Moving to Mumbai, India

"The best advice was to bring a great mattress; Indian mattress are not like ones at home. Bring your vacuum cleaner; I have a Kirby so it really hurts that I left it behind. Choose a very good moving company; I thought mine did ok until I heard war stories from other expats (I did send an apology). Get your PAN card ASAP; you can't sign a lease agreement without one. Be very clear to what you want and make sure the settling in people stick to your guidelines as they will waste your time showing things that don't fit; I knew what was on the boat and needed 4 bedrooms and they kept showing us 3 bedroom flats. I knew that I wanted to be close to Indian culture without sacrificing access to expat shopping. I did not want my husband and children to spend more than one hour on commuting. Ask Indians for advice; so many freely helped us navigate the waters. They were our saving grace," said one expat in Mumbai.

"Mumbai is a bustling city with a vibrant culture and a unique atmosphere. Expats should be prepared for the hustle and bustle of the city and the heat and humidity of the climate. It is important to research the local laws and regulations before moving to Mumbai, as well as the cost of living and the availability of housing. Expats should also be aware of the language barrier, as English is not widely spoken in Mumbai. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the cultural differences between India and the expat's home country, and to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Finally, expats should make sure to have all the necessary documents and paperwork in order before moving to Mumbai," said one expat who made the move to Mumbai.

"We live in Powai; I chose the area by finding the middle spot on the map between my husband's office commute and my kids' school bus ride," commented one expat who made the move to Mumbai.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Mumbai is to use online resources such as rental websites, classifieds, and real estate agents. You can also search for local newspapers and magazines that list available properties. Additionally, you can ask friends and family who live in the area for recommendations. Once you have narrowed down your search, it is important to visit the property in person to ensure it meets your needs," remarked one expat in Mumbai, India.

"We live in 2000 sq ft, flat; 4 bedroom that 3 bedrooms have 2 floor to ceiling wall closets; 5 bathrooms as the smallest is for the maid; 3 patios with 2 small patios attached to 2 bedrooms. The kitchen is small with one sink and a built in stove and a patio for the washing machine. I had to buy the refrigerator. I have a storage room with shelves. I have wall sliding glass doors in 2 bedrooms and the living room, and large window in the dining area, giving the place lots of light, and unfortunately, heat. We have an AC unit in each bedroom and living room. It is smaller than most expats' homes. They tend to live in much larger flats," said one expat who made the move to Mumbai.

"Expat homes and apartments in Mumbai are typically modern and luxurious, with amenities such as air conditioning, high-speed internet, and 24-hour security. Many expat homes and apartments are located in upscale neighborhoods, such as Bandra, Juhu, and Malabar Hill, and offer stunning views of the city skyline. Expat homes and apartments often come with a variety of amenities, such as swimming pools, gyms, and private gardens. Expats can also find a variety of housing options, from high-rise apartments to villas and bungalows," explained one expat living in Mumbai, India.

"Lower than home. My area is around 1 lac; we pay less than most expats in Powai, and much more than most Indians. Our electrical bill is much lower than expats, but have my Indian friends falling over in shock," said one expat in Mumbai.

"The cost of housing in Mumbai can vary greatly depending on the area and type of property. Generally, housing in Mumbai is quite expensive, with prices ranging from mid-range to luxury. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in a good area can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000 per month, while buying a property can cost anywhere from $50,000 to millions of dollars," said one expat who made the move to Mumbai.

"Buying a home in Mumbai can be a great investment, as the city is a major economic hub and real estate prices are likely to continue to rise. However, it is important to consider the cost of buying a home in Mumbai, as well as the cost of maintaining it. Renting a home in Mumbai can be a more cost-effective option, as it allows you to live in the city without the long-term commitment of buying a home. Additionally, renting a home in Mumbai can give you the flexibility to move to a different area of the city if your needs change. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Mumbai should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," remarked one expat who made the move to Mumbai.

"I wish I brought my vacuum cleaner as Mumbai is terribly dusty. Otherwise, I've been able to buy anything else I need. I wish I left all my oven cookware behind as ovens don't come with flats. It is an appliance I'm not willing to buy," remarked one expat who made the move to Mumbai.

"When moving to Mumbai, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing that is appropriate for the hot and humid climate. Bring a few items of clothing that can be layered for cooler evenings. Pack comfortable shoes that are suitable for walking on uneven surfaces. Bring a few items of clothing that are appropriate for religious sites and other places of worship. Include a few items of clothing that are suitable for formal occasions. Pack a few items of clothing that are suitable for the beach. Bring a few items of sunscreen, insect repellent, and other items to protect yourself from the sun and insects. Pack a few items of toiletries, including soap, shampoo, and toothpaste. Bring a few items of basic medical supplies, such as bandages, antiseptic cream, and painkillers. Include a few items of entertainment, such as books, music, and movies. Pack a few items of basic kitchen supplies, such as pots, pans, and utensils. Finally, bring a few items of currency, such as rupees, to help you get around," explained one expat living in Mumbai, India.

"I asked if our neighbor's daughter would want to babysit some evenings to earn some money (thinking she's right across the hall--her parents home in case of emergency etc). She was keen, but her mother was horrified and said her daughter was too lazy to do that! When I told my friend, she laughed and said child minding at is a very low level job and I probably insulted them. I apologized and made cookies the next day," said one expat in Mumbai.

"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Mumbai. It is considered impolite to point with your finger, so it is best to gesture with your whole hand. It is also important to dress modestly, as revealing clothing is considered inappropriate. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of religious sites and to avoid taking photographs without permission. It is also important to be aware of the local customs and to avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking English in public," remarked one expat who made the move to Mumbai.

"Mumbai is a vibrant and bustling city that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and modernity. It is home to some of India's most iconic landmarks, such as the Gateway of India and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus. The city also offers a wide range of job opportunities, with many multinational companies having offices in the city. Additionally, Mumbai is known for its diverse and vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. The city also boasts a wide range of cultural activities, from art galleries and museums to music and theatre performances. Finally, Mumbai is a great place to live for expats, with a low cost of living and a wide range of international schools and universities," offered one expat living in Mumbai.

"Mumbai is home to a wide variety of healthcare services. The city has a number of public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that provide a range of medical services, including primary care, specialty care, and emergency care. In addition, there are a number of diagnostic centers, laboratories, and pharmacies that provide diagnostic and therapeutic services. Mumbai also has a number of nursing homes and rehabilitation centers that provide long-term care for patients with chronic illnesses. The city also has a number of home health care services that provide medical care in the comfort of the patient's home. Mumbai also has a number of medical tourism companies that provide medical services to international patients," commented one expat living in Mumbai.

"Mumbai is home to a wide range of medical services, ranging from traditional Ayurvedic treatments to modern, western-style medical care. The city is home to a number of hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that offer a variety of services, including general medical care, specialized treatments, and emergency services. Many of these facilities are equipped with the latest medical technology and staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals. Additionally, Mumbai is home to a number of medical research centers and universities, which provide access to cutting-edge medical treatments and research," stated one expat who made the move to Mumbai.