The Aquincum Hôtel ★★★★

Every morning I dress myself in grey armour, my weapon of choice is a briefcase and though my horse-drawn, golden carriage tends to be substituted for a crowded commute on the Underground, each day is a battle to fight and claim victory. Unfortunately though, it is not a marble palace that awaits me at the end of my shift, nor women dressed in white to serve me fruit and wine. I can but dream, letting my imagination run wild, planning the next adventure to new, foreign lands waiting to be captured (on camera, of course).

We all know that location is key if you’re to conquer as much of the city as possible in a short space of time. Well, luckily, The Aquincum Hotel is situated in an outstanding vantage point, just a stone’s throw away from the Danube River and Margaret Island, two of the city’s most iconic landmarks. In fact, Budapest is a city brimming with a wondrous plethora of impressive sites to explore and great sights to be seen. Getting round all of them can be tiring though, and makes for hungry work, even for a strong soldier like you! Fortunately then, the chic and comfortable Superior rooms, as well as the hotel’s restaurant, have these issues covered. In the evening, dine like royalty in the Ambrosia restaurant, put on your finest gown or dazzling crown, and try the delicious, traditional Magyar cuisine. And whether it’s home comforts you prefer first thing in the morning, or, like me, you’re ready to start the day in a new way with fresh and exotic flavours, there is a wide range of international breakfasts available.

If mapping out a route and preparing a plan of action is not your forte, simply ask the commander-in-chief or any of his loyal delegates in the hotel to help organise your day. Their friendliness and attentiveness means they’re always happy to lend a hand to those struggling to strategize. But no matter your itinerary and no matter the century, coming to Budapest without bathing in the spas and baths is criminal. The Aquincum Hotel offers free access to its soothing spa, inspired by the culture of ancient Roman times. Though our battles in this day and age may be significantly different, we can of course still appreciate a full range of fitness and wellness services after a day amongst the hustle and bustle of the city. The spa’s waters come from a natural thermal spring nearby, and with alleged healing properties, the waters are ready to nurse the weary feet of a Celtic warrior, a Roman soldier or the average modern workaholic looking to be pampered.

Of course, as much as we might like to take a trip back to ancient times, surrounded by tradition, history and luxury, rest assured that you won’t get trapped in the past during your stay – make use of the free internet connection throughout the hotel and its rooms to stay in touch with the modern world, keeping your friends and family back home updated on your latest conquests, acquisitions, adventures and escapades.