Busy in Budapest
So, I got a job. This was exciting news in itself, and its known that one of the perks of a TV job is being put up in hotel somewhere. Anywhere. And it was the best surprise that I was going to be working in Budapest, and not just a location in the UK (although i’d never say no to filming in the beautiful British countryside).
Its all happened very quickly, as I had to be flown out for multiple fittings, hair and makeup tests, but with this has come a wealth of free time in a fabulous city, all to myself. Now, I have only ever travelled on my own domestically, this is my first experience of being in another country as a solo traveller. As a rather nervy person who masks very well, I was terrified of this idea. But not because of the flying or commuting or anything like that, it was the idea of being bold enough to do activities, eat and generally have fun alone.
I’m not sure wether it’s the built in feminine guilt or just a good old case of anxiety, but the thought of going out on my own, as a woman, enjoying myself, eating lots of rich food, drinking wine alone is scary. I don’t care what anyone says. Having the audacity to sit in a restaurant sans phone, book or any other “I’m clearly not sad, im actually busy” device was difficult. I started the trip doing all those things, whilst actively telling everyone who listened that I was here for work not pleasure, because god forbid I was sad enough to go away on my own. And even though it was true, I felt quite sad that I felt that I needed to justify myself.
I think other people who travel alone whether it’s for business or holiday have a sixth sense for others who are in the same boat. As I have met several people whilst i’ve been out and about, all solo travellers. The conversation usually starts with sussing out why the other is there, then asking what the job is, followed by a joke or two about eating alone, an awkward pause thinking the other is going to ask to join you, swiftly followed by relief when they don’t (unless they’re American, its very nice but i’m too English for that kind of prolonged interaction with a stranger).
I’ve seen some very beautiful sights, did some of the tourist stuff, ate a LOT of Hungarian food which is now sitting a little heavy. The food here is beautiful, but incredibly rich. Some of the best dishes i’ve had are as follows…
Steak tartare with duck liver and fries
Foie Gras with toasted brioche, pickled onions and mustard
Mangalica pork chop, buttered mashed potatoes, apricot and fig jam with a red wine jus
Confit duck leg with spring onion mash, spiced red cabbage and raisins
Traditional Hungarian beef goulash
These are the Hungarian dishes i’ve enjoyed, but there is a surprising amount of variety, something that i’ve missed out on until now. I ventured out to a restaurant specialising in Jewish/Middle Eastern food the other night, as I wanted a change and had yet to explore the Jewish quarter of the city. The concept was a restored ruin bar, which are all over the place in Budapest, it was trendy but honest, the vibe was really buzzy for a Tuesday evening, and the live jazz was a really great touch. The menu was a welcome change from all of the meat and potatoes I had been eating, and they had an extensive number of cocktails.
I don’t know where I might go tonight. I fancy something relaxed and cosy…
