The narrative then moves to Moscow, where the experience deepens. Here, making friends at the Kremlin Lights hostel, celebrating birthdays with new acquaintances, and getting a taste of local life beyond the tourist trails define our visit. Moscow stuns with its massive subway system and a military parade that's both awe-inspiring and a bit intimidating.

Links:

• Pervak Restaurant, Kiev — A traditional Ukrainian restaurant in Kiev, known for its unique decor and traditional cuisine. The website provides menus, location, and the ability to make reservations.
• @thebluecupcoffeeshop — A cafe in Kiev known for its breakfast offerings, including Eggs Benedict and pancakes.
• Saint Sophia's Cathedral, Kiev — A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this cathedral is one of Kiev's best-known landmarks, featuring stunning architecture and historical significance.
• Kiev Monastery of the Caves (Kyiv Pechersk Lavra) — A historic Orthodox Christian monastery in Kiev. The site offers information on tours, the history, and the significance of the monastery.
• Old Bar, Kiev — A burger place in Kiev mentioned for its casual dining experience, though specifics were not provided.
• Moscow Metro, Wikipedia — Official website for the Moscow Metro, providing maps, fare information, and history about one of the world's most elaborate and deeply constructed metro systems.
• Kremlin Lights Hostel, Moscow — The legendary. Where we stayed in Moscow.
• @ketchup_moscow — A burger place in Moscow, recommended for its good burgers and social atmosphere, where we celebrated a memorable birthday.
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Budapest presented itself as a city of contrasts. From the initial confusion at Simpla to the awe-inspiring views of the parliament by the Danube, and a somewhat disappointing venture into a local thermal bath, Budapest was a rollercoaster of experiences.

Links:

• Szimpla Kert (Budapest) — Szimpla Kert is the original and iconic ruin pub in Budapest, known for its unique atmosphere, eclectic decor, and vibrant social scene, attracting locals and travelers alike.
• Hungarian Parliament Building (Budapest) — The official site for Hungary's Parliament Building, providing information on its history, architectural grandeur, and visitor tours along the Danube River.
• Buda Castle & Castle Hill (Budapest) — This site offers detailed information about Buda Castle and Castle Hill, highlighting its historical significance, museums, and panoramic views of Budapest.
• Central Market Hall (Budapest) — Central Market Hall is Budapest's largest and oldest indoor market, offering a vast selection of goods including traditional Hungarian foods, souvenirs, and crafts.
• Gellért Thermal Bath (Budapest) — One of Budapest's most famous thermal baths, known for its stunning architecture, therapeutic waters, and extensive spa facilities.
• @getto.gulyas — Instagram profile of Getto Gulyas, the most excellent gulyas we had in Budapest.
• Gravita Pub and Grill (Bucharest) — Facebook page of Gravita Pub and Grill in Bucharest, where we had quite good burgers.
• @gradinaeden — Instagram profile of the "Garden of Eden" (Gradina Eden).
• Smokehouse (Chișinău) — Smokehouse seems closed now – but for memories, I found this blog article.
• Notabene Cafe (Chișinău) — Facebook profile of the Cafe Nota Bene in Chișinău.
• Ștefan cel Mare Central Park — The main park of Chișinău, including the infamous fountain.
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