Mumbai's-Bombay's very name conjures up a host of visions: of glamour and megastars who hold millions in thrall, of some of the largest and worst slums in the whole of Asia, of industrialists and business houses, of a multifarious futuristic lifestyle that is likely to become even more intense as the city moves closer and closer to becoming the world's second largest metro by the year 2015…. Mumbai-Bombay manifests a strong Western streak amidst the traditional Maharashtrian milieu. This is probably due to its being literally the Gateway of India, the point of arrival for most visitors from the West The Gateway of India was built in 1919 and opened to public in 1924. The ceremonial arch was built in 1927 to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary for the Delhi Durbar in 1911. Historically, the gateway holds greater significance as the last of the British troops left Independent India by sea, marched through its portals. It is situated on the Apollo Bunder. Mumbai is India's international gateway. It has also the busiest domestic air network in the country. The international terminal is at Sahar, which is 30 km north of the city center. The domestic terminal at Santa Cruz is just 4 km away. The offices of most of the international and domestic airlines are situated around Nariman Point. Prepaid taxis are available from the airports to the downtown. In order to make the merry making travel tour to Mumbai even merrier you need to choose the right kind of accommodation for you and your family or friends in Mumbai. On the beaches the cool breezes on the hotels will sweep you off your feet. The reservations of the room can be made well in advance as per the requirements of the tour. While on a business trip to Mumbai conference and gala dinners may be organized in the hotel of your choice. Mumbai's-Bombay's very name conjures up a host of visions: of glamour and megastars who hold millions in thrall, of some of the largest and worst slums in the whole of Asia, of industrialists and business houses, of a multifarious futuristic lifestyle that is likely to become even more intense as the city moves closer and closer to becoming the world's second largest metro by the year 2015…. Mumbai-Bombay manifests a strong Western streak amidst the traditional Maharashtrian milieu. This is probably due to its being literally the Gateway of India, the point of arrival for most visitors from the West. Fast Facts History Once a cluster of seven islands-Colaba, Mumbai, Mazagaon, Old Woman's island, Wadala, Mahim, Parel, and Matunga Sion-the home of the Koli fishing community is today the financial capital of India. The islands were ruled by a succession of Hindu dynasties, invaded by Muslims in the 14th century, and then ceded to Portugal by the sultan of Gujarat in 1534. In 1662, these islands were given to the English King Charles the Second, as a part of the wedding dowry for the Portuguese princess, Catherine of Braganza. In 1668, Bombay was given to the East India Company. This was the time when foundation for a modern city was laid and Bombay eclipsed other port cities of western India in trading activities. In the 18th century, the city grew into a major port as the shipbuilding industry was shifted to Bombay-Mumbai from Surat. The American civil war led to the opening of the Suez Canal and cotton began to be exported from Bombay-Mumbai. Bombay-Mumbai played a formative role in the struggle for Independence, hosting the first Indian National Congress in 1885 and the launch of the Quit India Movement in 1942. Bombay-Mumbai later became the capital of the Bombay Presidency that had to be divided into Gujarat and Maharashtra in 1966. "Bombay" was the name given to the islands by the Portuguese. The word means "good bay" in Portuguese. In 1996, Bombay officially came to be known as Mumbai. The present name derives from Mumbadevi, the goddess of the Kolis. Best Season, Climate, and Clothing Mumbai-Bombay is pleasant during the winter (November-March) and hot during summer. The temperature is on the rise from the month of March until the monsoons break out in mid-June, which goes on until September. October offers a relief from humidity and heat.