MOOD BOARD...BUDAPEST

The worst and most dreaded thing after a long vacation, is returning to work. What muck. But thank heavens I enjoy my work. The trip first and fore most, was such a delight to be able to travel again, thought the flight was long...and the jet lag on return sucked. This was also the first time to fly alone for me. I usually have a travel companion, but it was fine. While in the terminal ...waiting, I had two lovely gin and tonics... and two enormous pills to steady me down and the two pep-pills I took that morning-the pep up pills, so I was already flying!!! I can see why Warbucks loves the city. Having been to a few, I felt Budapest was Europe's most underrated big city. I found it to be enchanting and very cultural and "with it". Even though they have a major asshole president and government, both not good with gay rights. Yet have a huge gay population. But the people themselves had no issue with the LBGT wherever we went. The Hungarian city is a unique place. From soaking in 100-degree thermal springs, excellent museums, opulent Baroque architecture, and all the other cultural offerings. Budapest was damn cool. And you know it when you first arrive, but then spend 24 hours, and you'll soon realize what a hip and trendy city it is. And that there are speedo clad men in the baths!!!! And who doesn't love a good massage from a huge Hungarian man?

Budapest is often called, I was told, as the Paris of the East. Once you start taking it in, you'll see its flamboyant architecture, the serene Danube River, and all the historic places, but it also offers cool storefronts, funky boutiques, one of the most innovative restaurants scenes, and very exciting concepts for bars and speakeasies. Its classical facade belies an energy, beauty and grit that I didn't feel in the other European cities I visited so far. Budapest often is overshadowed by its gothic exterior. anything but. And I admit to being in LOVE with their cable car system and heavy morning fogs.

Happy Monday!!!!