Where to stay in Mumbai

Colaba, located at the southern tip of Mumbai, is a blend of historical landmarks, tourist attractions, and bustling street markets. Known for the iconic Gateway of India and the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, it's a great spot for first-timers seeking the quintessential Mumbai experience. The area encompasses a number of art galleries and boutiques, but be prepared for crowded streets and relatively high prices. It's an ideal place for those who want a taste of the city's colonial past but may not appeal as much to those looking for peace and quiet.

Bandra, often dubbed as the 'Queen of the Suburbs,' combines a laid-back vibe with a touch of chicness, thanks to its mix of stylish cafes, boutique shops, and vibrant street art. It is another area popular among celebrities and has a distinct cosmopolitan feel. However, it is notorious for traffic congestion, and its popularity means higher prices for accommodation and dining. Bandra is the spot if you're after a youthful and lively atmosphere.

Juhu Beach, synonymous with the adjacent sandy shores, is a favorite for families and tourists. The area houses numerous high-profile celebrities and is known for its beachfront properties. Visitors can enjoy a range of eateries along the beach serving local street food. However, the beach can get quite crowded, and cleanliness is sometimes an issue. It's a great place for sunset views and celebrity spotting but perhaps not the best for those seeking solitude.

Worli is one of the seven islands that originally formed Mumbai and is a mixed commercial and residential area. It boasts impressive sea-facing properties and the famous Worli Seaface promenade. Worli is home to several corporate offices, making it convenient for business travelers. It can be expensive and slightly less accessible due to its central location. The Bandra-Worli Sea Link nearby is a marvel, but traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

Lower Parel is a rapidly growing area that used to be dominated by textile mills and is now a hub for upscale malls, restaurants, and nightlife. Skyscrapers and corporate offices define its skyline, making it popular among business travelers. The area is also known for traffic snarls and can get quite noisy. Despite that, if you're keen on shopping and dining at high-end spots, Lower Parel might be the place for you.

Powai is located around the picturesque Powai Lake and is one of the more modern neighborhoods of Mumbai, housing both premium residential complexes and educational institutions. The area boasts a number of shops, eateries, and green spaces. While it is beautifully planned and less congested than other parts of the city, the downside is that it's relatively far from major tourist attractions and the business hub of the city.

Malabar Hill is an affluent residential area known for its quiet, winding streets, large bungalows, and the picturesque Hanging Gardens. This area offers beautiful views of the Arabian Sea and a generally peaceful environment, which contrasts with the hustle and bustle of the city. It's one of Mumbai's most exclusive residential addresses, thus accommodation options may be limited, and the cost of staying here is typically high.

Tardeo, a central residential and commercial area, is known for its high-rise apartments and the popular Atria Mall. The neighborhood is fairly well-connected and offers easier access to both the north and south of Mumbai. Though it's a relatively practical choice for travelers, it lacks the distinct character of other neighborhoods and isn't particularly scenic or trendy.

Versova is a fashionable, up-and-coming neighborhood that attracts a younger crowd. The vibe here is more laid-back and artsy, noticeable in the many cafes and informal bars dotting the area. Versova is also known for its beach, which is quieter and cleaner than Juhu Beach but still gets busy on weekends. It’s an appealing spot for those who want a more relaxed environment, although it is somewhat isolated from other parts of the city.