You’d never know it by looking at her but my mom recently turned 70. See…

Even though her birthday’s in June, every year we’ve lived overseas the one birthday my mom makes a point of celebrating in person is Campbell’s. It’s in September and we all look forward to Grandma’s fall trip to celebrate her one and only granddaughter. (Don’t worry, Will gets much love for his October birthday too, it’s just a thing). I think my dad also loves that time alone at home to tinker around undisturbed with his sailboat and piano. (We did kidnap Pop on his 70th the year before for a fabulous vacation on the Croatian island of Brač. More on that in another post!)

My mom’s trip in September 2017 meant that we had to do more than only focus on Campbell — even though it was her sweet 16. Seventy years is a big deal so we needed a birthday girl getaway. I spun the imaginary RyanAir Magic 8-ball and it said “You will find fun in Budapest.” Tickets were a steal, so off we went!

where we stayed: Prestige Hotel Budapest

what we loved: perfect location near the river, Chain Bridge and St. Stephen’s area, home to Costes Michelin-star resto, ergo a very starry breakfast too, sleek decor & an upgraded suite, very friendly service, great spot for a girlie getaway.

things we did: there’s a LOT to do in Budapest. We got the lay of the land on a 1/2 day Open Tour bus ride and then went back on our own to explore the sights, including the Buda neighborhood, Castle Hill and beautiful spots like Matthias church and Fisherman’s Bastion; the market hall; Kiraly neighborhood and the Jewish quarter; a Ruin Pub, and excellent dinner and music at Aszu.

tip: book tickets & a private dressing room at the Szechenyi baths in advance. We preferred the outdoor pools to the inside ones.