Is Mumbai Safe? Essential Tips For Visiting The City In 2021

Mumbai is an incredible, densely-populated city that offers plenty of cultural and natural sights. However, when it comes to safety, it can be a little intimidating for travelers. While most locals have no problem navigating the city, it’s essential for foreigners to take certain precautions to stay safe in Mumbai. In this guide, you’ll learn about the city’s safety, times and areas to avoid, and essential tips for visiting Mumbai in 2021.

Is Mumbai Considered Safe?

Mumbai is generally considered safe for visitors. With certain precautions and knowledge of areas to avoid, Mumbai can be a fantastic destination. It’s always a good idea to research any destination prior to visiting, but it’s especially important to stay vigilant in a place as large and complex as Mumbai.

How to Stay Safe in Mumbai

To minimize your risk of pickpocketing, harassment, or worse while you’re visiting Mumbai, there are a few simple tips you can follow. The first is to be aware of your belongings. To stay safe, always carry a small bag with you instead of a large one. This will make it harder for someone to snatch your possessions. If you need to carry valuable items, consider having a money-belt or neck wallet to store important items.

Also, bear in mind that it can get very busy in Mumbai during rush hour; be mindful of pickpockets who could take advantage of the crowds. It’s wise to stay in groups when travelling in more isolated areas and never to walk alone at night.

It may be a good idea to take out insurance before travelling to cover any medical costs or stolen items. And finally, always trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, remove yourself from the area as quickly as possible.

Areas To Avoid In Mumbai

Mumbai is a huge, cosmopolitan city with numerous attractions, bustling markets, and exciting districts. But there are some areas that it may be best to avoid while you’re there.

Although many of Mumbai’s slums are tourist attractions, it’s not always safe to enter certain areas by yourself. Wherever possible, take official tours with guides who can advise on the best places to go.

It’s also best to be aware of your surroundings and activities that may not be legal. Drugs are still highly illegal in India, and unfortunately, there are scams that target tourists in parts of the city (especially near food markets).

When travelling around Mumbai, it’s important to remain alert in order to avoid places where visitors should not stay.

Important Advice For Travelling in Mumbai

Now that you know the areas to avoid in Mumbai and how to stay safe while travelling, here are some additional tips:

• It’s wise to be aware of cultural and religious prohibitions when visiting India. The public display of affection is not tolerated.
• When flying into the city, use pre-paid taxis from the airport for safety and convenience.
• Always ensure you get an Idea sim card for communication and navigation with maps.
• Be aware of scams when at food markets and shops.
• Plan ahead before booking transport – rickshaws aren’t allowed everywhere.
• Be cautious when using ATM machines.
• Be respectful when taking photos with local people.
• Keep an eye out for taxi fraud – ask your driver to use the meter if you can’t arrange a pre-paid taxi beforehand.

Travel Assistance In Mumbai

Although travelling safely through Mumbai is usually possible with good planning and awareness of the local culture and requirements, accidents do happen; that’s why it’s essential to arm yourself with the right information beforehand.

For any help like medical assistance, emergency cash transfers, and advice on security issues while travelling in Mumbai One Sure Insurance offers Travel Assistance Services. Their services include access to a 24/7 helpline for medical and security advice, cash transfers of up to several thousand GBP for emergency situations, legal referral and assistance for lost passports or documents.

Overall, Mumbai is packed with wonderful sights and activities for visitors; however, for any city, safety should remain top priority. Whether you plan to visit Mumbai as part of a holiday or trip with friends or family members, it’s essential to take proper precautions before and during your stay in order to enjoy your time in the city safely and stress-free.

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring Mumbai in 2021

Are you planning a trip to Mumbai in 2021? You might be wondering if the city is safe given the current situation. The answer is yes, Mumbai is as safe as any other major city in the world as long as you take the necessary precautions. To make the most out of your trip, here’s an insider’s guide to exploring Mumbai beyond the conventional tourist spots.

Discover Hidden Gems

Mumbai is more than just the Gateway of India and Marine Drive. The city is dotted with hidden gems that are less crowded, more authentic, and often more exciting than the popular tourist spots. For example, the Chor Bazaar is a treasure trove of antique goods, vintage Bollywood memorabilia, and quirky trinkets that will leave you fascinated. Or try visiting the Sassoon Docks fish market to experience the hustle-bustle of the city’s fishing trade, and maybe even sample some fresh seafood. If you’re an art lover, the Jehangir Art Gallery is worth a visit. Located in the heart of the city, it’s a central hub for contemporary Indian art exhibitions.

Savor Mumbai’s Authentic Cuisine

Mumbai’s cuisine is a reflection of its diverse cultural heritage, with a blend of spices, flavors, and textures that is truly unique. When in Mumbai, step out of your comfort zone and try local street food, such as vada pav, pav bhaji, pani puri, or bhel puri. These savory snacks are both filling and delicious, and can be found all around the city at affordable prices. For a more upscale dining experience, try traditional Parsi dishes like dhansak or patra ni machi at a place like Britannia & Co, a historic Irani cafe that has been around for over a century.

Experience Mumbai’s Rich Culture

Mumbai’s culture is rooted in both traditional and modern influences. The city has a vibrant art scene, with festivals like Kala Ghoda showcasing the best of local and international art. You can also witness the city’s religious diversity by visiting places of worship such as the Haji Ali Dargah, the Mahalakshmi Temple, or the St. Thomas Cathedral. The city also hosts annual music festivals like NH7 Weekender, offering a unique chance to immerse yourself in the sounds of India’s indie music scene.

Uncover Mumbai’s Fascinating Histories

Mumbai has a rich and complex history, shaped by colonialism, industry, and local politics. One example is the story of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, a UNESCO world heritage site, and one of Mumbai’s most iconic landmarks. The station was built by the British in the late 18th century and is now a bustling hub connecting millions of passengers every day. Another fascinating historical spot is the Mani Bhavan, the home of Mahatma Gandhi when he was in Mumbai, now a museum dedicated to his life and work.

Venture Off The Beaten Path

To truly experience Mumbai like a local, you need to venture off the beaten path. Take a walk through the colorful alleys of Bandra, an old Christian neighborhood now favored by artists and young professionals. Or take a ferry to Elephanta Island, a UNESCO world heritage site too often missed by tourists, to see the 7th-century rock-cut temples. Finally, to experience Mumbai’s night sky, visit the Nehru Planetarium where you can witness daily shows and learn about the mysteries of our universe.

In conclusion, Mumbai has a lot to offer beyond the conventional tourist spots. By exploring the offbeat paths, exploring the hidden gems, and savoring local cuisine, you will discover a whole new side of the city that’s often overlooked by tourists. Follow the tips outlined above, and you’ll have a memorable experience in Mumbai that you’ll never forget.