INDIE STAYS BKC KALINA — Hotel in Mumbai

After a lot of searching around for a hotel in the vicinity of the US Consulate since we had to attend the biometrics and visa appointments, we found Indie Stays which seemed quite good from the photos posted on their website. We had to stay for a couple of nights in Mumbai for our US visa stamping and we felt this hotel might meet our needs of a clean place and close to the consulate. Since we were a couple with a child, we were told that we could book the double room and pay for a 3rd person (and the extra mattress) on arrival. I must say the overall facilities were quite good and the staff were really helpful. Special thanks to Dennis (Manager), and the front desk folks Kanishka and Anushree. The hotel serves a packed breakfast, we got a bun/samosa, a fruit, a cup cake, and a juice bottle. The hotel was pretty good and clean, well maintained too. The bathrooms were very clean too. After checking out we could store our luggage at the front desk for some time when we went out for lunch.

Sharing some information below that I was looking for when I was shortlisting a hotel to stay & our overall experience travelling around:

Biometrics visit to Parinee Cresenzo: Going to the biometrics appointment, we didn't plan to carry our phones, so we took an auto from the main road as we couldn't book one on Uber/Ola. Some auto drivers didn't want to go probably since it's about 2.5 kms only and there is quite a lot of traffic and metro construction en route, but finally we got an auto to take us. Watch out for the weather as it was raining on and off. There are people selling umbrellas outside the building where the biometrics are taken, but we carried our own small umbrellas. There is a size restriction on the umbrellas that you can take inside, so please check that before carrying one. You have to wait outside the building on the other side of the road opposite the entrance, and they call out the appointment times and only then you need to gather in front of the entrance. There are lockers to keep your phones inside the building, I think it was about Rs. 50 or so. From there it's a pretty quick process, you go inside, they do a security check, verify documents, give you a token and then your biometrics are taken.

At the hotel, a taxi driver who was parked outside approached us and said he could take us wherever we wanted to go and we hired the taxi for a tour of Mumbai that day. He offered to drop us the next day to the US Consulate interview as well. So we pretty much had our own taxi for the remainder of the time in Mumbai. He even stayed back at the consulate to pick us up and dropped us back to the hotel. The security guard at the hotel can call him if you require a taxi, the taxi driver's names is Mohammed Ibrar.

Consulate visit: We reached about an hour before our scheduled time and were let in soon. There is the usual review of appointment confirmation, passport and security check. There was an option to store your mobiles here too, don't remember the cost though. There is a huge seating area inside and they let you inside the interview area in batches. The overall process took about an hour and a half.

Options for food staying at the hotel: Opposite the Indie Stays hotel there is a Nityananda Veg restaurant & chats shop, and a little further away a Hare Krishna restaurant too, all within a walkable distance. We tried the chats, and both restaurants, and the food in all places...

I recently had the pleasure of staying at the Indie Hotel, and I must say that it was an experience beyond compare. From the moment I arrived until the moment I reluctantly checked out, the staff at Indie Hotel left an indelible mark on my heart with their exceptional service and genuine warmth.

The staff members at Indie Hotel are undoubtedly its greatest asset. From the front desk to the housekeeping team, each person I encountered went above and beyond to ensure that my stay was nothing short of perfect. They greeted me with sincere smiles, making me feel immediately welcome and valued as a guest. Their knowledge, professionalism, and attentiveness were truly commendable, as they eagerly provided recommendations for local attractions, restaurants, and hidden gems that enriched my stay.

What truly set the staff apart was their genuine care and personal touch. They anticipated my needs and preferences, going the extra mile to make my stay comfortable and memorable. Whether it was accommodating special requests or ensuring that every detail was taken care of, the staff consistently exceeded my expectations. Their dedication and commitment to creating a personalized experience were evident in every interaction, making me feel like a valued guest rather than just another visitor.

The accommodations at Indie Hotel were equally impressive. My room was tastefully decorated, showcasing a unique blend of contemporary design and artistic flair that embodied the hotel's indie spirit. The attention to detail was impeccable, with thoughtfully curated amenities and comfortable furnishings that created a cozy and inviting ambiance. The room was impeccably clean, and the housekeeping staff took great care in maintaining its pristine condition throughout my stay.

Indie Hotel also offers a range of on-site facilities and services that further enhanced my experience. The hotel's restaurant showcased a fusion of flavors and culinary creativity, providing a delightful gastronomic journey for my taste buds. The chef's expertise and the staff's impeccable service made each dining experience truly memorable.

Another standout feature was the hotel's commitment to supporting local artists and promoting the cultural scene. The common areas and hallways were adorned with captivating artwork and unique installations, creating an atmosphere of creativity and inspiration. It was evident that Indie Hotel not only provided a comfortable stay but also fostered a connection with the local community and celebrated the spirit of individuality and expression.

Lastly, the location of Indie Hotel was ideal. Situated in a vibrant neighborhood, it offered convenient access to various attractions, entertainment venues, and trendy shopping districts. I was able to immerse myself in the local culture, exploring the surrounding areas with ease while knowing that I had a cozy sanctuary to return to at the end of the day.

In conclusion, I cannot speak highly enough of the Indie Hotel and its exceptional staff. Their unwavering commitment to providing outstanding service, personalized care, and their passion for creating a unique and memorable experience truly sets them apart. If you're seeking a hotel that combines artistic charm, impeccable service, and a genuine connection with the local community, look no further than Indie Hotel. It exceeded all my expectations, and I can't wait to return for another...

Indie Stays Mumbai isn't your typical hotel or hostel. It's a unique blend of both, offering a welcoming haven for budget-conscious travelers and social butterflies alike.

Location:

Situated in Santacruz East, Indie Stays boasts a prime location. It's a short walk from the bustling Bandra Kurla Complex, a stone's throw away from Pali Hill's trendy cafes and boutiques, and within easy reach of iconic landmarks like Prithvi Theatre and Siddhi Vinayak Temple.

Vibe:

Indie Stays exudes a cool, contemporary vibe. Think exposed brick walls, quirky artwork, and comfy communal spaces that buzz with conversation. The atmosphere is friendly and inviting, perfect for making new friends or simply chilling out after a day of exploring the city.

Accommodation:

Indie Stays offers a variety of room types to suit different needs and budgets. From sleek private rooms with plush beds and en-suite bathrooms to cozy dorms with bunk beds and shared facilities, there's something for everyone. The dorms are particularly well-designed, offering privacy curtains and individual reading lights for each bunk.

Amenities:

The hostel boasts a range of amenities that make your stay comfortable and convenient. There's a trendy cafe serving up delicious coffee and light bites, a shared kitchen for whipping up your own meals, a rooftop terrace with stunning city views, and a cozy common room with a TV and board games. Indie Stays also organizes regular events like movie nights and pub crawls, providing great opportunities to socialize and experience the city's vibrant nightlife.

Pros:

Unique and stylish accommodation: Indie Stays offers a refreshing alternative to traditional hotels and hostels, with its cool design and friendly atmosphere.

Great location: The hostel is close to many of Mumbai's top attractions and nightlife hotspots.

Affordable prices: Indie Stays is a budget-friendly option, making it ideal for backpackers and long-term travelers.

Social atmosphere: The hostel's communal spaces and events encourage interaction and make it easy to meet other travelers.

Cons:

Limited privacy in dorms: If you're seeking complete privacy, a private room might be a better option.

Thin walls: Some guests have reported noise issues, particularly in the dorms.

Limited storage space: Dorms have limited storage, so pack light!

Overall:

Indie Stays Mumbai is a fantastic option for budget-minded travelers who want a stylish and social base for exploring the city. With its comfortable accommodation, great location, and vibrant atmosphere, Indie Stays is sure to make your Mumbai stay unforgettable.

Would I recommend Indie Stays Mumbai?

Absolutely! If you're looking for a unique and affordable place to stay in Mumbai, Indie Stays is a great choice. Just be aware of the potential for noise in the dorms and limited storage space.

Rating: 4...