M-whY

The overnight train ticket (plus reservation) to Romania cost a whopping 17,550Ft, nearly US$90. Expenses like this make sticking to a budget nearly impossible. After putting aside the bills I intended to keep for my currency collection, I had about 4000Ft remaining (US$1 = 200Ft). With that amount, I went to see what I could buy at Central Market Hall.

Set inside a century old building is the buzzing marketplace selling fresh produce, meats, and paprika, the number one spice used in Hungarian cooking. Locals went about their business buying salami and wines, and the second floor featured stall after stall of tablecloths and souvenirs. I felt my money would be better spent on food though - I'm keen on keeping my gear as light as possible - and made my way over to the buffet section of the room.

Too early in the day to try black sausages, I had something a little less intimidating. My plate wasn't as appetizing as it appeared, and, in fact, I found it rather flavorless. I downed it anyways. The bottomless pit that is my stomach easily holds anything I throw its way, and as my mantra goes, never waste food.

In several European cities/towns I've visited, I've seen booths being erected for the approaching holiday season. Today was the first day Budapest's was in full swing. People shopped for handicrafts and there was definately a festive atmosphere. The black sausages made another appearance, and this time, I had the guts to actually try them. They tasted much tamer than they looked, mostly because it was filled with rice. Again though, it wasn't something I'd want second servings of. My Hungarian gastronomic experience would've been a huge disappointment if it weren't for the mug of forralt bor (hot wine) ladled from steaming jars.

I ran into Michael and Chris (another guy from the hostel) also looking for lunch in Christmas market.

"Did you see those pancake rolls over there?" asked Chris.

"Yeah! I think I'm gonna go try one in a bit." I was prepared to eat away every last bit of forint I had left. No point in leaving hungry.

We headed over to the booth where pancake rolls were being slowly cooked over grill. The line for this treat was rather long, but there was no better place to stand than in front of the glowing embers anyways. I had mine sprinkled with vanilla sugar, Chris had his in cinnamon. Toasted on the outside and nice and soft on the inside, it made a great dessert.

None of the foodstuffs was cheap, and one more mug of forralt bor left me broke. Stuffed like a sausage, I hung out in the hostel's lounge for a bit, then hauled my ass to the station. The attendant on board arranged it so I had a compartment all to myself, allowing me to lock the door and relax my guard. A day of eating had me all tired out, and I quickly fell asleep. The most natural thing to do after a big Hungarian meal.

Thanks to everyone for their support and comments! Knowing people are reading keeps me motivated to continue the updates!