I Know A Spot: Rediscovering Bombay’s Backyard
Have you ever felt like you’ve seen everything your city has to offer? The streets, parks, cafes—they all blend into a familiar but monotonous blur. But what if I told you that an entirely new world is waiting to be discovered right where you are? Rediscovering the city you’ve always lived in can be an adventure in itself. It’s about seeing the familiar with fresh eyes and finding the extraordinary in the ordinary.
One of the most exhilarating ways to rediscover your city is by taking a walking tour. Guided tours can reveal hidden gems and fascinating stories that might be overlooked in daily life. I remember thinking I knew my city inside out until I joined a walking tour that brought old streets to life with tales of history and architecture. It was a reminder that even the most familiar places can surprise us.
Exploring neighbourhoods you haven’t yet visited can also be eye-opening. I once dedicated a weekend to wandering through Crawford Market! I thought I’d tried every eatery, visited every park, and explored every shop. To my surprise, I discovered a vibrant community brimming with character. Sometimes, experiencing your city’s highlights without the rush of daily life can be liberating.
The evolving food scene is another fantastic aspect of city life to explore. New restaurants, food trucks, and pop-ups are constantly appearing! I set myself a challenge to try a new restaurant every month. From cosy diners to upscale eateries, each new place introduced me to different flavours and cultures, reigniting my love for the city and its diverse food landscape.
Local events are also a great way to connect with your community and view your city from a different perspective. From pottery workshops to Harry Potter-themed quiz nights, the vibrant energy, diverse crowd, and lively performances were a revelation that I had been missing out on.
But one of the most remarkable spots in Bombay, that embodies this sense of rediscovery is the Conservation Education Society (CEC) of Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) in Goregaon East. Nestled within the city, it is the largest tropical forest within an urban environment globally. This forest, a lush green sanctuary, offers a unique contrast to the bustling city around it.
The history of BNHS and its commitment to preserving this verdant space highlights the incredible coexistence of urban life and nature. Our Bay-City Hikes trail through CEC, BNHS reveals the beauty of Bombay’s green heritage and offers a refreshing escape right in the city.
Rediscovering the city you’ve always lived in is about shifting your perspective and being open to new experiences. It’s about breaking out of your routine and seeing the familiar with fresh eyes. Our city has so much more to offer than we often realize. With curiosity and a sense of adventure, you can uncover its hidden gems and fall in love with it all over again. So, take a walk, try something new, and rediscover the city you’ve always lived in!
Elton Mendonce
