Bombay was renamed Mumbai in 1995, after the Hindu goddess Mumbadevi, and is one of the many urban areas in the world that combines great wealth with desperate poverty. Although Mumbai’s economy is growing year after year, over 50% of its population still live in slums, which is one of the highest percentages in the world. Alongside grand old colonial buildings and beautiful temples and mosques are smart new offices, industrial factories and vibrant markets, and the streets and roads are heavily crowded for much of the day, creating a chaotic, noisy atmosphere (it feels like all 14 million inhabitants are constantly on the move at once). Emissions are barely regulated throughout much of India, and the levels of pollution in Mumbai (especially in the hot, humid summer) will surprise and dismay many visitors. However, despite all of its faults this city has a lot to offer tourists, and is undeniably an energetic, exciting and friendly place.

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