Where to live in Mumbai?

I have just learned that my company will transfer me to Bombay for three years. We are seasoned expatriates, currently living in Paris, and have visited India and Bombay several times, so we know what we're in for.

Our most pressing concern will be to figure out where to live. The company will provide a generous housing budget and help with finding a place but we need to know where to look...

Things we need to take into consideration:
- my office is near the airport off the Western Express highway
- our daughter will go to one of the international schools. haven't decided yet which one, but could be international, American, British or French.
- we would want a house with some outdoor space. Either a garden or a big balcony.

Bandra seems like a good choice, but that's just based on very initial research. Any other areas we should consider? I love the 'old world' feel of the downtown area but that just doesn't seem feasible given the commute...

thanks!


Mod Note
This has been moved to the "Moving to Mumbai" forum.

You could check out Chakala, Vile Parle (E), Vakola, Santacruz (E) etc.

The best place that fits all your criteria, as you already mentioned, is Bandra. I would suggest not to go for anything else.

Or Powai, JVPD or if you want large balconies; look for some of the new developments off the Western Highway near Aarey Milk Colony.

You can also have a look at Oberoi Splendor at JVLR, its a newly constructed building and the apartments are very nice.

My two cents: start your search in Bandra (W), Khar (W), Santacruz (W), Juhu. Very pleasant to live. Some parts do have an old world feel because of trees and lanes and old structures. Easy commute to your work. Getting a house with a garden will be a tough one, but balcony or (communal) terrace should be possible. Also nice is Matunga (E), but will be a longer commute to work, though could be easier for schools (I believe there is a school in BKC?).

Thanks all!

according to me, Goregaon east or Andheri east will be much preferable. These two locations do have places which fits into your criteria.