Budapest, Twice

Budapest is just a blast. I’ve been lucky enough to visit this city twice—once on a girls' trip in the biting cold, and once in the height of summer with my husband.

Both trips felt completely different, yet equally memorable.

Winter: A Girls’ Trip

I first visited with my bestie in a freezing February before Covid. Even though it was icy, the city left such a great impression on me, especially the delicious Hungarian cuisine.

It was a trip of contrasts——— dealing with the cold, feeling a bit unwell, and yet finding the city strangely comforting.

Summer: A Slower Return

Returning after 7 years. This time, I was with my husband celebrating our anniversary.

Relaxing in a wonderful thermal spa by the Danube River was what I had been dreaming of for months before our trip!

In the summer heat, the spas became a daily ritual. We spent long, hot days floating between the baths and local cafés, restaurants.

Sitting by the Danube on a quiet morning, listening to The Blue Danube, I wondered whether life might be even better when we’re older.

This trip was a necessary pause for me. It was a reminder to rest, observe, and return to my art with clearer eyes before the madness of the competition began.

This summer trip was the quiet before the storm. Little did I know that just three weeks later, I’d be swapping the Danube for St James’s Park to film for Sky Arts.

[Read about my day on Landscape Artist of the Year here – Coming Soon!]