Only locals know
Kopaszi dyke
Kopaszi gát is a 15-hectare bay area in Buda, south of Lágymányosi Bridge, once encircled by factory buildings in a typical ‘rust-belt’ area. Recently a Hungarian developer cleared it, and it has become gentrified beyond recognition. A pleasant modern park has been created as a place where locals can go to relax. Thousands enjoy it at weekends: cyclists, roller skaters, model boat enthusiasts and families. And it is still not entirely finished… (Kopaszi gát 5, District XI)
Web: http://www.obol.hu
Fecske terrace – a real extravaganza
This is a popular roof terrace atop the Komjádi Béla swimming pool in Inner Buda. The Hungarian word Fecske means two things: a swallow (they fly over the place) and a once-popular design of bathing costume, from the Spartan 1950s. A cool place for drinks, music and a nice view of Margaret Island, patronised by young people and wannabe champions of all kinds of sport. (Árpád fejedelem útja 8, District II)
Web: http://www.fecsketerasz.hu
WestEnd roof garden – a calm part of a huge, busy shopping mall
Windows usually offer views onto the outside world – not in this case. If one walks on the roof of this giant complex, it is a singular feeling to peep down onto the maelstrom of consumerism, where thousands of ant-like figures swarm to and fro under the influence of supply and demand. It is especially attractive in the evening, when teenage couples occupy the benches outside, and the interior is illuminated. One feels like a non-voyeuristic Gulliver, with noble instincts.
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