Day 223 – Around Budapest - Fri 4 Oct

Day 223 – Around Budapest - Fri 4 Oct
Brrr - woke to 2⁰, could see breath coming out of our mouths. Took advantage of “2nd day free” on hop on/off bus so set off to take red line. Heroes Square (one of Hungary’s World Heritage sites) most impressive, with statues of 7 tribesmen of the conquest, and prominent kings, saints and characters from previous 1000 years. 

Crossed bridge to walk through gorgeous park, to Vajdahunyad Castle with its eclectic mix of buildings fashioned on Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles – the complex itself an “architectural museum”. Watched open-mouthed as the busker squirmed in mid-air! 

Squashed our noses to look through to plush Széchenyi Medicinal (thermal) Baths with their beautiful frescoes (unbelievable grandeur considering common people were starving).

Enjoyed lunch of duck with pickled cabbage and apple, drank Campari and orange and felt very European. Rode Funicular railway up to palace/presidents residence, and the art gallery – sadly too late for the Palinka Octoberfest. Looked up at the Turul bird statue, said to have grandfathered the first king of the Magyar and helped them find the lands that are now Hungary. 

Bussed up to Gellert Hill with its Citadella and “Statue of Liberty" celebrating the liberation of the city from the Fascists. 

What a wonderful historic city –with sore feet reluctantly bypassed fishermen's  bastion’. Took taxi back to caravan park (agreeing on price first!), the driver’s father was mining engineer in 1914. Not good wages here, he was still driving at 64, sad that he and his wife couldn't afford to retire and go on trip like ours. Met some Poms in a motor home with 2 big golden retrievers (we miss our Max!!) Many more camper vehicles now we have hit the good roads of Europe.