Best stays international
Hungary For a Good Time? How To Spend a Day In Budapest
As we set out on our journey to Budapest, a sense of calm filled the air, mingled with a unique suspense. This marked the beginning for us in many ways: our first trip abroad under our company name, Chalk and Cheese Travels, and our first cruise. A rare occurrence, but I have concluded that there are just cities that ooze class, need no introduction and have an identity so unique that it hits like a prime Mike Tyson; this to me is Budapest.
Our trip started in the most spectacular Airbnb that left no screw unturned, featuring a Jacuzzi in the centre of the room accompanied by a 50-inch plasma; while undeniably difficult to leave we had to start the trip right; on a high. This meant two things – great food and a top bar.
The night kicked off with a traditional goulash at a restaurant at ‘Gettó Gulyas’, accompanied by a beer that has lingered on the tip of my tongue for over a decade (since my interrailing days): a pint of Dreher. At just 6500 FNT (15 euros) each, we were set for the night ahead, ready to explore the watering holes to which our thirsts could be quenched.
The highlight of the evening was an underground cocktail bar nestled in the heart of Budapest’s bustling city centre on a Saturday night. The enigmatic ‘Hotsy Totsy’ might puzzle you at first glance, but the name fades in significance when you step foot into this hidden speakeasy. A place so timeless that if you told me Frank Sinatra himself once graced its floors, I would have believed you.
The manager Adam Szondi held the fort in a tight run ship yet was gracious enough to pick out the best cocktails and try out a few local shots with us (Palinka). If not already unique enough and to add to its charm, the cocktail menu was cleverly presented on a deck of cards. In an instant the bartenders effortlessly transformed into magicians, using the cards to guide patrons towards their ideal drink choices based on their responses.
A brisk walk through the city centre towards our hotel that called for a few interviews with the locals about their favourite places in Budapest (see below) and we were gone into the night searching for the dirtiest kebab imaginable.
The next morning greeted us with throbbing heads and rumbling stomachs, demanding nourishment post-last night’s indulgence. A local produce fry-up in a sandwich, akin to a poor man’s beef wellington, was in order, followed by a rejuvenating session in the private sauna that hit the spot like nothing else could.
@chalkncheesetravels WATCH UNTIL THE END FOR A SUPRISE
#budapest #cocktails #chalkandcheesetravels
