My visit to Budapest inspired me to write a novel that uses all the joys of the city. The Cooking Class in Budapest provides the reader with a lively tour around the art and architecture, cuisine experiences and a compelling love story. The novel is on sale now at Amazon or your local book store can order it for you with the ISBN - 13: 979-8692743893.

A few years ago I spent a week in Budapest. From the moment I arrived the view from the taxi and the hotel window gave me that powerful, “we’re not in Kansas anymore” feeling. I was halfway around the world. I had departed the West and arrived in the East — or where West meets East. The skyline is an exotic mix of ancient and more modern towers, turrets, minarets, spires, and domes in vivid colors. Although the remains of Roman era bath sites exist, many fire and war-damaged buildings from the Middle Ages and later were replaced in the 19th century by Moorish, Neo-Baroque, Neo-Gothic, Renaissance Revival, Art Nouveau and Modern styles. The hills on either side of the Danube River provide spectacular views of both sides of the city.

The bridges accessorize the Danube like diamond bracelets. It’s dazzling day or night to wander around Budapest. The old and young lovers strolling on the Danube Promenade could be from any century. What a romantic setting for a love story. I always want to tell a love story because that is the most important thing. What a dramatic setting for a story about stolen, hidden or forged art created by artists who had lived through the turbulent history of 20th century Budapest. My new novel would be about falling in love while having an art adventure.

The Hungarian reputation for hospitality and cuisine was demonstrated daily by the excellent food and wine in humble cafes, creative bistros and the famous coffee houses that are bustling after more than 100, 150 or more years in business. I’ve never had such a hard time deciding what to order for my fabulous lunch or my sumptuous dinner. Duck and Foie Gras are on almost every menu and frequently several times. Which salad to order when presented with choices like duck liver pâté served with strawberry balsamic asparagus salad or smoked duck breast salad with pear, pomegranate and orange dressing. Or should I skip the salad and go straight to slow-roasted duck drumstick with duck sausage served with red-onion chutney and duck liver mashed potatoes?

The characters in my story thoroughly enjoy dining in Budapest. Wine bars with choices from all over the country pour small and large flights served with Hungarian charcuterie. The ruin bars offer a lively cocktail and music scene in bombed-out buildings from WWII. English is the international language of choice. Walking might be the best way to see the city. It’s also easy to buy a ticket and get around on the oldest subway in Europe, or take a streetcar or a train. Don’t miss Budapest!