The Aria Hotel Budapest is both a glam refuge and a social hotspot, featuring 49 big rooms, a glass-enclosed courtyard and a year-round rooftop garden with 360-degree views, all underscored by breezy, comfortable whimsy and a solid commitment to a music motif. Vibe: One of six properties in the Library Hotel Collection, which includes Hotel … Continue reading Budapest: The Aria →

posted on Monday, May 18th, 2020 by Doug Wallace Posted in HOTELS Comments Off on Budapest: The Aria

A legendary river, quaint medieval towns, stunning scenery and five different countries—Hungary, Austria, Slovakia, Czechia and Germany—makes for a busy week on the water. With the famous Strauss waltz planted firmly in my head, like an ear worm, I close my eyes for a second and say a small prayer to the rain gods regarding … Continue reading Danube River: Cruise →

posted on Monday, May 4th, 2020 by Doug Wallace Posted in DESTINATIONS Comments Off on Danube River: Cruise

VIENNA, AUSTRIA—I have two hours to scream around Vienna or I won’t have time for a nap. I’ve been on a bus tour, an excursion as part of my week-long Scenic river cruise down the Danube, and now I’m rushing through perhaps the most beautiful city in the world like it’s Toronto at rush hour. Slow. Down.

posted on Friday, March 27th, 2020 by Doug Wallace Posted in FOOD & BOOZE Comments Off on Pounding my pork in Vienna