BUDAPAD NEAR THE OPERA

We chose to live in Budapest because it reminds us of what we think Berlin must have been fifteen years ago. The number of funky bars, clubs and art houses in the nearby Jewish Quarter makes for a vibrant nightlife; while the Hungarian's love of the arts ensures a hopping cultural scene.

Vienna and Budapest used to be twin capitals of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and in many ways they are like two sisters. Vienna was the straight-laced one who married a banker; and Budapest was the wayward sister who lived her life a little too heartily. She may show a more lines on her face, but she is a heck of a lot more fun.

We chose this particular flat for two reasons: because of its central location and its beautiful modern renovation. The recent renos ensure that everything is in top-notch working order and we can be assured that we and our guests need not worry.

The exposed brick archway was the clincher. Exposed brick is a highly sought-after design element in North America, but is very difficult to find in Budapest. Our theory is that because all the buildings are old (unlike in North America) such things are not valued. This theory was born out when Rita's Hungarian Aunt first saw the apartment: she said 'its very beautiful ... but why didn't they finish this part of the wall?'

This exclusive, bright and well-appointed apartment is housed in a building built between the late 1880’s and the early 1900’s. It is the perfect blend between historical and modern. Vintage objects from Hungary’s recent past make up the décor at the Budapad.

As you come up the stairs you may hear strains of a piano sonata emanating from the flat adjacent to the stairwell. This is not a recording: it is our neighbour, world-class concert pianist Fellegi Ádám.

We have developed an apartment guide that provides detailed descriptions of how the appliances in the apartment operate. It also contains several pages of recommendations for some our favourite neighbourhood haunts.