Szolnok
Last Week on the Road
My Epic Journey So Far
Today’s Weather Report
Dear Diary,
Today, the weather in Szolnok feels like a mildly heated sauna, at a comfortable 21°C. Scattered clouds are playing hide and seek with the sun, giving me just the right amount of shade for my porcelain complexion. The humidity is at a bearable 49%, enough to keep my beard fluffy, yet manageable. However, the wind speed is a whopping 6.17 m/s! I had to anchor myself to a daisy to keep from becoming a gnome kite.
As they say, “when life gives you wind, hang on to your hat…or daisy!”
Total: 97 words.
Gnome-anading through Hungary!
Now, this isn’t just any journey. No, no. As I waddled my way from Cegléd to Szolnok, one thing caught my eye, something that made my gnome heart flutter with excitement – the stunning floral landscapes that lined the countryside. Imagine fields of poppies, dancing in the wind, their red petals glistening under the Hungarian sun. It was a sight to behold, my friends. A sight that made the journey utterly worthwhile.
For those who are interested, the Hungarian phrase for ‘beautiful flowers’ is ‘gyönyörű virágok’. Feel free to use it when you visit this enchanting country!
Let me share a local verse that resonated with me during this journey: “Az élet rövid, a művészet örök.” It translates to “Life is short, art is eternal.” I think it perfectly encapsulates the transient beauty of the landscape I encountered.
So far, my gnome feet have carried me a whopping 5259.9 kilometers across multiple cities. I have been on the road for 176 days, having previously visited the likes of Cegléd, Szolnok, and Mezőtúr. Each city has a unique story, a unique rhythm, a unique heartbeat. And I, as a humble gnome, have had the privilege of being part of these stories, rhythms, and heartbeats.
I did not cross any borders on this journey, but rest assured, if I do, I’ll be sure to note the language changes for you!
Until next time, viszlát (goodbye) and keep your gnome hats pointed towards the stars!
Wandering Szolnok’s Streets
Gnome’s Tiny Masterpiece Mishap
Painted en plein air while taking in the sights of Szolnok.
— Oliver the Gnome, aspiring artist
Szolnok: Harmony in Bridges!
First off, Szolnok is renowned for its Tisza Bridge, a magnificent structure straddling the mighty River Tisza. As they say in Hungary, “A híd a város szíve” (The bridge is the heart of the city). This bridge isn’t just a means to an end, my friends! It’s a symbol of unity and resilience.
Secondly, let’s not forget the city’s rich cultural heritage. Szolnok is the birthplace of many celebrated Hungarian artists like the composer Zoltán Kodály. If you’ve never heard his music, I suggest you give it a whirl. As Kodály himself put it, “Az zene mindenkié” (Music is for everyone).
So there you have it, folks. Szolnok: A city of bridges and beautiful music, a testament to Hungary’s vibrant culture and history. Next stop on the journey is a mystery, so stay tuned!
Szia, Szolnok: Sipping Life’s Bull’s Blood!
Szolnok, a city with a rich history and culture, is a place where daily life flows as calmly as the Tisza river. The city center is always bustling with people, hurrying to the local markets for fresh produce and discussing the latest news. “Szia, hogy vagy?” (“Hi, how are you?”) and “Köszönöm, jól!” (“Thanks, I’m good!”) can be heard echoing through the streets, a testament to the friendly community spirit. The city is dotted with statues commemorating historical figures and events, like the notable Mayfly Monument, a symbol of Szolnok’s resilience. As the sun sets, the city’s pubs and restaurants come alive, with locals enjoying a glass of “Egri Bikavér” (“Bull’s Blood of Eger”), a famous Hungarian wine. In Szolnok, every day is a celebration of its vibrant culture and history, a testament to its motto: “Szolnok, az élet városa,” (“Szolnok, the city of life”).
Gnome Gandering in Szolnok
See you tomorrow!
Around the World on Foot, in Many, Many Days 