By Anna J. Kutor
While you are in the process of changing, working your way through the rough-and-tumble journey in Ex-dom, make sure to take a breather and discover the delights of Central Europe’s most exciting capital, Budapest. Hungary’s buzzing capital, panoramically divided by the Danube into Buda and Pest, boasts a kaleidoscope of soothing Turkish baths and thermal springs, historic architecture, state-of-the-art museums, a broad range of old-world coffeehouses. Budapest is a city where you can enjoy all Ex-stages. Compared to European standards, prices are still relatively cheap here, adding to the appeal.
In the sensitive state of EXile, when you’re looking for peace and harmony, opt for the Garden of Philosophy on the Gellert Hill, an inspiring and spiritual eight-statue-creation portraying Gandhi, Saint Francis, Abraham, Jesus, Buddha, Lao Tse, Echnaton, and Daruma Taishi. Brainchild of Hungarian artist, Nandor Wagner, the cultural-crossroad complex provides a serene spot for relaxation and an awe-inspiring panorama to the city. For an even better view, take a short hike to the hilltop fortress, the famous Citadel and its Liberty Statue.
Still on the Buda side of the city, head to the Castle Hill to EXplore the Labyrinth of Buda Castle (www.labirintus.com), a 1200-meter-long network of manmade passageways deep beneath the Castle. Created in the 16th century by the Turkish military, the mostly unmapped tunnel-complex stretches out across 60 kilometers, used as wartime hospitals and bomb shelters over the course of history. Today, the converted labyrinth section is sealed off for visitors, presenting an eerie maze of caves, statues, and an ever-circulating fountain of red wine. If you’re claustrophobic, stay above ground and explore the Royal Palace and the Fisherman’s Bastion.
EXorcise all kinds of negative feelings in Central Coffeehouse (www.centralkavehaz.hu), the coffee-and-culture institution in the heart of the city. The visually and intellectually stimulating atmosphere is coupled by seductive sweets and the power-boosting blends of coffee. Another splendid refuge is the Art Nouveau-style New York Coffee House
(http://www.boscolohotels.com/page.cfm?SectionId=7116), historic café that lures art-aficionados and caffeine-craving sightseers housed in the newly renovated turn-of-the-century Boscolo Hotel near Blaha Lujza Square.
