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Buda and Pest

Budapest.  Hungary's capital city.  Cross roads of eastern and western Europe.  Formerly a land of the Magyars it has been inundated with cultures of the invaders and rulers for over 1,000 years to give the country its modern face.

From a visitor's viewpoint it can be tad overwhelming.  Depending on where you are coming from and what other places / countries you might have planned in your itinerary there are logistics for a budget minded person that can prove idiosyncratic at times.

Currency - The Hungarian Forint is the national currency.  However, hotels often quote prices in Euros.  Euro is used by some of the nations adjacent to Hungary but locally they accept both.  If you come from the US you are left to figure out what it costs in your own money.

Food - service fees on meals can vary.  No clear guide on what they are and how they apply.  Same with tipping.   As to the cuisine itself it is a mix of soups and goulash (a type of stew) and breads and meats.  International food is available in Budapest and is reasonably priced (I know that is vague).

Climate - Mostly mild with few sweltering afternoons in the middle of summer when we went.

Vistas - Stunning and endless.  Any city with a river running through it and the Danube does here is blessed with changing views of the landscape at different times of day.

People - used to the influx of modern day travelers to help guide you around or buy things.  As far as accomodation we prefer American brand hotels since you are guaranteed an English speaking staff.

Below are some of the visuals from this city that straddles the Danube and sits half on a hill and half on the plains with boiling thermal springs underneath.   A source of pride to the locals as they come out and soak in the rich mineral baths.  One is pictured below..



It resembles a lot of European capitals in decor and architecture ... massive cathedrals and parks and government or royal edifices with a smattering of galleries thrown in..


Castle hill at dusk (above) is home to the monarch's residence and some amazing churches including recently renovated St. Matthias church (see below).



Parliament buildings on the Pest side of the river (above) are a neo-Gothic wonder.


Shoes on the Danube is a sculpture in pieces..


Dome of the tallest Basilica in town it is named for the first king of Hungary, Istevan or Stephen.

When you wander hither and yawn there is nothing like a Zero (km) stone to get you grounded.


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