5 Dec

BUDDHA-BAR HOTEL BUDAPEST CLOTILD PALACE … “BEST INTERNATIONAL HOTEL INTERIOR”

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The representatives of the Mellow Mood Group and the Buddha-Bar Hotel Budapest Clotild Palace invited the media personals to tell us  the good news, received from the London-based International Hotel Awards which announced for the year 2013, the recognition of the hotel to be awarded in the category of  the “BEST INTERNATIONAL HOTEL INTERIOR” located in Budapest.

Within the welcoming words we were told, the hotel was in a competition of  hundreds of worldwide hotels in reaching the International Hotel Award. So, they wish to spread the news of this recognition of the Buddha-Bar Hotel Budapest Clotild Palace to be the first hotel in history to achieve this  distinguished award in Hungary.

Don’t wish to spoil the mood … sorry to say or happy to say … there has been one other hotel in Hungary to have had already received the International Hotel Award, which was the OXIGEN HOTEL AND THE ZEN SPA in Noszvaj in the category of : “The Best New Small Hotel Construction & Design”. Indeed, tailored in an awesome English cottage style. Details at previous update: https://rollinginbudapest.com/2013/11/29/rolling-in-noszvaj-oxigen-hotel-and-the-zen-spa/

So there are two hotels that I am aware of in having to have reached this year in the finalist run to be the „Best … „  by the judgement of jury at the International Hotel Awards. The Buddha-Bar Hotel was also recognized  in Hungary and received the awarded as the “BEST INTERNATIONAL HOTEL INTERIOR” located in Budapest.

Over hundred of hotels around the globe participated in the high expectations within the competition.  A 100-page prospectus was submitted by the Buddha-Bar for the final round of judging; therein was presented the history of the 1901 built Clotild Palace with its twin building  (built by Mr. Kálmán Giergl, one of the significant Hungarian architect in the eclectic style), details of reconstruction work, historical monument protection-related aspects and interior design plans. Last year when the reconstruction works ended, opened its huge doors in mid-June and invited guest into a world of dreams. The five-star luxury hotel in the historical building received its well deserved honor. The hotel has just  what to expect from a 5-stars hotel, meeting facilities, spa, 102 Asian-style rooms, a couple of suites. The interiors of the luxury hotel is simply breathtaking.

The Hotel stands facing to the Elizabeth Bridge, just a short walk to the River Danube. The Buddha-Bar Hotel is in the line of the 2nd hotel in Europe. The first was opened in Prague – 2009. With the opening of the Budapest’s Buddha-Bar Hotel it stands as the 15th hotel around the world.

The Mellow Mood general managers Sameer Hamdan and Zuhair Awad were on hand to accept the award, stating the prize, Quote: „This  international award was an important recognition for the Buddha-Bar Hotel, since it will draw the attention of the Hungarian and the international hospitality industry to this unique investment.”  The GMs thanked the architectural and interior design teams of REV Architecture, Design Wapler and the Mérték Architect Studio for their contribution and involvement with the recent reconstruction. The Mellow Mood Hotels was founded in Hungary in 1994 and today operates 13 hotels in Budapest and one in Vienna.

Following the presentation they invited members of the press to taste a selection of the house’s special snacks.

Update and snaps by Aggie Reiter

4 Dec

6TH TENNIS CLASSICS – 6 AWESOME TENNIS LEGENDS IN BUDAPEST

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SPORTY AND ENTERTAINMENT PACKED IN ONE!

6th Tennis Classics  – 6 Awesome Tennis Legends  2013 … made their day for the Hungarian and foreigner  tennis lovers in Budapest – Hungary.

The greatest tennis stars, and as suspected a real delicacy sporty day, at the Papp László Sport Arena – Budapest took place on, Wednesday, December 3. 2013. Even though this parade show  has been going since 2008, it ain’t easy in words to describe how the 6 tennis  legends and the audience had enjoyed spending their time at the 6th Tennis Classics tournament. Was an experience on both sides that will be kept in mind. Those who were present were spoiled by the tennis sport legends in a very high-level form. At four o’clock sharp, the Arena inch-by-inch was crowded. The audience was already anxious, heated on the boiling point, awaiting for the stars to show up on the court. During the last 24Hs Ferrer suffered injury so he couldn’t join the set of the legendary tennis players. Balazs Taróczy director of the tournament had incredibly short time at his disposal to find the player who can be a worthy partner and opponent to Jo-Wilfried,  Haas and Marcos Baghdati, but he did and invited, and succeeded to bring Monfil  to the 6th TennisClassic.  Gael Monfils  jumped in to replace the injured David Ferrer. Well that’s what unfortunately may happen in the sporty  life. You never know what tomorrow may bring! Hope, Ferrer will be fit again soon. Here’s a video message from him: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lP4AHUt0rAo.  As Monfils said: “Luck was on both side, the timing was perfect, “free” for the time being to join the stars of tennis at the 6th Budapest Tennis Classics.” Needn’t had to introduce for the tennis addicted young and elder  folks the well-known top ranked tennis player, who is by-the-way pretty famous by the Hungarians. His name previously became a legend after beating 4 legendary tennis stars: Federer, Nadal, Djokovic and Murray. The pairings had been already drawn in advance: Rafter – Wilander … Jo-Wilfried Tsonga – Markos Bagdatis … Monfils – Haas. Players at the doubles match were the two semi-final losers, who played the Gala Game with Pat Rafter, and Mats Wilander.

The first ball leaving the racquets at the opening game were by the top two seeds …  the Aussie Pat Rafter and the Swede Mats Wilander presented a fabulous show. Rafter, by the end of the match defeated fellow Swede Mats Wilander, also former World’s tennis player number one! During the match, much fun and laughter filled the Arena when the Aussie classic happen to hit the ball high and ended on the lightbulbs on the ceiling. Actually stayed hanging on the display. Was by coincidence, or within the show, doesn’t really matter, the audience just couldn’t stop cheering and he himself  and Wilander were awaiting with heads up, watching  for the ball to fall down. Actually stayed hanging on the display. Have a bet … the Arena will indeed keep that ball high esteem.  The Aussie Mate finally brought the game to an end with 9:6. All the games lasted until winning the nine games. Watching their marvelous show looked easily played … but  having second thoughts … to follow their racquetball and performance showed no wonder they are the Best!

A couple of minutes  after  5.30 p.m.  Jo-Wilfried Tsonga – Markos Bagdatis, the  two  stars entered the tennis s court. All along the way Tsonga was the leader of the match, then came  tie-break. By now both were sweating as being out under the 60C sun. Afterall,  the final racquetball  was in favor for  Bagdatis.  They both played with each other at previous grounds and at then all 4 games were won by Tsonga . Words can hardly be found to express their sets. They surely entertained the audience with their hits-the-kicks. For Tsonga the venue wasn’t new, since he was at the 4th Tennis Classic in 2011 and as he said he was very pleased to be invited again to the show. Thereafter,  Markos Bagdatis and Gael Monfil began their first ball. Sweats weren’t missing this time as well. Terrific show! Finally, the tennis court seen Bagdatis  had defeated Monfils. Just a quicky remark here: Bagdatis said at the press gathering, that he had a list of a couple of  things he wished to reach this year, but hadn’t reach any of them … Well, guess he didn’t count in his list of coming,  participating, to achieve, be the winner at the 6th Tennis Classics games. Probably, many may know about Markos Bagdatis as the  4 time  racquet breaker within one minute  in the Tennisville world.  Perhaps will be, if not soon, one day in the book of world champions by this act. Maybe this time he didn’t bring along a bunch of racquets, what a pitty, that’s why we didn’t see that side of him here in Budapest. 

Was around 8 p.m. when the two tennis stars Monfils – Haas came out to beat their semifinal.  The show was marvelous.

The winner of the year’s  6th Tennis Classic tournament was the Cypriot, Markos Bagdatís and most probably by winning this tournament he is mighty glad.

The current leading tennis players battled it out in four tournament format, and the final two players left in the “valley” later in doubles lighted up the evening. Was to see an awesome  presentation between the two “senior”… this was what professionals and show stands for. All of the legendary classics players were on their tops. The show was tricky, funny at times, professional and a surely was a superb catchy exciting match. The audience often kept their breath, probably for some skipped a heartbeat as the sound of the ball hitting the racquets sounded tough and hard. Was a deep reminder of the hard sound of the tennis ball touching the racquet in the legendary British movie the “Blow Up” staring David Hemmings (R.I.P.)!  Even though the show was to end as planned at 8 p.m., but ended  around 10 p.m., but that’s how it goes, can never tell at the tennis court how long will it really take and the audience didn’t mind at all to sit for hours and watch the legendary catchy sporty men’s playing.

Over 6000 people were present, many young ones and  folks of all age came along, buddies, couples, families with small and young kids. Silence filled the air as the ball popped from one side to the other. Probably many in the audience imagined they were also on the tennis court with their own tennis racquets and fitting their own sets. Eyes were wide open. Huge applause burst through the arena and cheering weren’t missing after the marvelous and acrobatics hit. Was amazing to see the kids, the extent they were preoccupied by watching throughout the hours the superb players.  Maybe some of them will pop-up in the future generation, saying they have chosen right now, right here their role model at the Budapest’s Tennis Classics Games. To be present at this live show was also a present for the Hungarians and foreigners staying in Budapest to be at the 6th Tennis Classics tournament. Grand idea of Balázs Taróczy, the organizer to set up this tournament, the Fab. Tennis Classics in Budapest. Whether having a seat at the Arena , or just simply watching the match through the  local TV sporty channels was the highlight not just of the day but  the grand event of the year in Budapest. Needn’t have had to fly over near-or-far to the other side of the Ocean to be at one of the tournaments around the World to see, meet personally, collect autographs from these legendary tennis stars.

Was  just a  special day … not to be forgotten. Hopefully, next year  Balázs Taróczy  will be bringing over more shinning stars!

Now you can already mark your Calendar for the next year’s 7th Tennis Classics,  December, 2014 in Budapest.

Update by Aggie Reiter

2 Dec

6TH TENNIS CLASSICS RACQUETBALL SUPER STARS ARE HERE AGAIN IN BUDAPEST!

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 “Tennis Hot Shots twisting-turning their racquetball at the 6th Tennis Classics in Budapest”

To-day, the Tennis Classics Press Presentation was held at the Kempinszky Hotel Budapest, whereas the six tennis classic of our world were present. Wasn’t an ordinary press call. Mr. Taróczy made a twist on the usual form of an original press kinda meetings. The tennis players all went through two sets of a so-called quizzy Q. … Each star pulled a leaflet from the bowl, whereas a short  professional story  was read out loud and the others had to guess who they talking about …. a superb way of refreshing the „past years” professional tennis history. By-the-way watching the video below, taken on the venue speaks for itself. Funny and enjoyable https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2QOlMR49Ro and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PfzbFbJ_kl0

As Balázs Taróczy welcomed the media individuals, and called one-by-one the racquet stars. Also added, quote: „Seeing the number of the high attendances already sold out 6000 tickets, the organizers are working hard at last 24Hs in having more available seats at the Papp László Arena Sport Center. So at least 150 more seats will be open to reserve through the Internet www.eventim.hu  and www.tex.hu website.or on the spot at the box office.  Following the short announcement were introduced this years the 6th Tennis Classics Players:

Pat Rafter … from Downunder, earned his nickname “Summer Slam” in ’98 when he won in the same year at the Montreal /Toronto, Cincinnati and at the US Open. He was the only Aussie Mate to have won two straight in New York since Neale Fraser in 1959-60. The Aussie Mate surely has a jolly-good sence of humor answering the Q, raised for to him …Quote: „What did you achieved this year?… A: “I achieved to weight 100 kgs.”, saying it along with a wide smile… „but now here in Budapest I am only 95kgs.” He was happy to say how much he was delighted when the organizer called him to participate at the Tennis Classics in Budapest, knowing the racquet players  calender is full year around and coming oer to participate at the Tennis Classics in Budapest will be highly appreciated just like the other grand players. Rafter’s major titles: singles, 1997-98 and Australian doubles, 1999. He also  played a few reserve grade games for the Bombers based in Sydney at  the Sydney’s Football League, ie.: called the North Shore Bombers.

Marcos Baghdatis … Greek-Cypriot professional tennis player, specialist in breaking racquets! His temper is high or the racquet is weak … who knows! He was one of only two players who won a set from eventual champion Roger Federer and Andre Agassi. A few years ago within the Adidas program he trained with Gil Reyess, who was previously Agassi’s trainer, and as result 130 kgs in the  lying pressure. As he said, he was always a huge fan of Pat Rafter and is delighted he is here also in Budapest and will be int he same court. He received a special dispensation from Cyprus in 2006 … was acquitted from the military service to focus on tennis. Turned pro 2003, right-handed and two-handed backhand, reached 4 career titles, 8th in the best ranking greatest successes: number 1 in the ITF junior world singles rankings in 2000.

Mats Wilander … from Sweden,  former World No. 1 tennis player. Wilander one of only five men along with … Jimmy Connors, Andre Agassi, Rafael Nadal, and Roger Federer … to have won Grand Slam singles titles on grass hard and clay courts. In Genf, to two Swedish guys met on the tennis court in September, 1981., and lost his only career match against Björn Borg at 6:1., 6:1., At the time being Wilander was only 17 years-old.

Gael Monfils … from France, turned pro in : 2004, plays right-handed  and two-handed backhand. In the Grand Slam Singles Australian Open 2009, French Open 2008, Wimbledon 2005, 2007, 2010, 2011, US Open 2010. one of the real runner ups!

Tommy Haas … from Germany, turned pro in 1996, plays right-handed and one-handed backhand. As the saying says … “You can’t start early enough” He began playing at age the four with his father, who is Austrian and a former European champion in judo and ex-schoolmate of Hollywood star and former Governor of California Arnold Schwarzenegger. Grand Slam Singles: Australian Open 1999, 2002, 2007. French Open, Wimbledon 2009. US Open 2004, 2006, 2007. Also played a great slam at the Olympic Games, winning the Silver medal in 2000.

Jo Wilfried Tsonga … from France. France from year-to-year brought classics tennis players to the world. Tsonga was one of them who busted a flame by  his virtue performance in the 2008 at the Australian Open. His nickname is Ali, cause his face resembles to Muhammad Ali. Plays right-handed and two-handed backhand.Grand Slam Singles: Australian Open 2008, French Open 2013, Wimbledon 2011, 2012, US Open 2011 Other Doubles at the Olympic Games, winning the Silver medal in 2012.

Needn’t wish to end this update before not saying a word or two about Balázs Taróczy, who also was a major individual on the tennis courts. Now-a-days a retired tennis player, but one of the game’s premier doubles artists, Balázs and partner Heinz Gunthardt surged from the pack to win the 1985 Wimbledon doubles title. The duo played beautifully on the historic center court at the All-England Club to defeat Pat Cash-John Fitzgerald in four sets … Member of the Hungarian Davis Cup team 1973-85 … Despite playing part-time, still managed to finish in the top 50 doubles at No. 45 in 1989.

Now it is up to tennis lovers to put on their running shoes and head to get the one time ticket for tomorrow’s Grand Tennis Classics Night!

Update and snaps by Aggie Reiter

29 Nov

ROLLING IN NOSZVAJ … OXIGEN HOTEL AND THE ZEN SPA

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Oxigén Hotel & Zen Spa  on the  Szomolya Road  at Noszvaj!

Noszvaj’s logo … „The best fresh air settlement in Hungary”

Just a short drive away from the nosy Capital, the press individuals were previously invited to participate to-day at the presentation held in the light of introducing the 4star Oxygen ZEN Hotel & Spa, at the settlement at Noszvaj. The hotel opened its door in August, 2012. In deed, we are talking about a hotel, very young at age, yet already have had recently received 3 professional awards. The press members were welcomed by: Dr. Zsolt Nyitrai, parliamentarian, describing within figures of the tourist developments in the region, adding the development of the hotel was built from apart of EU funds. Also the Assistant Secretary of State for Tourism talked about the increasing figures showed by the visitors to have had come to the Oxygen ZEN Hotel & Spa, underlining the increasing number of visitors of domestics, foreigners staying, working in Hungary. Tamás Farkas, managing director of Oxygen & Zen Spa Hotel introduced the professional awards and the Interior designer, Zoltán Varró talked about how an 100 years old cottage was formed into a comfy British style cottage. The company was honored to have the two mayors Péter Fodor of Nostvaj and from the neighbouring settlement István Guczi of Szomolya being present at the event. Within the presentation we were told about the original building, which was built by the Gallassy family in the nineteenhundreds. We learnt the building stood for some time as an empty place, but seeing the green woods around the territory with the gorgeous nature life, the dream for the family owned hotel came true in creating by converting the “haunted” cottage into a family friendly hotel. It was spiced up in-and-out, keeping the outer original walls, building an additional storey, and having the far-east unique Spa touch of ZEN bringing a spiritual world to Noszvaj. Yes, here we are speaking about a very young at age hotel, yet already have had received 3 awards … “The Best New Small Hotel Construction & Design” – International Hotel Award. The country’s most popular hotels in competition which is annually held in Hungary, finished in the third place and received the Real Estate Development Excellence Award. The third award was received as the Best Accommodation of the Year. The English style, designs, furnitures and facilities on the spot testified the planning, design and implementation were in good hands, kept the British elegance. The hotel’s owner also have kept in mind of having to have built accessibility facilities for Disabled Guests. Some figures of the Oxygen ZEN Spa Hotel, as we were told: The hotel has 50 English country-style rooms. Most of them are standard double rooms that can be interconnected, if necessary making it comfy for families arriving with babies and/or children. The hotel has 12 suites. Later built on the top an extra floor having 9 special rooms. These have tubs for two beside the wide windowsill, having a secular view of the landscape, rich in woods, that lays just in front of the guests having reserved at these rooms. In deed, wandering around the premises, corridors, spa center, cosy small chatty premises was as being at one of the cottages in Great Britain. Seen it wasn’t a secret from where the inside design idea came from. The owner of the hotel was as to bring a little British feeling for the locals and of course the foreigners rolling over from UK to feel a bit like being at home, but at the same time enjoying the Hungarian hospitality, food delights and to get to know the regions special wines, which are already pretty known around the world: the Bull’s Blood from Eger. Something new to learn about Noszvaj beside the Oxigen Zen Spa Hotel is the De la Motte castle, the outbuildings of Louis XVI. style, built by John Povolny in 1774 and 1778. Also for many yet unknown is the jummiest „Noszvaj’s purpil plums”, producing pálinka and thick plum jams are from the Fruitville of Noszvaj. As mentioned the hotel stand on the Szomolya Road and regarding to Szomolya, it is a place worthwhile to visit while staying at the hotel. Just a short drive from Noszvaj. The why and what this settlement is famous of can be read at a previous update: https://rollinginbudapest.com/2013/06/10/szomolya-cherryville-festival-as-the-locals-say-we-are-the-cherry-republics-capital/

So we heard, the Oxygen Hotel & Zen Spa filled with pleasure and leisure. unfortunately, the lack of time made our visit short, so we couldn’t see all the goodies hotel holds, but were told about its services during the presentation, as the hotel’s main goal was to form a baby and children-friendly hotel. To-day’s hotel visitors are much looking forward to splash into a pool, therefore, the wellness and cure center was an important fact in developing the hotel. Visited the ZEN Spa, a real spiritual place, has what it takes for mind, body and soul! It is tailored in a spirit of oriental atmosphere, low authentic meditation music, enlightening the atmosphere by bringing over the feeling from Japan with the original Japanese style spa and steam room.

At the ZEN Spa the guest can get acquainted with the Japanese Tea Ceremony which has centuries-old tradition in the Japanese custom. A special way of expressing togetherness. Based on an old tradition, a certain Dzsuko Murata (1423-1502) has drawn up the rules for a tea ceremony, which today is known as “csanoju”.The csanoju played a major role in the cultural and artistic life of the Japanese people. Within keeping this tradition, cleans the soul and show guidance to live together with the nature. The tea ceremony purpose is to have peace in ourselves, to clean the soul and a guidance to live together with the nature.

Many sporty activities in-and-outside just lays in front of the guests. The wintertime holds back a bit being outside the surrounding premises, rolling on a Fairy Tale Road, that can easily be reached by bike, hiking and visiting the cave dwellings as an optional program offered by the hotel’s staff. The staff thought of having two separate Restaurants, one for the couples of all age, the other for families arriving with babies not to disturb the hubby couples. Whether coming from the UK, or any other part of the World, there are rascalities that will definitely catch the eye: darts, sitting in the “dock” of the sauna, relaxing and meditating, dipping the body in the Turkish steam bath, outside with tennis rackets and balls on the tennis ground. Before and after the presentation we were invited to taste the region’s famous, high quality wines, brought by the winemaker from the Cellar Thummerer and the Archbishop Almagyar Vineyards.  The organizers made sure the press individuals not leaving the venue starving, and were welcomed to taste their unique lunch served everyday at the hotel. The chief was marvelous with the delicacies, hardly having words, indescribable the rich in flavors, just like granny’s home-made cooking.

Was a bit envy for those guest who were staying there and while we were present saw, foreigners coming from Slovakian, Germany and of course Hungarian guests upon arrival couples and families with kids as to spend their week-end here at the Oxygen Hotel & Zen Spa … Jolly-Good for them!

Update, snaps by Aggie Reiter

27 Nov

6TH TENNIS CLASSICS … WORLD’S BEST … RIGHT HERE IN BUDAPEST!

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In just a week from now, one of the top list events on the Budapest’s calendar will be the Tennis Classics!

Budapest is hosting again the stars of our World in Tennis.

The annual indoor Tennis Classics celebrates its 6th anniversary this year.

Rolling the balls and racquets at the 5th year’s Tennis Classics really established itself and more-and-more local and foreigners staying in Budapest  and around Hungary, have had been attracted by the superb tennis players: Carlos Moya, Janko Tipsarevic, Gilles Simon, and Mark Philippousis Mansur Bahrami. Was a real treat for the tennis lovers. The circus ended with a great success. The audience honored the stars, cheered and the never-ending applause, didn’t want to let go to the awesome players.

That was last year and this year there will be no shortage of tennis stars again who ring the bell for thousands of tennis lovers here in Hungary. As far as scheduled, at the 6th Tennis Classics game will be participating: Pat Rafter, Mats Wilander, Marcos Baghdatis, Tommy Haas, Jo Wilfried Tsonga, David Ferrer,  so needn’t have say anymore, the list speaks for itself.

The Budapest Tennis Classics is offering an unbeatable weekday special event which kicks off on …

Tuesday, November, 3. 2013. at the Papp László Sport Arena – District XIV., 2. Stefánia Rd. Budapest.

Hungary has not any „Opens and so forth” but indeed the Tennis lovers are not left out at seeing in person the world classic tennis players. Most probably having to know the list of stars, the Arena will be full again. Bet those spectators who already have their precious tickets in hand are anxious and counting the days to take their seats.

The Tennis Classics event has no age limit, great time to watch the games with family, friends and also brings a superb occasion for generations to come.

Tickets for this professional tennis event are already out on sale, available through the www.eventim.hu  and www.tex.hu website.

Don’t miss out the place to be, it’s only a one day show and being somewhere else means that will have to wait for another year to see a live show, and of course with … other stars … tennis racquets … balls.

Be ready to see the whacky off at the 6th Tennis Classics!

Update: Aggie Reiter

To be continued…

25 Nov

“HAVE MOXIE!” … FINALISTS OF THE GASTRO DELIGHTS COMPETITION 2013.

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“HAVE MOXIE” was the title of the competition, whereas the finalist’s in the contest   prepared their out most  recipes to be judged and awarded  at the of the Essencia Cooking School – Budapest on November, 21. 2013. The finalist had a chance in preparing their fantasy dishes with the use of the pálinka product “895 Hunnium” (The name of the product “895 Hunnium” is the date when the Hungarians conquested of the homeland. The “895 Hunnium” is a distillate selection from prime fruits.)

Already well-known six gastro-bloggers came along to present their skills in composing their fantasy dishes with the use of the white label “895 Hunnium Pálinka” which spirits were selected as the World Cup Winner distillery. The speciality of these pálinkas were aged before the bottling on dried – bedded – or in oak barrels.

While the six finalists : Sándor Csíki (Food & Wine Magazine), Gabojsza Gyepes (Gabojsza konyhája), Eszter Hessky (Elle Magazin), András Jókuti (Világevő), David Kárai (NoSalty), Annamária  Riedl (Rozmaring és Csokoládé) were busy in the kitchen, the invited press individuals were to enjoy the lovely  atmosphere in the house with an experience in tasting the new distillates:  Bedded Apricot, Bedded William Peach, Bedded Cherry and  Ripened Plum by Imre Csatai, master of pálinka.

The tournament best tastes were judged by the grand jury, composed of Sophie Mautner, author of the Chili & Vanilla blog, Balázs Csapody, owner of the  “Little Crickets Restaurant”, Imre Csatai, pálinka master  and Csaba Harmath, gastronomic critic, restaurant and wine expert.

At the final countdown, Dávid Kara … (alias „cavalryman of flavors”) one of the author’s of the NoSalty was the winner and received the „wanderer award” with his composition of  the lamb scoop  a’la spicy chestnut, apricot pálinka sauce.

The three winners of the contest got richer by receiving an invitation to spend an adventure week-end, with  Imre Csatai, master of pálinka, to learn more of the Subotica pálinka, the  world’s top award-winning distillery of Laszló Boni.

Update and snaps by Aggie Reiter

24 Nov

3RD. DIPLOMATIC CHARITY FAIR IN BUDAPEST 2013.

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Intercontinental Hotel – Budapest

Sunday, November, 24.

The Association of Diplomatic Spouses Budapest DSB (Diplomatic Spouses Budapest) organized for the third time this year the Diplomatic Charity Fair. The family fair was opened to  everybody who wished to join this event. The main purpose is to raise money for charities was also supported by the Hungarian DSB.

Organizations supported by the DSB: Special Educational and Development Institute (SOFI). The Brothers of the Good Shepherd (victims of violence for women and kids).  The Esztergom Our House (the community center for disadvantaged children and families in need of services). The entry ticket fee was 500HUF which as a donation also was offered  to the organizations  supporters.

The official opening and welcoming words were given by  Biljana Griovska, President of the DSB club, deputy mayor of Budapest and H.E. Mr. Alberto Bottari de Castello, Apostolic Nuncio. 

Mrs Anita Herczegh, the spouse of the President of Hungary was the guest of honor.

During the fair the national stalls of different countries presented their yummies, folk art, music and dances but souvenirs can buy small gifts for visitors. Was alike as having a trip in a wink abroad in just minutes away from one nation to the other. There was a „kids corner”, crafts, self-made silver and art jewelry, rainbow colors of pashmina stoles, hand-made painted silk exotic food/spices, gifts, cloths, home furnishing and ayurveda products from India. Thai and Indonesian food and spices, wooden gifts, exotic fresh veggie and fruit drinks, hand-made sweeties, Dolce Vita Beauty supplies, organic drinks … far from knowing the existence of these drinks by the Hungarians.

The entertainment programs of the day were awesome, having the present the preformances of the ExperiDance show, the splendid Korean and Indian dance shows, Children music group from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Music performance represented by Andre Goodfriend and Karen Posner Mullen from the U.S.A. Embassy in Budapest, brought the eye-catching Iberoamerican artists on the  stage, grand show with 16 dancers show by the Folk group from Serbia, Hungarian Opera singers, Italian musicians. Second-hand cloths … mostly brand new and various accessories all in good condition. The event was held at the Intercontinental Hotel in Budapest.

The charity fair have had become so popular compared to the previous two years, there was no question to hold again the third diplomatic charity fair this year with the participation of the representative embassies. The countries were: Belarus, Bulgaria, Estonia, Indonesia, Japan, Lebanon, UK, Belgium, Slovenia, Macedonia, Moldova, Georgia, Lithuania, Qatar, Jordan, Thailand, Italy, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Egypt,Serbia, Latvia, Angola, Philippines, China, Russia, Turkey, Switzerland, Ecuador, USA, Mexico, Pakistan, Palestine, Albania, Kosovo.

During the late afternoon hours, the giant raffle draw took place with sophisticated prizes awaiting the lucky ones … Just to mention the most wanted ones … trips offered by the participating countries to their homeland was the most popular beside the 28 prizes.

Even though the program started at 10 a.m. and officially ended at 4 p.m., seemed like nobody wished to leave the place, feeling good and enjoying the each others companies.

This international gathering absolutely proved  peace and harmony is in everyone’s heart.  This good vibration should be propagated around the world. Happy people filled with warm hearts.

Thumbs-up to the organizers …  Even though on a day called Sunday, the Sun was missing, raining throughout the day … for many it was a bright and sunny day at the Diplomatic Charity Fair!

Last but not least, here goes two videos to show the brilliant preformances:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4kUXfjRbGvk

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CJxwKeSGcc

Updated, snaps, video by Aggie Reiter

23 Nov

HERALD NEWS … ART MARKET BUDAPEST … NOVEMBER, 28. – DECEMBER, 1. 2013.

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WELCOME TO THE WORLD OF CONTEMPORARY ART!

Figures of  local and foreigner visitors  each year  showed the high  interest  to this European and global art fair.

MILLENEUM CULTURAL CENTER

District, II., 16-20 Kis Rókus Street – Budapest.

In the late days of  April  the organizers of the annual Art Market Budapest held its press  announcement of this year’s fair to be held in November, so now is the time to spread the gathered information to the art lovers in Herald News to the forthcoming  event in Budapest. What actually the ART MARKET BUDAPEST stands for (?) …  it’s an  international art fair  which  represents  composition of unique artist’s works. The Art Market  Budapest was established  in the year 2011. and since then it has become during the late fall an international fair.  Yes, pretty young at age, yet already become well-known abroad, especially  in Europe. Art  Lovers may already know some of the artist’s works that have had been presented here in Budapest from other art fairs or exhibitors. Just like in the previous year’s this year again young art’s works will be introduced whom have had their works already shown in their local country’s galleries and fairs.

One of the main goal  to bring the young artists from Europe together at the  „ART MARKET BUDAPEST” is to show their new way of bringing upon surface their inspiration of culture in their own art work. This  artistic platform., as the organizers have had  often said, the Art Market Fair of Budapest is absolutely “Global and Local” at the same time! In the past two  years a total of 14 country’s galleries were present so far. This year  the number of  country’s galleries and exhibitor  will be presented by 20  countries  showing 500 works orf art in the main  building  and  in the park area along side  the Millennium buildings from: Austria, Czech Republic, Georgia, Croatia, Israel, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Romania, Switzerland, Spain, Slovakia, Slovenia, Turkey, Ukraine.

This year  a major role will be in sculpting than spectacular, the sculpture will be presented.  The ART MARKET BUDAPEST  has become an annual get together meeting point in Budapest for art lovers. This platform welcomes all guests to a place where by rolling along the venue, the audience,  art lovers, collectors, experts can meet,  have a chat with the artists of our future  generation.

Patrons:  The Art Market Budapest is still the patron of the two outstanding personalities who are patrons of the fair since 2011: Nancy G. Brinker, art collector, former Chief of Protocol of the U.S. government, a former ambassador to Budapest, the Susan G. Head Komen Foundation, the World Health Organization Goodwill Ambassador and Foreign Minister Janos Martonyi.

VIP Program:  According to the Fair’s growing significant numbers of foreign visitors, for them the Art Market Budapest set up a VIP program services at the fair (guided tours, VIP Lounge, etc).  In addition presenting the national gastronomy, showing the young designer generation creators. also introduce the rich selection of major exhibitions in Budapest as well.

Inside Art:  The professional art Fair optional part of the panel discussion from the film and book presentation consisting of series that the MUSEUM CAFÉ professional assistance of a major international personalities involving professional help “more” about the contemporary art.

During the open hours the exhibition and the additional programs  can be visited  free of charge.

Based on the experience and feedback from the exhibitors from the past few years the market will be open every day from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. On  Friday, November, 29  the fair closes later at 10 p.m.

Update by Aggie Reiter

22 Nov

NEWSFLASH: HUNGARIAN TRADITION AND CULTURE SHOW AT THE ZARA CONTINENTAL HOTEL IN BUDAPEST

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Keeping the light on the Hungarian Tradition, Culture, Folk Art!

ZARA  Continental Hotel – Budapest

District VII., 42-44.Dohány Street

The both days events are free of charge.

The Hungarian Folk Art Days at ZARA Continental Hotel Budapest which is one of the coolest 4-stars superior design hotels located at Budapest’s historical district VII., near to the downtown area. In the coming two days the Hotel will be the ground to get to know more about the Hungarian traditions and culture. Both the two days ongoing folk shows, lectures, crafts  workshops, folk artists and folk music, traditional Hungarian folk costumes show, teaching the steps of the folk dances, folk dance party. A presentations on the history of the House will be held on Friday, November, 22. from 3.00 p.m. until 10 p.m. On Saturday, 23. from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m. a fine venue to get to know  more about the Hungarian traditional folk dances, the traditional national costume inspired by contemporary and folk costume piece, craft artists from the countryside. Folk songs and splendid dance-shows will be on both days by the Boróka Dance Ensemble, the Buda Folk Band and Kobor Zengő Band, Ferenc Gulyás and Nóra Fehér, the Adony Dance Ensemble, and the “Wild Flower” Folk Group.  Presenter:  Miklós Rosonczy – Kovács,  Junior Prima Prize-winning folk artist.

Beside the presentations of the tradition and culture, the organizers haven’t forgotten about getting hungry in the meantime, so to ease that, be appropriate to the event real Hungarian tasty food awaits the for the visitors. The staff at the ARAZ Restaurant are ready in preparing two exciting culinary menus which are not just the locals yummies, but the foreigners staying or visiting Hungary. They surely won’t leave the country saying they haven’t tasted at least these two specialities. Just a hint of the a’la Hungarian menus: Gulyás (Goulash) soup from beef of grey cattle with home-made noodles  OR Fish soup with matchstick pasta. The main courses are Mangalitsa medallion with egg barley and letcho potatoes OR Catfish „swiming” in paprika souse, pasta with cottage cheese … rolling to the sweeties: Peach pudding „Kecskemét” style (Kecskemét is a city famous of its Peach Pálinka, so the style stands for the pudding dressed in pálinka)  OR Cottage cheese dumplings with cinnamon dressing. Thought of the Veggie eaters: Potatoes cream soup with sour cream OR Ewe cheese pasta. The liquids aren’t left out of this adventure culinary ride … soft drink, fruit juices and the “A” drinks … all from the land of Hungary … the Blue Frankish (2012), the Gál Bull’s Blood (2009) and the worldwide known Tokaj wine will not be missing here,  the Tokaj Furmint (late grape harvest from 2011)  the originates from the famous vineyards of Tolcsva.

To make a reservation shot an a/mail to araz@araz.hu.  beside the three course special menu connected to the event, three drinks will be offered as the gift from the house.

I bet many of those following this Newsfash became already hungry.

On Saturday, November, 23 find out why Budapest is called the „spa city” and how the  Hungaria Bath and Continental Hotel was rebuilt from the ruins to its present site.  It is in operation since 2010 for guests who not only stays at the hotel but having time for a short comfy splash as well.

Update and snaps by Aggie Reiter

20 Nov

HERALD NEWS … THE XVII. ISRAELI FILM WEEK IN BUDAPEST

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Get ready film fans, relax have a seat enjoy a week ahead and explore the diversity of contemporary Israeli cinema of to-day!

Nine films will be on-screen and eight of them is on the premiere list in Hungary.

November, 21 – 27. 2013.

Will be screening during the festival at four art cinemas in Budapest: Puskin (District V., 18. Kossuth Lajos Street.  Phone: +36-1-459-5050) artist, Toldi (District V., Bajcsy Zsilinszky Rd. and Corvin Film Palace (District VIII. 1., Corvin public-square phone: +36-1-459-5050), Művész (District, VI., 30. Teréz Blvd., phone: +36- 1-459-5050)

The aim of the Israeli film week is to provide a diverse picture through the movies of the Jewish community, the Israeli society which prehaps of to-day is less known for many individuals. Within the occasion of the Israeli film week, the audience will have a chance to view award-winning and Oscar nominated, classic, drama and comedy films.

The complete list of films in brief detailed information are just a fingertips away… 

The Israeli Film Week Startoff with „Playoff”!

Puskin Cinema: Thursday, November, 21., 6.30 p.m.  German, French, Israeli film drama,107’ (2011). Director: Eran Riklis. Staring: Danny Huston  (Max Stoller), Amira Casar (Deniz), Mark Waschke  (Axel), Max Riemelt  (Thomas), Hanns Zischler (Franz), Selen Savas (Sema), Smadi Wolfman (Ronit). The “Playoff”, tells a story of Max Stoller. The legendary Israeli basketball coach and became a national hero in the late seventies playing basketball within the Maccabees  at Tel Aviv . The team fed to the finals in the Eurolog. This was Israel’s first major international sporty success. Also screening the movie “Playoff”  also  at the Puskin Cinema on Sunday, November, 24., 8.30 p.m.  and  on Tuesday, November, 26., 7 p.m. at the Művész Cinema

Puskin Cinema: Thursday, November, 21., 8.30 p.m. „Orhim le-rega”  … Quite a pious lies … Orhid off-Rega … Israeli-French film drama, 86’ (2011). Director: Maya Kenig. Staring: Gur Bentwich (Shaul), Elya Inbar (Libi), Tzahi Grad (Gideon), Arad Yeni  (Yuval), Salit Achimiriam (Helit). Movie in brief: Libby has been living separately from her father, the introverted, but sharp-witted adolescent girl. Her arrival coincides with the outbreak of the Second Lebanon War. Libby soon discovers that her father, Shaul, childlike eccentric, and that “lives between two homes” … i.e. homelessness.  Northern Israel bombed issued by refugees from themselves and a wealthy Jerusalem family to adopt them as well.” Also screening  „Orhim le-rega”  at the Puskin Cinema, November 25., 6.30 p.m.

Puskin Cinema: Friday, November, 22., 6.30 p.m. „Moja Australia” … My Australia … Polish drama, 97’ (2011). Director: Ami Drozd. Staring: Gabriel Levin, David Mizrachi, Ihor Obloza, Aleksandra Poplawska, Marcin Tyrol.  Story in brief: Poland in the mid 60s. Impoverished town struggling family. The Polish husband divorced mother spends almost all his time working so that they can provide the basic needs for the children of twelve and fifteen years old. The guys have a strong-minded neo-Nazi gang to join. One day, this band march in a Jewish district, causing damage to the venue, and more young people stab and then the police arrest them. The incident was a result of their mother decides to tell him the truth, that he is a Jew who survived the Holocaust, and the Catholic faith raised them properly. She tells them to migrate to Australia, but in reality moving to Israel.The film goes on with original Hebrew and subtitled in Hungarian language. Also screening „Moja Australia” on Monday, November 25. 7 p.m. at the Művész Cinema.

Puskin Cinema: Friday, November, 22., 8.30 p.m. „Boker tov adon Fidelman” … Restoration … Israeli film drama, 102’ (2011). Director: Yossi Madmoni. Staring: Henry David, Sarah Adler, Sasson Gabai (Mr.Fidelman), Nevo Kimchi, Stephen D. Root. Also screening „Boker tov adon Fidelman” at the Puskin Cinema on Sunday, November. 24. 6.30 p.m. and on Wednesday, November, 27., 8 p.m.at the Toldi Cinema.

Toldi Cinema: Friday, November, 22., 8 p.m. „Hearat Shulayi” … Footnote …  Izraeli film drama, Director: Joseph Cedar.  Staring: Lior Ashkenazi  (Uriel Shkolnik), Shlomo Bar-Aba  (Eliezer Shkolnik), Aliza Rosen (Yehudit),  Alma Zack (Dikla Shkolnik), Yuval Scharf  (Noa, a reporter),Albert Iluz  (Dvir Oded),  Micah Lewensohn  (Grossman). Syncronized into Hungarian language, 103’ (2011).  Also screening „Hearat Shulayi” at the Corvin Film Palace, Sunday, November,24., 8 p.m. In 2011 at the Cannes Film Festival Joseph Cedar. as the Best Screenplay received the Golden Palm nomination and also was nominated for the Academy Award to the Best Foreign Language Film.

Puskin Cinema: Saturday, November, 23. 6.30 p.m. and Tuesday, November, 26., 8.30 p.m. „My Lovely Sister”,  … Israeli Film drama, 91’ (2011) . Director: Marco Carmel. Staring: Reymond Amsalem (Mary), Itay Turgeman (Kobi), Moshe Ivgy (Robert), Norman Issa (Ali), Evelin Hagoel (Rahma). The film in brief is based on a modern Moroccan Jewish legend, and takes place in Israel today. Triple love story is between the simple superstitious Rahma, abusive husband, Robert, and sister Rahma beautiful, the spirit of Mary. Mary’s grief caused the exile died after from the heart of an Arab man’s fate tied together.Also screening „My Lovely Sister” at the Puskin Cinema Tuesday, November, 26. 8.30 p.m.

Művész Cinema: Saturday, November, 23., 7 p.m. „Yamim Kfuim” … Frost days,  Israeli thriller, 90’ (2005). Director: Danny Lerner. Staring: Anat Klausner (Meow), Pini Tavger (Alex Kaplan), Sandra Sade (Neighbor), Uli Sternberg (Nahman), Maor Cohen (The partygoers). In brief: „A lonely young woman survives a suicide bombing and assumes the identity of one of its victims. As she moves into his apartment her grip on reality starts to crack.”  Also screening „Yamim Kfuim” … Frost days at the Puskin Cinema on Monday, November, 25., at 8.30 p.m.

Corvin Film Palace : Saturday, November, 23. 8 p.m. „Haolam Mats’hik”  … Funny World … Israeli film drama, 122’ (2012). Director: Shemi Zarhin. Staring: Assi Levy (Yardena, Eli Finish (Golan), Danny Steg (Meron), Naama Shitrit (Tsephi), Or Ben-Melech (Hilick), Moshe Ashkenazi (Nesi), Ola Schur Selektar (Natasha), Yehezkel Lazarov (Roni). The story is about a boy’s secret of the past which emerges after eight years. Meanwhile, working in a travel agency Jordana know you are pregnant, although it was not the business man for many years. At the same time the radio host Golan decides to revive Israeli group of comedians, the HaGashash HaHivert to save her love. The list of participants and also a number of other figures in the public library located in Tiberias involved in academic writing. Comedy, a family, a city and a world history weaves together destiny.Also screening „ Haolam Mats’hik” … Funny World at the Puskin Cinema on Tuesday, November, 26., at 6.30 p.m.

Puskin Cinema: Saturday, November, 23., 8.30 p.m. „Lemale et ha’halal”  Fill the void … Israeli drama, 90’ (2012). Director: Yigal Bursztyn. Staring: Hadas Yaron (Shira Mendelman), Hila Feldman, Razia Israeli, Yiftach Klein (Yohai Mendelman), Renana Raz (Esther Mendelman) ,Ido Samuel (Yossi Mendelman), Chayim Sharir. Tells the story of a Tel Aviv orthodox Hasidic family, the eighteen-year-old Shira Mendelman the family’s youngest daughter. She is looking forward to a promising future, with the same background as the same age young man ready to go to a dream come true event, but Purim Shira’s twenty-eight-year-old sister, Esther’s giving a birth to her first child, Mordechay die during labor. The family planned Shira’s wedding postponed due to great pain and grief. The film will be also screening at the Művész Cinema on Sunday, November, 24., 7 p.m. Awards and nominations: Venice International Film Festival (2012) – Best Actress: Hadas Yaron. Venice International Film Festival (2012) – Golden Lion nomination: Rama Burshtein.

All the film’s original Hebrew, some goes on with subtitled in English and Hungarian language and also with synchronized Hebrew. Better to check in advance which.

Tickets are available at the a/m cinema place’s ticket box.

Update by Aggie Reiter

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