One of my good friends, after not having seen each other for 8 years, came to visit me in Budapest and as we were both celebrating the entry into our new age, we made a decision to spend our celebration doing something out of the ordinary. We celebrated our birthdays at the most luxurious hotel in Budapest and caught up on years of chats. We were greeted warmly and spoiled with a too good to be true (and gluten and sugar free) chocolate cake along with a bottle of Hungarian bubbly.
The Gresham Palace was originally built in 1904-1906 by the Gresham Life Insurance company of London as luxury residences, offices and retail shops. However, during WWII, the building was severely damaged and nationalized. Until 1999, the building fell into deep despair until it was acquired by Four Seasons, restored and converted to its original splendor. It wasn't until 2004 and the $110 million restoration that the Four Seasons Gresham Palace officially opened and became what it is known as today. Standing in all its glory at the end of the Chain bridge, it is an outstanding example of the Central European Art-Nouveau style. Its interior features numerous stained glass, mosaic and ironwork masterpieces, beautiful flower arrangements and the extraordinary chandelier in the main entrance. The Gresham Palace is considered to be the very best hotel in Hungary, but many visitors come in to enjoy a cocktail in the lounge or enjoy breakfast, brunch or dinner at Kollázs, the brasserie and bar next door. Spending my birthday here, in this historical landmark that combines the luxurious comforts of the 21st century with the elegance of the past, was a pleasure.
Photos property of MR
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