Hunyadi Ter

A few days ago I posted photos of the district fair held on Hunyadi Ter. It is a lovely old square in the 6th district just a couple of blocks away from me. There is an outdoor farmers market on one side and inside there are a variety of merchants from butchers to pickle sellers, green grocers, bakery and fish stand. The district government had quietly pushed through a plan where the beautiful building was to be sold and made into a building of fancy shops and restaurants making some room for these existing merchants in the basement. The park was also included in the sale for the purpose of an underground garage to facilitate the shops next door.

The outrage of another back-pocket deal without notice to the residents had some resonance particularly with the foreigners living here. A small victory won - for now. Just thought I'd share it with you.

It must have set the mood...

Apparently, the run in with the BKV driver (oh, he has colleagues with similar attitudes) must have set the mood for me. I've just come across a video of the demonstrations. While I did stay away from politics on the anniversary - I would like to include this now. The saying goes 'You've come a long way baby..." Unfortunately, that is NOT the case in Hungary.

BKV - Budapest Public Transport System

It was the second time that a tram replacement bus attempted to run me down. I say attempted because I'm 5'10" so there is no way the driver did not see me. They are whipping these monstrosities through limited spaces at such speed that you can't convince me he is in control. This 'gentleman' did a U-turn and the momentum did not allow him to stop as I stepped onto the zebra and turned to see where the sound was coming from. The bus literally hit my arm and pulled me with him a step. Very frightening. I took this photo of him when he finally stopped at the curb where he was in such a hurry to. Pretends not to notice anything. I guess everybody has to feel important somewhere, but the people who do behind the wheel (especially of such large vehicles) simply scare me.

Day Trip to Szentendre

Szentendre is a short drive or train ride away from Budapest. Once upon a time, it was the out of city hide-away for the wealthy and famous Hungarians. As Budapest grows, it is becoming populated by people who wish to move closer to Budapest but can't afford the city and lately it is becoming an extension of Budapest for the wealthier families who commute to work but would like small town living. You can see why - quaint little cobblestone streets for the most part, with small shops and everybody knows their neighbors.Naturally, tourism had been a long time "supporter" of the city's economy and it seems to be on the increase. Door-to-door shops on the main streets and the tourists whom they wait to serve.

Would you think of going up on a narrow passage such as this? Perhaps not, unless you know what you are looking for. I've discovered this treasure back in the 80's when I was coming to visit Hungary. Come, let's look.
About midway up, there is this couryard that its enterprizing owners had turned into a goldmine. How? By simply selling deep fied dough. Don't turn your nose until you've tried it. Simple, tasty, fresh and inexpensive. You may have it served with salt and garlic, sour cream, grated cheese or with sugar and cinnamon instead. Greasy? You bet, but delicious.
Here is an unparticular store front but if you wonder in, there is an ancient coffee house (no wonder it is called Nosztalgia) but the courtyard that also accesses the street above......

...you must agree, this is a lovely place to spend the time.