Where to Stay

Colaba

Being a major financial hub of the country, Mumbai offers plenty of accommodation options. Colaba, down at the Southern end of the city, has dozens of possibilities in every price range. In the five-star category, there is The Oberoi, Taj President and the historic Taj Mahal Hotel at Apollo Bunder. A short way across the city centre is Marine Drive that has Marine Plaza, The Oberoi and InterContinental. The Ambassador is located in the prime area of Churchgate and is the only hotel in the city to have a revolving restaurant. Colaba not only houses luxurious hotels but is also a thriving area servicing the budget travelers. Hundreds of budget and low-range hotels and lodges have opened shop behind the Taj Hotel.

Juhu

Juhu, way to the North near the airports, boasts a string of flashy four and five star hotels. The beaches are the largest in Mumbai, and visited most frequently. This area is also home to the film industry's most famous actors. Thus, spotting celebrities as you are fine dining is not a rare phenomenon. In the expensive range is JW Marriott and The Leela, whereas the more affordable beachfront hotels like Tulip Star and Holiday Inn also provide world-class facilities. The suburbs have also proved to be an attractive destination for visitors. The Orchid is the city's first eco-friendly hotel and is fast climbing the ladder in the hospitality business. A step down from these five-stars are Sea Princess, Ramada Palm Grove and Sun-N-Sand, which are packed during the entire year. There are also a handful of cheaper options behind the beach area.

Mumbai Central and the Airport Suburbs

If one plans on traveling much, looking for a place near the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus or Mumbai Central is a good option. Then there are getaway hotels on the outskirts of the city, like The Resort, The Retreat, and The Renaissance. Mumbai also offers service apartments for long-term stays. Marriott Service Apartments in Powai and Chateau Windsor near the Gateway of India are very popular options. If you wish to stay closer to the airports and the suburbs, AB Executive Apartments and The Emerald fit the bill. Making advance reservations is a must. But if you do end up here without one, YMCA is the best bet for getting budget accommodation.

Barring the odd 24-hour hotels, check-out time is usually noon. Most establishments, on request and depending on room vacancy, do allow a delay of a few hours or so. While deciding on where to stay, you must remember that for a city blessed with balmy, sultry weather, air-conditioned rooms make much more sense. October-February are the only months when you can go without an air-conditioner. But the dividing line between a mid-range and a better budget hotel can be space constraints, an air-conditioner, and a fridge. Also it is a good idea to take advantage of the discounts offered by some hotels in their summer packages (April-July).