No, that's not me. We’re just back from "world-wide" (LOVE saying that) travels and know we’re in a blog back-up. Blame it on our mutual colds (Cute’s fault entirely.) We also realize other people’s trips are like their dreams – interesting for the first two minutes. Maybe. So rather than a travelog, I’m just going to tell you our observations from this one city. Then, at the bottom, is a slide show if you can find the very light arrows ><.
Budapest is pronounced Buda pescht. For those in the know. You know, all of us now.
Architecture is so fascinating when your city was officially created in 1873 from a merger of the three neighboring cities of Pest, Buda and Óbuda. But it’s been there since AD100. Many wars, occupations, and much destruction still left a beautiful and ornate city.
Their street lights are more ornate. There is a huge variety in food and restaurants everywhere. In restaurants, larger but many tiny, either on beautiful closed-off boulevards with canopies and lighting/heating over the tables or tucked into odd spaces:
You have to ask for water. You usually have to pay for it also.
Like in most of Europe, they don't bring you the bill unless you ask and they don't rush you. Ever. Even if you're standing by your table with your coat on.
Paprika is actually a food group.
Breakfast always comes with salad with a slightly sweet dressing if you order eggs. They always bring bread and seldom any butter.
The coffee is usually lukewarm.
The meals are mostly huge – and delicious. I only gained four pounds my first week there. Was so happy about that, I brought them home. I’m also thankful I finally found langos, a fried bread, later in the trip, not Day 1.
A service charge was typically included on the bill. You're welcome to leave more but the servers don't seem to expect it.
The language is impossible. For reasons unknown, their alphabet has 43 letters and they use all of them as often as possible.
We don't think there were any help-wanted signs in the restaurants and stores. Not entirely sure because we don't speak the language but we didn't see any signs like we have everywhere.
There are few protective railings anywhere, including on stairways and on the river. Take your chances, kids.
You have to carry a lot of money to not have much money, $1 equals 384 florents. Not an easy exchange rate. Although part of the EU, Hungary wants you to carry their money.
And when you don't know the money, you can end up paying $183.90 for a $25 cab ride. Idiots R Us.
A fancy “bath” is several swimming pools of various sizes in gorgeous surroundings. Fortunately, swimming suits are expected. But yet, the speedo lives on. Some things you just can’t unsee.
Everyone should go to Budapest. You’ll need at least five days. Truly.
We loved Budapest! Cant wait to hear all about your trip. And I have a good recipe for langos if you feel you didn't gain enough weight.