Budapest In a Flash

Recall how I said I would never do another night train again in my whole life? Well I lied. We did it again, and this time it was from Krakow to Budapest. Oh and this time, it was a even worst experience!

Our train left Krakow at 10:00pm and not having been told there were options of different types of cabins, we found ourselves in a frat house! We shared our cabin with three other guys, all of whom have probably been travelling either not showering, or travelling without bothering to find a laundromat ! The cabin reeked!

I was lucky enough to be at the bottom of the three level bunk beds and was able to get a decent sleep.

We arrived in Budapest in the morning. We quickly found ourselves a bit shocked by the state of the city outside the train station. The country seemed a bit "messy", and the metro seemed like it was beaten up and ready to be decommissioned!

We settled into the hotel and quickly went about exploring the city.

We walked to the St. Stephens Basilica and went in for a visit. Like all other church we have seen so far, it was quite grand. This is really making me wonder just how much money goes towards building these sights. The artworks on the walls and ceiling, the sculptures, it all seemed so extravagant, to the point where it seemed a bit wasteful. I mean if the people of the country had tons of money to throw around, then great, but I definitely did not get that sense walking around Budapest.

We then went over the Chain Bridge and walked up the hill to visit the old Hungarian Palace, which has been converted into museums since the end of the monarchy. The view you get from on top of the hill is very impressive.

One of the most interesting meal I have had on this trip was in Budapest. The dish was fried eggs and pasta. Tasted delicious, very light, but was definitely filling!

Our second day was spent shopping and visiting the Szechenyi Thermal Bath. The place was huge! It was in the centre of the city park, which we easily accessed by metro. The bath was interesting. First, you change into your bathing suit in a co-ed change room. These changing rooms had stalls in which most people changed in, but what was tricky was figuring out how to lock it! There were two indoor large thermal baths and a few large outdoor pool like baths. I suppose it is typical for people to feel healthier after an experience at the thermal baths? I sure did!

We also did some tanning, but on the concrete ground, not wanting to pay for the lounge chairs. I guess that's what you have to resort to when the city does not sit on the coast eh?

Budapest went by quickly, and to be honest, probably would not consider visiting it again any time soon.

Next stop, Vienna!