Cork and Kerry A.R.I.: Budapest

A small group from Mallow went to the Christmas market in Budapest recently for 3 nights. it was bitterly cold but we were well wrapped up and had a marvelous time. We went on the hop on hop off bus and saw the wonderful architecture and listened to the amazing history of Hungry.They have some fabulous buildings but having difficulty maintaining them. They have several different types of transport from trams trolley buses ordinary local buses sightseeing double decker buses and Metro underground as well as taxis of course.There were lots of markets there of course at this time of year. the athmosphere was really and seasonal and aromatic with spices of Gluwein Grog chimney cake Goulash etc We visited museums churches synagogues the Gellert spa St Stephens Basilica as well as numerous cafes and restaurants including Turkish Japanese Italian and Hungarian of course. We also attended a concert of classical music in St Stephens Basilica which was brilliant.On one of the evenings we dined on a river boat whils cruising on the Danube. It was a brilliant sight as all the buildings were lit up on both sides Buda and Pest. We were entertained by Hungarian musicians as we dined. A wonderful experience! The currency in Hungary is Forints approximately 300 huf to 1 Euro so you can imagine the calculations going on! The accommodation was excellent and the people very friendly and helpful.