My First Day in Mumbai

It’s definitely been an eye opening day. 29 floors up in my nice hotel room, I can still hear the hustle and bustle including the never ending honking of horns. It’s the language of the streets.

And those streets may have been designed for 2 lanes but they now make room for at least 5 and a half. I’ve got nothing but respect for Indian drivers (and I’ve been to Sao Paulo, Malaysia, Italy and Spain) – they have utter chaos down to a science. Did I mention part of my adventures took place on a back of a moped? Yep, definitely felt alive.

There are other sounds, something more beautiful. The call to prayer creates a moment of peace, where your mind wanders to another place. It’s like a calming breeze.

I’ve seen chickens, sheep, cows and goats. One goat was chewing on a moped. They really do eat everything.

Kids are kids, in any country. The smiles, the tomfoolery and the adventures are all communicated in their eyes. I loved these two playing cricket.

The smog is a bit of a bummer because it hides a fascinating and vast city. Slums sit alongside brand new skyscrapers. There is very little separation from poverty and riches.

I managed to cross the street at the Chor Bazaar. It was like level 47 on Frogger.

The food has been delicious. More importantly, it has sat well.

And the people have been very warm and friendly. I’ve never seen people move so quickly. They should call it the Mumbai Minute.

That’s it for now. It’s been a great time in Mumbai so far.

You can view more of my photos, here.