Budapest is a true tale of two cities. The two cities were Buda, a mountainous region, and Pest, a largely flat plains area divided by the Danube River. When the chain bridge was built in 1849, it began the process of bringing the two together and in 1873; both cities were permanently merged into Budapest. Under Soviet Military occupation until 1989, it is hard to believe the city became democratic only 26 years ago. When you walk around the city you’ll find history everywhere. Its people are proud of its heritage and in every park and almost every square you’ll find statues of 
historic people. Buda had survived WWII somewhat better than Pest as its buildings were mostly destroyed by the bombings but today you’ll find its architecture well preserved and intact. Buildings in Budapest are beautiful. Everywhere you look you’ll find it clean and well-tailored. The city’s parks are large, manicured and full of beautiful flowers. In the evenings you’ll find it easy to find live entertainment in its bars and restaurants. People enjoy themselves here. Suzy and I spent quite a bit of time here and found that the more you get involved the more you stay involved. The city is a never ending source of history and accomplishment.