Freezing in Budapest (and Trying to Find Coffee)
ugh. okay, where to even begin? this trip… it’s been a thing. 1877449… 1408482040… some numbers, some code, some… everything. i’m not even sure what i’m trying to say. the weather here? it’s… something. i just checked and it’s brutally cold - -7.9 degrees celsius, feels like -14.26. seriously, pack layers. and thermal underwear. probably a parka. i’m regretting my short-sleeved shirt already.
I’m trying to capture the city, but the light is so flat today. it’s all gray and… well, gray. the usual for december, i guess. i need to find a decent cafe. a place with good lighting, maybe some natural light, for a quick photo. coffee is my lifeblood right now. i've been wandering around trying to find a place that isn't overly touristy. someone told me that the coffee near the Fisherman's Bastion is overpriced and weak - apparently, it’s all about the view, not the brew. i’m hunting for something more… authentic.
I spent a few hours yesterday wandering around the Buda side. it’s beautiful, even in the cold. wandered through Buda Castle, checked out Matthias Church - the architecture is stunning, even if i was shivering. a local told me the story of how they rebuilt it after it was damaged in the 1867 earthquake - fascinating. i heard that the pastries in the area are amazing too, but i’m saving that for tomorrow. gotta prioritize the caffeine first.
Basically, i’m a chaotic mess right now. fueled by lukewarm coffee and the faint hope of finding a decent Instagram shot. i'm staying in a little Airbnb near the city center - it’s… cozy. let’s just say the neighbors are quiet. if you get bored, Vienna is just a short train ride away. i'm thinking of making a quick trip there next week. maybe find some warmer weather? or at least a better place to get a latte.
I’m trying to get a feel for the city’s energy, but it’s hard when you’re battling sub-zero temperatures. all the Christmas markets are packed, but the crowds are overwhelming. i’m thinking of venturing off the beaten path - seeing what hidden gems i can find. maybe check out some of the smaller museums or explore some of the less-touristed neighborhoods. you can find some great recommendations on sites like TripAdvisor - just be prepared for a lot of opinions.
It feels weird to be traveling alone sometimes. part of me loves the freedom, the ability to go wherever i want, whenever i want. but there’s also a part of me that misses having someone to share the experience with. anyway, gotta go find a pastry. seriously desperate. and maybe another coffee.
I’m trying to document everything, but honestly, i’m just trying to survive the cold. i'll post more later - hopefully with better lighting and a full stomach. and maybe some warmer clothes. seriously, anyone have a spare parka? find more travel advice on sites like Lonely Planet.
p.s. i found a tiny bookstore tucked away on a side street. it’s crammed with old books and smells of dust and coffee (the real stuff!). it was perfect. check out Budapest City Tourism for more info on things to do in the city.
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