Last minute joy
Unpredictability has become my norm. I'm thriving in the unknown, allowing the universe to present me with what's next. Taking it as it comes. The good with the bad. Obviously, leaving things up to fate can lead to unpredictable results.
My next adventure was at the extreme end of unpredictable.
On my last day together with Eli in Barcelona, I still didn’t know where I was going next. When we took some afternoon downtime, I figured I should resolve that. With so many options to choose from, I was stuck with the aforementioned paralysis. Ultimately I decided to book the cheapest flight out of Barcelona. That ended up being a $22 flight to Budapest, Hungary!
And what a fantastic choice it was! Budapest is such an amazing city, full of so much history, architecture and beauty. Breathtaking views abound along the Danube River. The city is the coming together of two ancient towns, split by the river. Buda on the east and Pest on the west. Buda sits on the hills that look over the Danube, and is home to the castle district and many of the city’s most famous landmarks. Meanwhile, Pest is on flat lands and most of the city lives here. Both sides are filled to the brim with charm and adventure.
As I tend to do, I got my wander on, exploring this ancient city from every angle. My apartment was situated right in the middle of the old Jewish ghetto. Once one of the most depressed places in Europe, it’s now full of trendy bars and restaurants. Yet it maintains a reverence for its horrific past. Street markers can be found on the edges of the district outlining the area.
Beyond the ghetto, there is an abundance of things to see, do and taste. Of course, my first order of business is always finding coffee. And Budapest does not disappoint. There are many cafe options on every street, it’s almost overwhelming … almost. I wandered near and far in search of the perfect cup of coffee. MTRM roast was my favorite. Located out of the center, away from the bustle, in a quiet neighborhood. Exactly what I look for. Multiple excellent single origins to choose from, knowledgeable and friendly staff, great atmosphere and delicious coffee.
I was in town during my birthday, so I treated myself to a night out at one of the best cocktails bars I’ve been to. Hotsy Totsy reminds me of Parlour back in Minneapolis. It’s in the basement of an old brick building in the Jewish ghetto, hidden from view. If you didn’t know it was there you would walk right by. Upon entering, you’re transported back to a bygone era, a beautiful 1920s vibe enveloping you.
My favorite spot in any cocktail bar is the at the bar itself. I love chatting up the bartenders and getting to watch what they do, as there’s always something to learn. Its also a great way to find new recipes. After my first drink, I asked the bartender if they were working on anything new. Turns out they were about to enter a cocktail competition the next week and had something new. What I got was an absolutely stunning drink. Aquavit, yellow chartreuse, maraschino and sage.
The rest of the week was spent crisscrossing the Danube. Strolling historic streets, reveling in historic architecture, catching wonderful park vibes and imbibing on the vibrant energy of this regal city. A day spent in the castle district, admiring the architecture and soaking in the history. A day deep in the outer neighborhoods, feeling the pace of life of the city's inhabitants. Many hours spent in plazas and parks, people watching as the hours slipped by.
The pace at which I was moving was welcome and familiar, reminding me of those first few idyllic months of this adventure. And the pace was not slowing down yet.