Budapest, Hungary’s capital is a beautiful city that is split by the River Danube, and the 19th century Chain Bridge connects its hilly Buda district with its flat Pest.
This vibrant metropolis offers so much from its gorgeous architecture, spectacular spa’s, excellent cuisine, marvellous museums, zesty nightlife right through to its charming parks, serene art galleries and home to the award-winning Sziget Festival to name but a few attractions.
The luxury landscape within Budapest is very impressive with a number of five-star hotels, a variety of high-end luxury designer shops and currently boasting five Michelin starred fine dining restaurants to choose from too. I am curious and excited in equal measure to learn more about the luxury on offer in Budapest and experience the amazement and wonder of Sziget Festival during my visit.
I arrive at The Ritz-Carlton which is an eye-catching luxury outpost set within a 20th-century protected historic building, located on the famous Elizabeth Square with outstanding views over St Stephens Basilica. Constructed in 1914 as the headquarters for an Italian insurance company, the building has seen many incarnations. However, this handsome luxury hotel property now consists of 170 delightful appointed rooms and 30 suites.
My check-in was smooth and gracious and I was looking forward to spending the next few days at The Ritz-Carlton. My room was a fabulous Deluxe Room located on the 6th floor and was beautifully decorated and furnished in a fresh and contemporary fashion. A generous sized room, quiet, calm and relaxing with tall windows that blessed the accommodation with good natural daylight.
The room consisted of a heavenly king size bed, comfortable seating with an inviting sofa, a working desk area, 48-inch flat screen HD TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, fully stocked mini-bar and a stylish Nespresso coffee machine. The marble bathroom quarters were equally just as grand with a separate bathtub and rain shower. A plush terry bathrobe, soft slippers and luxurious Asprey bath products completed the room.
I was also impressed by the variety of dining options at the hotel such as the Kupola Lounge, Kupola Bar, DEAK St.KITCHEN and The Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge level. My personal favourites were the Club Lounge and DEAK St.KITCHEN which really epitomised luxury and excellent personal service. The Club Lounge is situated on the 8th floor and its surroundings are intimate whilst offering a personable and exclusive concierge service for those guests seeking an extra premium service. The Club Lounge décor is in keeping with the rich style and classy look and feel of the hotel and I was delighted to sample an excellent complimentary breakfast, a light lunch, a variety of hors d’oeuvres and tasty desserts during my stay.
All Club Lounge guests receive this level of service including a good selection of free soft drinks, juices, wine, beer and spirits too. There is also a personal executive boardroom, free wi-fi and a complimentary garment pressing service of two items per day for Club Lounge guests should they require these services.