By frenezeder
Greetings from Budapest, Hungary! While I am fortunate enough travel to a different country nearly every weekend, most of the time I find myself drawing a blank at what time my flight is, what currency I am in, and what language everyone is speaking. This is most definitely the best issue to have; however, my weeks are always packed to the brim between traveling, doing independent research, going to class, and finding time to meet with friends. I have not had the opportunity to be homesick as oftentimes I don't even know where I am. But as of the moment, I know for a fact I am in Budapest solely because the inflation here is absolutely insane. Whenever I take a taxi, pay for a meal, or do absolutely anything, the price is always in the thousands ( 1 euro = about 300 forint). Always a joy to do quick math while scrambling to grab some cash.
Anywho, here are my recommendations for Budapest
1. Szechenyi Thermal Bath
This is THE mustard yellow outdoor bath you have seen probably a thousand times while looking at your friend's abroad posts and I must say I was not a fan. I should preface this with bachelor/bachelorette weekends are simply not my thing and this was most definitely the place for them. While the yellow bathhouse looks absolutely precious, the scene is most definitely not relaxing. I would recommend going early in the morning to beat the rush of tourists if you are looking for more relaxation. That being said, I do recommend going because it was fun to see it in person and I happen to adore the color yellow - just be prepared.
2. Gellért Baths
Ok, now the Gellért baths are exactly what I imagine when someone says "relaxing, stunning bathhouse in Budapest". If you are on a budget and can only go to one of the two thermal baths, I would definitely recommend this one. The Gellért baths are both indoor and outdoor baths engulfed in stunningly intricate tile - think Ariel's Grotto from the Little Mermaid. It is much more focused on relaxation and giving your body a break. I went on a Sunday morning and was what appeared the only non-local there. I could have spent the whole day there as they had a Finnish sauna, ice bath, lap pool, and several baths heated at different temperatures. Pictures simply cannot do the tile work justice, so you will simply have to go (or google it in high def preferably) and see for yourself.
3. Castle Hill and Panoramic Restaurant
One of the best aspects of Budapest is that other than the baths, all there is to do is walk around and check out the sights. The Castle Hill area is a must for sightseeing and strolling on a sunny afternoon as you can admire the alabaster white, yet insanely detailed turquoise and orange tiled castle. I regret to inform you that I am lacking in fun facts in what the castle exactly is, but it is a great place to walk around and get a great view of the city. I personally would recommend grabbing the Mint Lemonade at the panoramic restaurant on the hill as it gives you the perfect view of Parliament while you dine.
4. Parliament
Last but certainly not least is Parliament! The building and the surrounding area is a great place to walk around at quite literally any hour of the day. I walked on the grounds in the morning, afternoon, and evening and every time the building looked different in the best way possible.
As a whole, Budapest has more of a laid back vibe as all you can do truly do there is eat, walk around, and go to the baths. I am quite relieved to be free of the stress involved in traveling to a destination with a plethora of things to do like Italy. This upcoming weekend I am traveling to Dublin, Ireland, so until then -