Being that we've been to Budapest before, we decided to take it easy this trip and just meander about with no particular plan or agenda and just see where each day takes us.  It was nice to leave our books and maps behind and just wander about.  Despite the weather being insanely cold, the sun was out, the skies were blue and the streets were in full-holiday gear. 

We like Budapest.  It's not the cleanest, not the most stunning...but there is a flavor within Budapest that cannot be duplicated.  It's a huge city but doesn't feel insurmountable.  You feel safe. The architecture varies greatly from building to building...some of it in stunning Art Nouveau, some of it modern day with sleek lines and mirrored glass, others are dilapitated, sterile buildings with a communist vibe.  This is what makes Budapest so interesting, in my opinion.  Its just one big mix of different cultures, textures, and beauty - and yet somehow it all works together. 

This trip we stayed at the Hotel Corinthia and oooh, did we get spoiled.  Lovely hotel and a perfect place to celebrate Christmas evening.  We had a magnificent meal, some divine local wines and all the while, entertained by live music...a piano man sitting just outside our restaurant door.  After our meal, we ventured over to see the piano man.  He quickly swept Jameson up, plopped him on his lap and the two of them played a lovely duet.  It was sweet and really made our Christmas day!  All the folks at the hotel were this warm and welcoming.......so should you find yourself in Budapest, check out Hotel Corinthia.  It's just a stone's throw from all the sights, but away enough from the mass crowds of tourism.