The Usual Suspects

 The Budapest Zoo in downtown Pest is truly one of the prettiest places I've seen. Almost 150 years old the Zoo has withstood decades of peace and turmoil yet serves as a perfect example of the stunning artistic and architectural heritage that exists in this city. The elephants and hippos are especially lucky - they live in this award winning domed roof building exemplary of Hungarian Art Nouveau.    

 The Zoo suffered a particularly hard blow during the Second World War when it was repeatedly bombed. With only 14 surviving animals the zoo was rebuilt and restored to its former pomp. This isn't a new story for this part of the world but it's a testament to their passion for art, symbolism and persistence.

We thought we'd share with you some of the usual suspects that we met there this week. The new baby giraffe (who unsurprisingly already towers far above our heads) was particularly popular.

xo from Pest