Get ready for an adventure and thats even before you leave the airport. I just returned from BOM a few weeks ago from my first visit and I had a great time. However, be ready for your arrival...especially with children! Personally, I chose to stay at the Le Meridian near the airport. For me, it was worth the extra $ (though still very reasonable) for my first time in BOM. Great hotel and ammenities such as pool and spa, etc. If you have a SPG (starwood) membership they will probably automatically put you on the club level. In addition, they will pick you up from the airport (if you arrange it in advance)...for which I HIGHLY recommend...no matter which hotel you choose...especially if you are landing at night. When you leave the airport be ready for a very, very, very large crowd (thousands) waiting at the exit door. It is almost overwhelming. I had to look hard to find the correct hotel sign that had my name on it, however once I found it, I was whisked through the crowd and into an awaiting Mercedes to be driven the short transfer to the hotel. This was a complementary service, though I tipped the driver. The next morning, I arranged for a driver from the hotel to take me into downtown Mumbai. It was very reasonable less than $80 for the whole day (8 hours) to be taken to many sites. It is about a 25 minute drive into downtown. From that point forward, I was able to get my bearings for the city and the following days I was able to find my way around myself. Be prepared for large/crushing crowds, visible poverty, and heavy traffic juxtaposed with a extremely rich culture and incredibly nice people. The Taj Hotel next to the Gateway to India is beautiful and very nice, as well...but very crowded area. Good luck and have a great trip.