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Monday, 22 September 2014

Beautiful Budapest

I was fortunate enough to go to Budapest on business recently and even more fortunate to be able to stay in a luxurious hotel and have enough free time between long meetings to enjoy this fine capital city. Of course, nabbing caches was important too!


I wasn't entirely sure what to expect from the city but I was not expecting to be strongly reminded of London with its landmark river, magnificent buildings and professional appearance. It's nothing like several of the cities I've visited across Europe before which all look a bit tattier. But whilst I love London, Budapest felt cleaner and safer and I hope to return. Everyone speaks Hungarian of course, but I managed to find people who spoke English when we needed them. 



The city is full of culture, history and attractions. Methods of transport are plentiful and we did a couple of short, cheap boat trips up the Danube (unlike London, Budapest prices are incredibly reasonable and not extortionate!). Other novel methods of transport included segways, bicycles for hire (SO TEMPTED!), pedal carts and trams.




The bridges over the Danube are iconic and whilst the Chain Bridge is the most well known, I think I liked the Liberty Bridge best. I'm glad we went out at night and during the day as the city offers a completely different feel for each. I'd love to come back here!