Day 23: The Last Full Day

I can't even believe that today is my last full day in Europe. I spent it wandering around and exploring Budapest. But, at a much more relaxed pace than other cities. I started off down Andrassy Ave towards Hero Square. I picked up a coffee and crousiant on my way,  and headed out. Andrassy Ave is full of shops, museums, old buildings, etc. It's a very unique street. At the end, is Hero's Square. It wasn't the most impressive, but there was a castle. One of the most famous thermal baths is also there in the park. I would go there, but had my spa experience in Vienna already. Here, I basically wandered around for a few hours to see what I could see. Then, I took transit back into town.

I walked along the Danube river to see the Shoes on the Danube. This is a memorial to the murder of those shot by the Hungarian nazis. Just like Dachau near Munich and the Memorial for Murdered Jews in Berlin, it's awful to see.

Then, parliament was just up the river. It's an absolutely beautiful building. Not much to see, but amazing architecture. From there, I took transit further south towards the market and shopping streets.

Now, I was on the hunt for Birkenstocks! After much searching for the store, I finally found it. And now, I have myself a new pair of birks! I continued in my shopping mood, and also happened to buy some other souvenirs. After a few hours if meanding, seeing Vasa Utca, and the Great Market Hall, I headed back towards my hostel.

However, on the way back I heard some music. I expected to turn the corner and see a small group of women singing and fiddlers. But what I saw was a stage with live music and dancing! So I joined the crown watching. It turns out, there is a music/dance festival in Budapest for the summer, with events throughout the city. This happened to be one of them. The group I saw was from Athens, Greece and did an amazing traditional dance! From there I headed back to my hostel.

Exhausted, I'm taking a break now to update this. Then, I plan to go find some traditional Hungarian food and wine. Walk the town, and maybe find somewhere to go out tonight. Then tomorrow, I'm on my way back to the states!