Ten Tips from an Expat: How to Cope with Life in Mumbai

chillibreeze writer — Chillibreeze research team

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Mumbai is a truly global city – much ahead of other Indian cities. It has always been that way. This city attracts people from all over the world. Adapting to the Indian way of life and enjoying the city is the best way to cope with urban stress.

Here are select tips from expats currently living in Mumbai on how to cope with everyday life:

1. Do your homework
‘Do your home work on the net before you get here’.

This is important that you are vaguely aware about what awaits you- traffic congestion, inadequate public transport, dust, beggars, touts and all. It will help if you have researched about services you need when you land. The web is the best resource to start on this.

2. Join a Community and make local friends

Aptly stated by an expat, it is worthwhile to ‘Just get involved, join a community, shed off all your negativity about the place and adapt to it’. Considering the fact that the Indians are friendly and helpful, it is good to make friends and interact regularly. On the flip side, you may find them interfering or too helpful. Just be patient and this too shall pass.

3. Energise your mind and body

Mumbai is a happening place. It is often compared to New York. It is a city of opportunity that makes dreams happen. ‘Everyone is constantly doing something or the other and all new comers get inspired by and addicted to its energy’.

The city provides great opportunity for a creative mind. Look for new opportunities and events to participate. Follow your exercise regimen and do not eat street food to stay fit and healthy.

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4. Be Patient

This is something you will have to cultivate. You need loads of patience and tolerance to survive in Mumbai or India for that matter. Mismanagement and inefficiency is high, but your patience will help you get through. At the end of the day, works do get done.

5. No preconceived notions

Indians are increasingly global in their perspective and lifestyles. ‘Don’t come here with any pre conceived notions about the country and the people and take what you get. Also don’t form any opinions too soon, let the place grow on to you, you will begin to like it here’.

6. Be willing to learn and change

Willingness to learn about Indians and their culture will help you see the country and its people in a different light. ‘To be able to live in Bombay as a foreigner I think you have to be open minded and interested to learn the Indian culture’

7. Get the Work- Home matrix right

Place of work and your home should be near. Travel time is high in Mumbai and not everyone can commute in the packed buses and local trains. For couples with children, it is important that schools are near homes.

8. Be careful about the cultural differences

Unless you are very close and have a long term association with Indians, be careful not to make any careless remarks on religions or communities.

9. Take care when hiring support staff

It is important from the security perspective to double check on whom you hire for support services. Domestic help and drivers should be hired through recommendations from expat groups or associations. Always have all contact information handy and do not hand over charge completely.

10. Know your pocket

Mumbai is an expensive city. Amongst other essentials ‘electricity, rent and imported wine’ is expensive here. Expenses on home, school and clubs is directly proportional to locational factors.

Read more on what expats currently living in Mumbai have to say about life, resources, happening places, schools, residential areas, doing business and more: (Link to Mumbai guide)

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