Earlier in the day we had docked in Budapest, the Hungarian capital, having completed our 15-day journey from Amsterdam, and it was our last night on board.
Budapest is a city that is at its best after dark. When the sun goes down and the lights go on, Budapest comes to life. And there is no better place to see that happen than on the water.
It was never part of the itinerary but tonight we are in for a treat as the captain manoeuvres the vessel away from the dock.
Now I don't know how much that would cost, but I'm sure a 30-minute sojourn on a ship like this runs into the thousands of dollars in fuel.
The mighty Danube splits Buda from Pest. They were separate cities until 1849 when the first permanent bridge was built over the Danube, although they didn't officially become one until 1873.
From the crowded upper deck, the ship's 180 guests are given a light show that rivals Sydney's New Year's Eve celebrations for sheer beauty and there is no doubt that Budapest deserves its tag as the Paris of the East.
These are some of Europe's most beautiful buildings which, thankfully, after careful and inspired restoration, have survived the pounding they took during World War II.
Ironically, we get to enjoy at least half of this view for the next three nights that we stay in Budapest as well. Our hotel, the Lanchid 19, is no more than 200m from where the ship is docked, on the Buda side of the city.
The Lanchid 19 is a small hotel with 48 rooms. It is not centrally located, but is an easy walk over the Chain Bridge into the main part of the city and is not far from Buda Royal Castle.
The hotel is fast becoming a haven for visiting musicians who seem to enjoy the modern foyer and open-plan suites. It also has an amazing moving glass facade that changes the lighting effects on the outside of the building. This means when you leave for a night out, the hotel will be one colour and when you return it may well be a completely different colour.
During the day there is also much colour and movement to take in. From the UNESCO World Heritage site of Castle Hill to St Stephen's Basilica and the Parliament Buildings built between 1885 and 1902 you won't have trouble spending three days here.
The House of Terror
Take a stroll down the Andrassy ut to Heroes' Square to see the massive Millennium Monument. Along the way you will pass the Opera House and the House of Terror.
Although it doesn't sound too inviting, visitors to Budapest should spend some time in the House of Terror. Today it is a sombre museum surrounded by some of the city's best restaurants and chic shopping spots.
In 1944, during the reign of the Hungarian Arrow Cross Party, it was known as the House of Loyalty. As the headquarters of the Hungarian Nazis, this was the scene of many deaths and atrocities. From 1945 to 1956, it was the home of communist terror organisations and as such 60 Andrassy Blvd became the house of terror.
The films and pictures on the walls do not celebrate terror, but rather remind us of how far we have come in a very short time. To stand in the cells and see the gallows is to understand how cruel and intolerant we can be.
Not all tourist attractions are fun. And this one certainly isn't. But it does pinch our humanity and serves as a confronting reminder of a past that shouldn't be forgotten.
After that, it is time for something completely different so we visit the Market Hall on Vambaz krt and grab some bread and the best sausage you will ever eat.
Hungary offers great value for Australian visitors. Our strong dollar goes further here than in any other European country, making it the perfect place to do some shopping.
For outlet bargains try Alessandro & Co or GL Outlet. The Westend City Centre is Budapest's largest mall and you will find everything from designer brands to local high-end products.
In March, Budapest gained its first Michelin-star restaurant when Costes, on the front end of Raday utca's restaurant row, was given the award. Although Costes is expensive, it's worth the price.
For cheaper options, try Flores Bistro, Remiz or Cafe Erte, named after the man considered the father of Art Deco, Roman Petrovich Tyrtov.
FAST FACTS
Staying there
Lanchid 19, Lanchid Utca 191 013 Budapest. Rates start at 83euro nte ($A109) a night.
See
www.designhotels.com/lanchid 19
Doing there
House of Terror, Andrassy ut 60. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm.
The hop-on, hop-off bus is the best way to understand the layout of the city. The 4500 Huf ($A21.50) ticket is valid for 24 hours and the 14 stops cover all the key tourist spots.
Cruise
Black Sea to Amsterdam
River Cruise
Cruise aboard a magnificent Scenic Space-Ship for 21 luxury nights with all on-board entertainment as well as superb guided sightseeing tours included.
Discover the home of Dracula on a full-day excursion to Transylvania and see the sights of Bucharest on a guided city tour. Cruise through the spectacular Iron Gate dividing Serbia from Romania.
Visit the Serbian capital, Belgrade, and explore Novi Sad. Enjoy an exclusive private Viennese concert at the magnificent Palais Liechtenstein, cruise through the spectacular Rhine Gorge and visit Marksburg Castle for a medieval dinner and night of entertainment before arriving in the vibrant city of Amsterdam.
The 24-day cruise/tour costs from $12,670 a person, twin share.
Fly free, return, including taxes (conditions apply).
Price based on D cat cabin (no balcony) for a June 13 departure.
Offer valid until sold out.
source:news.com.au
Không có nhận xét nào:
Đăng nhận xét