23, ABC News intern

A secret you discovered about Mumbai?

The fact that amidst all the poverty, noise, dirt and chaos I have found nice and kind people, ready to go out of their way to help me.

An Indian product or service you can’t do without?

Livon’s Silky Hues. This Indian hair lotion just saves my life and image here, taming my otherwise frizzy hair.

Any fashion tips?

Blend Indian clothes and modern western outfits. This goes for both Indian and western women. Kurtis paired with jeans and sandals bought from Colaba Causeway make superb style statement.

Dared to try street food?

Though I didn’t try too many options, I loved the chaklis. I didn’t mind the calories.

A phrase you’re bound to hear?

‘Namaste’ was quite common. Apart from that, I have become habituated to the Hindi swear words while travelling by cabs, though I don’t understand them.

Your road experiences?

I enjoy the privacy of a taxi though the constant honking on the roads irritates me. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I spotted an elephant on a busy street one day.

What is sexy about Mumbai?

I think the women here are sexy. Their saris, too, are amazing.

Have you been conned yet?

Taxi drivers try gypping me all the time. The other day, a cabbie took me to Colaba when I wanted to go to Napean Sea Road. I refused to pay.

Truly, madly, deeply, Mumbai...

At times I have even met strikingly beautiful beggar women. Many old dilapidated buildings have caught my eye. I think Mumbai is very moody, just like me.

What are the similarities or differences between Mumbai and your hometown?

There are more differences actually. Back home in Nizhniy Novgorod, Russia, it is better organised, cleaner and saner. I have started loving my home more since I have come to Mumbai.

Mumbai, the cultural capital?