Darn...if only I knew, nah next time.
...you know I was probably in the neighbourhood (the Technical University).
Some things to consider:
-The Taxi is not as much a rip-off as you would think, BUT - the guys who park near airports and trainstations are private sharks who would ripp your pants off if they could, take this number:
+36-1-22-22-222
This is the number of one of the mainstream Taxi companies, since they do business big time, the tax inpectors keep them in check. You ought to be able to get to anywhere around 1500-2000 forints = 6-8 Euros
-Try the bath Szechenyi - it's near Heroe's Square (Hoesok Tere), it's not as much a gay place as others.
-The said square also has the country's biggest zoo, art museum, galerly, circus and funpark (themepark?) in the vicinity. The later may not be as much of a bang for you westerns, but if you want to get a feel of what a socialist themepark used to be look around. Some parts of it are actually considered reliques. It is also next to my flat, and the square where the tanks and the party used to parade (I did it too - though I was 4 by the time).
-We have malls, but you've got them everywhere - avoid them if you can, they are expensive by local standards.
-We have a variety of pubs and other clubs - you can probably find something of your taste
-Be on the lookout for the magazine: "Pesti Est", it's a free brochure and IIRC it has an English section too. It lists all the cultural/pop/art/ect. events that are taking place in the city.
-If for whatsoever reason you decide to buy legal software, check the shop "CD GALAXIS" - it's near the square "Blaha Lujza". They have the best prices within the city. (though you'll have to pay as much as 1000 forints at least(4 euros)).
-I don't know if it's still open, but at Buda you can check out the catacombs that run under the castle.
-If you're into checking out churces, get to square "Deak Ferenc" - you can see the Great St. Stephan Basilika nearby.
-"FREE AD" - the mall "Westen City Center" has a ballon which offers a great high altitude panorama.
-Things to eat / drink if Hungary:
Whines from Tokaj, another wine called Egri Bikavér ("ox blood") -(1997 or 2001 preferably). Don't buy the former under a 1200 forints, the later under 600. If you do so, you've been set up for smg. other than what you wanted. Other wines: wines from Balaton region, "Kékfrankos" ect. (The "really Hungarian drinks are wines)
Try foods "Gulyás Leves" (Gulas soup) - restourant Aranykeszeg offers it near Heroes Square, on Arena road. Also try "Rakott Káposzta", and "Paprikás Krumpli" - I'll leave those to your imagination.
-Check out the Vaci Street - but don't buy anything there, it's the ripoff of your life.
PS.: Most importantly: Hungarian Chicks are internationally considered HOT, and the guys (although for my hetero taste I'm not too much of an experts) are also said to be fine.
