Luxury for less in Budapest

Eat at top notch restaurants, drink world-class wines, stay at a deluxe five star hotel and enjoy spa treatments at a wonder full day spa. Budapest offers luxury at a fraction of the cost of many other European cities.

As the credit crunch deepens there are still some luxuries in life that don’t cost the earth. For most people their holiday is the last thing they will forgo so why not make your money go further and treat yourself to a five star winter escape in the stunning capital of Hungary.

Step back in time and stay at the opulent all-suite deluxe five star St George Residence (stgeorgehotel.hu) situated in a grand building in the historic Buda Castle district, with its quaint cobbled streets and UNESCO World Heritage sites. The building was once three medieval houses dating back to the 14th century which have had various uses over the years including an inn, apartments, law courts and museum, before being renovated by its present owners in 2006, opening in 2007.

The 26 suites at the St George Residence come equipped with bedroom, living room, bathroom and kitchen and emphasis has been placed on preserving the original medieval atmosphere with elegance and the modern comforts of a five star hotel. Luxurious, antique furniture, valuable rugs and beautiful paintings plus Jacuzzi bathrooms (in 13 suites) are what make this place feel extra special.

By taking a walk in old streets and charming promenades of the Castle District, shopping in its small boutiques, spending time in cafes or restaurants, or enjoying the breathtaking view of Budapest from Tóth Árpád Promenade or from the Fishermen's Bastion and the Palace Square – visitors will feel the touch of history and the atmosphere of the old Buda instead of the busy downtown area of Pest.

In the evenings dine out at some of Budapest’s finest restaurants for a fraction of the price that something similar would cost back home. The cosy Apetito Restaurant (apetito.hu) in the Castle District offers a traditional Hungarian menu, plus a wide selection of fine wines that come recommended by the in-house sommelier. Or dine on the River Danube at the funky and contemporary Spoon Cafe & Lounge (spoon.hu) and enjoy Hungarian cuisine with a modern twist and fabulous cocktails, complete with the best views of the lit up Castle District.

As well as exploring the city’s amazing sites and museums, travellers can enjoy ice skating in the City Park and chilling out at one of Budapest’s top day spas, the Mandala Day Spa (mandaladayspa.hu) with its fantastic range of beauty and massage treatments. Or visit one of the many thermal spas in the city and relax in the warm waters either inside, or brave the cold for a dip in one of the steaming hot outdoor spa pools.

CREDIT CRUNCH TIME
Two people can enjoy a three night stay at the St George Residence from now until the end of March 2009 from only Euro 238. Return flights with Malév Airlines are from £110 per person, making this one of the best value luxury city breaks in Europe!

A two course evening meal for two people with a good bottle of wine at one of the top restaurants is around £40; a cup of coffee in one of the elegant cafes around £1 and a bottle of beer around £1.60.

For more information and to book log onto Budapestwinter.com.

To find out more about Hungary visit Gotohungary.co.uk.