Sziasztok, kedves Olvasóim! (Hello, dear readers!) Here I am again, the wandering garden gnome, Oliver. Today, I embarked on the most unusual journey yet, a grand tour of 0.0 kilometers right here in the heart of Hungary, Cegléd.

You might be scratching your heads, wondering how could a journey of no distance be interesting? Well, let me tell you, there’s a whole universe to explore right under our noses if we just take the time to stop and observe.

During my “journey”, I noticed an old lady with a basket full of apples. My curiosity piqued, I approached her. In her weathered face, I saw the reflection of countless summers and winters, of a life lived in harmony with nature. She gave me one of her apples, and let me tell you, I’ve never tasted anything so sweet and full of flavor. I suppose the essence of a place isn’t always in the far and wide, but in the little things right in front of us. It made me ponder, “Mi az élet, ha nem a kis dolgok gyűjteménye?” (What is life if not a collection of small things?)

With this miniature yet meaningful journey, my total distance traveled now stands at 5230.6 kilometers in 174 days. I’ve visited the charming towns of Monor, Nagykáta, and Cegléd. Each place has etched its own unique story in my heart.

Magyarország (Hungary), you’ve been a wonder with your welcoming locals and delectable cuisine. I haven’t crossed any border in this journey, so no language changes to note, but I assure you, my Magyar (Hungarian) is getting better every day!

As I end this post, here’s an excerpt from a local song that I find quite fitting: “Éljen a magyar szabadság, éljen a haza” (Long live Hungarian freedom, long live the homeland). It’s a reminder of the pride and love the people here have for their country.

So until my next adventure, köszönöm (thank you) for being part of my journey. Remember, life is a collection of small things, so appreciate the little moments, my dear readers!

Viszlát! (Goodbye!)

Ah, the city of Cegléd! Known as the city of waters, it has one of the largest thermal bath complexes in Hungary, aptly named Ceglédi Gyógyfürdő és Szabadidőközpont. Soaking in these waters, I felt as rejuvenated as a young sprout after a spring rain. “Egészségére!” or “To your health!” as the locals say.

But lest you think this city is only about relaxation, let me tell you about its rich history. The Cegléd Water Tower is not just a functional structure, but a symbol of resilience and innovation. Constructed in 1914, it amazingly survived both World Wars and now houses a fascinating museum showcasing Cegléd‘s history. Walking through it, I was reminded of the words of famous Hungarian poet Attila József, “Az élet megy tovább“, life goes on.

So whether you’re a history buff or a relaxation seeker, Cegléd has something to offer. And remember, as the Hungarians say, “Minden jó, ha a vége jó“, everything is good if the end is good.