Budapest & Prague via UA J, OK Y & LH F
May 21, 2015, 2:00 pm
#16
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2013
Location: MRY - CNX - TXL
Programs: UA 1K / *G / Marriott PE / Expedia Gold+ / Hertz PC
Posts: 7,058
May 21, 2015, 2:14 pm
#17
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2013
Location: MRY - CNX - TXL
Programs: UA 1K / *G / Marriott PE / Expedia Gold+ / Hertz PC
Posts: 7,058
Iberostar Grand Hotel Budapest
I had stayed at one of the Grand Collections in Riviera Maya (2x actually) and I knew they had resort properties all over so I was surprised when I came across it in Budapest.
The location looked good, I don't need Marriott/RC nights for status and I don't think I looked at any SPG things so I went through Expedia and then also had enough points there to redeem a coupon for an VIP Elite+ listed hotel which doubles the coupon so I essentially had to pay for 1 night.
I checked in and was given a top floor room with a view over Independence Square with floor to ceiling windows. Floor 4 has the same windows but 2 & 1 have small regular ones. I've had hit or miss things with Expedia Gold+ in the past and more on this. No free breakfast, not sure if this was considered an upgrade. Seems regardless the hotel has free wifi and spa access for all guests.
The decor is...interesting.
It has these very plush things and lots of texture and then the slams of red with all of the white (Swiss dot curtains) makes it kinda schizo in a way but it is growing on me...almost two pegs up from a cheesey Valentine's Day theme.
Breakfast is in Borkakas the attached breakfast/lunch/dinner/bar. It's 6100 ft for the buffet. Overall a pretty decent selection of stuff, nice presentation, great staff and can also order hot eggs.
I'm not a big breakfast eater and I'm also trying to cut back on some things so the first morning I was too lazy to go and find something or a supermarket the night before to pick up a few things so I went ahead and did it downstairs. While I was there checking my emails Expedia sends a thing as they always do about Elite+ check in. I responded saying it's not the first time I've got 0 benefits from this and honestly I may as well just book Marriott or SPG where I'm at least certain of a few things. About a year ago when this happened at The Dream in Miami I got an email a day or two after with a $150 voucher to use on another Elite+ visit.
Not thinking or expecting that later that day I get home from walking around and I get a call from the front desk (the whole staff is great, the girl who checked me in was wonderful, super helpful and was the one on the phone). She said she was sorry there was a mix up with information and they didn't know that I was an Gold+ member. Immediately I felt like a DYKWIA dbag. She said that it became available today but they would put me in a suite on the 2nd floor if I wanted and I could have til 6pm check out. Not wanting to pack and move and actually really liking this room I declined that but I asked if I could have breakfast. She had to call me back and check with manager because the restaurant is run on its own & two minutes later she called and confirmed breakfast was on the house.
I thanked her and she mentioned again how they always have good relationship with Expedia and Gold+ and I said it's not a problem at all I have stayed at Iberostar before and I know they have great service and people working there.
Not as grand as the mineral baths around Budapest but the big jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and small fitness center that are open most of the day are a great way to unwind in the evening or mid-sightseeing.
I had stayed at one of the Grand Collections in Riviera Maya (2x actually) and I knew they had resort properties all over so I was surprised when I came across it in Budapest.
The location looked good, I don't need Marriott/RC nights for status and I don't think I looked at any SPG things so I went through Expedia and then also had enough points there to redeem a coupon for an VIP Elite+ listed hotel which doubles the coupon so I essentially had to pay for 1 night.
I checked in and was given a top floor room with a view over Independence Square with floor to ceiling windows. Floor 4 has the same windows but 2 & 1 have small regular ones. I've had hit or miss things with Expedia Gold+ in the past and more on this. No free breakfast, not sure if this was considered an upgrade. Seems regardless the hotel has free wifi and spa access for all guests.
The decor is...interesting.
It has these very plush things and lots of texture and then the slams of red with all of the white (Swiss dot curtains) makes it kinda schizo in a way but it is growing on me...almost two pegs up from a cheesey Valentine's Day theme.
Breakfast is in Borkakas the attached breakfast/lunch/dinner/bar. It's 6100 ft for the buffet. Overall a pretty decent selection of stuff, nice presentation, great staff and can also order hot eggs.
I'm not a big breakfast eater and I'm also trying to cut back on some things so the first morning I was too lazy to go and find something or a supermarket the night before to pick up a few things so I went ahead and did it downstairs. While I was there checking my emails Expedia sends a thing as they always do about Elite+ check in. I responded saying it's not the first time I've got 0 benefits from this and honestly I may as well just book Marriott or SPG where I'm at least certain of a few things. About a year ago when this happened at The Dream in Miami I got an email a day or two after with a $150 voucher to use on another Elite+ visit.
Not thinking or expecting that later that day I get home from walking around and I get a call from the front desk (the whole staff is great, the girl who checked me in was wonderful, super helpful and was the one on the phone). She said she was sorry there was a mix up with information and they didn't know that I was an Gold+ member. Immediately I felt like a DYKWIA dbag. She said that it became available today but they would put me in a suite on the 2nd floor if I wanted and I could have til 6pm check out. Not wanting to pack and move and actually really liking this room I declined that but I asked if I could have breakfast. She had to call me back and check with manager because the restaurant is run on its own & two minutes later she called and confirmed breakfast was on the house.
I thanked her and she mentioned again how they always have good relationship with Expedia and Gold+ and I said it's not a problem at all I have stayed at Iberostar before and I know they have great service and people working there.
Not as grand as the mineral baths around Budapest but the big jacuzzi, steam room, sauna and small fitness center that are open most of the day are a great way to unwind in the evening or mid-sightseeing.
May 21, 2015, 2:25 pm
#18
Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: IAD/DCA, USA (MD Suburbs)
Programs: AA Lifetime PLT, HH Diamond, Fairmont RIP, Hertz Plat, BA Gold
Posts: 1,622
We, 3 FTers, visited this restaurant in late 2012. We all agreed that it was authentic and the food was excellent and certainly memorable. It is across the from The Spanish Synagogue at V. Kolkove 8, Praque 1. Open 11-midnight daily.
http://www.vkolkovne.cz/en
http://www.vkolkovne.cz/en
May 21, 2015, 8:35 pm
#20
Join Date: Feb 2015
Location: USA
Programs: United, American, Delta, Turkish, Alaska
Posts: 76
May 22, 2015, 6:30 am
#21
Join Date: Sep 2006
Programs: No more shiny cards -- former LH SEN, SPG Platinum, Flying Blue Platinum, BA Silver
Posts: 704
Comfort is key
Flip flops and shorts in F on BA, LH, EK not to mention in J on these airlines and many more ......
Then I am straight into comfy PJs for the flight to snuggle under a duvet / blanket and enjoy the bliss of having nothing to do except relax ........
May 22, 2015, 6:44 am
#22
Suspended
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: BOS
Posts: 15,027
Now it is just the yuppie crowd and the new money, sweater-wearing face-bookies.
Last edited by Dieuwer; May 22, 2015 at 6:51 am
May 22, 2015, 9:20 am
#23
Join Date: Aug 2010
Programs: TK Elite Plus, SAS EBG, QR Platinum, Hilton Diamond
Posts: 2,297
The first and so far only time I've flown First Class I wore a bespoke suit. It was mainly to mark the special occasion for me, since First Class is more of an experience to me than Business Class is. I think dressing nicely you do show respect to the crew and they will treat you nicer and with more respect. I see it the same as visiting a nice restaurant. You will most likely be turned away for showing up in a wife beater, shorts and flip flops. But I guess everyone is entitled to their clothing choices. I've worn shorts in Business Class on many occasions since I find it more comfortable in the summer. Also on long haul flights I immediately change into PJ pants after takeoff.
May 22, 2015, 9:32 am
#24
Suspended
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: BOS
Posts: 15,027
The first and so far only time I've flown First Class I wore a bespoke suit. It was mainly to mark the special occasion for me, since First Class is more of an experience to me than Business Class is. I think dressing nicely you do show respect to the crew and they will treat you nicer and with more respect. I see it the same as visiting a nice restaurant. You will most likely be turned away for showing up in a wife beater, shorts and flip flops. But I guess everyone is entitled to their clothing choices. I've worn shorts in Business Class on many occasions since I find it more comfortable in the summer. Also on long haul flights I immediately change into PJ pants after takeoff.
May 22, 2015, 10:43 am
#25
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2013
Location: MRY - CNX - TXL
Programs: UA 1K / *G / Marriott PE / Expedia Gold+ / Hertz PC
Posts: 7,058
I got legs and I know how to use them. 
Why are flip flops a no no but there is no problem with using the slippers on a flight? Is it because you don't like seeing fit? That would then assume if you use the slippers you must also use the socks. What if I was hot when sleeping and took off the socks and then got up and used the lav with the slippers on? Would the FA escort me back to my seat and tell me I am being inappropriate to the refined sensibilities of the rest of the cabin?
There's a difference between comfortable/casual and obnoxious/sloppy. Yes, I agree that things like tank tops should only be worn within a stone's throw of a large body of water.
I also think there are plenty of women out there who have their tahtahs hanging out too much or are wearing shorts where you can almost see a full cheek...but noooooo I bet the road warrior insurance salesmen love those pax!
If me wearing this somehow affects your flight experience I would question your priorities.
Posting photos from Budapest in a few hours.
Why are flip flops a no no but there is no problem with using the slippers on a flight? Is it because you don't like seeing fit? That would then assume if you use the slippers you must also use the socks. What if I was hot when sleeping and took off the socks and then got up and used the lav with the slippers on? Would the FA escort me back to my seat and tell me I am being inappropriate to the refined sensibilities of the rest of the cabin?
There's a difference between comfortable/casual and obnoxious/sloppy. Yes, I agree that things like tank tops should only be worn within a stone's throw of a large body of water.
I also think there are plenty of women out there who have their tahtahs hanging out too much or are wearing shorts where you can almost see a full cheek...but noooooo I bet the road warrior insurance salesmen love those pax!
If me wearing this somehow affects your flight experience I would question your priorities.
Posting photos from Budapest in a few hours.
May 22, 2015, 1:15 pm
#28
Original Poster
Join Date: Jul 2013
Location: MRY - CNX - TXL
Programs: UA 1K / *G / Marriott PE / Expedia Gold+ / Hertz PC
Posts: 7,058
Budapest
I had some vague and slightly romantic ideas about Budapest before coming here, but I was totally in awe of a lot of what I stumbled upon. I didn't realize there were so many grand buildings.
Between walking the random streets and the Danube I had feelings of Paris, Berlin & Istanbul. I could do without so much of the yellow/mustard color everywhere.
I see why someone suggested the Marriott. What a great building on the river with a straight shot view to the Castle.
I was in the hotel and settled by 2 on the first day so with the sun out and the heat on I decided why not make my way to the Széchenyi Fürdő right away! Also with the weather being rainy and overcast the rest of the trip it was a smart move.
It was amazing! Totally smart system of electronic bracelet for your locker. Renting a towel and swimtrunks wasn't a problem. Small cafe and bar that I didn't take part in. No brats running wild, just people relaxing and enjoying. And it's just freaking huge. Medicinal baths, hot baths, normal baths and a few cold dunks...before I knew it I had been there for almost 2.5 hours. On Sat night they have the Sparty (Spa Party) that I'll have to come back to next time.
The river at night is gorgeous. Sadly this is when the weather went for a turn and while enjoying the electrical storm I got caught in a downpour that luckily didn't last too long and I wasn't far from the hotel.
Per another TR I wanted to go to Cafe Kor the first night, but I walked by that down the whole street and wanted to go into Borkonhya but as the rain was looming they said they were only taking reservations in case they had to move the sidewalk seats all inside. By the time I walked back to Kor it has filled up. Thinking I didn't want to be tempted by carbs or any of the typical fried food I saw I went across the street to Prime and had a steak with some vegetables (had to scrape the sauce off the asparagus).
Charolais peppered filet that I also indulged myself in one glass of some Hungarian red wine.
I got an early start and wanted to buy a cheap pair of swim trunks because I wanted to visit another bath and also for using in the whirlpool in the hotel spa so after a walk down to the Fashion Street to grab some at H&M I made my way across the bridge to Buda Castle.
I wanted to take the funicular up as a novelty but the line was kinda long and didn't want to sit to just do that, plus the walk up is not that bad at all.
Once at the top and taking in the views I walked along the ridge to Matthias Church & Fisherman's Bastion before I would have to head back for a photoshoot. Last minute before getting here I got in touch with an agency here and ended up booking 3 shoots which ended up taking up some of my sightseeing time but I am not one to complain to walk away from a trip with work and enjoyment.
Absolutely incredible inside the church with every inch covered in some sort of decoration. Be sure to walk through the "museum" up the stairs instead of taking the exit at the floor. Winds up through the higher levels of the church giving you some good views and you get to exit down a very narrow spiral stone staircase.
I had time heading back to the hotel and Borkonhya offers the same menu for lunch as dinner so I made it a point to stop in then for some tea and fresh catfish (although the texture made me think more of swordfish) with seasonal greens and golden beats. Tasty, great service and lots of wine I wish I could have tried...and the bread! Everyplace offers you several types of bread!
After finishing shooting that afternoon a friend stopped by on their way through the city for a drink, I did allot myself one. Just some random no name bar.
Needing dinner I zig zagged back towards the hotel and right by the Cathedral is Platz which seemed quick and casual yet relaxing so I was able to get a grilled prawns salad with a tea, in expensive and tasty.
I had a few hours in the morning before having to shoot so I got up early and wanted to see the Shoes on the Danube memorial and also see Parliament up close.
The line at security looked like a mess (what no PreCheck?) so I wasn't even going to bother with that, it would have taken up the whole day. I would have enjoyed seeing inside, maybe next time.
A hot sec before having to meet people I stopped into Costa for the free Wifi and a tea.
Between shoots ran down the street to Buddha Original which is your own mix and match wok/Thai/Sushi that was pretty tasty. It also seemed like half the places had these long packet with holes tea bags which I thought were nifty.
After shooting, working out and taking a bath I didn't feel like going far so back downstairs to Borkakas to have the fresh fish with a beautiful side of mixed vegetables. Nice ambience compared to breakfast with very friendly staff and live lounge music.
Random things.
Interesting Michael Jackson memorial.
I like that the booze/smokes places area all covered up.
Well...don't tempt me with a good time!
I had some vague and slightly romantic ideas about Budapest before coming here, but I was totally in awe of a lot of what I stumbled upon. I didn't realize there were so many grand buildings.
Between walking the random streets and the Danube I had feelings of Paris, Berlin & Istanbul. I could do without so much of the yellow/mustard color everywhere.
I see why someone suggested the Marriott. What a great building on the river with a straight shot view to the Castle.
I was in the hotel and settled by 2 on the first day so with the sun out and the heat on I decided why not make my way to the Széchenyi Fürdő right away! Also with the weather being rainy and overcast the rest of the trip it was a smart move.
It was amazing! Totally smart system of electronic bracelet for your locker. Renting a towel and swimtrunks wasn't a problem. Small cafe and bar that I didn't take part in. No brats running wild, just people relaxing and enjoying. And it's just freaking huge. Medicinal baths, hot baths, normal baths and a few cold dunks...before I knew it I had been there for almost 2.5 hours. On Sat night they have the Sparty (Spa Party) that I'll have to come back to next time.
The river at night is gorgeous. Sadly this is when the weather went for a turn and while enjoying the electrical storm I got caught in a downpour that luckily didn't last too long and I wasn't far from the hotel.
Per another TR I wanted to go to Cafe Kor the first night, but I walked by that down the whole street and wanted to go into Borkonhya but as the rain was looming they said they were only taking reservations in case they had to move the sidewalk seats all inside. By the time I walked back to Kor it has filled up. Thinking I didn't want to be tempted by carbs or any of the typical fried food I saw I went across the street to Prime and had a steak with some vegetables (had to scrape the sauce off the asparagus).
Charolais peppered filet that I also indulged myself in one glass of some Hungarian red wine.
I got an early start and wanted to buy a cheap pair of swim trunks because I wanted to visit another bath and also for using in the whirlpool in the hotel spa so after a walk down to the Fashion Street to grab some at H&M I made my way across the bridge to Buda Castle.
I wanted to take the funicular up as a novelty but the line was kinda long and didn't want to sit to just do that, plus the walk up is not that bad at all.
Once at the top and taking in the views I walked along the ridge to Matthias Church & Fisherman's Bastion before I would have to head back for a photoshoot. Last minute before getting here I got in touch with an agency here and ended up booking 3 shoots which ended up taking up some of my sightseeing time but I am not one to complain to walk away from a trip with work and enjoyment.
Absolutely incredible inside the church with every inch covered in some sort of decoration. Be sure to walk through the "museum" up the stairs instead of taking the exit at the floor. Winds up through the higher levels of the church giving you some good views and you get to exit down a very narrow spiral stone staircase.
I had time heading back to the hotel and Borkonhya offers the same menu for lunch as dinner so I made it a point to stop in then for some tea and fresh catfish (although the texture made me think more of swordfish) with seasonal greens and golden beats. Tasty, great service and lots of wine I wish I could have tried...and the bread! Everyplace offers you several types of bread!
After finishing shooting that afternoon a friend stopped by on their way through the city for a drink, I did allot myself one. Just some random no name bar.
Needing dinner I zig zagged back towards the hotel and right by the Cathedral is Platz which seemed quick and casual yet relaxing so I was able to get a grilled prawns salad with a tea, in expensive and tasty.
I had a few hours in the morning before having to shoot so I got up early and wanted to see the Shoes on the Danube memorial and also see Parliament up close.
The line at security looked like a mess (what no PreCheck?) so I wasn't even going to bother with that, it would have taken up the whole day. I would have enjoyed seeing inside, maybe next time.
A hot sec before having to meet people I stopped into Costa for the free Wifi and a tea.
Between shoots ran down the street to Buddha Original which is your own mix and match wok/Thai/Sushi that was pretty tasty. It also seemed like half the places had these long packet with holes tea bags which I thought were nifty.
After shooting, working out and taking a bath I didn't feel like going far so back downstairs to Borkakas to have the fresh fish with a beautiful side of mixed vegetables. Nice ambience compared to breakfast with very friendly staff and live lounge music.
Random things.
Interesting Michael Jackson memorial.
I like that the booze/smokes places area all covered up.
Well...don't tempt me with a good time!
May 22, 2015, 1:28 pm
#29
Suspended
Join Date: Aug 2005
Location: BOS
Posts: 15,027
Budapest is a great city. Would love to go back sometime. Had fun at the Széchenyi Fürdő as well.
Don't forget to check out the Gellért Fürdő. It is even more magnificent than Széchenyi. http://www.gellertbath.hu/ They even have an outdoor wave pool!
Don't forget to check out the Gellért Fürdő. It is even more magnificent than Széchenyi. http://www.gellertbath.hu/ They even have an outdoor wave pool!