My husband and I and two friends had the pleasure of staying at Ella's place for eight days beginning on September 9th. When choosing a VRBO rental, I always go straight for the reviews, which is the reason I myself take the time to submit them. I figure if a property has virtually all 5-star reviews, then it must be fantastic, and that was certainly the case here. Communication beforehand was excellent and fast and everything went seamlessly.
Our friends arrived before we did and got the key and explanations from Viktor, Ella's husband. After my husband and I arrived and we reviewed all the supplies, we noted we were a bit short on paper towels, hangers and dish clothes. I texted Ella the items and she arranged for Viktor to come by with them the next day, which was great as I always like to meet with the Owners so they can explain the way the appliances work, etc. Vikor showed up right on time the next day and brought everything we had asked for. He was charming and quite fluent in English, as is Ella.
The apartment itself was huge, accommodating and immaculate - as good or better than the pictures. Having the three bathrooms, which was one of the main reasons we chose this unit, was a luxury that we became quite used to! As stated by so many others, the location was ideal. We took a cab a couple of times, but could really have walked everywhere except for one location of a private dinner. A dozen plus nice restaurants are within a 2-10 minute walk. We did not have a bad meal in any of them, and it is an easy walk to the Hotel Mecure, which is a location you can give for a pick-up for any tours that you book.
I had forgotten to pack my bathing suit, but Ella came to the rescue, via text, by telling me the location of a store 10 minutes away where I was successful in buying one for $30 - cheaper than at home. (BTW, all of Budapest is a great bargain!) I needed it for the Szechenyi Baths the next day - highly recommended! Not that confusing and yes you are fully clothed! Just read Rick Steves account of it in his Budapest book if you have doubts or questions. We loved Budapest and had a wonderful trip. I won't go into the highlights or tours as those can be read elsewhere, but I wanted to say thanks to Ella and Viktor and give their place my highest recommendation. We would return in a heartbeat!