Mumbai is India's quintessential cosmopolitan city, and what is a city without its particular brand of shopping? Mumbai doesn't disappoint, and how. Quaint antiques markets, book bazaars, swanky malls and festive flea markets, the city accommodates all. For bags, beads and clothes in a kaleidoscope of colours, go to the Colaba Causeway. It is the boho district of Mumbai, attracting the youth, selling everything from junk jewellery to fake pashmina shawls and curios. Reduce the price quoted to you by half and start haggling.
Another popular shopping venue frequented by the hip of the city, particularly college students, is Linking Road in Bandra. Housing international designer stores as well as pavement shops, this is where the latest fashion is unveiled on the streets. Linking Road also has a large section devoted to shoes, from posh stores to pavement vendors.
Fashion Street used to be a favourite amongst the fashion conscious but is now fast losing appeal, having acquired a jaded, sleazy feel. But look opposite the road - a lovely second hand book market, offering books on everything under the sun. For the latest in labels and designer wear, visit the new Inorbit Mall. Another such venue is Crossroads opposite Haji Ali. Juhu is where all the top Indian designers have their exclusive stores.
Chor Bazaar (Thieves' Market) is where you can pick up antiques, from a broken gramophone to chipped China teapots. Take care of your car though. A popular bit of rumour goes that if you leave your car parked here for only five minutes, it will be disintegrated then and there and the parts sold in the market itself.
