YWCA International Centre

We’re regular guests, but whenever we call reception they say the hotel is full because of a group booking and won’t give us a room. The rooms are quite expensive, yet they provide no toiletries, soap, handwash, bedsheets, or drinking water. The beds make a lot of noise, and the lift is always breaking down. Breakfast and dinner portions are very small and the food isn’t very good. The kitchen staff aren’t courteous, check-in isn’t quick, and there doesn’t seem to be a proper manager to look after guests when they arrive. Payment is taken on arrival. I’d ask management to pay more attention to regular guests.

Colaba is a premium spot, with major places nearby and mostly within walking distance. The roads are clean, and there are many heritage buildings close by. Despite that central location, the hotel is quiet and clean, and the welcoming service staff are well trained. The rooms are small, but nicely maintained and very clean, with a wardrobe and tables. They’re cleaned thoroughly each day, and room service is available daily. Laundry is available if needed. There’s also parking for guests with their own vehicle. We asked if some food items could be kept in the fridge for the next day, and they allowed it. They said it usually isn’t allowed but they can sometimes make an exception. Breakfast and dinner are complimentary at set times in the morning and evening. The menu is fixed, but the food is well made and tastes homely, not commercial. Breakfast includes fruit, porridge or an Indian breakfast dish, eggs to your choice, toast, and tea or coffee. Dinner comes with hot soup and condiments such as pickle and yogurt, Indian dishes with roti and rice, one veg and one non-veg gravy, dal, salads such as tomato, onion, cucumber or sprouts, then dessert or ice cream. At both meals, the tables are well set and the staff are attentive. The wait staff are cooperative and helpful, and housekeeping pays close attention to details. The rooms may feel small for more than two people or for families with kids, though the service makes up for that. It’s a hidden gem, especially when places in the same area can cost a lot and still have shared bathrooms. Getting a booking can be difficult because it’s often packed with Indian and foreign tourists.

We stayed in a family room with a balcony, and it was so spacious it didn’t feel like a hotel room. The hotel is right in the busy center of Mumbai, yet from our balcony side it was calm, green, and natural. I hadn’t expected mutton curry at the complimentary dinner buffet, and of course I enjoyed it.

Whenever I'm in Mumbai, this is where I stay. The service is good, and the guesthouse is clean and right in the center. Breakfast and dinner are included in the room price, served in a bright, tidy dining room. ❤️