At the baths.

Yellow and blue.I haven’t mentioned yet that our visit to Budapest coincided with a toasty heatwave. We were told that the hot weather we were experiencing was not typical for the city. For a bit of relief, we headed to the baths.

Budapest is filled with Turkish style baths. Thermal springs run beneath Budapest and power the many pools. The baths are believed to contain healing waters and many people bathe as a medical treatment for arthritis, joint and back pain, and gynecological issues (although I can’t imagine that last one). The waters can even be ingested to treat gout, kidney stones, ulcers, and calcium deficiencies. Judging from the smell, I bet it tastes great, too.

Upon the recommendation of our hostel, we decided to visit the Széchenyi Spa. This spa allows men and women to soak together, which might be an important factor to consider if you’re traveling with a member of the opposite sex.

I just noticed the lady bathing between us. I kind of love her.

The Széchenyi Spa was built in 1913 and is the largest medicinal spa in Europe. I loved the contrast of the yellow buildings and the blue pools. Such vibrant colors. If you’ve seen pictures of local old men in tiny swimsuits bathing and playing chess, this is the place.

We started slowly in the warm outdoor pools before going inside to the main event. Indoors you can choose from icy baths, hot baths, hotter baths, and several temperatures of saunas. I enjoyed the hot baths and avoided the saunas (I hate hot air on my face). Mike tested out a little bit of everything.

God’s gift, right there.

I have to say, these were the fanciest baths I’ve ever taken. I would say the stinkiest too, but the hot springs in Peru will probably forever hold that title. Visiting the baths was definitely a fun and relaxing experience.