Looking for places to stay in Mumbai? Parel is one of the hippest hoods, and ITC Central is slap bang in the middle of it. It’s an imposing imperial giant from the outside, but it offers intimate Indian charm on its warm, gooey inside. Guestrooms include views over Mumbai and the sea, while some come with personal butlers: warm tones of gold, ochre and maroon and pictures of old Bombay on the walls add to the atmosphere.

If you’re a woman travelling alone check into a room on the Eva floor, which has added security touches. The location, too, is a real boon – from here you’re just a hop, skip and a jump to some of the city’s best nightlife and shopping.