Humbling Hungary
Finally, our departure to Budapest from Belgrade begins. A lovely 8-hour Flixbus awaited us at 8AM, and this time we reserved seating as we didn’t want to risk being apart for the long journey that awaited us. Unfortunately, another bus fee made our wallets a little lighter. If anything, I was glad to be going north as I read it was a Balkan custom to charge a bus station fee.
We arrived 20 minutes early for the peace of mind which is a rarity when travelling. We were then greeted at the bus door by two men. One bold man sweating from the humid morning who I assumed to be the bus driver, and another man with the most beautiful moustache I’ve ever seen. I didn’t know what his job was, but I did feel safe with how manly this guy looked. 6 ft 2, slim build, soft eyes that wanted no problems, and a mustache that was thick and long, almost like a comb that covered his upper lip. A fun introduction to whom I assume are Hungarian men.
Before we knew it, we were off. The bus was quiet as we all shared the early morning adrenaline which finally became depleted within our bodies. 4 hours later we had a 30-minute lunch break, and 4 hours later, we were finally in one of the world’s greatest cities, Budapest. Our arrival landed us opposite the great Puskas Arena. It was only a handful of minutes until a stranger approached us asking for help. Unfortunately, my Hungarian wasn’t too good, so a quick fend of the hand to indicate my lack of understanding was replied with an embarrassed smile, as she scurried away in a panic to find someone of worth to her. Thankfully for us, the bus stop was on top of a metro. So in we went, and out we were. A metro system that was as loud as it was quick. Almost felt like your ears were placed next to metal that grinded on the tracks. Nonetheless, we exited our station and walked up the stairs.
The previous countries were all so different In their own way, but Budapest was visibly different from the get-go. Fickle green trees protected the paths that led to lightly brown-tinted limestone buildings. Churches announced themselves throughout the city as the bells alarmed its people at every 15-minute interval that would ring into the night. The citizens dress fashionably to reflect the stores that stare at every pedestrian walking by. The cherry on top? Finally a deal for Aperol Spritz. We’re in Europe, baby!
So we rattle our suitcases all the way to our hotel. The hotel wasn’t great, but so what? In a way, it would be boring to stay in the Hilton every time. I couldn’t think of anything more boring than having a grand TV facing a cloud-like bed with a spacious bathroom prefilled with the luxuries of soap and shampoo. I could also be in denial but who’s to judge?
The sun set whilst our appetite rose. A SPAR (convenience store) was only a 5-minute walk away from us so we quickly composed ourselves and set off on our short journey. Unfortunately, the SPAR closest to us was shut, so we had no other choice but to go to the next one which was 10 minutes away. It was all good, despite the absolute downpour of rain that bucketed onto us. These 10 minutes were the longest of our life! Even longer as the next SPAR we went to… was also shut. Google lied to us. So we did what any annoyed hungry traveler would do and got Burger King. A fitting meal for a long day…
Before we knew it, our eyes were opened to the morning shine of Budapest. Budapest was Idyllic. The buildings in particular were unique In architecture. We visited several, but two stood out to us. St.Stephens Basilica and the Hungarian Parliament.
St.Stephens Basilica peeked through a narrow street close to where we were staying, and my god it was huge! Bigger than the previous one we saw in Serbia. However, unlike the one in Serbia, the colour grading was different. As opposed to the blue and gold, a brown marble was bestowed onto our eyes that trickled from the ceiling to the pillars that held up this fantastic beast of a Cathedral. You know a Cathedral is fantastic when a non-religous person begins to feel its holiness. Calm, peace, and sound of mind. These are emotions that run through your body when surrounded by the echoes of angelical songs that softly play. It truly was a sight for sore eyes and one that will leave a lasting impression.
Next, the Hungarian Parliament Building. A building that stretched beside the Danube, covered in spires so sharp it could cut paper with a stare. We never got to go in, but just sitting on a bench outside was enough for me to acknowledge and enjoy its beauty. A true and fantastic introduction to Gothic Architecture.
Some other notable buildings we went to included the Budapest Spa, the Castle District, and Buda Castle. All sharing similar architecture and beauty.
Speaking of the Castle District, as we were leaving, we heard an awful amount of commotion coming from down the road. So, as curious tourists, we had a peak. A huge Red Bull Ute was parked beside a beer garden filled with individuals, who we later placed as teams of 2-4. The goal? To travel as much as you can within 7 days, only use a case of Red Bull (24 cans) as your currency. Each individual received such a case of 24 cans and then they were off. Despite being a fun idea I’m sure, our trip had other plans. Good luck to them I suppose!
We decided to end the night and our journey in Budapest by drinking your classic cheap European beer on a bench on the river. Reflecting on our days spent in Budapest, and looking forward to our next country. A country I can’t say gets recommended too much from what I’ve seen, which makes it all the better. A country younger than Australia! A rare feat amongst the Europeans that’s for sure. Hello Slovakia!