The beautiful Danube
by BLewJay
The city known as Budapest actually consists of three cities: ?buda, the oldest section, with Celtic and Roman ruins on the Buda side of the Danube; Buda in the gently rolling hills on the western bank, famous for its historic Castle Hill and beautiful residential area; and bustling Pest with its shopping, government and commercial districts on the flat plain of the east bank. United in 1873, Budapest is renowned as the location of one of the most beautiful World Heritage sites.
Be informed
by Gypsystravels
Do some research before you travel. A well informed traveler is a safe traveler. I have traveled to many countries of which many have been alone. Not once have I had any problems with either the locals or other travelers.
Reading a bit of the history of the country you are visiting will definitely allow you to have a better experience. Knowing a bit of the transporation system and pinpointing the places you'll like to visit will definitely help you have the best trip ever.
GYPSY MUSIC, Restaurants, cafes
by nygaston
Now, some useful tips. In many restaurants with live Gypsy music, mainly frequented by foreign tourists, musicians go up to the tables and play a song on request. They expect a gratuity in return. If you do not like this kind of entertainment, try to sit further away from the band or go to a "music-free" restaurant. There are plenty of both types.
You are not advised to accept the waiter’s offer about the speciality of the house, particularly if you do not know the price. You should study the menu whether the main course includes the price of garnishes. Always ask for an itemised bill. Beverage prices are usually rather high in good restaurants, so first consult the wine list. Waiters usually receive a tip in restaurants, which is about 10-15 percent of the bill. Service is included in the price at some places, where no tip is expected.
There are places that you mustn’t miss: the Százéves Restaurant (V., Pesti Barnabás u. 2.), the world-famous Matthias Cellar (V., Március 15. tér) and the luxurious Gundel Restaurant (XIV., Állatkerti út 2.). To see the "other face" of Hungarian cuisine, you must go to small restaurants where tables are covered with gingham tablecloths. One thing is certain: the excellent dishes of Pest and Buda are worth trying in an attempt to explore the city which can boast with the highest number of Oscar-winning cooks.
Running Events in Budapest
by danbp
There are dozens of running competitions in Budapest. Most people do it for fun - there are events in the green parks of Margharet Island, along the picturesque Danube embankment, along Andrássy Avenue... It's the healthiest way of exploring Budapest. Some events of this category: Futapest, Vivivittá, Budapest Maraton and a bunch of spronsored running events.
Particitpation on some events are free of charge, some require a participation fee of 500-1000 HUF (spent on organizing and donations to foundations). Light clothing and a comfortable training shoe is neccessary.
If you are in Hungary just try...
by kamon1
If you are in Hungary just try to make frienship with local boys and girls, they can take you to special events, like discos, pop concertsor just hanging in popularplaces. On of the summer activities is the night 'sausage-frying' party, which is organized privatly but usually many guys are invited. Beer, wine gives a cheerful atmosphere, and finally you will get tired, sleepy, and fall asleep somwhere... In the morning you can wake up just under a tree, or in a tent or in a weekend house... :)