Thermal Baths

One of the more popular activities in Budapest, especially with the locals, is relaxing in one of the many thermal baths.  These baths are actually part of Hungary's health care system and doctors will often prescribe therapy that includes soaking in the various baths.  You don't need a medical reason to go to the baths, and you can relax in one of the many pools or swim laps if you choose.  Since we've just arrived this morning, what better way to finish our day than experience what the locals enjoy doing.  Combatting jet lag will be an added bonus.

We took the subway up to City Park and visited Heroes' Square which dates back to the millennium celebration of the Hungarian Empire back in 1896.  The square features statues of many important icons from Hungary's history including St. Istvan for whom the main basilica is named.  The Millennium Monument towers over the square, with the Archangel Gabriel looking down.

After leaving Heroes' Square, we visited the Szechenyi Baths which is a complex located in the middle of City Park.  After navigating through the maze of changing rooms and lockers to put our stuff, we skipped the inside pools/sauna and went outside to the large outdoor pool to enjoy the sunlight and warm water.  It was maybe about 60F, so it was very cool to be walking around in just a bathing suit, but the water was very warm and relaxing.  We were hearing all types of languages being spoken as people just enjoyed being outside.  There are even chess boards set up and we saw guys playing chess while relaxing in the water.  We stayed about an hour, but could have enjoyed it even longer.  I will definitely sleep well tonight.