I explored grand architecture, great food, indulgent spas — and so-called "ruin bars" — in Hungary's capital city, Budapest.

I was always intimidated by the idea of traveling in Eastern Europe. Still, these countries offer wonderful food and culture that rivals Paris and London, with the bonus of being gentle on the wallet.

BUDAPEST, Dec 23 (Reuters) - The government of Hungary decided to raise the capital of state-owned energy company MVM Zrt by 41 billion forint ($108.79 million) to 849.4 billion forints, the company ...