There’s an extraordinary ambiance in this fascinating city: Coming from the West, one is enchanted by Budapest’s exotic touch and Eastern European easiness, comparable to the Mediterranean spirit of outgoing looseness. At the same time, Budapest stands out from other Eastern European cities by its incredibly rich, outstandingly various and enormously noble architecture in neo-classical and secession style, representing the elegance of times long gone. Standing at the northeastern border of Europe, Budapest unites the clashes of the Nordic-practical and the Southern-relaxed manners. This supposably explains the ambivalent nature of Budapest’s inhabitants who are ironic and cool but also melancholic and romantic altogether. The Hungarian language, a one of a kind jaw crusher and unique in Central Europe, has finno-ugrian roots and as such contributes to Budapest’s originality. The Danube flows through the center of the Hungarian capital, dividing it into two parts, connected by many beautiful bridges: Buda with its green hills and paradisiac atmosphere and Pest with its lively business temper, building density, churches, government buildings, theaters and bars. The topography is varied and there’s an infinite well of culture and history to discover on every corner of the town. The 2,5 km long Margaret Island with its recreational and sports areas, gardens and open air baths stands amidst the Danube between Buda and Pest as the green, breathing heart of the city. I fell in love with Budapest, this indescribable, mostly underestimated pearl of Europe where East and West come together to celebrate life’s greatness.