Travel Thrill in the Chill

High on Heli – Skiing

Get over your latent acrophobia this winter. Have a go at Heliskiing. This adventurous winter sport is all about navigating thick snow and getting over your hear of heights. The helicopter leave you at the top of a snow – capped peak and, from there, you have to crisscross you way downward. The sport brings out the thrill – seeking explorer in you, as you have to ski through un known routes and ridges. Some of the best locations to enjoy this winter activity are : Gulmarg in Kashmir and Hanuman Tibba, Deo Tibba, Rohtang Pass and Chandrakhani Pass near Manali. Gulmarg has the most ideal type of snow for heli-skiing – the fluffy powder or granular snow which is also known as re-crystallized sugar snow. But remember to gather as much knowledge as possible converning avalanches, alternate routes and safety since the terrain is a steep and tough one.

Snow leopard trail

Tiger safaris suddenly seem last season with adventure travelers booking mountains safaris to chase the endangered show leopard! They don’t mind the cold, nforgiving terrain of Spiti and Ladakh for that one fleeting sight of the ‘mountain ghost’. The best site to spot the cat is Hemis National Park in Eastern Ladakh. You can also spot rare species like blue sheep, argali ( a large horned sheep ), numerous mountain and migratory birds, as well as an occasional Tibetan wolf. Chances of snow leopard sighting are stronger in winter since they descend to lower elevations in search of fodd. If lucky, you can actually see one preched high on the races or balanced on a vertical ridge. We can offer snow Leopard trails combined with the home stay experience. You will be accompanied by a snow leopard expert, a cook, porters and mules to help carry camping equipment on you week – long expedition.

Romantic interlude

Misty views, fragrant tea plantations and an overall dreamy spell in the air – Kurseong is perfect love nest in winter with its small town, non-commercial vibe. Kickstart the journey on a romantic note by taking the toy train or The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, from Darjeeling, to reach this old – world hill station. Check into a nice – bed and breakfast place attached to various tea plantations, like Castleton, Makaibari, Ambotia or Goomtee etc, to enjoy an endless supply of home grown teas. Makabari Tea Eastate also offers visitors an insight into its history, the art of tea processing and a tea garden trek.

Camp in cool dunes

A balmy winter retreat in Rajasthan is ideal for those looking for a moderate cool weather. Flanked by the Thar Desert in the west, Jaisalmer (Rajasthan) bears a dry and hot countenance round the year, except in winter months when it wakes up from its long summer hibernation to celebrate the night chill. The city fills up with color and music with gypsy dancers and sarangi musicians entertaining under a star – lit sky. You could snooze on mattresses under the open sky next to a bonfire or snug up in a cozy Swiss tent for the night. To make it more fin, find out if there are any astronomy trips happening around that time for some star – gazing.

For Tours packages contact:- 00 91 281 2483878 or mail us at adler-tours@hotmail.com
Visit our Website, www.adler-tours.com 

New International Terminal Chennai

Contact 

+91 281 2465237 

For special fares

Visit California

The peak from where this legendary estate rises into the sky is known as LaCuesta Encantada—“The Enchanted Hill.” And there’s little question that Hearst Castle is California’s most magical landmark. Designed by the great architect Julia Morgan, the Mediterranean Revival estate, now California’s most visited state park, is home to the priceless (and some say eccentric) art collection of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. Choose from a variety of tours to visit the main castle and equally impressive guest homes, and to visit outdoor pools and gardens where the likes of Cary Grant planned amorous rendezvous.

For more information please visit http://www.visitcalifornia.in

Indian Restaurants in Kenya

Searching for Indian meals in Kenya? Below is the list of all the Indian Restaurants in Kenya.  

Haandi Restaurant Ltd

Restaurants – Indian
The Mall Mezz Flr
P. O. Box 45398 – 00100 GPO Nairobi.
Tel: (20) – 4448294 Fax: (20) – 4445807

(The mall Shopping centre, Ring Rd, Westlands Mains Kshs 600-995)

An international award winner widely regarded as the best Indian restaurant in Kenya, Haandi has sister restaurants in Kampala, London and Middlesex and sells its own souvenir T-Shirts. The menu reads like a recipe book crossed with a guide to Indian cuisine, and includes a wonderful Mughlai (North Indian) and Tandoori dishes and plenty of vegetarian curries.

Opp Handi is Open House Restaurant - Good one

Chowpaty Pure Vegetarian Restaurant - good

(Shimmers Plaza, Westlands Rd, Westlands; mains Kshs 200-350)

A great Indian vegetarian restaurant. The menu is as much a manifesto as a food list, but the food is excellent and includes lots of South Indian dishes such as dhosa (lentil pancakes stuffed with vegetable curry)

Anghiti Restaurant  - Very Good Mix Veg + Non Veg.

 Rhapta Road, Westland, Nairobi, Kenya

 

+254 20 3740292

 

 Royal Kitchen - Mix Veg + Non Veg.

 

Westlamds road, Nairobi, Kenya

 

Mughal

 

Adams Arcade, Ngong Road, Nairobi, Kenya

Khazana  - Good One

 

AddressLimuru Road, Gigiri, Whispers & Runda | Inside Village Market Foodcourt, Nairobi, Kenya

 

020 2068818

Anghiti Restaurant Ltd

Restaurants – Indian
New Rehema Hse Gr Flr Rhapta Rd
P. O. Box 66205 – 00800 Westlands Nairobi.
Tel: (20) – 4442553 Fax: (20) – 4449637
Mobile: 734320330

Chowpaty Pure Vegetarian Restaurant

Restaurants – Indian
Diamond Plaza Gr Flr Masari Rd
P. O. Box 38652 – 00623 Parklands Nairobi.
Tel: (20) – 3755050 Fax: (20) – 3748150

Diamond Plaza - Famouse Mru's Bhajia

M. P. Shah Hospital - Riya's Restaurant Pure Veg. - Thali also available.
Opposite of M P Shah Hospital - Maharaja also good

Visit us at, www.adler-tours.com 

Important Announcement – Closure of Outdoor Theme Park Rides at Genting

 

 

Please find Below the List of the List of Rides closed in Genting Outdoor Park

UAE Delight !!!

Free Theme Park Tickets boost Abu Dhabi Hotels

As a part of this year's SummerFest Abu Dhabi, any guest booking three nights at over 35 selected Abu Dhabi hotels, excluding during Eid, will receive free tickets to the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi theme park and Yas Water world water park. This promotion has been organised by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), will be distributed through various sources and hotel websites and will include complimentary WiFi and free meals for children under 12 years old. This year, SummerFest Abu Dhabi has been expanded to 52-days, running 27th June to 17th August, and will span mid-summer, the holy month of Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr and the destinations' traditional EidFest Celebrations.

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Atlantis Expand Aqua-venture Water Park.

Dubai's Atlantis, The palm is expanding its Aqua-Venture water park with a 40m- high slide and what it says is the world's first zipline circuit. Kerzner international, the  developer and operator of destination resorts behind the Atlantis, said the tower of Poseidon plus a range of additional features will open in August 2013. When the new development is complete, the 17 hectare water park will offer two  gigantic water slide towers, the new zipline circuit, the Middle - East longest river ride at 2.3 km long, with tidal waves and pools, water rapids and white water chargers, plus 700 meter of white sand beach overlooking The Palm. Over all the park will use more than 18 million liters of fresh water to power the park's array of water-slide features.

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The Yellow Boats

The yellow boats is UAE's unique sightseeing experience. They pride themselves on providing a safe and consistent delivery of guided tours around the wonders of UAE. Their unique trips to Abu Dhabi and Dubai provide the perfect escaping during your holiday, weekend or time off. Take photos of the sights from the comfort of the Yellow Boats. Weather you are looking for a unique sightseeing experience, a leisurely group excursion or a fun filled off site with your colleagues, The Yellow Boats can bring the fresh perspective to your day with some of the most interesting and exciting on water experience. The Yellow Boats are rigid inflatable crafts powered by latest generation engines that are costumed designed for both speed and safety. As the boat industry goes, these 12 seat rib boats are top of the line and they are equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and machinery. The Yellow Boat fishing charters provides professional and experienced skippers and fishing guides: offering the ultimate service and catering for the novice through to the most experienced angler. They are quipped with the latest technology and powered by the latest twin 250 HP Yamaha Outboards.

Heathrow Express – Travel Made Easy

Musical Muscat !!!

The Royal Opera House Muscat in Oman has become a symbol of culture and diversity in the Arab World. Arguably the best concert hall in the Middle East, it was inaugurated in 2011 by Sultan Qaboos Bin Said. The structure of the Opera House is very modern yet infused with Omani traditions.

The Royal Opera House has announced its 2013/2014 season offering a wide selection of Arabic and international performances by highly renowned artists and companies. The season consists of an array of genres from all around the world including opera, symphonic music, ballet and jazz and performances from people of diverse nationalities and cultures.

India Connect: The Royal Opera House has also seen performances by many acclaimed Indian artists. Stalwarts like Pandit Jasraj, Hariprasad Chaurasia, Zakir Hussain and L Subramaniam have all enthralled the audience with their brilliant performances at the Royal Opera House.

The Royal Opera House has managed to become one of the most prominent institutions for music and arts in the Sultanate of Oman and also the world. A visit to the Royal Opera House Muscat to witness a performance will definitely enchant your artistic senses.

The 7 Technologies I Can’t Live Without Traveling Abroad

Traveling abroad is only scary if you don’t know what you’re getting yourself into. After surviving your first trip, you can wear your experience proudly. Your second trip you learn from your first and so on. By the time you fill out your passport with stamps you look back and wonder how you were ever scared to begin with.

How do you get over uncertainty and focus on enjoying your trip? My recommendation is that you use technology to feel at home away from home. The following article showcases some of the technologies that I have discovered I cannot live without while traveling to 6 continents, 20 countries and 4 hemispheres. Use these technologies for convenience or just to feel like you are back at home.

Here are the  7 Technologies I Can’t Live Without Traveling Abroad

1) Power and Voltage Adapters

Power adapters for plugging in while abroad have been keeping Radio Shack in business for years. While you may choose to purchase an adapter for the specific country that you are visiting, I highly recommend that you purchase a package of adapters that includes plugs that work anywhere in the world. You won’t regret it!

I have a bag of plugs that I carry with me every time that I am abroad. In reality, I only need to use one kind of plug per trip (unless it’s a multi-continent trip), but knowing that I will be covered in any situation makes travel a lot more comforting.

Tip: Be sure to carry your adapters in your carry on so that you have them every step in your trip. If they are in your checked baggage, they will not be nearly as useful.

2) Tablet (iPad)

One of the biggest concerns people have with bringing their computer abroad is the worry that they won’t be able to keep it charged or that they may lose it/have it stolen. While these are valid concerns, it’s not something that I regularly worry about.

However, I do bring my iPad tablet with me every time I travel abroad because of the long battery life, access to email and applications like Skype. I also love the iPad as a reading device and for watching TV shows and movies.

Tip: Make sure that your apps are up to date before traveling abroad, because you may have trouble updating them in other countries. You should also download shows while on a fast Internet connection to make sure the full movie is delivered.

3) TripIt

For years, I have been keeping track of all of my travel activity using an application called TripIt. This program keeps track of all of my flight, hotel and car reservations in a single place. All that I need to do is forward my itinerary to their email address and they do the rest.

They synchronize my trip data between my computer, iPhone and iPad so I can access information from anywhere. It also keeps track of how far you have traveled and how many cities you have visited.

Tip: The regular version of TripIt is free, but I upgraded to the pro version because it also helps me track frequent traveler points and flight refunds. Well worth the extra money for me.

4)WiFi Internet Access

We are in a fortunate time where most countries that you will visit have access to wireless (wifi) Internet access. While the speed of the connections may vary by country, I have yet to visit a place where I was unable to establish a connection.

Some countries will have a “metered” Internet where you can only use a certain amount of data bandwidth.  Others may charge you for every minute or hour that you use. No matter how expensive it may be, wireless Internet is imperative to enjoying travel for the technology enabled crowd.

Tip: Try staying at hotels with Free Internet to save on costs. Elite travelers to hotel loyalty programs will often give free Internet as a benefit, so take advantage!

5) Credit cards with No Foreign Transaction Fees

We may not think of a Credit card as technology, but oh boy does it make travel easier – imagine life without them! While they may not be taken in every country and shop you visit, having a credit card handy can save you from having to carry around too much local currency (helping you feel safe) and also save you money when you choose a card with no foreign transaction fees.

When dining out and paying for incidentals when I stay in hotels, a credit card without foreign transaction fees is the only way to go. I highly recommend investing in more than one credit card with no foreign transaction fees (a Visa/Mastercard and American Express) to make sure your card is safely accepted at all establishments.

Tip: While this may not sound like a big deal to you, not paying foreign transaction fees is like having a 3-5% discount on everything you purchase abroad!

6) Digital Camera

While you may be able to take photos of your surroundings using your smart phone, I highly recommend that you use a digital camera to take the majority of your photos in order to make sure you have the highest quality possible. Since the memories from your trip will last much longer in photo form, you don’t want to cut corners by sacrificing quality.

A dedicated digital camera allows you to zoom in on your photo subject, can take higher resolution photos, and helps preserve your memories for the long haul. It may be another item to carry around, but you can get some excellent quality photos from cameras that fit in your pocket.

Tip: Read camera ratings and reviews to make sure you are getting the best camera for your money.

7) Skype

If you need to make international phone calls while abroad, use Skype to save yourself a significant amount of money over paying long distance fees. Skype allows you to call phones directly using an Internet connection and voice over IP (VOIP) technology for a very low price.

You can download the Skype application to your computer, iPhone or iPad to make either video calls to other Skype users for free or calls to telephones for a low rate.

Tip: Buy $10 in Skype credit for the pay as you go plan and it should last your entire trip. And probably your next trip after that. Use a Wifi Connection to make inexpensive calls right from your phone.

Chief Minister of Gujarat, India addressing august gathering of Travel Trade fertanity at 3rd. Gujarat Travel Mart being held at Gandhinagar

Biggest Ship in Asia : MARINER OF THE SEAS

Biggest Ship in Asia : MARINER OF THE SEAS ……….with 3,114 guests passenger capacity.

Ex Singapore sailings: 1^st June (3 nights ) and 4^th june  (4 nights)

Ship Highlights :                                           

• Vitality Spa & Fitness Center                                                   * 4 pools / 6 whirlpools

• Poolside, outdoor movie screen                                               * Royal Promenade
• Rock climbing wall                                                                     * Complimentary ice-skating shows in Studio B
• 15 bars, clubs, and lounges that never have a cover, including Boleros Latin-themed lounge and Wig & Gavel Pub
• Dreamworks Experience: Only on Royal Caribbean :Cruise with your favourite characters from Madagascar, Shrek, Kung Fu Panda and more. Meet and have your photo taken with your favourite DreamWorks characters, watch exhilarating character parades, tableside visits during character meals and see the Madagascar movies as well as other fantastic DreamWorks films brought to life in our 3D theatre or in your stateroom.

• 9,623 square foot Vegas-style Casino Royale® with 283 slots and 16 tables
• Main Dining Room with complimentary, multi-course dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner
• More complimentary dining options including Windjammer Café, Jade Sushi and Asian-fusion cuisine, Café Promenade for coffee and pastries/snacks, Boardwalk Dog House and room service (Late night service charge applies to room service orders between 12: 00 am and 5:00 a.m)
• Chops Grills Steakhouse and Giovanni's Table, choose any items off the menu from appetizer to dessert* (low cover charge applies)
• Casual dining and snacks at Johnny Rockets and Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream* (low cover charge applies)

Cruising with dreamworks characters ..

 ROYAL PROMENADE  :

                                                                       

                                                                 DURING THE DAY                                                                             

   AT NIGHT

ICE SKATING RINK :

 

  At night  :

At Day:

ENTERTAINMENT :

                                                                      Evening shows                                                                                                     

Casino

 

ENTERTAINMENT WITH DREAM-WORKS’ CHARACTERS…

3 Night Far East starting 01-JUN-2013

DATE	PORTS OF CALL	ARRIVAL	DEPARTURE	ACTIVITY
Sat 01 Jun 2013	Singapore		05:00 PM	Boarding
Sun 02 Jun 2013	Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia	08:00 AM	06:00 PM	Docked
Mon 03 Jun 2013	Cruising			Cruising
Tue 04 Jun 2013	Singapore	06:00 AM		Departure

4 Night Far East starting 04-JUN-2013

DATE	PORTS OF CALL	ARRIVAL	DEPARTURE	ACTIVITY
Tue 04 Jun 2013	Singapore		05:00 PM	Boarding
Wed 05 Jun 2013	Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia	08:00 AM	06:00 PM	Docked
Thu 06 Jun 2013	Langkawi, Malaysia	08:00 AM	06:00 PM	Docked
Fri 07 Jun 2013	Cruising			Cruising
Sat 08 Jun 2013	Singapore	06:00 AM		Departure

For more details contact:- 00-91-9825673771

London: Taking the path less travelled

For a city synonymous with royalty, the Big Ben and London Eye, London is also a treasure trove of unusual gems for the discerning traveler eyes. A peek under the River Thames reveals the nine feet wide and 1,200 feet long Greenwich Foot Tunnel that is a pedestrian link between North and South London and has been open since 1902.

Those with a yen for unusual things can head down to The Fan Museum that boasts a collection of more than 3,000 specimens of fans from all over the world. After you are done ogling at the fans on display in the restored building, sit down for a famous cuppa tea in the elegant Orangery in the grounds. If nature is your thing, then saunter by The Parkland Walk that is well known and loved as a place of quiet and peace in the heart of a bustling city and offers panoramic views of the city.

The best way to round up your adventures in London is a genuine East End adventure with a walk in the local morning market, savoring local cuisine and culture. It’s truly an experience that no guide book can offer.

Off Beat London

Greenwich Foot Tunnel
Fan Museum
Parkland Walk
East End Walk

20 Things to Do in Ayutthaya

1. Praise the “Maha Ut Chapel”: It has been believed that a visit to a windowless chapel with a single entrance or “Bot Maha Ut” protects us against lethal weapons and magic spells, enables us to avert danger, and makes us invulnerable. This “Maha Ut Chapel” can be seen at Wat Phutthaisawan and Wat Tuek.



2. Worship the Buddha images and contemplate the murals: Wat Suwan Dararam, Wat Pradu Song Tham, Wat Phanun Choeng, Wat Na Pramen, Wat Kasattrathirat, Wat Sena Sanaram, and Wat Choeng Tha are all adorned with valuable murals that await your visit.

3. Worship the reclining Buddha image: In Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, there are Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon, Wat Lokayasutharam, Wat Sam Wihan, Wat Puttai Sawan, Wat Dharmikkarat, Wat Sena Sanaram, and Wat Phanom Yong. In Maha Rat District, there is Wat Suwannachedi as for Sena District, there is Wat Bang Pla Mo.

4. Worship the royal monuments: Visit the royal monuments of King U-thong, Queen Suriyothai, King Naresuan the Grea (at Thung Phukhao Thong and Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon) and King Taksin the Great at Wat Phichai Songkhram and Wat Phran Nok in Uthai District.

5. Discover the sumptuous palaces and the architectural masterpieces: Such monuments reflect the prodigious talent and craftsmanship of the Ayutthaya Period. Visit Bang Pa-in Palace, Ancient Palace or Grand Palace, and Chandra Kasem Palace.

6. Visit various museums: Get to know the glorious past of the Ayutthaya Kingdom and learn the history through your visit to its several museums such as Chao Sam Phraya National Museum, Chandra Kasem National Museum, Ayutthaya Study Institute, Ayutthaya Historical Study Centre, Local Museum in Ban Phraek District, Thai Boat Museum, and Million Toy Museum by Krirk Yoonpun.

7. Explore the history of foreign communities in the Ayutthaya Period: Pay a visit to Portuguese Village, Japanese Village and Dutch Village.

8. Browse through 8 Ayutthaya's markets: that are still busy on land as well as in the water such as Wat Tha Ka Rong Floating Market, Hua Raw Market, Thung Khwan Market (Khlong Sa Bua) in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Kong Khong Market in Bang Pa-in District, and Lat Chado Market in Phak Hai District.

9. Have a terrific time discovering local wisdom areas: Admire arts and crafts such as knife-making village at Aranyik in Nakhon Luang District or folk doll-making in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District. Appreciate a diverse range of handicrafts at the Support Arts and Crafts International Centre of Thailand and Bang Sai Royal Folk Arts and Crafts Centre in Bang Sai District.

10. Take a pleasure cruise around Muang Islet: To admire the surrounding scenery and way of life of residents along the Chao Phraya River and Pa Sak River. Moreover, food and drink with plenty of options on the menu are at your disposal on board.

11. Enjoy a ride on elephant's back to see ancient monuments and get to know Thai Elephants at several places such as Ayutthaya Elephant Village and Kraal and Pang Chang Ayothaya & Snake Show in Phai Ling Sub-district.

12. Enjoy riding a bicycle, which is regarded as environmentally friendly tourism. Bicycles are available for hire at bicycle rental stores, guest houses, in front of the railway station, and tourist police office

13. Join a short trip arranged for tourist groups on a tramcar and listen to guide's explanation.

14. Go for a ride on Tuk Tuk for sightseeing: A symbolic mode of transport in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya that brings sightseers to discover the length and breadth of the city.

15. Take a leisurely ride in a three-wheel rickshaw “Samlor”: Local public vehicles whose cyclist enjoys telling stories as a member of the community while you appreciate soft breeze.

16. Eat out until dawn at the night market: Visit the market in front of Chandra Kasem Palace, the all-night market in front of Grand Market, Rung Charoen Market, and Bang Suk San Waree Dinner Cruise Ian Market.

17. Experience the delights of a homestay: Assimilate the host's lifestyle, get a hospitable welcome, and make yourselves at home at OTOP Village in Koh Kerd Sub-district.

18. Reserve chic sleeping accommodation in the style of boutique hotel: The different accommodation are Iudia on the River, Ayodhara Village, Bansuan Rimnam Resort, Pludhaya Resort & Spa, Ban Luang Chumni.

19. Riverside restaurants with splendid views: Tourists can sit down to tasty meals and take pleasure in looking at magnificent scenery at a wide variety of restaurants along the riverside.

20. Bring the shopping back to your family: It seems as if you have never reached Ayutthaya if you fail to get your family the following things: soup made of curdled blood of pig, noodle soup sold in rowing boat, pork or meat noodle soup, Phak Wan noodle soup, steamed stuffed bun, rice gruel, desserts wrapped in banana leaf, big freshwater prawns, fruit and vegetables. Other interesting souvenirs are Aranyik knives, fan palm leaf mobile woven in the form of fish and model ancient boats.

Insider's Guide to Mumbai

Taj Mahal Palace

CALLING MUMBAI A MASH-UP would be an understatement. India's most populous city is marked by an unrelenting convergence of high and low: Prada-clad women wait for fresh sugar-cane juice at corner street stalls, and luxury high rises overlook psychedelic street murals. In Mumbai (or Bombay, as most locals still call it), you can rub elbows with bankers, diamond merchants and film producers at velvet-roped bars, then step outside to grab some of the world's best street food and watch the sun set at Chowpatty beach, whose atmosphere turns carnival-like in the evening. Uncomfortably hot in the summer, Mumbai swings into peak travel season now, with foreigners and NRIs (an official-turned-cheeky term for nonresident Indians) showing up in droves for vacations and weddings.

Though extreme poverty blights the city, a rich cultural renaissance is under way. Contemporary art galleries are fast multiplying in Colaba, Mumbai's southern district. Boutiques from D7 in the western suburb of Bandra down to Bombay Electric and Le Mill in South Mumbai showcase local designers who marry traditional fabrics with edgy silhouettes. The city's namesake film industry, Bollywood, employs more than 2.5 million people and churns out 700 to 800 movies a year, nearly as many as its American counterpart.

 

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (C.S.T) or The Victoria Terminus Mumbai

• Significance: It has been declared a ‘World Heritage Site’ by UNESCO.
• Attraction: Victorian Gothic Style of Architecture
• Built In: 1888

Located on India's western coast, Mumbai served as a major port for the Portuguese and then the British from the 16th to 20th centuries. The colonial-style churches and Victorian Gothic buildings that dot the neighborhoods serve as a reminder of the city's past, while a growing number of modern glass-encased high-rises (including Indian industrialist Mukesh Ambani's much talked-about $1 billion, 27-story home) look to the future.

Once you've had your fill of galleries and fine dining, take a 1-hour ferry ride to visit Elephanta Island, where Hindu and Buddhist rock carvings—some dating back to the sixth century—will leave you awe-struck. Or head over to the stunning Chhatrapati Shivaji (formerly Victoria) train station and watch locals dash at rush hour. Mumbai suffers no shortage of shiny new toys, but it's the city's spirit that will have you hooked.

 Madhur Jaffrey

The Foodie Madhur Jaffrey  Actress, food writer and cookbook author

Rare Eats // Britannia & Co. Parsi food is hard to find outside of private homes. Order the fish patra; and berry pulao, a rice dish made with barberries. And you must have a fresh lime soda. S S Ram Gulam Marg, opposite New Customs House, Fort, 91-22-2261-5264.

Bazaar Fruits // Crawford Market. It's basically a market of seasonal produce. If you're there in April or May, you should buy the Alphonso mangoes. Near Abdul Rehman Street, South Mumbai

Coco Central // Konkan Café. Beautiful fish with coconut and red chilis. Everything is shipped from the Konkan coast—they have more than a 100 coconuts shipped in every day. Taj President, 90 Cuffe Parade, vivantabytaj.com

Street Sweets // Bhendi Bazaar. This area is home to the Dawoodi Bohras, a Muslim community whose roots trace to Egypt and Yemen. You will find the most amazing sweets, such as halwa and jalebi (a sweet and crispy pretzel-like disc), in the lanes here. Near Mohammed Ali Road, Bhuleshwar

People carry a 32 feet (9.75m) long dosa, a south Indian crepe made for the promotion of the upcoming movie, "Quick Gun Murugun" in Ahmedabad on Wednesday.

 

 

Suketu Mehta

The Novelist Suketu Mehta Author of "Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found"

Snack and Sleep // The Taj Mahal Palace & Tower. The grand hotel is back on its feet after being heavily damaged in the 2008 terrorist attacks. I like to go to the Sea Lounge and watch the Parsi families trying to arrange matches between their young over tea. Apollo Bunder Road, Colaba, tajhotels.com

 

Daryl Visscher/Redux Pictures for The Wall Street Journal

Taj Mahal Palace

Buildings near Nariman Point, Mumbai
Great Greens // Shree Thaker Bhojanalay. An eating club that originally catered to migrant workers, it is now comfortably air-conditioned and still serving the greatest vegetarian meals I have ever eaten in a restaurant.31, Dadyseth Agiary Marg, Kalbadevi, 91-22-2201-1232

Strolling Grounds // Kamala Nehru Park. Everyone calls it the Hanging Gardens. When I'm jet-lagged and up at 5 a.m., I head to the top of the park, which has a fine view of the bay. Ridge Road at the top of Malabar Hill, Malabar Hill

Deep Fry // A. Ramanayak Udipi Shri Krishna Boarding. South Indian home cooking served on banana leaves. They will also let you watch as they fry terrifically crisp potato chips. LBS Market Building, 1st Floor, Matunga, 91-22-2414-2422

Words of Wonder // Strand Book Stall. You go to the Strand to look at books, talk about books, buy books. I sometimes shop for American and British novels there and have them shipped back to New York; it's still cheaper. Sir P.M. Rd. Fort,strandbookstall.com


 Maharashrian Mehdi decoration

 Local Bus Travel
 

Anoushka Shankar 

The Musician Sitar player, composer and daughter of Ravi Shankar

Sound Stage // Blue Frog. Surreally modern in its décor and design, it's the only place in India that combines a music-centered auditorium with the casualness of a bar. There are international and Indian artists; usually it's a live act followed by a DJ. Mathuradas Mill Compound, Senapati Bapat Marg, Lower Parel, bluefrog.co.in

Daryl Visscher/Redux Pictures for The Wall Street Journal

Bombay Electric

Super Sands // Juhu Beach. I try to spend a minimum of an hour here. It's a place where you really get the vastness of the people that call the city home. Everyone lands up on the beach to have an ice cream with their family. You see quite a variety of people. West Mumbai

Star Grazing // Indigo. This restaurant is in a restored bungalow and feels really warm and swanky at the same time. You can do that usual actor spotting, but the food is actually really good. 4 Mandlik Road, Colaba,foodindigo.com

Street Style // Fashion Street. Miles and miles of market stall shopping. I tend to buy several of those simplekurtas (cotton tunics) to wear over jeans, and stop and have street food.MG Road, South Mumbai

Cheeky Chic // Bombay Electric. This shop has really unique clothes and cool accessories, kitschy Indian things. Definitely for people who like clothing with a twist. 1 Reay House, Best Marg, Colaba, bombayelectric.in

 

Raymond Bickson 

The Hotelier Managing Director and CEO of Taj Hotels Resorts & Palaces

Culture Cool // National Centre for the Performing Arts. There is a great mix of established work and experimental, Indian and Western classical. You cannot go wrong. NCPA Marg, Nariman Point, ncpamumbai.com

Abundance of Dishes // Trishna. We bring guests here, and they are stunned by the hundreds of items on the menu. The garlic-butter king crabs are the reason people return again and again. Birla Mansion, Sai Baba Marg (next to Commerce House), Fort, 91-22-2270-3213

Old Worlds // Phillips Antiques. I love to gaze at their beautiful treasures and maps, and check out any new collectibles. From carved cupboards to Gauri heads to oil lamps, it's an authentic slice of the past. Madam Cama Road (opposite Regal Cinema), Colaba, phillipsantiques.com

Snack Attack // Camy Wafers. My daughters and I just love the fresh potato chips from this Colaba snack shop. 5-6 Oxford House (off Colaba Causeway), Colaba, 91-22-2282-8430

Restau-Disco // Shiro. This restaurant is a wonderful oasis in midtown. Friday night with music from the '60s, '70s, '80s and '90s is great fun. And the food is delicious.Bombay Dyeing Mill Compound, Pandurang Budhkar Marg, Worli, shiro.co.in

Plus Don't Miss...

Elco Pani Puri Center A legendarypani puri (crispy fried canapés) street stall that went brick and mortar. elcocateringservices.com // 

Forest Essentials The place to load up on handmade soaps and creams, many of them laced with sandalwood, rose andmogra (a type of jasmine).forestessentialsindia.com // 

Ahilaya A favorite for silk and cotton tunics in pastel hues. 91-22-2202-4053 

Natural Ice Cream A must for the seasonal fruit-loaded ice creams likesitaphal (custard apple) and chikoo (sapota). naturalicecreams.in