Frequently Asked Questions about Mumbai
What about those terrorist attacks? Is Mumbai safe?
The terrorist events of 2008 in Mumbai killed 173 people through ten coordinated attacks. What shook up the expat community was many of the locations were often used by foreigners including a luxury hotel and café. Yet the attacks did not specifically target foreigners. Mumbai is a safe city and increased security measures make it more so. A terrorist threat shouldn't affect decisions to come or go from Mumbai.
The terrorist events of 2008 in Mumbai killed 173 people through ten coordinated attacks. What shook up the expat community was many of the locations were often used by foreigners including a luxury hotel and café. Yet the attacks did not specifically target foreigners. Mumbai is a safe city and increased security measures make it more so. A terrorist threat shouldn't affect decisions to come or go from Mumbai.
How can I find cheaper accommodation?
In general farther from the city centre homes and apartments can become cheaper. This is not always the case as luxury apartments in the city are often cheaper than huge expat dwellings in the suburbs. Many expats find sharing accommodation is the only realistic way to find accommodation. Other than that, its tough luck.
Flat share or room rental listings
Dose everyone speak English?
In general farther from the city centre homes and apartments can become cheaper. This is not always the case as luxury apartments in the city are often cheaper than huge expat dwellings in the suburbs. Many expats find sharing accommodation is the only realistic way to find accommodation. Other than that, its tough luck.
Flat share or room rental listings
Dose everyone speak English?
Not everyone, but expats may think so as almost all professionals can speak English fluently. English is commonly spoken by much of the population but is also the language of the professional workplace, education and politics. Marathi is the official language of the area and Hindi, and Gujarati are all widely spoken, often borrowing words from each language in a single sentence.
What are some customs I should be aware of?
Perhaps most importantly don't use your left hand to touch people or receive and give anything. It is considered unclean. Being able to speak a few words of the local language or translating some English into it on business cards will be appreciated. People are often weary of performing duties below their status so simple tasks can get outsourced to subordinates. A handshake is expected from foreigners but a traditional small bow can be a sign of cultural respect. And never go with a hippie to a second location.
Business etiquette guide
Unless you are incredibly lucky to live next to your work, you will need a car. Mumbai and the extending Navi Mumbai are huge and accommodation is often found in the suburbs away from business districts. Be aware that traffic is terrible and makes for long commutes. The only thing worse than waiting in a traffic jam would be waiting in a traffic jam on public transportation, not something an expat will want to do everyday. Look into leasing a car instead of buying one.
