Sept 9

last 3 days in Budapest

For the last two days here in Budapest we have been exploring the inner city . The first morning out was a walking tour where we met up with approx 100 people getting ready for a 2.5 hour walk around both sides of the river. We split up into 3 groups and we were off to see and be told of the history of the beautiful city. They explained to us why the Buda side streets were never in a straight
Iine and the Pest side was designed as square blocks They told us how they were still trying to free themselves from the old ways of communism and it would probably take 2 more decades for this to happen. We were shown the highlights of the city and given an overview of the must see areas along with many do's and don'ts and tips within the city..
While we're in Budapest we had to try out one of the ancient Roman bath houses. A short walk from our hotel is located the Gellert Bath house so not to be unlike the locals we had to give it a go.
The Baths at the Gellert are delightful from the entrance hall on. Once you enter, your first stop is a large pool surrounded by columns surrounded by a Solarium overlooking from the second floor balcony. These baths are rich with mineral waters and are situated in magnificently high ceilinged tile rooms. These areas are definitely a bit more interesting and relaxing.
In the warmer months there are three outdoor pools; one of them being a wave pool. They were not Hawaii waves but were enough to entertain us for quite awhile.
That evening we enjoyed some of the local foods and wines.
Our last day in Budapest ,we decided to hike to the top of the citadel and visit the military fortress which was still rattled with bullet holes from WWll . It is the highest point in the whole city and gave us an unparelled vista of the whole city.
Tonight will be early to bed to catch a plane at 6 am but only after endulging in some more fine foods.