Second impressions of Mumbai

There is no doubt that Mumbai, with it's bumper to bumper taxis, heat, colonial architecture and high rise buildings, is an assault on the the senses. As I settled in to my hotel, looking out of the window from my pristine room, with enormous bed, the hotel with its fantastic facilities, pool, spa, garden retreat ablaze with torches, the serene sound of water features accompanying the beeps of Bombay behind the high walls; the contrast of wealth to poverty is astounding, but an accepted part of the city's landscape.

The slums and chawls as seen from the 7th floor window of the luxurious Mumbai Four Season

Above: sea view from the 30th floor, skyscrapers and slum area

Below: The swimming pool with view of chawl block (left)