22-24 October 2019, BEC, Mumbai

Your Mumbai GuideFi India & Hi return to Mumbai 22-24 October 2019. As the only event dedicated solely to food

ingredients in India, Fi India & Hi are expected to attract 8,000+ trade attendees this year. A

reflection of the growing food and beverage industry in the region, this is the must-attend business

events for food and beverage professionals.

To help you prepare for your trip and to get the most out of your time in Mumbai, we have put

together a city guide which covers everything from visas and currency information, to food you

have to try while you’re in the city, and tourist attractions to catch if you can spare a few hours.

CONTENTS

Things to Know Before you go ................................................................................................................... 3 Money CurrencyCash or Credit Card

Visas ............................................................................................................................................................. 3 Who Needs a Visa? Passport Validity Visa Process

Using your Phone ........................................................................................................................................ 4 International Roaming Unlocking your Phone Using the Internet

Plug Sockets ................................................................................................................................................ 4

Local Culture ............................................................................................................................................... 5 Etiquette Everyday Etiquette Business Etiquette

Tipping ......................................................................................................................................................... 5

Getting Around ........................................................................................................................................5-6 From the Airport Public Transport

Eating in Mumbai ........................................................................................................................................ 7 Drinking Water Mumbai Dishes Recommended Restaurants

2

Things to know before you goCurrency: The official currency in India is the Rupee (INR). Rupees come in denominations of 2000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10.

General conversion rate:

1 EUR = 78 INR1 USD = 70 INR1 GBP = 100 INRCash or Credit CardIf you are an Indian resident you can take up to 7,500 INR into India. Foreigners are not allowed to bring rupees in or out of India, but you can travel with any amount of foreign currency, declaring upwards of 5,000 USD.

Foreign currency exchange rates vary, so it’s best to use ATMs to withdraw cash. The maximum you can usually withdraw is 10,000 INR. ATMs are easily found in Mumbai, but if you have difficulty finding one it is best to go to an international hotel to locate one. The main banks operating ATMs which will accept foreign debit cards are: HDFC Bank, HSBC Bank, IDBI Bank, ICIC Bank, Citibank India.

Many larger hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit and debit cards, however many small vendors and restaurants will only accept cash so it is best to always have some rupees on you.

VisasWho Needs a Visa?All foreign nationals require a visa to visit India, with the exception of citizens of Bhutan, Nepal, and the Maldives. The process for Pakistani citizens is different from other nations. If you are a Pakistani citizen, we advise you check visa details with your local consulate.

Passport ValidityYour passport must be valid for at least six months from the date that you arrive in India, and you’ll need at least two blank pages in your passport for immigration stamps.

Visa ProcessE-visas are available, meaning you can apply online. E-visas are valid for 60 days from your arrival date in India, and are meant for tourist, business, and medical purposes.

You can apply from 120 days to 4 days before your travel date via this website.

Applicants are required to provide the following information online to apply for an E-visa:✓ Personal information✓ Photograph meeting specifications similar to passport✓ Further documents such as proof of home address or temporary

address in India may be required

Once submitted, you will receive and Application ID and ETA. It will take a few days to process, following which you will receive a notification stating GRANTED on your online account when it has been accepted. You will use your Granted ETA at immigration to enter India.

Visa pricing differs from country to country, but the average is 80-100 USD.

Top tipDon’t use the currency exchange

service at the airport! The exchange

rates are very high, so you’re best

to use an ATM. We recommend

always having a bit of cash on you,

that way you can always get a bit

of street food! .

Top tipIt is possible to apply for visas in person and obtain a visa in your passport before traveling. This can be time consuming and costly, so it’s best to get an E-visa online!

3

Using the Internet and AppsWifi is available in hotels, restaurants, and cafes in India. There are currently no restrictions on what websites and apps can be accessed, however, the Indian government have considered implementing stricter internet censorship. This should not affect your use of the internet while in India.

Plug SocketsIn India the power plugs and sockets are usually two-pronged, but sometimes they are three-pronged so you will need a suitable adapter. The standard voltage is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. If you are from a country where the standard is 110-120 volts at a frequency of 60 Hz, you will need to have converters for your domestic electric devices in order to use them in India.

Using your PhoneInternational RoamingMost mobile phone providers offer customers international roaming services when you sign up for your phone contract. Check with your mobile phone provider to see if they offer international roaming, and what the rates are for India. International roaming can be an expensive option, but it’s good to know how much it would cost if you have to make a call or switch on your data.

Unlocking your PhoneIf you can get an unlocked mobile phone, meaning your phone is not tied into a certain carrier’s network, your phone will work with more than one service provider. Make sure your phone is compatible with GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) frequency band from GSM 900 to 1800. Europe uses GSM so unless you’re coming from the USA you will be fine!

With an unlocked phone you can buy a local prepaid SIM card in India which is often available from shops in the airport, and mobile phone provider stores such as Vodaphone. To buy a SIM card in India you will need a copy of your passport, visa, and a passport-sized photo of yourself. You may also need proof of your address while in India, and your usual home address. The cost for a SIM card is usually between 150 and 200 INR and will come with minutes and data included. You can top up at convenience stores or from vendors.

꙳Top tip꙳It can take a few days for

SIM cards to be verified and

activated, so if you are only in

India for a few days it might

not be worth buying

a SIM. Best to stick

to Wifi spots!

4

Local CultureFormerly known as Bombay, Mumbai is a vibrant modern city with all the hustle and bustle that embodies India. The city is a mix of old and new, and is welcoming to tourists. Both English and Hindi are widely spoken, with Marathi as the official language of the state of Maharashtra where Mumbai is located.

Etiquette Everyday Etiquette• Greetings and eating: In India the left hand is considered unclean, so make sure

to always shake hands and eat with your right hand. To greet someone of the opposite gender it is polite to observe the Hindu greeting by saying namaste with hands together in a prayer gesture.

• Dress code: It is best to dress in modest clothing that is not too tight or revealing. It is considered rude to enter someone’s home without removing your shoes, and you must also remove them for most places of worship, where you should also be mindful of covering your head and body.

• Religion: Many people in Mumbai observe religious etiquette and it is advised to avoid directing the soles of your feet at a person, religious shrine, or image of a deity.

Business Etiquette• Greeting: When meeting someone for the first time greet them as noted in Everyday Etiquette. Otherwise, men

usually shake hands with other men, but they shouldn’t shake hands with a woman unless she offers first.• Hosting: In an office setting, tea (chai), coffee, and water are always offered upon arrival. While Indians may

not arrive to a meeting on time, it is best to be punctual yourself—but also expect to wait for others to arrive.• Emphasis: When you want to stress something make sure not to point with your index finger. Instead, use your

whole extended hand.• Seniority: Don’t be surprised at the adherence to hierarchy. Often only the most senior person at a meeting

speaks. • Vegetarianism: Vegetarianism is widespread, so if you are hosting a lunch meeting always ask if you have any

vegetarian guests. If you do, make sure there are enough choices for them, and ensure it doesn’t offend your vegetarian counterparts if you order meat.

Tipping In a sit-down restaurant or bar, you will usually find a service charge on your bill of between 5 and 10%. Generally it is not necessary to leave an extra tip above the service charge unless you would like to. Just make sure you don’t confuse any government charges like service tax with the service charge.If you eat somewhere that doesn’t have a service charge, it is customary to leave a gratuity of 5 to 10% or simply round up the bill.It is not mandatory to tip drivers, door staff or delivery people, but if you’re happy will their service, feel free to give them a few extra rupees.

Getting AroundFrom the Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport is comprised of two terminals. As an international traveler, you will arrive at Terminal 2. There are a few ways to get to the centre of Mumbai, but travel times will vary depending on the time of day.

• Taxi: This is perhaps the easiest way to get to the city centre. There are two types of taxis you can take; prepaid or metered taxis. Prepaid taxis tend to be air conditioned and you will have a flat rate for your ride. With a metered taxi, the black and yellow cars, your fare can be more expensive. Travel time takes between 25 minutes and 2 hours depending on the time of day. Average cost is 500-600 INR for prepaid, 625-700 INR for metered.

• Ridesharing apps: Uber and Ola operate in Mumbai, and there are designated pick-up points for their services at the airport. If you don’t have either app on your phone, representatives at information counters will help you book your ride. Average cost is 250-500 INR.

Top tipYou can catch buses, trains, and

auto rickshaws to the city centre,

but none of these operate from

Terminal 2, meaning you would

have to get a taxi to the train or

bus station. Taxi or rideshare apps

are the easiest way to get from

the airport to Mumbai and are

relatively cheap.

5

Things to doIf you find some time in your schedule to spend a bit of time in Mumbai, here are some of the highlights of this dynamic city: • The Gateway of India: Built in 1911 to commemorate a royal visit under British rule, the Gateway of India

perches on the water’s edge and is one of Mumbai’s most recognisable landmarks.

• Taj Mahal Hotel: Directly across from the Gateway of India sits the incredible Taj Mahal Hotel. You might not be able to afford to stay there, but you can certainly appreciate the architecture.

• Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus: The country’s most famous railway station, Chhatrapati Shivaji is an impressive building which displays Victorian Gothic and Indian architectural styles. Head along at night to see it lit up.

• Haji Ali Dargah: Set against the azure Arabian sea, Haji Ali Dargah is one of the most prominent religious landmarks in Mumbai. Dating back to 1431, this pristine-white shrine is an architectural marvel.

• Elephanta Island: Located 10km from the Gateway of India, this lush forest-covered island is home to the Elephanta Cave Temples which date back to the 5th century AD. A place for Buddhist and Hindu worship until the 1500s, the island is a must if you have time for a day trip.

• Colaba Causeway: On this famous historic stretch you will find stalls and shops selling everything you can imagine! Take a stroll to soak it all in and pick up a few souvenirs.

• Mumbai Drive: A seaside promenade stretching for 3.6km, Mumbai Drive gives you beautiful views of the city and the sea. Try to go at sunset when it’s really photogenic!

• Beaches: If you want a break from the energy of the city centre, head to Versova beach. Once Mumbai’s dirtiest beach, Versova is beautiful thanks to a local clean-up effort. For a livelier seaside experience head to Juhu beach at night and sample the street food.

• Unwind with tea: Enjoy a cup of tea in one of the specialised tea houses in Mumbai. The Taj Mahal Tea House in Bandra West is our top recommendation, or find a Tea Trails tea house near you.

Top tipAvoid travel during peak times if possible. Millions of people commute until 11am, returning home from 4pm, so public transport will be crowded and the streets will be congested.

Public TransportWith a population of over 18 million, Mumbai is a bustling city where you can easily get stuck in traffic. There are a few ways to get around, and even if you do get stuck in traffic it will give you a chance to take in all the sights!

• Trains: Using the local trains in Mumbai is certainly an experience! It is a speedy way to get around, but it can be overcrowded and uncomfortable. Don’t travel during peak times, and it is best to buy tickets at the station from the automated machines.

• Metro: The metro, known as the monorail, covers 20km and is a modern, air-conditioned alternative to the local trains. The monorail operates on a token system with prices ranging from 20-40 INR for a single journey. The completed monorail system just opened in March 2019, so there are plans to introduce digital payment options.

• Taxis: Traditional taxis are black and yellow, and are always metered. Be wary of traveling during peak times, and always make sure to pay what’s on the meter and not any other quoted price. Better yet, ask for an estimate price for your journey at your hotel before flagging a taxi. Minimum taxi fare is 22 INR.

• Rideshare apps: Uber and Ola operate in Mumbai, and can be a cost effective way to get around, while ensuring your driver doesn’t take longer routes to extend your journey.

• Auto Rickshaws: No trip to Mumbai is complete without a journey in an auto rickshaw! Zipping through side streets and traffic, they are a speedy way to get around, just make sure to hold on! Minimum fare is 18 INR.

6

Recommended RestaurantsWith incredible Indian food and a whole host of international cuisine, it can be hard to decide where to eat in Mumbai, so we’ve pulled together some great restaurants for you to try:

Eating in MumbaiDrinking WaterThe tap water in India is not safe to drink. Always buy bottled water which is easily available in shops and restaurants. It’s best to buy bottled water from companies owned by big brands like Pepsi and Coca-Cola, such as Bisleri, Kinley, and Aquafina.

To be extra safe, we also recommend brushing your teeth with bottled water, and avoiding ice in smaller restaurants and bars.

Mumbai Dishes Mumbai is one of the food capitals of India. In this dizzying city that never sleeps you’ll find some of the best street food, mouth-watering spices and flavours, and international influences and fusions.

• Pav bhaji: A type of buttery vegetable curry served with a butter bread roll. This rich dish is typical in Mumbai, and we advise heading to Sardar’s near Mumbai Central Station to try the real deal!

• Bhelpuri: One of the most common snacks in Mumbai, bhelpuri is a crunchy, cold, sweet-and-sour mix of puffed rice, chopped onion, potato, and tamarind chutney. It has to be mixed and eaten on the spot, and most vendors will concoct their own variations. It originates from Girgaum Chowpatty, one of the beaches in the city.

• Vada Pav: A local favourite, vada pav is kind of like an Indian veggie burger. A deep-fried potato dumpling stuffed into a bun with a generation topping of green chilis and garlic chutney, this is a snack not to miss! Head to Anand opposite the CTS station to get your hands on this tasty snack.

• Varan Bhaat: This is a simple, but really tasty dish. It is made up of a type of dal (lentils) cooked with butter, spices, and served with basmati rice. Check out Diva Maharashtracha to try some of the best varan bhaat around.

• Leopold Cafe: An institution in Mumbai, this bustling cafe is one of the city’s oldest restaurants. You’ll find a mix of locals and tourists here, and some of the best dishes to try are Leopold’s vegetarian pasta, red pepper chicken, and prawn chilli and soya wine chicken. (Colaba Causeway, Apollo Bandar, Colaba Mumbai, Maharashtra, 400001, India).

• Tamak: Specialising in North Indian cuisine, Tamak is a trendy, contemporary restaurant serving traditional dishes. Make sure to leave space for the paan ice cream! (6, Ahiya Apartment, Plot No-53, Junction of 16th Road and Main Avenue,Santacruz West Mumbai, Maharashtra 400054).

• Flea Bazaar Cafe: If you’re feeling a bit indecisive about what cuisine you want or you’re with a group, head to Flea Bazaar Cafe where you will be spoiled for choice with indoor booths offering everything from Indian and Mexican food, to sushi and burgers. (Unit No 5, 1st Floor Trade View Building Oasis City Complex, Pandurang Budhkar Marg, Lower Parel, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400013).

• Copper Chimney: A family-run business since the 1970s, the Copper Chimney serves up traditional Indian food with a contemporary twist. With a few branches in Mumbai, google which one is nearest you and go to enjoy real Indian food in a modern setting.

• Queen Margarita’s Pizza: Sometimes you just want a pizza! To satisfy your craving, head to this popular pizzeria which serves Neapolitan pizza which might make you think for a moment that you’re in Italy. (Shop no.4, Lourdes Heritage, Opp. Orlem, Gautam Buddh Marg, Malad West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400064).

Top tipMumbai street food is

legendary and it is how

most locals eat. Make

sure to be cautious

regarding hygiene and

water, and give eating

with your hands a go!

7