budapest is a city that genuinely has my whole heart
did i know where Budapest was 2 years ago? well, i didn't.
that was until i met my Hungarian boyfriend in Singapore when he was in SG on exchange.
Hungary seemed like a country so foreign to Singaporeans to the point a staff at the airport told my boyfriend he needed a visa (he doesn't) because she didn't realise Hungary was in the EU😮💨
i flew to Hungary in February, and now for the second time (I've been here since June)— having travelled to Helsinki, Tallinn, Vienna & Prague— Budapest holds a sort of unique energy to it. flawlessly stunning, and people that seemed to know how to slow down & enjoy walks by the Danube without phones in sight.
i would dare say that Budapest is what i'd call the city of love (as much as the locals claim otherwise) — beauty in every aspect of the main areas, couples that hold hands no matter their age, friends that sit and drink by the bridge talking about life rather than scrolling on their phones. people greet each other at lifts, at shops, and even say bye to random strangers— gratitude equally extended to all.
locals usually mind their own business, but they're helpful if they see you in need of help. safety wise, i'd dare say a 8/10 — there are some homeless people, but they typically mind their own business as long as you mind your own. asian hate here is nonexistent, and there's a large chinese & vietnamese community here😆
an evening walk by the Danube is never boring to me, and one of the most romantic activities there can be.
Living in Budapest has truly been an eye-opening experience for me. The city isn’t just beautiful—it’s alive with a mellow yet captivating energy that invites you to slow down and appreciate the small moments. One of my favorite pastimes quickly became evening walks along the Danube River. The sight of historic bridges softly lit against the night sky, the gentle flow of the river, and the quiet chatter of people enjoying the outdoors create an atmosphere that feels very intimate and calming. What makes Budapest stand out is the genuine warmth of its locals. Despite their reputation for minding their own business, I’ve noticed a readiness to help if someone looks lost or in need. This balance of polite distance and underlying kindness really adds to the city’s charm. I’ve seen elderly couples hold hands during strolls, and friends peacefully chatting by the riverside, fully present without the distraction of smartphones—something that’s refreshing in our fast-paced digital world. Safety in Budapest feels quite reassuring. I would rate it around 8 out of 10. Of course, like many European cities, there are some homeless people, but I’ve found they generally respect your space as long as you respect theirs. Also, the city embraces diversity with a noticeable Chinese and Vietnamese community and no signs of Asian hate, which made me feel very welcomed as an international visitor. Budapest’s architecture is a living storybook with its mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau buildings. Each neighborhood offers a different vibe—whether it’s the bustling markets, cozy cafés, or grand historic sites like Buda Castle and Parliament. Every corner encourages exploration and discovery. If you’re considering a trip or even a longer stay, I highly recommend immersing yourself in the local rhythm of life. Skip the usual tourist rush whenever you can, and instead, spend time sipping coffee in a quiet café, having deep conversations with locals, or simply people-watching by the river. Budapest has a unique way of making you feel connected—not just to the city’s history and beauty but to the genuine human experiences it quietly preserves.
follow dane seaport me please 🥰✨