|
|
 |
|
|
Budapest will amaze those who visit it for the first time, just as it would surprise the ones who return to it after a long absence. It is the best place to organize an event these days, as it brings a variety of options within a [still] reasonable budget. The people are friendly and willing to do business while the element of negotiation is done within very practical frameworks. The venue options are splendid—quality wise—and the service is a great add-on to all variations. Best venue choice for a small meeting (board meeting or a group of up to 25-30 people) is the St. George Residence Hotel (www.stgeorgehotel.hu), an all suite boutique hotel on the Buda side, within the Castle area. With an impeccable renovation completed in 2007, the hotel features a 300-year old landmarked building with gothic arches (kept intact in one of the restaurant’s rooms), small yet gorgeously designed courtyard [fantastic space to house an afternoon reception], neoclassic and empire style furnishings, all reflecting the essence of bon goût and elegance. But the addition of modern features (wired internet, central air, modern bathrooms with heated floors and towel racks, deep and comfortable tubs, complete kitchens with ranges, fridges and microwaves) make this hotel a multi-functional and exquisite solution for both, business traveler and family vacationer. The restaurant’s food is wonderful – try the trout, a house specialty here—as well as the divine trio pastry (sour cherry, poppy seeds and nuts), the goulash or the hungarian pancakes—ahhhh, to live for! If planning a reception, opt for the cellar – a superb ambience counterpointed by the smart usage of candles, dimmed lighting and piped in music. Another reception option combined with a delicious dinner should be considered at the Kogart (www.kogart.hu/kogart/en/kogart_main.jsp), aptly named "the house of art and gastronomy." This is, hands down, an exquisite way to feed the mind and the body as it features two floors of art galleries while on the first, a famous restaurant with superb food and exquisite service. Opt there for any of the Hungarian specialties masterly paired with the best wines (including that incredible Tokaji). For a medium-sized meeting, check the Andrassy Hotel (right across the Kogart, on the famous Andrassy Boulevard) while for larger meetings, the Corinthia Grand, Kempinski or Boscolo New York (all brilliant options). If you can splurge, of course, the Gresham Palace remains THE place… Handsomely situated at the foot of the Chain Bridge, Gresham Palace is a gem which will surpass any expectations you may have of a Four Seasons… Airport transfers are conveniently done through Zona Taxi. Public transportation is efficient and easy to figure out but walking around town is the best choice in this extraordinary city. Most landmarks are within walking distance and correctly marked—you cannot get lost! Not to miss here: Andrassy Boulevard—the Hungarian equivalent of Champs Elysée, the Opera House (more beautiful than the one in Vienna), a one and a half hour boat ride on the Danube that tells the story of Budapest in thirty languages, the riverwalk on the Pest side, Dobosh torte and Esterhazy cake, poppy seed pastries, Tokaji, tzigan music and a dip in one of the many thermal baths...
|
|
|
|
|
| Copyright ©2000-8 World Events Forum, Inc. | |
