We are always thrilled when Budapest and the hospitality our city has to offer are recognized by international awards. It only validates the fact that if you are coming here for work or play, you will be looked after, and done so in high style. It is especially gratifying, though, when accolades are handed down from average visitors to the city, as was done last week when the recently opened Aria hotel won the top prize from Trip Advisor in 2017 Travelers’ Choice Award, adding to its win of the Best Hotel in Central Europe award, given by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler in 2016.

The Aria is located on the cozy but cosmopolitan Hercegprímás street in Distrivt V, a neighborhood that has a downtown vibe but is also quite historical. The interior of the seven-story, 18th century building was renovated and decorated with the theme of music in mind. Each of its four wings is dedicated to a different style of music: classical, contemporary, opera, and jazz; the decorations paying homage to such greats as Bob Dylan, Maria Callas, James Brown, and Hungarian-born Ferenc Liszt. Guests who stayed there touted the rooftop bar with their sweeping, 360-degree views of the cityscape, dominated by Budapest’s famous Basilica just down the street. Moreover, two of Budapest’s five Michelin star restaurants are in the immediate area.

Behind the hotel, which also has a Prague outpost, is New York City-based hotelier Henry Callan, a man who got his start in the hotel business as a busboy in Manhattan. Callan’s aim with Aria, according to the website budapestbylocals.com, was “to design a hotel for Budapest that felt like a private home with a distinctive personality and cultural experience along with the personal care for which we’re known”  By all accounts, he has succeeded here.

It is a new year, and already it appears it will be the best one yet in getting Budapest and Hungary recognized for its value as a value-oriented location with high-end amenities.  

Flatpack Films is based in Budapest, Hungary. We are a film company that offers an inspiring and professional work atmosphere for our local and international clients. Since our inception, our focus has been providing the best of the best in terms of local production resources, locations, cast, and technical teams to ensure that whatever the production we facilitate, we do to highest standard possible.