Szia kedves olvasók! (Hello dear readers!)

Ah, you should have seen the wonder that was my 20.3km journey from Szentendre to Budapest, the dazzling capital of Hungary! The scenic trip was not just a feast for the eyes, but also an intellectual banquet.

As I trudged along, I couldn’t help but be captivated by the breathtaking panorama of the Danube bend. The river, like a shimmering blue ribbon, wound lazily through the verdant countryside, whispering tales of ancient times. But what stood out the most was the harmonious coexistence of nature and civilization. As I approached Budapest, the bucolic scenery gradually unfurled into a bustling metropolis, yet the river remained, steadfast and serene. It was a poignant reminder that while civilizations may rise and fall, nature endures.

Now, let’s not forget about our local wisdom! “Aki sokat jár, sokat lát.” That’s a Hungarian proverb which means, “He who travels a lot, learns a lot.” Quite fitting for a gnome like me, don’t you think?

With every step, I am reminded of the immense distance I’ve traveled. Starting from the enchanting town of Komárom, journeying through the serene Tata, the cultural gem of Szentendre, and now reaching the vibrant heart of Budapest, I’ve covered a total of 5145.5 kilometers. Not bad for a gnome with short legs, eh?

And let’s not forget Monor, where I rested my weary gnome feet before embarking on this latest venture. Each city, a different story; each day, a new adventure. And speaking of days, it’s been 170 days on the road for this globe-trotting gnome!

For those who’ve been following my journey, köszönöm (thank you)! Continue to join me as I explore the wonders of this world, one gnome-sized step at a time.

Until next time, maradj pozitív (stay positive)!

Oh, the charm of Budapest! This city, split by the mighty Danube, is a delightful mix of old and new. An architectural gem, it houses the Parliament Building, one of Europe’s oldest legislative buildings, a sight that would make any gnome’s heart flutter with awe. As they say, “A város szíve a parlament” (The heart of the city is the Parliament).

One of my favorite activities was soaking in the city’s world-renowned thermal baths. The Széchenyi Thermal Bath, with its ornate yellow buildings, offered a relaxing dip, reminding me of the famous Hungarian composer Béla Bartók‘s music: soothing, harmonious, and utterly captivating.

Budapest is also home to the Chain Bridge, a marvel of 19th-century engineering. As the poet Attila József once mused, “A híd az ember álma, összekötő szalag” (The bridge is a human dream, a connecting ribbon). Indeed, this city is a tapestry of dreams, woven by time, culture, and the indomitable Hungarian spirit.