Frequently Asked Questions about Mumbai
What about those terrorist attacks? Is Mumbai safe?
The 2008 terrorist attacks 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.
Is there anywhere to find cheap accommodation?
In general the farther one goes from the city centre the cheaper the homes and apartments become. This is not always the case, however, as luxury apartments in the city can often be cheaper than huge expat dwellings in the suburbs. Many expats find sharing accommodation is the only realistic way to save on expenses.
Does everyone speak English?
Not everyone, but it may seem like it as nearly all professionals have a fluent grasp of the English language. English is commonly spoken by much of the population, but is also the language of the professional workplace and the educational and political environment. Marathi is the official local 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?
The most important custom to be aware of is not to use your left hand to touch people or to receive/give anything. It is considered unclean. Being able to speak a few words of the local language or translating some English into Hindi on business cards will be appreciated. People are often wary of performing duties below their status; India still operates according to a caste system, so simple tasks get outsourced to subordinates. A handshake is expected from foreigners, but a traditional small bow can be a sign of cultural respect.
Do I need a car?
Unless you live next to your work, a rare and miraculous occurrence in Mumbai, 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 congestion makes for long commutes, though surviving a standstill traffic jam on public transportation is excruciating, so a car is a necessity. Look into leasing a car instead of buying one.
The 2008 terrorist attacks 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.
Is there anywhere to find cheap accommodation?
In general the farther one goes from the city centre the cheaper the homes and apartments become. This is not always the case, however, as luxury apartments in the city can often be cheaper than huge expat dwellings in the suburbs. Many expats find sharing accommodation is the only realistic way to save on expenses.
Does everyone speak English?
Not everyone, but it may seem like it as nearly all professionals have a fluent grasp of the English language. English is commonly spoken by much of the population, but is also the language of the professional workplace and the educational and political environment. Marathi is the official local 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?
The most important custom to be aware of is not to use your left hand to touch people or to receive/give anything. It is considered unclean. Being able to speak a few words of the local language or translating some English into Hindi on business cards will be appreciated. People are often wary of performing duties below their status; India still operates according to a caste system, so simple tasks get outsourced to subordinates. A handshake is expected from foreigners, but a traditional small bow can be a sign of cultural respect.
Do I need a car?
Unless you live next to your work, a rare and miraculous occurrence in Mumbai, 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 congestion makes for long commutes, though surviving a standstill traffic jam on public transportation is excruciating, so a car is a necessity. Look into leasing a car instead of buying one.
