For some Mumbai is a city of freedom, for others it is a city of opportunities. For some it is a city that never sleeps, for others it is a city with no nightlife. For some it is a city of glitz and glamour, for others it is a city of slums and squalour. For some it is the city of vada pav and bhelpuri, for others it is a city of fine dining. For some it is a city for the sons and daughters of the soil, for others it is a city of migrants. For some it is a city that does not care, for others it is a city with a never say die spirit. For some it is a city of tomorrow, for others it is a dead city. For some it is a city of dirty beaches, the Marine Drive and the Gateway of India, for others it is a city with history stretching back to two millennia ago.

Day Trips from Mumbai: Easy-peasy trips that can be done in a day or even in half a day, if you’re in a tearing hurry like the city is.

• The Elephanta Caves

• The Bassein Fort of Vasai

• Buddha, Brahma & Shankaracharya: A visit to Nala Sopara

Forts of Mumbai: Yes, it is forts in plural. Mumbai has 8 of them, each one vying for the position of the worst maintained one. The positive thing is they are still there, but only just.

• Bandra Fort: An unexpected mid-week treat

• The Mahim Fort

• The Sion Fort

• The Sewri Fort