Budapest Daily Photo

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-19T17:25:00.002+01:00

Wishing all of you a peaceful and blessed holiday season. May you focus on the blessings and not the lack; friendships, relationships rather than objects and be generous with your time toward one another. Memories last far beyond any tangible gift you may give. Merry Christmas!

Happy Holidays

2009-12-07T13:29:00.002+01:00

Been absent far too long and will be again as I am preparing to leave for the holidays and be back the second week of January. Wishing all of you a gentle and meaningful conclusion to the old year. Give yourself time to count your blessings before planning for an even more meaningful 2010. Yes, you can you simply need to want to. And you all do, don't you?

I'll leave you with this bit of wisdom that sums things up rather eloquently.

Theme Day: Doorways

2009-11-01T00:16:00.000+01:00

This must be my favorite topic - doors/doorways! Enjoy November Theme Day and be sure to visit the interpretations of other photographers --> Click here to view thumbnails for all participants Thank you for stopping by.

Theme Day: Contrasts

2009-10-01T06:27:00.004+02:00

Because yesterday would have been an "If It's Wednesday, It Must be Doors" day, I chose this magnificent door as the contrast photo (the black and white) for theme day. The location is a pedestrian street in downtown Budapest.

Enjoy Theme Day by viewing as many entries as you can to appreciate the varied interpretations of all participants. Have a wonderful day. Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

Farewell to Matyi

2009-08-29T12:15:00.003+02:00

A little over two weeks-ago my favorite of the cats had to be put to sleep. She drastically lost lots of weight and showed up one day from the attic and was not strong enough anymore to even walk.

Spent the day cradling her, praying and crying. By the end of the day her limbs were cold and eyes dilated so when the vet opened I've taken her in to be relieved of further suffering.

According to the vet it is an untreatable disease that attacks the immune system and is very contagious. Now I'm watching the other cats to see what will happen. Gigi spends too much time laying around day and night and merely licks the juices off the food, so I'm bracing myself.

So the photo on the right of the screen is now minus one furry friend, the black beauty who had the most rambunctious personality of the three.

History is Preserved in the Countryside

2009-07-13T09:31:00.004+02:00

This is the only butcher shop in the Town of Bajna. The young man laboring behind the counter is the grandson of the fellow we used to buy meat from before leaving Hungary in 1963. The sign on the wall is probably also from that era when there were no glass cases for the meat and the butcher did the fondling of the meats on both sides of the counter. Oh, yes - grandpa had quite a reputation in the village.

Each time I go in there I try to persuade the man to sell me the sign but he rather enjoys it and allows people to photograph it.

Theme Day: Shadows

2009-05-01T00:30:00.005+02:00

National Guard helicopters out on exercise provide an ideal shot to be offered for May's Theme Day. Photograph is courtesy of my brother J. Molnar.

Please be sure to visit the other participants in this theme day by clicking on the link provided. Click here to view thumbnails for all participants Enjoy!

Blessed Easter

2009-04-11T00:50:00.000+02:00

May you and your loved ones find the peace and promise of Easter.

If It's Wednesday...It Must be Doors

2009-04-01T03:28:00.003+02:00

This is not a traditional doorway that you've become used to seeing here - but it is a doorway. Before and beyond it are visual delights as well as those for the palate. Can you guess where you are?

Considering that it is Wednesday, I wanted to stay with the 'door theme' - but because today is also April Fool's Day I've taken the liberty and confused your senses by presenting a photo from Harrod's department store in London. Yes, on my way to the US I took a short detour.

Andrassy Blvd Villas

2009-03-31T15:20:00.003+02:00

A walk down Andrassy Blvd had provided me with some lovely images of old villas that are now used as embassy, businesses or residences. Don't know anything about the buildings that appear here, there are presented solely for their aesthetic value.

Melody from Hungary

2009-03-09T15:13:00.003+01:00

It had been far too long that I've written and pretty much lost for words still, but there is music that speaks to the heart. This is one of my favorite Hungarian entertainers and this particular song appears here with a particular person in mind whose blue eyes and beautiful smile is so much missing from my life.

Theme Day - Paths and Passages

2009-02-01T00:03:00.004+01:00

Margaret Island in the middle of the Danube in Budapest is one of my favorite spots. You are in the city yet so far. This photo was taken on one of the peaceful paths by the fish pond.

Be sure to visit the blogs of other Theme Day participants. Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

If It's Wednesday, It Must be Doors

2009-01-21T05:04:00.001+01:00

Another beautiful Italian doorway for your visual pleasure.

Liszt Ferenc Ter

2009-01-19T18:59:00.005+01:00

Last week during my visit to the city I walked through Liszt Ferenc Ter with a camera in my hand. It was icy and chilled and the statue of the poet Attila Jozsef seemed to reflect this well. Here he is, judge for yourselves.

If It's Wednesday, It Must be Doors

2009-01-07T11:59:00.002+01:00

This is still in Rome from our visit last year. The door was on one of the monuments rather than an actual door in daily use. Still spectacular, don't you think?

Happy 2009!

2008-12-31T19:56:00.002+01:00

If It's Wednesday, It Must be Doors

2008-12-31T00:53:00.001+01:00

This being New Year's Eve and a Wednesday I chose a festive door from our trip earlier this year to the Eternal City. It looks festive, mysterious and cheerful - befitting for the last day of the old year and in anticipating the new.

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-25T08:52:00.003+01:00

Wishing you and your loved ones a peaceful Christmas!

If It's Wednesday, It Must be Doors

2008-12-17T09:01:00.004+01:00

The door here is almost an excuse, what I had hoped to convey was the mood. Yes, we are still in Rome and this little 'alley' is along side of the Spanish Steps where you can come up to the top in a less crowded fashion with some colorful spots along the way. There is a wine bar, a restaurant and fine porcelain shop at the top.

The intimacy of the small alley, the curves, the steps and certainly not lastly, the colors of the buildings that glow like melted gold in sunlight.

If It's Wednesday, It Must be Doors

2008-12-10T00:20:00.000+01:00

As long as I'm here looking and it is Wednesday, let me post a beautiful door from the city of Rome. The photo was taken during our annual spring vacation.

The Dark of the Morning

2008-12-06T06:58:00.003+01:00

For some reason (perhaps the rain clouds) it is as dark at 7 a.m. as if it were the middle of the night. The weather is mild but it had been raining every afternoon and during the night for the past week. Strung my 'icicle' lights indoors and the combination/contrast of the dark and bright things got philosophical. I would like to wish you all a wonderful week-end for whatever you set out to do. Maybe Kenny Rogers will help you also to set priorities. How many of you remember this song?

St. Nick's Day

2008-12-06T00:10:00.003+01:00

Some places he is called Santa, others St. Nicholas and in Hungary the man in red who comes riding in a sleigh is called Mikulas. Unlike in the US, he is celebrated on his own day, December 6th. According to custom children clean their shoes before going to bed and put them on the window sill where Mikulas will come during the night and good boys and girls will receive treats while the rest will get switches placed in their shoes.

Were you good this year? Don't forget to clean your shoes before going to bed and leave them on the window sill for Mikulas to find them.

Slipping off quietly

2008-12-02T09:30:00.001+01:00

My brother phoned to tell me that Mother passed away quietly at 9:30 this morning. She was an amazingly compassionate, energetic woman who was never too tired to make our favorite dish. She had been sick for a long time and had suffered much. She is now at peace. It will be a lot tougher for my brother - the two of them were very close. This is a picture of my Mom and my son on his last visit to her.

Anniversary/Birthday

2008-12-02T00:18:00.005+01:00

Just noticed that my blog passed the one-year mark in November! Is it me, or do the years really go by faster and faster?

As much as I've enjoyed finding and posting the shots, visiting your blogss and reading your comments - I am afraid that I will be tapering off from daily postings. As you know by now, the only thing in life that remains constant is change. New directions require energy, attention and so I will have to divert from here to put elsewhere. Know how much I've enjoyed sharing this year with all of you and occasionally I will surely be back and visit - but it will not be as in the past.

Wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday season. Keep a balance in your life so you can enjoy what the holidays are intended for.

Theme Day - Circles

2008-12-01T00:06:00.004+01:00

Being in the middle of Europe there are a number of countries that surround Hungary. Some of these countries are, as is Hungary, members of the EU but have not yet adopted the Euro as their official currency.

For my circles I've emptied my pocket of the Zloty (from a trip to Warsaw), Sk from Slovakia, Kc from Prague, Euro from Rome, a dime from the US and domestic Hungarian coin samples. Let's see the interpretations of others for this theme day - have fun!

Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

5th Hungarian New-Wine and Cheese Festival

2008-11-29T13:40:00.008+01:00

Vajdahunyad Var (pictured) is the location for the festival this year in beautiful City Park. Although it is raining, the weather is at least milder.

In addition to the festival, today is the first day of Advent and Christmas lights will be lit for the first time this season throughout the city. While in City Park there are many other options for entertainment: the ice skating rink (the first in Budapest) is open for young and old, restaurants, Szechenyi baths, the Zoo, Hero's Square and the famous Gundel Restaurant.

Rainy Week-End

2008-11-29T12:50:00.003+01:00

...so I would rather remember beautiful Sorrento in the spring. The hotels on the cliff overlooking the harbor.

Nice to be Back

2008-11-14T09:09:00.005+01:00

Although it was drizzling at times when I drove back to the village, I took the 'high road' literally. There are some incredible homes on what used to be grazing land - guess some of it still is for their horses.
Driving past these palatial homes, I got up above the village into the vineyards. Take a look at what someone made their week-end work 'home' when there is a lot of work done with the grapes. Rather than go home, just spend the night.

Dear Friends and Visitors

2008-11-02T00:57:00.000+01:00

Due things beyond my control, I will be away from my computer until approximately mid-November. Know that I am thinking of you even if I can't read you. Like the Arnold said: "I'll be back."

Theme Day: Books

2008-11-01T00:13:00.003+01:00

Please visit the other blogs participating in this theme day. Click here to view thumbnails for all participants

American Fork (UT), USA by Annie, Ararat, Australia by freefalling, Arradon, France by Alice, Auckland, New Zealand by Lachezar, Austin (TX), USA by LB, Avignon, France by Nathalie, Bali, Indonesia by Anak Dokan, Bandung, Indonesia by Harry Makertia, Bandung, Indonesia by Bunyamin, Bangkok, Thailand by UberSand, Barrow-in-Furness, UK by Enitharmon, Belgrade, Serbia by Bibi, Bellefonte (PA), USA by Barb-n-PA, Birmingham (AL), USA by VJ, Bogor, Indonesia by Gagah, Boston (MA), USA by Cluelessinboston, Budapest, Hungary by Zannnie and Zsolt, Budapest, Hungary by Isadora, Buenos Aires, Argentina by Karine, Canterbury, UK by Rose, Cavite, Philippines by Steven Que, Chandler (AZ), USA by PattheAZRealtor, Chapel Hill (NC), USA by missleah, Chateaubriant, France by trieulet, Cheltenham, UK by Marley, Coral Gables (FL), USA by Jnstropic, Evry, France by Olivier, Fort Lauderdale (FL), USA by Gigi, Geneva (IL), USA by Kelly, Glasgow, Scotland by Jackie, Grenoble, France by Bleeding Orange, Helsinki, Finland by PPusa, Herne Bay, Great Britain by Han, Lil n Caz, Hobart, Australia by Greg, Islip (NY), USA by Bettye, Jackson (MS), USA by Halcyon, Jakarta, Indonesia by Santy, Jefferson City (MO), USA by Chinamom2005, Karwar, India by Yogesh, Knoxville (TN), USA by hope, Lakewood (OH), USA by mouse, Larchmont (NY), USA by Marie-Noyale, Lisbon, Portugal by Sailor Girl, Lisbon, Portugal by Maria João, Madrid, Spain by Tr3nta, Mainz, Germany by JB, Manila, Philippines by Heyokity, Manila, Philippines by Hilda, Melbourne, Australia by Mblamo, Melbourne, Australia by John, Menton, France by Jilly, Milton, New Zealand by Milton Daily Photo, Milwaukee (WI), USA by karl, Minneapolis (MN), USA by Mitch, Minneapolis (MN), USA by snapshutter, Molfetta, Italy by saretta, Monte Carlo, Monaco by Jilly, Monterrey, Mexico by rafa, Moscow, Russia by Irina, Moscow (ID), USA by Sherry, Mumbai, India by MumbaiiteAnu, Murcia, Spain by usuahia, Napa (CA), USA by katester, Nashville (TN), USA by Chris, Nelson, New Zealand by Meg and Ben, New York City (NY), USA by Kitty, Paderborn, Germany by Soemchen, Palos Verdes (CA), USA by tash, Paris, France by Elsa, Pasadena (CA), USA by Petrea, Pasadena (CA), USA by Can8ianben, Pensacola (FL), USA by P J, Philadelphia (PA), USA by Stephanie Craig, Phoenix (AZ), USA by Sharon, Port Angeles (WA), USA by Jelvistar, Port Elizabeth, South Africa by Sam, Port Townsend (WA), USA by raf, Prague, Czech Republic by Honza03, Ramsey, Isle of Man by babooshka, Reykjavik, Iceland by Vírgíll, Riga, Latvia by Riga Photos, Roanoke (VA), USA by Tanya, Rotterdam, Netherlands by Ineke, Rouen, France by Bbsato, Saarbrücken, Germany by LadyDemeter, Saigon, Vietnam by Simon, Saint Louis (MO), USA by Strangetastes, Saint Paul (MN), USA by Kate, Salem (OR), USA by jill, Salem (OR), USA by pearls, Salt Lake City (UT), USA by Eric, San Antonio (TX), USA by Kramer, Santa Fe (NM), USA by Randem, Seattle (WA), USA by Kim, Seattle (WA), USA by Chuck, Selma (AL), USA by RamblingRound, Seoul, South Korea by Phil, Sesimbra, Portugal by Aldeia, Silver Spring (MD), USA by John, Singapore, Singapore by Zannnie, Singapore, Singapore by Keropok, Sofia, Bulgaria by Antonia, Stanwood (WA), USA by MaryBeth, Stavanger, Norway by Tanty, Stayton (OR), USA by Celine, Stockholm, Sweden by Stromsjo, Subang Jaya, Malaysia by JC, Sunshine Coast, Australia by bitingmidge, Sydney, Australia by Ann, Sydney, Australia by Sally, Székesfehérvár, Hungary by Teomo, Tacloban City, Philippines by agnesdv, Tauranga, New Zealand by Lisa Sarsfield, Telluride (CO), USA by mtsrool, Tempe (AZ), USA by angie, Terrell (TX), USA by Jim K, Torun, Poland by Glenn, Toulouse, France by Julia, Trieste, Italy by Rob&Piero, Turin, Italy by Livio, Verona, Italy by Valeria in Verona, Vienna, Austria by G_mirage2, Wailea (HI), USA by Kuanyin, Washington (DC), USA by D.C. Confidential, Wellington, New Zealand by Jeremyb, West Paris (ME), USA by crittoria, West Sacramento (CA), USA by Barbara, Willits (CA), USA by Elaine, Woerden, Netherlands by Marcel, Yakima (WA), USA by katney, Yellowknife, Canada by Arctic Dreamer,

If It's Wednesday, It Must be Doors

2008-10-29T00:27:00.003+01:00

Although not as flashy as the wrought iron gate from last week, there is something very elegant about this. Wood is very expensive now in Hungary also, and this is one way of showing affluence in a small town.

Reliable Service Providers

2008-10-28T00:13:00.002+01:00

This upbeat and helpful gentleman is the Hungarian representative of UltraFrame Winter Gardens. Not only is he reliable but he checks on his clients to make sure they are happy with the product and if a deadline is too close, he's been known to roll up his sleeves and help out to make certain the job gets done on schedule.

Only work well done can bring a carefree smile like this on a face of a person! Well done!

Photographer's Opinion

2008-10-27T00:27:00.002+01:00

I can take no credit for this photo as it was borrowed from the site of MOMMO.HU. but the fellow you see on the photo above was a prominent statesman until his scelaton's began to fall out of the closet. He was exposed to have been a spy in the former regime and had left office voluntarily before having to do so. He now runs a consulting firm.

That is not what is funny about this photo but the banner behind him. No idea what it actually read, but the portion that shows on the photo when read together (szarszag) simply means the smell of excrement.

The Deryne Bistro

2008-10-26T00:40:00.005+02:00

This Buda restaurant had become a landmark in the life of the city. The location is great, so is the atmosphere, furnishing, food and service.
This is their newest chef, who is quite a colorful person on top of being very talented. My daughter and I enjoyed one of the best meals there last week.

The Small Benefits of Networking

2008-10-25T00:15:00.002+02:00

There are a number of expat events at any given time in Budapest. This particular one was complete with a chocolate founain. You can imagine there was a crowd around it.
Then again, there are friend and contacts you can make that always makes for a pleasant evening.

Family Dinner

2008-10-24T00:10:00.000+02:00

With my daughter visiting it was a wait-and-see about where she would be willing to go with me. Luckily, she did concede in coming to visit my cousin in Nyergesujfalu, 12 km from Eszterfom. There are her husband Denes, my cousin Zita and their youngest son Gabor and my daughter and I. We've had the restaurant virtually to ourselves so it was even more enjoyable.

Taste of Indonesia

2008-10-23T00:24:00.000+02:00

A charming little restaurant in Buda, is close to some businesses, a major hospital and public transportation. It is a serene island with an atmosphere of a place far away. Its owner is a former singer from Indonesia who is now married to a Hungarian and exchanged the place of wonder for strange Budapest. Love, they say, is blind.

If It's Wednesday, It Must be Doors

2008-10-22T00:11:00.004+02:00

...and what a door and fence it is. If I had to guess, the owners may have something to do with the crafting of these gates and advertise in such a way. Whatever the case may be, it is stunning.

Full Moon

2008-10-21T00:12:00.000+02:00

Tried several versions of this shot before settling for this one. It is in the garden with the moon just above Orhegy. While the 'night shot' gave the photo a bit more visibility, it was also BLURRED - which is why I opted for a darker but clearer view.

Fall is Not Only in the Air Now

2008-10-20T00:25:00.003+02:00

There were photos during the spring of the street where the cats and I are now making our home in the village. Fall is now definitely upon us - it is visible on the street and in the garden. Time to take up the bulbs, spread mulch, wrap the roses.....

Fogged In

2008-10-19T00:18:00.001+02:00

There had been photos of the Basilica in Esztergom on this blog before, but this time the shot is shrouded in mysterious fog and the photo is taken from Slovakia. Ordinarily, this is a beautiful spot to view the structure and the hillside from but the fog had not yet burned off. Considering the fact that it is a Sunday, thought the subject would be appropriate to visit again. Hope you are having a wonderful week-end!

A Stop in the Countryside

2008-10-18T00:20:00.000+02:00

This wonderful bakery/pastry shop is in a difficult location in Pilisvorosvar on the way to Budapest. One must encounter a steep driveway to get in-out from there onto a road that is constantly streaming with traffic. I was in no hurry for once and took a chance. Had not been there for months and was pleasantly surprised at the improvements. There is even a small decorative pond by the outside seating area. This alone would have made the stop worthwhile. You should have seen the pastry I packed up to take home as my daughter arrived for her visit. No, no temptation shots!

An Old Fashioned Stove

2008-10-17T00:34:00.003+02:00

Once upon a time peasant houses were outfitted with such stoves. Occasionally they were built in a corner so part(s) of it would be in other rooms also giving them heat. There is a 'bench' that one can sit on and keep their back warm. Just imagine sitting around winter evenings when there was no TV, video - but lots of time for conversation. It must have been very pleasant especially after a long day working outdoors.

Foggy Morning Finesse

2008-10-16T00:36:00.006+02:00

What greeted me yesterday morning on the yard would have been called 'pea soup' by a Brit. There was heavy fog! A couple of hours later went out again it looked better and I've noticed that the moisture that collected on the cobwebs made them seem much prettier than they would ordinarily appear. What do you think?

If It's Wednesday, It Must be Doors

2008-10-15T00:23:00.003+02:00

It would look a great deal nicer without graffiti but there are enough grand details to make this a beautiful sample of Budapest doorways.

Still Outdoors

2008-10-14T00:13:00.004+02:00

This cafe is in a revamped section of District 7. There is no room for sidewalk seating, but there is a friendly bench where at least one person could enjoy their morning paper with their cup of joe.

Folk Dancers

2008-10-13T00:16:00.003+02:00

Yesterday we went by a harvest festival and caught glimpse of the dancers. Unfortunately, the photo quality suffered some but it does illustrate the motion.

Outdoor Cafe

2008-10-12T00:15:00.003+02:00

Soon the outdoor cafe's will be packed up for the season and we will anxiously await spring to be able to enjoy the great outdoors with our favorite libation.

Another Great Facade

2008-10-11T00:47:00.003+02:00

An Outdoor Wine Tasting

2008-10-10T09:31:00.002+02:00

A good start to the week-end when the Second Annual Palinka and Sausage Festival will be held in Budapest. This is an outdoor wine tasting in the vineyards of Etyek.

The Great Hunter

2008-10-09T00:44:00.002+02:00

Ferko succeeded in catching a mouse and Gigi is forced to sit and watch as he plays with his toy.

If It's Wednesday, It Must be Doors

2008-10-08T00:05:00.001+02:00

You may call her an old 'has been' but I bet, it was a vision of simple beauty when it was new.

Do Not Pass

2008-10-07T00:38:00.000+02:00

Our bus was the first to arrive at the scene of this accident back in the spring. Most of us ended up walking home to the village rather than wait for hours for the police and ambulance to complete their work. Passing on impossible stretches of road is one of the most dangerous habits of Hungarians - so many examples, but the lesson is not learned.

Farmers Market

2008-10-06T00:06:00.000+02:00

Shopping list in hand, it is one of the final great days to go to the farmers market this fall. This is one of several operating in the city and the fight is on to save it as the powers that be are planning to do away with it and put a parking garage under the park and use the buildings for upscale rental. These plans would not look good with a simple farmers market next door. How sad to get so civilized...

A Feast Fit for a King (and Queen)

2008-10-05T00:18:00.000+02:00

This is a grill platter for two in a country restaurant a short distance from Esztergom. The garden area used to face a branch of the Danube...until the highway was brought through directly next to the restaurant. So now, the dish is more worthy of the attention than the scenery. Bon Appetit!

Comfort Food on Saturday Morning

2008-10-04T00:11:00.003+02:00

One of my favorite memories from college days is the fried egg sandwiches I used to order with soup. Nothing more than an omelet on toast with mayo, tomatoes and lettuce leaf if there is any.
How is your Saturday morning?

TGIF

2008-10-03T00:14:00.000+02:00

Indeed! and what a week it was. Don't you think it is worth celebrating that another day, week had come to a conclusion - we've survived and are ready for an equally great week-end! Wish you all a wonderful, constructive, restful, cozy week-end!

Harvest 2008

2008-10-02T09:46:00.004+02:00

It was not a pretty day by any means. Although it did not rain, the threat was there and the wind was strong. Jokes kept us warm as we proceeded on both sides of the rows.
There could be no complaint this year about the bounty - no frost or rot damage to the crop.
The better looking clusters saved from the press were going home with the harvesters' table.
A glance at the scenery - in better weather we would sit under the walnut tree and enjoy the afternoon sharing food and stories - but today, we hurried home.

October Theme Day: Lines

2008-10-01T00:14:00.003+02:00

Here you see the lines of the pipes that heat the country house. Not a pretty sight, but the heat they provide is wonderful.

Here you will find the thumbnail samples of other participants.Click here to view thumbnails for all participants Or be adventurous and visit them each, some, whatever you have interest and capacity for. You are guaranteed to enjoy the time: American Fork (UT), USA by Annie, Arradon, France by Alice, Ashton under Lyne, UK by Pennine, Aspen (CO), USA by IamMBB, Auckland, New Zealand by Lachezar, Austin (TX), USA by LB, Avignon, France by Nathalie, Bandung, Indonesia by Harry Makertia, Bandung, Indonesia by Eki Akhwan, Bandung, Indonesia by Bunyamin, Baziège, France by PaB, Belgrade, Serbia by Bibi, Bellefonte (PA), USA by Barb-n-PA, Budapest, Hungary by Isadora, Budapest, Hungary by Zannnie and Zsolt, Budapest, Hungary by agrajag, Buenos Aires, Argentina by Karine, Canterbury, UK by Rose, Cape Town, South Africa by Kerry-Anne, Chateaubriant, France by trieulet, Cheltenham, UK by Marley, Chennai, India by Ram N, Coral Gables (FL), USA by Jnstropic, Durban, South Africa by CrazyCow, Fort Lauderdale (FL), USA by Gigi, Geneva (IL), USA by Kelly, Glasgow, Scotland by Jackie, Grenoble, France by Bleeding Orange, Hamilton, New Zealand by Sakiwi, Hobart, Australia by Greg, Hyde, UK by Old Hyde, Hyde, UK by Gerald, Karwar, India by Yogesh, Knoxville (TN), USA by Knoxville Girl, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Edwin, Lisbon, Portugal by Sailor Girl, London, UK by Ham, London, UK by Mo, Madrid, Spain by Tr3nta, Mainz, Germany by JB, Manila, Philippines by Heyokity, Manila, Philippines by Anthony, Manila, Philippines by Hilda, Melbourne, Australia by John, Menton, France by Jilly, Mexico City, Mexico by Carraol, Middletown (MD), USA by Bernie, Milton, New Zealand by Milton Daily Photo, Milwaukee (WI), USA by karl, Minneapolis (MN), USA by Greg, Minneapolis (MN), USA by Scott, Minneapolis (MN), USA by Mitch, Molfetta, Italy by saretta, Monte Carlo, Monaco by Jilly, Monterrey, Mexico by rafa, Nelson, New Zealand by Meg and Ben, New Delhi, India by Delhi Photo Diary, New York City (NY), USA by Ming the Merciless, Norwich, UK by Goddess888, Paderborn, Germany by Soemchen, Palos Verdes (CA), USA by tash, Paris, France by Elsa, Pasadena (CA), USA by Petrea, Pasadena (CA), USA by Can8ianben, Pensacola (FL), USA by P J, Phoenix (AZ), USA by Sharon, Port Angeles (WA), USA by Jelvistar, Prague, Czech Republic by kakna, Ramsey, Isle of Man by babooshka, Reykjavik, Iceland by Vírgíll, Roanoke (VA), USA by Tanya, Rotterdam, Netherlands by Ineke, Rouen, France by Bbsato, Saarbrücken, Germany by LadyDemeter, Saigon, Vietnam by Simon, Saint Louis (MO), USA by Strangetastes, Saint Paul (MN), USA by Kate, Salt Lake City (UT), USA by Eric, San Antonio (TX), USA by Kramer, San Diego (CA), USA by Felicia, San Francisco (CA), USA by Burd Zel Krai, San Francisco (CA), USA by PFranson, Seattle (WA), USA by Kim, Seattle (WA), USA by Chuck, Selma (AL), USA by RamblingRound, Setúbal, Portugal by Maria Elisa, Silver Spring (MD), USA by John, Sofia, Bulgaria by Antonia, South Pasadena (CA), USA by Laurie, Stanwood (WA), USA by MaryBeth, Stayton (OR), USA by Celine, Sunshine Coast, Australia by bitingmidge, Sydney, Australia by Sally, Sydney, Australia by Ann, Székesfehérvár, Hungary by Teomo, Tacloban City, Philippines by agnesdv, Tamarindo, Costa Rica by David, Terrell (TX), USA by Bstexas, Toulouse, France by Julia, Turin, Italy by Livio, Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina by Jazzy, Twin Cities (MN), USA by Slinger, Wailea (HI), USA by Kuanyin, Washington (DC), USA by D.C. Confidential, West Sacramento (CA), USA by Barbara, Weston (FL), USA by WestonDailyPhoto, Willits (CA), USA by Elaine,

Another Above Street Experience

2008-09-27T00:18:00.002+02:00

A dome to mark the spot high above the street.

Quickly, What Does This Remind You Of?

2008-09-26T00:15:00.001+02:00

Does this remind you of a wedding cake? :) Newly revamped, creamy, frosted delight.

Past Grandeur

2008-09-25T00:16:00.003+02:00

Another beautiful building in the city of Budapest.

If It's Wednesday, It Must be Doors

2008-09-24T00:13:00.001+02:00

The iron gates to the street were open which lead my eyes to follow inside to see this lovely entry way. It really was a temptation to see who and what was inside. Downtown little side-street tucked away in the shadows of St. Stephen's Basilica.

Above the Street

2008-09-23T00:19:00.001+02:00

There is life up there over the roofs of the city that few people notice. These classical figures are still living in the gracious past without paying attention to the noise and crowds below.

Hungarian Humor

2008-09-22T00:16:00.004+02:00

A lovely park with a fountain marred by graffiti and someone washing their clothes in it. But wait, see the sign on the left cautioning people. The question reads "Why is it not drinking water?" Leave it to a Hungarian to respond "Hugy" (piss).

Welcome to the Palace

2008-09-21T00:37:00.003+02:00

Hotel that is. Nicely remodeled old building in the 7th district. Have a wonderful Sunday!

Nature's Bounty

2008-09-20T00:31:00.002+02:00

Fragrant, white flesh peaches are at their peak and they are within arm's reach.
Magazine from the USA $5; Silver Queen seeds from the USA, grown in the garden $2; enjoying the experience combined on the porch - priceless.

Afternoon Traffic

2008-09-19T00:26:00.001+02:00

It was bumper-to-bumper all the way into and out of town. Needless to say there is never police around when some (quite a number, actually) drivers decide that their mission is more important than that of anyone else and thus feel free to use the designated bus lane.
The only thing moving unobstructed on Margaret Bridge were the Number 4 & 5 trams.

WestEnd City Center

2008-09-18T00:15:00.003+02:00

The longest and most narrow shopping mall in Budapest. It does have its merits as it is in the middle of downtown next to the Western Railroad Station and boasts a terrific roof garden with a variety of possible activities (hot air balloon rides, pick-nick, ice-skating in the winter)

If It's Wednesday, It Must be Doors

2008-09-17T00:11:00.001+02:00

Full of ads and their reflections this is a pretty beaten up door but still shows its former finery.

Last of Summer's Finery

2008-09-16T00:07:00.003+02:00

Look at this young man enjoying the great outdoors without leaving his abode. Nice building too!

Early Monday Morning on Andrassy ut

2008-09-15T00:04:00.002+02:00

...looking toward Hero's Square. No, I'm not playing in traffic, just looks like that - there is a break in traffic and it is safe to cross or in this case, pause.

Semmelweis University, Budapest

2008-09-14T00:15:00.003+02:00

One of the best universities in Budapest is the Semmelweiss University named after another world famous Hungarian Ignatz Philipp Semmelweiss. His name had become synonymous with being the 'savior of mothers'. If you want to know why, read the brief summary of his life.

Night on the Town

2008-09-13T00:15:00.003+02:00

A peak at the Comedy Theater from across the street. A lavish and beautiful building with a grand front door. Theater season is about to begin - do you attend theater regularly in your home town?

2008-09-12T00:19:00.003+02:00

Gambling is quite widespread in Hungary. This is a sad fact as the population is struggling to make ends meet and bad habits are so much easier to form. Within a block on the main boulevard I've encountered two establishments that welcome players 24 hours-a-day.

Sensual Summer Wine

2008-09-11T00:30:00.003+02:00

At least it is to me. In typical female fashion, I choose my beer and wine quite often by the label. This one, to me, is attractive and has an equally great name to go with it - BORZONGAS which translates to: Shiver. The original version was a fruity, white bubbly wine but it didn't take long for the company to come out with a rose to match. It was fun, good looking, light, fruiry and refreshing - just as a summer wine should be.

If It's Wednesday, It Must be Doors

2008-09-10T00:18:00.002+02:00

Beauty is as Beauty Does?

2008-09-09T00:30:00.000+02:00

"Extra kilos? Cellulite? Get rid of them quickly and inexpensively at Claudia Salon" Oh, don't you wish you could walk into Claudia's and walk out with a pair like that? I do, but I'm afraid it works like that only in the ad. Nice thought in any case.

Sidewalk Decor

2008-09-08T00:45:00.002+02:00

Don't these covers look lovely? Making a utilitarian object a decoration. Actually, I'm surprised that they have not been stolen and turned in for scrap metal as are most tangible and movable things in Hungary are - including cables, train tracks, statues....so enjoy, while they are still here.

Sunday Walk

2008-09-07T00:11:00.002+02:00

A nice corner building on Bajcsy-Zsilinszky with an interesting topping. No idea who, or why....

2008-09-06T00:35:00.005+02:00

Here are a couple of majestic buildings for you to enjoy on a Saturday. No particular importance, just great looking buildings - that's all. Hope you are enjoying your day.

Waiting for Customers

2008-09-05T00:26:00.000+02:00

Just outside of the entrance of WestEnd City Center are these tables with what appear to be 'ruffled' umbrellas waiting for the 10 a.m. opening so customers can pull up a chair and enjoy their favorite coffee or other libation.

Treat from the Garden

2008-09-04T00:20:00.000+02:00

Simply LOVE fresh figs. This year there is a bumper crop on all of the bushes we have, so I am enjoying these sweets often and smile at the extravagant pleasure of it all.

Theme Day - Sister Cities

2008-09-01T00:49:00.001+02:00

Just found out myself - the sister city of Budapest is the big apple - New York City!

Click here to view thumbnails for all participants or visit them individually by clicking on the links listed below. Thank you for visiting.

American Fork (UT), USA by Annie, Aspen (CO), USA by IamMBB, Auckland, New Zealand by Lachezar, Avignon, France by Nathalie, Bandung, Indonesia by Harry Makertia, Bandung, Indonesia by Eki Akhwan, Bandung, Indonesia by Bunyamin, Barrow-in-Furness, UK by Enitharmon, Belgrade, Serbia by Bibi, Bellefonte (PA), USA by Barb-n-PA, Bogor, Indonesia by Gagah, Brighton, UK by Harvey, Brookville (OH), USA by Abraham, Budapest, Hungary by Zannnie and Zsolt, Budapest, Hungary by Isadora, Buenos Aires, Argentina by Karine, Busan, Korea South by iamnbinb, Canterbury, UK by Rose, Cavite, Philippines by Steven Que, Château-Gontier, France by Laurent, Chateaubriant, France by trieulet, Chateaubriant, France by Bergson, Cheltenham, UK by Marley, Chennai, India by Shantaram, Chennai, India by Ram N, Christchurch, New Zealand by Michelle, Coral Gables (FL), USA by Jnstropic, Darmstadt, Germany by Elsch, Edmonton (AL), Canada by , Geneva (IL), USA by Kelly, Glasgow, Scotland by Jackie, Grenoble, France by Bleeding Orange, Hanoi, Vietnam by Jérôme, Helsinki, Finland by PPusa, Helsinki, Finland by Kaa, Hobart, Australia by Greg, Hyde, UK by Gerald, Hyde, UK by Old Hyde, Istanbul, Turkey by mustafa34, Jefferson City (MO), USA by Chinamom2005, Jerusalem, Israel by Esther, Karwar, India by Yogesh, Katonah (NY), USA by Inkster1, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia by Edwin, Kyoto, Japan by Tadamine, Las Vegas (NV), USA by Mo, Lisbon, Portugal by Sailor Girl, London, UK by Ham, London, UK by Mo, Mainz, Germany by JB, Manila, Philippines by Anthony, Menton, France by Jilly, Mexico City, Mexico by Poly, Minneapolis (MN), USA by Mitch, Minneapolis (MN), USA by Greg, Misawa, Japan by misawa mama, Monte Carlo, Monaco by Jilly, Monterrey, Mexico by rafa, Muizenberg, South Africa by Pentaxjunkie, Mumbai, India by MumbaiiteAnu, Nashville (TN), USA by Chris, Nelson, New Zealand by Meg and Ben, New Delhi, India by Delhi Photo Diary, New Orleans (LA), USA by steve buser, New York City (NY), USA by Ming the Merciless, New York City (NY), USA by • Eliane •, New York City (NY), USA by Kitty, Newport News (VA), USA by ptowngirl, Norwich, UK by Goddess888, Palos Verdes (CA), USA by tash, Paris, France by Eric, Paris, France by Elsa, Pasadena (CA), USA by Can8ianben, Pensacola (FL), USA by P J, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia by Murphy_jay, Petoskey (MI), USA by Christie, Phoenix (AZ), USA by Sharon, Port Angeles (WA), USA by Jelvistar, Portland (ME), USA by Corey, Portsmouth (VA), USA by ptowngirl, Prague, Czech Republic by Honza03, Ramsey, Isle of Man by babooshka, Riga, Latvia by Riga Photos, Rouen, France by Bbsato, Saarbrücken, Germany by LadyDemeter, Saigon, Vietnam by Simon, Saint Louis (MO), USA by Strangetastes, Saint Paul (MN), USA by Kate, Salem (OR), USA by jill, San Francisco (CA), USA by Burd Zel Krai, San Francisco (CA), USA by PFranson, Schenectady (NY), USA by Buck, Seattle (WA), USA by Chuck, Seattle (WA), USA by Kim, Selma (AL), USA by RamblingRound, Seoul, South Korea by Phil, Sesimbra, Portugal by Aldeia, Setúbal, Portugal by Maria Elisa, Sharon (CT), USA by Jenny, Singapore, Singapore by Zannnie, Singapore, Singapore by Keropok, Sofia, Bulgaria by Antonia, Springfield (IL), USA by Aubrey, Stanwood (WA), USA by MaryBeth, Stayton (OR), USA by Celine, Stockholm, Sweden by Stromsjo, Subang Jaya, Malaysia by JC, Sunshine Coast, Australia by bitingmidge, Sydney, Australia by Ann, Sydney, Australia by Sally, Sydney, Australia by Julie, Tel-Aviv, Israel by Olga, Telluride (CO), USA by mtsrool, Terrell (TX), USA by Bstexas, Tokyo, Japan by Tadamine, Torun, Poland by Glenn, Turin, Italy by Livio, Vienna, Austria by G_mirage2, Villigen, Switzerland by z, Virginia Beach (VA), USA by ptowngirl, Wailea (HI), USA by Kuanyin, Washington (DC), USA by D.C. Confidential, Wellington, New Zealand by Jeremyb, West Paris (ME), USA by crittoria, West Sacramento (CA), USA by Barbara, Weston (FL), USA by WestonDailyPhoto, Willits (CA), USA by Elaine, Yardley (PA), USA by Mrlynn,

Chapel in the Woods

2008-08-31T07:19:00.002+02:00

No, you are not out of focus. The attempt was to take a photo of the inside of the chapel through the keyhole as it was locked and we could not go in. Not quite a success as you can tell.
This little chapel in the woods is an operating 'church' and the village priest goes to perform mass there every Sunday morning. Weddings are often held here - I'm sure you can see why - and the ribbons on the door were left by one such wedding party.
It is not easy to see especially when you don't know what you are looking for, but the reason I took this photo was to get the 'mud scrapers' at the bottom of the steps in front of the columns. What they are are metal blades set up straight by two pieces of metals dug in the ground. If the ground is muddy, people can scrape the mud off their shoes or booths before going into the church. In the old days, all households had those but I guess 'welcome mats' took their place and of course proper sidewalks removed the need for such equipment. I just enjoyed being reminded.

An Old Fashioned Farm

2008-08-30T00:16:00.000+02:00

Another day trip to an operating horse farm to the north of Lake Balaton. I remember riding on horse drawn working vehicles like the one on the photo, but that was a long time ago. Have you been on a hay ride?

Another Horse Farm

2008-08-29T00:11:00.001+02:00

This one is a little more famous having been once the place where the famous 'Devil Rider' kept his horses. The place is called __________, close to Bajna, the village where the family's summer castle is located. The hunting lodge on the property was later refurbished and used by party bosses for hunting vacations. We caught only a glimpse of it behind a high wall in a distance across from its own man-made lake.

If It's Wednesday, It Must be Doors

2008-08-27T00:11:00.000+02:00

Back on the Bus

2008-08-26T00:05:00.000+02:00

Truly, it was just a drive by the Balaton as our destination was to a presentation. It was still nice to catch a glimpse of what is lovingly referred to as 'Hungarian sea', Lake Balaton.
...and speaking of catching glimpses....

Waiting for the Bus on Andrassy

2008-08-25T00:02:00.003+02:00

Looking up at the bus stop it was a breathtaking sight of the upper floors of this corner building next to the Opera. Don't you wish you lived there? I know, I do.
I can see myself sitting out there under the glance of these beauties with friends and wine.

Franz Liszt Music Academy in Budapest

2008-08-24T00:13:00.002+02:00

Such a great day to be strolling around this grand old dame of a city. Liszt Ter is full of shady trees and under their protective branches there are wall-to-wall eateries and cafe's. At the end of the short street is the Academy of Music. If you are very lucky and sit at a nearby cafe, you may hear glorious music from the open windows of the Academy where young artists are practicing.
Here is a photo with a little more of the building in it, however, the street is too narrow to have backed up far enough to capture the entire handsome structure.
A close up of the facade with the cherub relief.

"Are You Feeling Lucky Today?"

2008-08-23T00:30:00.000+02:00

Saturday is the day the Lotto numbers are drawn in Hungary with lots of people waiting to become millionaires. Do you play the lottery? Whether or not you do - you may still get lucky. Look for a four leave clover among this patch from the garden. Have a sweet week-end.

Wine Tasting at the Corinthia Grand Royal

2008-08-17T00:23:00.000+02:00

Yes, it WAS every bit as good as it looks.

Walkabout

2008-08-16T00:11:00.001+02:00

He may not be the 'Lion in Winter' but does he not look impressive on along a sidewalk in the downtown area of Budapest. Enjoy your week-ends and stay cool.

Fond Farewell to Esztergom

2008-08-15T00:20:00.002+02:00

Esztergom Summer Festival

2008-08-14T00:35:00.000+02:00

The Danube Promenade is a scene of preparation for the festival starting this evening. Stalls along the river are standing and tents will soon be fitted on the frames.
Food signs are being prepared.
The stage is set in the shadow of the Basilica and the ruins.
A small corner in honor of Elizabeth the former Queen of Hungary whom people still affectionately refer to as Sissy.
Imagine this road later in the evening as people will crowd it, lights will make it festive and music from the stage envelops the area.

If It's Wednesday, It Must be Doors

2008-08-13T00:35:00.000+02:00

Thirteenth district has some 'newer' buildings from prior to WWII - this is such an example. These structures are modern by comparison to some of the grand buildings of Andrassy, but take a look at the stone carvings on both sides of the door.

Home of the Catholic Church in Hungary

2008-08-12T00:30:00.001+02:00

This magnificent structure is built on a hill making it highly visible in an otherwise fairly flat city. Get a virtual tour and history by clicking here.

The Round Church

2008-08-11T00:27:00.001+02:00

Sunday Walk

2008-08-10T00:22:00.002+02:00

The sun dipped behind some clouds but this lovely house is just as beautiful. Wondered upon it while walking neighborhoods in Esztergom and had to stop to photograph and share it with you.