in Mumbai have route numbers written in Hindi. Learning Hindi numerical will help you track your bus route easily.

9. Get acquainted to south Indian food: Apart from Marathi food, south Indian food is readily available on all street food joints here. Idli, vada, uttapam, dosa, you will get these anytime anywhere. They are tasty and hygienic too. So develop taste buds for south Indian food while travelling to Mumbai.

10. Get a sight of open gutters here and there: This is something you might hate about the city. You might see garbage on the footpaths, middle of the streets, near gates of your building or even outside the railway stations. While this should to be taken care by the municipal corporation, you can only wear a mask and stop inhaling the polluted air.

11. Take help from locals and Mumbai police: Last but not the least, Mumbai police can be your best guide in an otherwise unknown city. They are scattered everywhere, so make sure you seek their help if needed. They will surely guide and show you the right way. unlike many other cityies, locals in Mumbai are there too to help you with a smiling face.

Everyone have their first day in a new city. I too had mine in this City of Dreams. I walked miles as a stranger and discovered narrow alleys, crowded stations and new roads. Come in, enjoy and live life to the fullest here in Mumbai!