Bombay Bound

Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, is India’s smooth and sultry gateway
city. Herewith, our insider’s guide to the bustling metropolis.

spa
At
Tahaa Spa, a jewel-like space near the well-shaded, old money
neighbourhood of Malabar Hills, therapists trained from the famed Banyen
Tree spa in Thailand work out your kinks. Expect your bliss state to
survive the city’s chaos (well, at least for an afternoon). 69/A,
Manisha Building, Napeansea Road, Mumbai, 022 23681001.

shop
Head straight to the flagship Bungalow
8, an eclectic gallery-shop where Indian design and intricate
craftsmanship flaunt a contemporary global twist. Find Ikat print
dresses by Parisian designer Mathieu Leguillon (formerly at Lanvin),
jewellery by the owner’s mother, artist Jamini Ahluwalia, and
accoutrements and furniture that you will want to ship home immediately. www.bungaloweight.com

eat
Old
favourite Indigo,
where the Clintons dine on their visits to India, is the opposite of
stuffy. Waltz into the chic space in an old Colaba bungalow and sip a
glass of surprisingly tasty Indian vino at the long bar, then dine on
local oysters and whatever happens to be on the daily specials menu. The
food is sublime and the people watching essential. www.foodindigo.com

drink
Hit
up Blue Frog, a
space-age-esque lounge, bar and restaurant in the city’s revitalized
Mill District, which features some of the best acoustics in the city.
Perfect for listening to a new Indo-jazz band or some indie music. After
a mango martini, you’ll be humming along. www.bluefrog.co.in