Budapest, Hungary.

The first time I was in Budapest was in March of 2008 and even though it was cold and rainy for the 4 days I was there, I enjoyed the city tremendously. Going back now 3 and a half years later, that enjoyment is just reaffirmed. Hungary has a long and beautiful history, one that in the last century has included occupation, political strife and war. Budapest was ravaged during WWII but much of it has been rebuilt beautifully. The landmarks are amazing, Buda Castle, The Hungarian Parliament, Andrássy Avenue, Gresham Palace... Stunning. Congruently, it is also a strikingly cosmopolitan city. Wine bars, outdoor cafes and fashionable people abound. High highs and history.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Barcelona, Spain.

I just find this place spectacular. It is like a living, breathing epicenter of artistic inspiration. Antoni Gaudi and Joan Miro, what more do you need? I have a guide book that describes Barcelona in this way:

'What Barcelona's got, she flaunts. And you name it, she's got it. Spain's second city is cradled between the last gasp of the Pyrenees and the shores of the Mediterranean, and is blessed with art, sun, sea, sand and sexy people in every direction.' 

I couldn't say it any more succinctly. So on this trip I started at the Park Güell which was designed of course by Guadi. The views from there are quite spectacular as it is perched high above the city. Then I headed over to another high point in the city, Montjuïc. I took the cable car up to the top and walked my way down, stopping at the Mies van de Rohe designed Pavello.  

Rome, Italy.

So really, Rome has my heart like no other city. It just does. I mean, I love it down to the way that people grocery shop. The way every time they try and build a subway station they find a site that needs to be archeologically excavated. The way that Romans love their dogs. The way that even the most small and basic of Piazzas (Piazzi?) are beautiful. The way that wine and gelato can both be consumed before lunch. I could go on. And on. And on.