"A Gem of a City" a Budapest Travel Page by AnnS

Eastern European countries has been on my list of places to visit for some time. However, until October 2004, they'd always been deferred in favour of cheaper flights or better deals to places in Western Europe.

Then one day I was scouring the Internet to see what was available and I spotted an EasyJet flight to Budapest for £44.98. Further investigation showed that hotels in Budapest were not prohibitively expensive and I soon sorted out 3 nights in a 4* hotel for £222, which made the trip within my total budget of £300.

I don't really know what I'd expected. I was very excited to be going somewhere 'different'... but thought perhaps things might be a little more difficult or less advanced than in well-trodden tourist destinations.

How wrong I was! From the minute the plane landed, everything was efficient and the people very helpful. A minibus whisked me right to the door of my hotel... so no struggling with bags, I got a very friendly welcome when I checked in, my single room was lovely and I'd been very impressed with what I'd seen of Budapest so far from the bus window.

So I was settled... and feeling comfortable.

I loved Budapest. I had three days there, filled with infusions of beautiful scenery, impressive architecture, fascinating history and the kind of helpfulness and friendliness from the people that makes any trip more enjoyable.

I must say that as a single traveller, I'd been just a tad apprehensive but there was no need and I would recommend people to visit this beautiful city, whatever their circumstances. They will not be disappointed.