After almost three weeks in Hungary, with the last few days spent in Budapest, its amazing capital, it’s time to move on. However, before I do that I must tell you guys about Budapest, which is officially not only my favorite European city, but my favorite city period! Yeah it’s all that and a bag of chips. Not only is it in a prime location, being in such great proximity to other major European cities, but it also has a well developed transportation infrastructure to get you there. Unlike some other countries I’ve been to (i.e. Romania). Also this is an extremely diverse city as far as nationalities go and you really feel like you are in a real cosmopolitan hub, and with that brings an array of social scenes and activities to suit any taste. From business men to backpackers, old ruined buildings converted into new bars, or the latest high end fashion retailer in front of a local traditional food kiosk preparing meals in open fire ovens, Budapest brings it all to life in one place. Oh and having the gorgeous bridges crossing the Danube as your back drop, well, that doesn’t hurt either!
Entrance to the famous Chain Bridge
Strolling the streets in Budapest
Inside “Simpla” a huge bar set inside a ruined building
Now with all that Budapest has to offer, what did my first night consist of you wonder? Well I went to the dentist to have drinks then went salsa dancing with a couple new Greek friends. Just your typical night. So let me explain, the dentist is an open air bar and I had my second couch surfing experience in Budapest with a guy from Greece. That and every other night was filled with some type of activity which never disappointed. Speaking of not being disappointed, the food has been wonderful, every single place I have gone to eat has been a total palate pleaser. I can’t even explain how much I enjoyed this city, it just has so much energy, but can be chilled and relaxing as well. I don’t think you could ever get bored in Budapest, unless you were trying really hard, and I mean really! I would easily live here, well outside of the winter months, I am ruled by my island blood.
Salsa dancing
Touring around Budapest with a new friend from Kiskoros
Side view of the house of parliament
So in the midst of all this amazingness what other equally intense but opposite experience have I been going through? Having my identity stolen!! Yes, it turns out someone back in Florida has been making fraudulent transactions in my name and had access to my bank account and the works!! So while on this trip I have spent hours on the phone with my bank and the fraud and claims department and have now had my accounts frozen until I return to the states. So with no access to my funds, in enters Super mom to save the day and I had another run to western union so while traveling I don’t starve to death because I have no money! This would be a great time to get a job, hmmm something to consider. The good thing that comes out of this I am now learning about a lot of good things to do to protect yourself from these types of things when traveling long term and when this is all wrapped up I will be sharing them with all you guys.
So that’s it for Hungary, I now say goodbye to this fantastic city I have enjoyed so much! My best friend’s family who were so hospitable in Kiskoros, and my great couch surfing host and his brother, who have definitely become friends. Now on the anniversary of my fourth month away I find myself on an 11 hour train ride off to my next stop, one a little more unexpected! Can’t wait to share.
Where to next?
