Experience the Magic of Mumbai

Mumbai - formerly Bombay - is a city that is built on a long, thin strip of island that lies just off the west coast of Maharashtra, western India. Mumbai is the business and financial centre of the country and has an eclectic mix of old and new, where glittering skyscrapers and designer boutiques intertwine with grand colonial structures and relics.

Mumbai's prominent location on the trade routes of the Indian Ocean means foreigners have been visiting the area since the arrival of Ptolemy in 150 AD. Portuguese and British influences are evident and Mumbai continues to thrive as one of the world's largest stock exchanges and busiest ports.

One of Mumbai's main commercial centres lies to the north in the area of Fort where Victorian Gothic buildings act as a reminder of the city's European roots. Indeed, if you fancy catching a cricket match then head to Oval Maidan or Azad Maidan; alternatively swing by the city's largest mosque - the Jama Masjid - which was built on Abdul Rehman Street in 1770.

What's more, if you are interested in a spot of shopping, point yourself in the direction of Crawford Market where the main bazaar quarter unfolds. The opposite end of the island is the most popular with tourists and is therefore brimming over with hotels, shops, cafes and restaurants. If you want a shopping experience combined with fresh air then head for the Apollo Bunder, an open seafront area lined with street sellers, stalls and buskers.

Another key attraction in this area is the Indo-Saracenic Prince of Wales Museum, which houses one of India's most extensive historic collections. Just next door in the Cowasji Jehangir Public Hall is the National Gallery of Modern Art where you can catch a slice of culture before heading on your way.

Chowpatty beach lines the south western tip of the island and is a long standing favourite spot for a breath of sea air. The beach is scattered with stalls where you can treat yourself to a head massage or an authentic Indian treat.

Chowpatty is lit up quite spectacularly at night and makes an essential sight to see on a trip to Mumbai. If you're lucky enough to be in the area during August and September you will get a chance to sample Ganesh Chaturthi, an annual festival where models of Ganesh - the elephant-headed god of good fortune - are paraded through the city streets and then immersed into the sea.

Another popular Mumbai beach is Juhu which lies about 20km north of the city centre. With a slightly different feel to Chowpatty you will find some of the best hotels, restaurants and clubs here with plenty of street entertainment to feast your eyes on too.

So, when considering the time of year to take your flights to Mumbai you can account for any local events or festivals that take place. Indeed, with there being so much to see and do, that way you can choose the flights that fit perfectly into your travel plans.