Returning to Budapest
Embarking on a train journey from Croatia, I enjoyed the Fertö / Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape, which is listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site, and found myself back in Budapest, Hungary—a city I had previously visited to experience the incredible spas and mineral waters.
This time, I arrived during the festive Christmas season and checked into the Budapest Marriott, offering breathtaking views of the majestic Danube River.
With my Marriott status, I had access to the exclusive concierge level, where an impressive selection of food and drinks awaited. I was happy to mingle with fellow travelers, many of whom were on business trips from various parts of Europe and America.
Budapest is a city made up of two former cities – Buda and Pest. The hotel was located on the former Pest side of the river with magnificent views of the Buda Castle and offered a prime location to soak in the city’s beauty.
From my room, I was treated to a magnificent view of the illuminated Buda Castle—a sight that transformed it into a city of its own after sunset.
Remembering Budapest’s Past
As I strolled along the Danube River, I encountered a poignant memorial that served as a reminder of Budapest’s painful past. In late 1944 and early 1945, Jewish people were murdered along the riverbank by members of the fascist Arrow Cross movement, with many of the victims shot and thrown into the Danube.
Today, the memorial, known as “Shoes on the Danube Bank,” consists of 60 pairs of iron shoes placed along the riverbank. The shoes represent the footwear left behind by the victims and serve as a powerful symbol of the lives lost during one of the darkest periods in Budapest’s history.
This somber reminder urged reflection and deepened my appreciation for the resilience of the city and its people (a picture is in the gallery below).
A Surprising Connection to Home
Hailing from a small town in Virginia named Lynchburg, I was amused to discover a “pop-up” Jack Daniels bar in Budapest bearing the name of my hometown.
While the fame of Lynchburg, Tennessee, primarily stems from its association with the renowned Jack Daniels bourbon, it was a lighthearted coincidence to stumble upon this connection in a faraway land.
Here is a short video montage of the Buda Castle, the Danube River, and a Christmas market just outside my hotel….
A Different Perspective on Budapest
Returning to Budapest provided a fresh perspective on the city’s timeless allure.
From indulging in the rejuvenating thermal spas and reveling in the stunning views of the Danube River to encountering historical memorials and unexpected hometown references, every moment in Budapest provided a deeper understanding of its complex history, a renewed appreciation for its cultural treasures, and the memories of the warm hospitality I had encountered along the way.
Where I Stayed – Budapest Marriott
The Budapest Marriott Hotel was a memorable place to settle in while exploring Budapest, particularly because of its location right along the Danube. After a day of wandering through the city, it was wonderful to return to the hotel and have the river and the sights of Buda just outside my window.
One of the real highlights was having access to the premium club-level lounge, where I could relax, grab something to eat or drink, and enjoy the views from a much quieter setting. The lounge became a comfortable place to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures before heading back out or calling it a night.
With its central location and the Danube right outside, the Marriott made a particularly enjoyable home base for experiencing Budapest.