Pearl of the Danube

Pearl of the Danube a rightfully given name to a beautiful city--Budapest totally blew my mind!

I met Eric and Judith at the train station, and we immediately headed out to explore the nightlife of Budapest. Given that it was near Christmas eve bars weren't "full" as usual, but mind you they were full! As noted to me by my Hungarian friend people in Budapest don't mess around with their social life. It doesn't matter if you are completely broke, you go out and spare a few forints on restaurants and bars, you socialize, you always hang out with your friends and enjoy all the wonders that life has to offer. I really liked this about Budapest. In more ways than one it reminded me very much of Buenos Aires.

One of the ruin pubs

In my opinion Budapest is more of a night city, its charm and eccentricity definitely surfaces during the dark hours. There are restaurants in every corner. At any time you'll find a little hole in the wall that for a few bucks will serve you excellent food. Since Judith and Eric are total foodies, we got to enjoy some of the best of Budapest's culinary art. Two of the most memorable tastes: goose liver pate and the stuffed cabbage (both hiiiighly recommended!!). Drinking is also no joke in Budapest. Hungarians love their pálinka, and I can't blame them, it is freaking delicious. This fruity brandy is distilled from a variety of fruits, and its strength varies depending on the fruit and age of the pálinka. 40-60-80% alcohol it didn't seem to matter much, for the most part, it went down like water. On our first night we went to what are called ruined bars. These retro looking bars are basically old abandoned buildings transformed into club/bars. Every room resembles a different theme. Within these buildings you can find up to 3 bars and 2 dancing floors depending on the size of the place. Definitely a spot to visit. We also got to go to a very cool ice bar in Budapest. Here everything is made out of ice (duh!) and temperature is as low as -5° C. In this chilly little bar I also discovered the greatness of grapefruit infused vodka (seriously you have to try it!).

Although Budapest's nightlife is incredible, this gorgeous city  has also lots to offer during the day time. 10 minutes outside and you will be blown away by its architecture. Everywhere you look it's fascinating. Many Gothic cathedrals along with majestic forts and bridges that will make you feel as if you are part of a fairy tale story. What's really magnificent about Budapest is that in no way it resembles the perfect cities of the West. Budapest is dirty, grungy, it has an edge (in some ways like Berlin). The walls and streets they have a story a long painful story of many invasions and constant struggle. Its beauty is not just in its buildings but also in its personality--something that I hold to high esteem. The people are amazing. Hungarians regardless of their difficult past are one of the kindest and sweetest people I have encountered in my travels thus far.

For a wonderful time in your lovely city I thank you Judith, and a million thanks to your family for their hospitality and warmth.

Hope you've enjoyed reading!

Love,
Gabs