STYLETHREAD -- LET'S TALK SHOP!

halah · Kenneth Cole

I'm going to Bombay, any tips?

Maddie · Coach

How exciting! I've never been to Mumbai but I went to Delhi, Rajastan, the UP, etc last spring. I have no suggestions about what to see but it will be major culture shock. Although I hear Mumbai has more of a western nightlife scene.

mckenke · BCBG

I love India! I have never been to Mumbai, but I was in Calcutta and Dehli. I would get yourself a frommers (my personal favorite) or a lonely planet and see what there is to see in the area. When traveling on the train etc, be aware that there is usually an all women's car that can save you some harassment. Also, at least in Calcutta this happend--you will be oggled by men, possibly have your ass grabbed, or men just walk really close to you. (I am a blond, so that may account for the increased attention) Just ignore it, walk quickly and avoid extremely crowded areas. Then again not that many Westerners visit Calcutta so you may avoid some of this. I am hoping I didn't scare you, I loved India and would go back in a hearbeat you just have to be aware of your surroundings. Have fun!!

relrel · Marc Jacobs

wow, im so excited for you. *thinks about all the pretty clothes you can buy, and the jewelry, and the sandals* just one word of warning, about the water. be careful of bottled water as well over there and make sure that the cap is actually sealed from the factory. just because its in a bottle doesn't make it safe. i spent three weeks in china and i can't tell you how many times i went to buy bottled water only to find a straw already floating in the bottle. surely, you jest mr. chinese man, that water isn't safe for me to drink! there's a straw in the bottle!

but have fun, and eat lots and lots of yummy stuff.

Maddie · Coach

Ok, I have a few more things to say. You could just read them in a guide book, or have probably already been told, but whatever...

Very true about the water! There are certain brands that are good to buy, a guide book should list them. I remember Bisleri was one that was really common. Also, if fruit has a peel it's fine even if it's raw. The bananas and mangos and litchis are sooo good. Even if you order it in a restaurant and it comes pre-sliced it's probably fine unless it's sitting in a puddle of water on the plate. I also heard we weren't supposed to drink juice, but the professor I was with (who has spent EXTENSIVE time in South Asia) told me it was probably fine and I didn't get that sick. However you will undoubtably have some digestional problems no matter how careful you are. Every single person on my trip did. Bring Immodium!

Be prepared to be hassled constantly and as awful as it sounds, don't trust anyone not working at a good restaurant or hotel or in uniform. And be wary of them too. 90% of the people I met just on the street not in mosques and stuff were trying to rip me off. Which is fine, they have to make a living, but just be careful. Bring conservative clothes. Pants or skirts that are at least midcalf and shirts that have at least short sleeves. Preferably not t-shirts. I've heard that you can go to clubs in Mumbai where this doesn't apply, but I would have been extremely uncomfortable in Delhi wearing anything more revealing.

halah · Kenneth Cole

I am worried about the water and food. I can't imagine going two weeks without fresh vegetables but my doctor recommended to stay away from uncooked foods except vegetables I can peel myself. Water will be something I'll be sure to be careful about, I didn't think about only drinking certain brands of bottled water! I'll have to remember to keep my mouth closed in the shower haha.

I am surprised by how many people have mentioned about guys staring etc. my Indian coworkers that are here told me to expect it too. My boyfriend is going to join me for the second weekend and I just hope he can handle that and doesn't get confrontational

Thank you for all the feedback it is very helpful and reminds me of things I never even have to think about here that I will have to be esp. concerned with there. I plan on dressing very conservatively and shopping any chance I get ;) I'll be sure and post lots of pics when I get back. I'm so excited. I leave on the 27th but I've already started packing!

Hermes

also, no ice - regardless of the hotel's water system claims. other ways to avoid contact with water so it doesn't enter your system is eyes closed in the shower and brush teeth with a cup and bottled water (I know, it sucks - but I can tell you I have been sick before...)