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Your Essential Mumbai Guide By Forbes Travel Guide Inspector

August 11, 2017

Mumbai skyline at night, Photo Credit: Cididity Hat

The city may not be traditional in the sense of ancient temples and camel bazaars, but Mumbai represents the heady, chaotic face of 21st-century India with its Bollywood glamour, fabulous street food and old-meets-new vibe.

Languages spoken in Mumbai

Both English and Hindi are spoken widely throughout India and most people understand at least some of either language, or a blend of both known as “Hinglish.” Marathi is the official language of Mumbai and the state of Maharashtra.

If you’re just frequenting the popular tourist spots, you should be able to get by speaking only English, but it always goes a long way with a local if you can say a few words in either Hindi or Marathi.

The best time to visit Mumbai

You’ll experience the best weather in Mumbai between October and March. During this time, the air is dry and temperatures hover around 86 degrees Fahrenheit, providing the perfect weather for outdoor events like enjoying sundowners at an open-air bar or experiencing the carnival atmosphere at Chowpatty Beach.

You could also plan your visit around the flurry of festivals that occur throughout the year. In the winter, for example, the city hosts many food- and art-focused events, including the Mumbai International Film Festival, the Kala Ghoda Arts Festival and the Taste of Mumbai.

What to pack for a trip to Mumbai

If you are visiting during the winter (between October and February), you will need light, comfortable clothes for temperatures that can reach the 80- to 90-degree range. It can occasionally get a little chilly in the evening, so be sure to bring a light shawl or sweater with you.

Monsoon season runs from June to September, so if you plan to come during the summer, be prepared. Be sure to pack waterproof shoes — Mumbai’s streets don’t have great drainage and are prone to flooding. An umbrella and a raincoat or light jacket are also helpful.

Some things to know before visiting Mumbai

While Mumbai is a modern city, it is still very easy to get sick from the food and water here. The most important thing to remember is to keep yourself healthy. Never drink the water from the tap, even if you see locals doing it — stick to bottled mineral water everywhere.

When it comes to meals, you should be safe eating in large hotels and clean, sit-down restaurants. If you want to try some of Mumbai’s fabulous street food, it’s best to go for hot dishes that are cooked in front of you. Steer clear of anything that has been sitting around for long periods of time or cut fruit that may have been rinsed in tap water.

Even though it may be hot and Mumbai is quite modern, it’s advised to wear modest clothing. Treat yourself to a unique souvenir and buy a colorful cotton kurta — this traditional outfit is perfect for the humid climate and will help you look like a local.

Seeing poverty is unavoidable in Mumbai. There are millions of people who are either homeless or live in slums, which are everywhere, even in the poshest of suburbs. You will no doubt experience beggars while walking down the street — just be sure to think about whether you wish to give money or not before being faced with the situation.

Should visitors rent a car in Mumbai?

While it is possible to rent a car here, it’s not recommended. Driving in Mumbai is guided by a subtle set of ambiguous rules that are based on experience and a sound understanding of what each particular “honk” means.

The road is shared with trucks, cars, autorickshaws, bicycles, pedestrians and even cows, with each having their own unwritten place in the traffic hierarchy. For someone who has never driven in India before, navigating Mumbai’s streets may be an intimidating and dangerous idea.

It is possible to hire a car with a driver for a day, and it is usually a more cost-effective and comfortable way to travel around the city than by autorickshaw or bus.

The only potential problem is Mumbai’s notorious traffic. Depending upon the time of day and your destination, it is not unusual to find yourself sitting in gridlock for more than two hours trying to get from one end of the city to another.

Tipping etiquette in Mumbai

To tip or not to tip is a delicate topic in Mumbai as everyone seems to have a different opinion. As a general rule of thumb, if you’re happy with the service, feel free to leave a little extra.

In a sit-down restaurant or bar, you will usually find a service charge on your bill of between 5 and 10 percent. Generally it is not necessary to leave an extra tip above the service charge unless you would like to. Just make sure you don’t confuse any government charges like “service tax” with the “service charge.”

If you eat somewhere that doesn’t have a service charge, it is customary to leave a gratuity of 5 to 10 percent or simply round up the bill.

It’s not mandatory to tip drivers, door staff or delivery people, but again, if you’re happy will their service, feel free to give them a few extra rupees.

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22 things you need to know before visiting India

Dec 15, 2023 • 14 min read

India is a feast for the senses and we've got everything you need to know before you visit © Andrii Lutsyk / Ascent Xmedia / Getty Images

India is a place that overwhelms your senses in the best possible way – nowhere else delivers quite the same barrage of sights, sounds and sensations as this continent-sized country at the heart of Asia.

It would take a lifetime to see all of India , let alone understand every nuance and facet of this nation of 1.4 billion inhabitants. But with a little preparation, you can learn to navigate the richness of this country, from its snow-capped peaks and velvety beaches to its historic temples and luxuriant palaces.

We've collated the top things you need to know about visiting India, but the journey begins before you leave home. Apply for your Indian visa online for a smooth arrival on the subcontinent. Read on for 22 more insider tips that will help make your vacation unforgettable.

1. Plan your trip around the seasons

India has a reputation for being hot and humid, but with beaches, mountains, hills, coastlines and plains all jammed into a relatively small geographical area, the climate is quite diverse. The southwest monsoon brings rainy weather to most of the country from June to September, but this is the best time of year to visit the high-altitude deserts of Ladakh , although depending on the route you take, you risk encountering landslides and floods.

In the far south, there’s also a milder rainy season from October to December. The ideal weather window for travel is from October to May, though temperatures and humidity climb to agonizing levels from March onwards in the run-up to the monsoon. If you find yourself in India in the spring, head to the Himalayan foothills for milder temperatures and good trekking conditions.

2. Get your jabs before you travel

There is no official requirement for vaccinations to enter India (although yellow fever vaccination is needed if you are traveling from a country where the disease is endemic).

That said, it is important that you contact a health professional at least eight weeks before you travel to ensure your jabs are up to date. Vaccinations for diphtheria and tetanus, hepatitis A and B, polio and typhoid are usually recommended, on top of childhood vaccinations for measles, mumps, rubella and varicella.

Vaccinations worth considering for longer trips include Japanese B encephalitis, meningitis and rabies. Monkeys, dogs and cats can all carry the rabies parasite, and infection is fatal if untreated.

3. Take malaria precautions

Depending on where in India you are traveling to, you may want to speak to your healthcare provider about taking a course of anti-malarial tablets. For instance, northeastern and eastern parts of India, as well as the city of Mangalore, have a higher malaria risk.

Always take precautions to avoid mosquito bites – this will also help you avoid dengue fever, a viral infection that is transmitted by mosquitoes to humans. Sleeping under a mosquito net, wearing long sleeves and trousers in light colors, and using a repellent and/or a plug-in mosquito killer with a high concentration of DEET (diethyltoluamide) is advisable.

4. Get insured

Travel insurance is essential for India. Depending on where you travel to, you may find public hospitals are poorly equipped. Additionally, most private clinics and hospitals require payment ahead of treatment. Make sure you are covered for emergency evacuation and also for any adventure activities you plan to get involved in.

If you’re unlucky enough to be a victim of crime, contact the local police station or dial 100 or 112, the national emergency number. You’ll need to get the police to file a report (a “FIR" – First Information Report) to make a claim on your travel insurance.

5. Book ahead for busy times and festivals

India can get very busy from November to February, so affordable accommodation is usually swamped in peak season. It’s a good idea to book ahead, either directly with the venues or via booking aggregator sites such as Agoda and MakeMyTrip .

Also, book train tickets in advance where possible , particularly for popular routes. Tickets can be booked (with a fair amount of hassle) via the government booking site IRCTC or more easily through local booking sites such as 12Go or Cleartrip .

6. Plan your comms before you travel

Many things in India (including train bookings or ordering food online) get easier if you have a local SIM card. Bring an unlocked phone from home (or pick one up locally) and get a phone shop to sign you up for a local pay-as-you-go SIM package on arrival. You’ll need to bring passport photos and photocopies of your passport ID pages to complete the application.

7. Check your lunar calendars

While India officially follows the Gregorian calendar, the major festivals for Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Islam and several other religions follow lunar calendars and fall on different dates from year to year. Always check festival dates before you book your trip (bearing in mind these dates are subject to change); the Indian government maintains a useful online list of public holidays .

8. Learn local etiquette

English is the  lingua franca in most metropolitan areas in India, and you’ll get away with polite hellos, goodbyes and thank yous in smaller towns too. However, if you’re traveling in northern India, you can say "namaste" (I bow to you) with your hands together in a prayer-like gesture in front of your chest. Similarly, when meeting Muslims in north India, you can say "salaam alaikum" (peace be with you) – the correct response is "alaikum salaam." Most of the time, it’s the effort that’s welcomed over pronunciation, so don’t be shy!

Shaking hands is a standard business greeting between men, but outside metropolitan regions, men and women rarely shake. Only ever use your right hand. The same rule applies when passing things to people – including money.

If you get invited to someone’s home, bring a small gift (flowers or sweets are always a safe bet) and remove your shoes before entering. It’s polite to eat and drink what you are offered, even if you don’t really fancy it.

9. Dress modestly

Depending on where in India you are, modesty is taken seriously – especially for women. Travelers of any gender will have an easier time if they wear loose-fitting clothing that covers their legs and arms. Swimwear is only appropriate for the beach – although it is not uncommon to see locals swim fully clothed. To fit in, consider investing in a kurta pyjama (a traditional garment resembling a long shirt and loose trousers for men) or a salwar kameez (a long shirt, loose trousers and scarf for women).

10. What to eat and how to eat it

Many religions in India have their own dietary rules. Muslims avoid pork, many Hindus avoid beef, and some Hindus and Buddhists are vegetarian or vegan. Many Jains are vegetarians who avoid some vegetables (most notably onions, garlic and potatoes) and who try to avoid causing harm to all living creatures. These rules mean vegan and vegetarian food is often easy to find in India.

Eating with your hands is the norm in many restaurants, particularly in parts of southern India. Take your cue from other patrons in the restaurant, and remember to eat with your right hand. Mix rice and curry into balls with your fingers and push it into your mouth with your thumb. Some thalis (plate meals consisting of multiple dishes served in tandem) are served not on a plate but on a washed and flash-heated banana leaf.

11. Haggling is not a game of life and death

Haggling for a fair price when buying things – in street stalls and open-air markets – is a way of life in India. Although it can sometimes be a frustrating experience, losing your temper is extremely bad form – if you can’t agree on a price with the vendor that you are both happy with, politely decline and shop somewhere else.

The rules of the game are as follows. The vendor will quote you a price that is more than the item is worth, then you’ll come back with a counter-offer, working up from there until you reach a mutually agreeable figure.

The “walking away” trick may bring a few last-minute adjustments, but before long, you’ll reach a threshold that the vendor won’t go below. Throwing in extra items may bring a discount on the overall cost. Many travelers prefer not to haggle in places where the money goes directly to artisans.

12. Respect etiquette at religious sites

Religion is taken very seriously in India, so it pays to know the rules and expectations for visits to temples, mosques, monasteries, gurdwaras (Sikh shrines), synagogues and churches. Always check if you are allowed to enter – some temples and mosques are closed to people who don’t follow the faith. Mosques may also be closed to visitors during prayers or on Fridays.

If asked to do so, remove your shoes before entering any religious building, and be prepared to cover your head with a scarf or shawl. Generally, always cover your legs and arms (a sarong can be handy as an emergency cover-all). Some temples also ban leather goods, and many religious sites do not allow photography.

Avoid pointing the soles of your feet towards a person or deity – this is considered disrespectful. The same goes for touching any person or effigy on the head. It is conventional to walk around Buddhist and Hindu shrines in a clockwise direction, in a ceremonial circuit known as a parikrama .

Making an offering or leaving a donation is often expected – locals always offer something, but be wary of people waving receipts showing huge donations. Giving something is appropriate, but don’t feel pressured into leaving large sums.

13. Giving alms is common but up to you

The giving of alms has a long history in India, and foreigners can expect to be approached regularly with requests for money. Whether you give or not is a personal choice, but many Indians give on a daily basis, particularly when visiting temples and mosques. Be aware that some requests for money will be scams, and you may be able to do more good by giving your time or cash to charity or aid organizations you’ve taken time to research, rather than handing out cash.

14. Respect local social attitudes

India has complex social rules about respect for elders. Depending on where you are traveling to, older people are often greeted with the honorific “auntie” or “uncle,” and the ending ji may also be added to someone’s name as a sign of respect.

Outside bigger cities, India can be quite conservative when it comes to interactions between unmarried men and women. Also, most parts of India are conservative when it comes to same-sex relationships. Whatever your sexuality, it’s best to avoid public displays of affection.

15. Street harassment is unfortunately common

Although harassment can happen anywhere, parts of India are constantly in the news owing to a lack of women’s safety. Beyond long, unwelcome stares and persistent attempts to start a conversation, more serious assaults are also a risk. Groping is common in crowds (particularly during festivals).

Exercise caution like you would anywhere else, and remain alert. Never get into a taxi or auto rickshaw containing anyone other than the driver, and avoid walking alone in quiet areas, particularly at night. Decline offers of food or drinks from strangers.

If traveling by public transport as a woman, it's best to seek out train carriages and designated seating reserved for women. Wearing a wedding ring (even if not married) and using dark sunglasses and headphones can buy you some privacy on public transport. If you are being hassled, drawing loud attention to the intrusion may encourage others to come to your aid.

16. Keep track of security situations in India

India has seen deadly attacks by separatist and Marxist groups and Kashmiri insurgents. Monitor the local news and be alert for suspicious behavior, particularly around major tourist sites. Always check the security situation before traveling to Srinagar and the Kashmir Valley in case of flare-ups of unrest. Strikes, demonstrations and protests are also best avoided, as violence is a risk. It goes without saying but in the event of trouble, obey local curfews and stay inside – your hotel is probably the safest place to be.

17. Take the altitude seriously when hiking

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a risk when traveling above 2500m (8202ft), which covers most of the Indian Himalayas . AMS can be fatal, so always ascend slowly and take rest days to allow your body to acclimate to significant elevation changes. If you begin to feel ill while hiking in the mountains, stop, and if your symptoms don’t improve, descend immediately.

18. Familiarize yourself with local rules and regulations

India has a few laws and regulations that visitors might be unfamiliar with. For instance, taking photographs of bridges, the periphery of military camps and border crossings – or flying drones over them – is considered a serious security issue.

When traveling by plane internally in India, you may be asked to surrender batteries from devices in your cabin bags. Smoking is banned in most public places, and a few states also have bans on the consumption of beef – killing or injuring a cow in a road accident, even accidentally, can lead to violent reprisals.

To avoid sticky situations, take the time to research where you’re going, and talk to staff at your hotel or hostel or your B&B host for advice on things to be aware of.

19. Steer clear of drugs

India may have a reputation amongst travelers as a place to push boundaries, but its drug laws are strict. Possessing even small amounts of drugs for personal use can lead to a prison sentence.

Some religious groups are permitted to consume marijuana for ceremonial purposes, but that often doesn’t extend to tourists. You can, however, find bhaang – a marijuana mixture made with the leaves (rather than the bud) of the cannabis plant – at government-approved bhaang shops.

20. Avoid the tap water

The tap water in India is not potable. Drinking or brushing your teeth with it can be a fast track to stomach troubles – the most common illness tourists experience in India. Stick to purified or bottled water (or even better, purify your own to avoid contributing to India’s plastic waste mountain).

The water rule extends to ice (be wary of ice in drinks and ice cream) and to uncooked foods, particularly salads and dishes such as coriander chutneys, which may have been washed with contaminated water. When eating fruit, stick to things you can peel or wash thoroughly yourself, and be cautious of freshly prepared juices. Hot drinks are generally fine, so drink your fill of chai (milky tea, often spiced and sweet).

21. Watch local news to keep track of natural disasters

Some geographical areas in India are prone to natural disasters, and the risk is higher in certain seasons. Hilly areas of Himachal Pradesh, for instance, often see flash flooding and landslides during the monsoon. Be alert to signs of natural disasters and keep an eye on the local news so you know which areas to avoid. Follow the Indian Meteorological Department’s website as well as their social media handle for timely updates.

If you are caught up in a natural disaster, follow the advice of emergency workers and try to leave the area quickly.

22. Spot the scams

India has a reputation for scams designed to separate tourists from their money, and touts and confidence tricksters can often be found where tourists gather. Get tourist information and make bookings at official offices, rather than “tourist offices” you have been led to by people offering unsolicited help.

If anyone steers you to a hotel, shop or other establishment without you asking, they may be angling for a commission, which will be added to the price you pay. Be dubious of claims that the place you want to go is “closed” – always check yourself to be sure.

Exercise common sense and be wary of deals that sound too good to be true – for example, the gem scam, where travelers are tricked into buying worthless gems to “sell at a profit back home.”

This article was first published March 2022 and updated December 2023

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India Inc Gets Smarter With Travel Spends

Managing travel costs during economic downturn isn't about spending less, it's about spending smarter.

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Staying profitable in lean times is about fine margins. How much can you save here, shave a bit off there? Travel and entertainment are usually the first expenses to be grounded when business is slow. Yet, India’s most successful companies have found ways to keep their executives mobile while getting the most out of their travel budget. Wipro, Infosys and TCS together spent over Rs 3,000 crore on travel last year. In fact, in sectors like IT and consulting, travel spends have increased. Choice Picks: India’s IT giants manage hundreds of travel itineraries—short domestic trips for senior execs and long-haul international placements for engineers. In the process, the entire corporate travel infrastructure—from bulk booking, industry benchmarking and data analytics to adhering to company policy—has evolved to a stage where business travellers have some flexibility in making their choices.    Wipro, for example, has created a system (to be included in a mobile app) that integrates all the global hotel chains and airlines it has deals with. Its employees can see which flights, hotels and car rentals they can pick that suit the company best. Wipro, of course, benefits from economies of scale through these bulk bookings. Hariprasad Hegde, global head of operations at Wipro, says controlling travel is about focusing on the sourcing as well as consumption. All of Wipro’s travel is managed by Wipro Travel Services, a separate ISO-approved company, rather than a travel service implant. Hegde says this allows Wipro to deal directly with airlines like Etihad, KLM and Lufthansa. “We compare ourselves sector by sector, quarter by quarter against every other travel company in India,” says Hegde. Squeezing Out More Benefits: While on the face of it, the Mumbai-Delhi fare for an individual on Cleartrip, for example, will be the same as the corporate fare, there are many hidden disadvantages to booking on Cleartrip that corporate clients prefer to avoid, such as inflexible timings, cancellation fees and low baggage allowances. On Cleartrip, 12 percent of individual passengers cancel their bookings, while the figure is 17 percent for corporate travellers, because of rescheduled meetings and itineraries. Companies cannot afford to pay a 50 percent penalty each time for such changes, and therefore work these features into large annual contracts with airlines. Noel Swain, executive vice president of Cleartrip, breaks down how these bulk deals work: “Airlines offer a flat fare to the locations you frequent,” he says. “Irrespective of how much in advance you book, they’ll give you the same discount—2 percent of base fare, going up to 10 percent for big buyers.” Carriers like Emirates and Lufthansa are dependent on such deals. The Changed Travel Co: The online revolution, connecting customers to airlines and hotels, means traditional travel companies have had to evolve. Options for booking hotels online, at all price points, have grown tremendously; 13 percent of bookings on Cleartrip take place via mobile devices, many through its app. There’s been a boom in Cleartrip’s tie-ups with hotels in the three-star category and below. It offers 567 hotels in Delhi alone. Makemytrip acquired Amsterdam-based hotel booking firm Easytobook in early February.

(This story appears in the 07 March, 2014 issue of Forbes India. To visit our Archives, click here. )

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Mother’s day gift guide 2024: the most impressive getaways.

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Grand Hotel Victoria, Lake Como, Italy

With all that moms do for us, it can be hard to find a gift that adequately expresses our gratitude. Instead of generic gifts like flowers and chocolate, experiential gifts are a more thoughtful gesture. Whether mom is burnt out and in need of a break from the family or retired and ready to travel, the gift of a vacation is one that keeps giving years after memories are made on her trip. The below list offers something for whatever mom is seeking—from elephant encounters in Thailand to truffle-hunting in Tuscany to forest bathing in the California Redwoods.

For the beach-lover: Rosewood Mayakoba , Riviera Maya, Mexico

Rosewood Mayakoba, Riviera Maya, Mexico

With the crowds of winter dissipating come Spring, Mother’s Day is the ideal time for a quick beach getaway. Upon arriving at this lush 620-acre resort where many of the rooms are accessed by taking a boat through winding mangrove-sheltered canals, it becomes apparent this is not your typical Mexican beach resort. All 129 suites feature oversized terraces, soothing earth materials and furnishings by Mexican artisans, creating a sense of calm. Moms will want to linger at Sense, A Rosewood Spa , which has its own hydrotherapy pool, sauna, steam room and hot-cold pool circuit, in addition to offering unique wellness experiences like a shaman-led ceremony in the temezcal (sweat lodge) and treatments inspired by the rituals of the ancient Aztecs. With eight dining concepts—each reflecting the cuisine of a different region of Mexico—and plenty of activities offered by Mayakoba—the gated community in which the Rosewood is set, like golfing, diving and hiking—mom could easily spend a week here and never get bored.

For the animal-lover: Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort, Chiang Rai, Thailand

Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort

In a country where it can be hard to ethically participate in elephant tourism, moms can rest easy knowing this elephant camp supports the rehabilitation of their 20 onsite elephants. Located on the lush Mekong River at the intersection of Myanmar and Laos, an hour north of Chiang Rai, mom could easily fill her days taking in the views of the lush valley from the pool or her own balcony in one of the property’s spacious 15 suites. But with sidecar adventures, cooking classes, a jungle spa and the opportunity to sleep amidst the elephants in a luxury pod , it’ll be hard to resist partaking in all this resort has to offer.

For the five-star adventurer: Micato Safari , India

Micato Safari

As the most populated country in the world, planning a trip to India can be a daunting task, even to the most well-travelled mom. Five-star safari outfitter Micato makes it easy with expertly crafted itineraries, a 24-hour concierge team and Indian born-and-raised travel directors who accompany guests through the entirety of their trip. From palace-hopping in Jaipur and Udaipur to witnessing royal Bengal tigers up close in Ranthambore National Park to sunset boat rides on the Ganges in Varanasi, Micato can curate a journey around whatever mom wants to see. While better known for their Africa safaris, Micato’s India safaris are their pride and joy, since the founding family lived in Goa before moving to Kenya. Their Indian ancestral roots result in bespoke itineraries that offer the chance to stay in the country’s most luxurious hotels and see a side of India inaccessible to most visitors.

For the Pacific Northwest explorer: Lotte Hotel Seattle , Washington, USA

Lotte Hotel Seattle

Located in the heart of downtown Seattle, walking distance from Seattle’s iconic Pike Place Market, this is the ideal hotel for a Mother’s Day spent exploring the Emerald City. Occupying 16 floors of the 44-floor F5 tower, the Philippe Starck-designed hotel offers some of the most luxurious accommodations in the city. The hotel’s 189 guest rooms and 32 suites provide sweeping views of Elliott Bay from floor-to-ceiling windows, which make the rooms feel while more spacious than they already are. Mom will feel like a queen in her marble bathroom, but guest room’s mid-century modern furniture adds some personality to the high-end luxury feel. On the 16 th floor, the hotel’s signature Charlotte restaurant serves up contemporary Pacific Northwest cuisine with impressive ocean views. For the special holiday, Le Spa de l’hôtel LOTTE adds a mother’s day package to their existing selection of treatments using Biologique Recherche and Bellefontaine products. She’ll want to linger to utilize the sauna, steam room and 16-head walk-in shower .

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Earth s new second moon is as big as the statue of liberty and scientists just found its origin, new apple id password reset issue hitting iphone ipad and macbook users, for the design aficionado: intercontinental danang sun peninsula resort, da nang, vietnam.

InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort

Set high in the lush hillside of the Son Tra Peninsula nature reserve, a 30-minute drive from Da Nang airport, this other-worldly resort is one of the country’s hottest destinations for a relaxing getaway. Designed by coveted American designer Bill Bensley, the black and white color palette evokes the Chinese philosophy of yin and yang, while soaring wooden pillars and silhouettes harken to ancient temple architecture, imbuing the entire property with a sense of tranquility. Moms seeking a Zen retreat will want to book a one-bedroom spa lagoon villa. Floating on stilts above the peaceful spa lagoon, the secluded villa has its own treatment room, al fresco shower garden, two outdoor terraces, a private jacuzzi and one-of-a-kind bathtub, plus a personal butler and private chef to prepare meals in the fully equipped kitchen. For moms who like to keep busy, there are no shortage of activities on offer: from cocktail making classes to the entertainment club’s karaoke rooms to the 100-seat, banana-themed movie theatre.

For Japanese quiet luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka , Fukuoka, Japan

The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka

As the country’s sixth largest city, Fukuoka has all the appeals of Tokyo—with its diversity of restaurants and shops—without the crowds. Rising 24 stories high above the growing skyline is the Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka, what is arguably the city’s most luxurious hotel. Decorated with woven bamboo and Hakata-ori silks, the hotel’s 147 rooms and 20 suites are a tranquil reprieve from the bustling streets below, and beginning at 538-square-feet in size, they’re some of the most spacious in the city. While Fukuoka is known as the birthplace of Tonkotsu ramen and famed for their street food stalls (known as ‘yatais’), foodies will be just as happy dining at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Genyu, which honors Japanese culinary traditions like kaiseki, sushi and teppanyaki serving Wagyu beef from Iki Island and seafood from the Genkai Sea. At the Ritz-Carlton Spa, moms can treat themselves to unique Japanese treatments like a massage that incorporates rice-filled heated pillows and local ingredients like Ume blossoms.

For the Parisian: Mandarin Oriental, Paris , France

Mandarin Oriental, Paris

With the upcoming 2024 Summer Olympics, Mother’s Day is likely the last chance to experience Paris without the crowds. For mom’s seeking a quiet reprieve, the Mandarin Oriental, Paris offers a distinct kind of tranquility that only this luxury Asian hotel brand can provide. With silk bedspreads, soft rugs and pillow menus, the hotel’s 135 rooms and suites are a comfortable place to rest up after a busy day exploring the city. Mom will especially appreciate the Asian-influence at the spa, where treatments borrow from Traditional Chinese Medicine (think: massages that involve four therapists and work with the body’s meridian lines to restore energy). Foodies will want to take the hotel’s pastry- and cocktail-making classes, or join a complimentary tour of Marché St Honoré Food Market.

For the Gilmore Girls fan: Delamar West Hartford , Connecticut, USA

Delamar West Hartford

Fans of Gilmore Girls will want to plan a Mother’s Day getaway to this boutique hotel in Hartford, Connecticut, where the feel-good show is said to be based. Guests who book their Gilmore Girls -Inspired Package can relive the seminal show about mother-daughter relationships with special access to the art gallery at Rory’s alma matter, Yale University, or a visit to the Sterling Library. Richard Gilmore’s adoration for vintage cars and the annual Stars Hollow charity picnic basket auction are honored here with a chauffeured ride in the hotel’s 1941 Cadillac to your own private picnic curated by the hotel’s chefs in true chef Sookie-style. Sookie’s imaginative culinary wizardy is also celebrated back at the hotel’s Artisan Restaurant with a pre-fixe “Sookie” menu serving New England-inspired dishes and an afternoon tea Emily Gilmore would approve of. In addition to accommodations, the package includes a 60-minute couples massage, arrival bottle of bubbly and complimentary buffet breakfast.

For the bath queen: The American Club, Kohler, Wisconsin, USA

The American Club

You might not expect a manufacturing company to host the ideal mother’s day getaway but with 150 years of experience in plumbing, Kohler is an expert in designing for relaxation. What once were the dorms of Kohler manufacturing workers are now intimate, mahogany-rich rooms with bespoke bathroom features like chromatherapy (color light therapy) and infinity pool bathtubs. The real showcase of their manufacturing innovation is Kohler Waters Spa, which boasts hydrotherapy treatments unlike any you’ll find elsewhere in the country (think: an acoustic bath that synchronizes vibrations with the rhythms of the body). But it’s not all water wellness here, the 500-acre resort is home to two champion golf courses; river and forest terrain for hiking, fishing and hunting; as well as a spin and yoga studio, largely frequented by locals—making this the ideal Spring getaway for some R&R.

For the Anglophile: Rosewood London , England

Rosewood London

Holborn isn’t the first neighborhood to come to mind for a mother’s day getaway, but the Rosewood London—with its private courtyard giving the feel of a mini-Somerset House—is a destination in and of itself. With original Edwardian details, an impressive Grand Pavonazzo marble staircase and 262 chic guest rooms, this five-star hotel set in a Belle Époque building will make mom feel like royalty. For an extra-luxe stay, consider booking one of 44 suites or the Manor House Wing, the five-bedroom suite that is so large it has its own postal code. Downstairs, mom can treat herself to a spa treatment at Sense, A Rosewood Spa , an inventive cocktail at the coveted Scarfes Bar , or an art-themed afternoon tea , which features picturesque pastries inspired by the works of famous artists.

For the fitness fiend: Equinox Hotel New York , New York, USA

Equinox Hotel New York

If mom’s ideal Mother’s Day looks like experiencing top-notch fitness classes and the latest wellness treatments, then she’s sure to be impressed with a stay here. Referring to themselves as the “fittest hotel on Earth,” everything here is meant to optimize your health—from the in-room wellness amenities featuring over 80 products (think: nourishing snacks, supplements and recovery tools) to morning and evening rituals that guide guests through stretching and breathwork. With soundproof rooms, blackout blinds and king-sized beds with temperature-regulating natural fibers and for those who need it, an Equinox Sleep Coach, a stay here will leave mom totally rejuvenated. Further restoration is found at the spa which offers innovative circuit treatments featuring the latest wellness therapies like cryotherapy, infrared saunas and NutriDrip IV drips. No visit to a hotel from a fitness brand would be complete without experiencing the fitness club, which she’ll have access to with her stay. In addition to the state-of-the-art fitness center, she can try out one of their classes, the 25-yard indoor saltwater pool or simply relax on a daybed on the outdoor pool deck overlooking the Hudson Yards’ Vessel.

For the foodie: Castelfalfi, Tuscany, Italy

Castelfalfi

With summer being Tuscany’s busiest season, Mother’s Day is the best time to beat the rush. This 2,700-acre estate set in the rolling hills of Tuscany an hour outside Florence includes its own restored Medieval village (complete with a church and castle) that, on a quiet day, feels like a journey back in time. Olive groves, vineyards, a lake and forest surround the village, providing fertile ground for mom to experience the best culinary experiences Tuscany has to offer—from pizza-making workshops to truffle-hunting to tasting the homegrown olive oil and wine. When she’s not savoring and sipping, or partaking in one of the estate’s many activities—like horseback riding, ziplining in the adventure park or golfing the 27-hole golf course, the largest in Tuscany—she’ll be in the RAKxa spa. Here she’ll find an indoor-outdoor pool, experiential showers, several saunas and treatments featuring Thai modalities from renowned Thai wellness brand RAKxa and essential oils from the Tuscan countryside.

For stylish French-Canadian flair: Vogue Hotel Montreal Downtown , Quebec, Canada

Vogue Hotel Montreal Downtown

After receiving a makeover from Montreal architecture firm Sid Lee, Montreal’s iconic Vogue Hotel has been transformed from tired to chic. In a city known for its eclectic Quebecois culture, the Eastern influence here makes this Zen hotel a standout, with its muted color palette and minimalist décor exuding a kind of quiet luxury that’s hard to find elsewhere in the city. At the hotel’s signature restaurant Yama, mom can savor creative dishes inspired by Canadian celebrity chef Antonio Park’s South American, Canadian and Korean upbringing, and in the morning, she can enjoy authentic French pastries chef Park has made in collaboration with acclaimed pastry chef Bertrand Bazin at Café Bazin. Located in the heart of downtown Montreal, mom will be steps away from historical cathedrals and museums, as well as the most luxurious retailers such as Gucci, Prada and Holt Renfrew (which is directly across the street). While the hotel doesn’t have an onsite spa, they’ve paired up with Bota Bota Spa Sur L’Eau for a Mother’s Day package including a 3-hour water circuit experience on the St. Lawrence River.

For the Manhattanite: The Peninsula New York , New York, USA

The Peninsula New York

Upon entering the lobby from Fifth Avenue, mom will immediately be wowed by this hotel’s grand entrance with its opulent staircase, flower arrangements and sparkling chandeliers. Head upstairs and she’ll be even more impressed with the accommodations—the 239 apartment-styled rooms and suites are spacious by New York standards. With king-sized beds fitted with Fili D’Oro linens from Italy and the hotel’s Wellness Program offering sleep patches and peaceful bath rituals, she’ll rest well in the city that never sleeps. She also has a 24-hour wellness concierge and in-room mental health services like access to a meditation app. Downstairs, mom can enjoy a semi-buffet brunch and champagne bar after a bouquet-making workshop with the hotel’s Champagne Brunch & Floral Experience on Mother’s Day. The package also includes a $30 gift certificate to The Peninsula Spa , where mom can experience one of their popular Biologique Recherche facials, the aromatherapy steam room or take a dip in the indoor pool.

For the forest-bather: Canyon Ranch Woodside , California, USA

Canyon Ranch Woodside

While there are no shortage of wellness retreats across the United States, Canyon Ranch consistently remains a favorite for their unique programming and superb service. Their California property, located less than an hour outside San Francisco, is a standout for its location in the Redwoods. Rooms here look like soaring glass treehouses set high in the canopy. Nature lovers can get their fix forest bathing and hiking the many trails on property, or simply lounging on their own private balcony. Immersion in nature is the theme here as local ingredients appear in the spa and at the restaurant, which serves a daily set menu of local, vegetable-forward cuisine. Mom can take her pick of a specific expert-led retreat (think: ‘Find Your Purpose’ and ‘Journey to Empowerment’) or craft her own customized itinerary ahead of her trip with the support of Canyon Ranch’s on-staff wellness guides.

For Canadian cosmopolitanism: Shangri-La, Toronto, Canada

Shangri-La, Toronto

With summer being Canada’s high season, Spring is the perfect time to visit the country’s largest city. With so many neighborhoods to explore, the Shangri-La, Toronto is ideally situated in the heart of downtown, steps away from public transit. Located in the Entertainment District, mom will be close to some of the city’s best restaurants and theatre performances. The five-star hotel’s 202 spacious rooms feature wrap-around windows and Zen décor, providing a quiet reprieve from the bustling streets below. For further R&R, mom can take her pick of five ethically sourced soaks and bath bombs from the ensuite bath menu created in partnership with local bath brand Bathorium, the first hotel offering of its kind in the country. Downstairs, a Spring afternoon tea is served in the lobby lounge, one of the city’s hottest meeting spots. Inspired by the hotel’s bee apiary, the afternoon tea service is a celebration of the golden nectar harvested onsite with artful treats like beehive honey cake topped with apple compote and dulce whip ganache. Pair the afternoon tea with the hotel’s special Mother’s Day buffet brunch for the complete experience.

For the spa goddess: Grand Hotel Victoria , Lake Como, Italy

Grand Hotel Victoria

Home to the largest spa in Lake Como, the Grand Hotel Victoria is the ideal getaway for mom’s seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The 12,800-square-foot spa boasts a Himalayan salt room, ice room, two wood saunas, and a series of experiential showers, jacuzzis and pools for a complete hydrotherapy circuit. The abundant natural beauty of Lake Como serves as the inspiration for both the facilities—like a silent relaxation room featuring a wall made of nutrient-rich moss—and the treatments, which incorporate local ingredients. Upstairs, the five-star hotel exudes all of its original Belle Époque grandeur with soaring ceilings, ornate columns and sparkling chandeliers. Set overlooking sparkling Lake Como against the backdrop of the majestic mountains, the Grand Hotel Victoria is a hidden gem in the quiet Northern town of Menaggio, away from the crowds of the busier towns on the lake’s southern edge.

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