This Tuesday, Sue Perkins’ trek along the fabled Orient Express route brings her to the vibrant heart of Budapest in the fourth episode of Channel 4’s “Sue Perkins’ Big Adventure.” While the original Orient Express evoked images of luxury and intrigue, Perkins’ take is, shall we say, a bit more grounded. Trading silken sheets for tuk-tuk turbulence, she embraces the city with her characteristic blend of curiosity and wry observation.
Budapest, a city of thermal baths and ruin bars, offers a feast for the senses, and Perkins appears eager to sample it all. Viewers can expect a less-than-glamorous encounter with fish guts, presumably part of some local culinary escapade. She’ll also experience the unique charm of a railway operated entirely by children, a testament to Budapest’s quirky side. (One can only hope there’s a robust training program in place.)
But it’s not all fish and kid-powered locomotives. Perkins also secures access to one of Budapest’s most raucous parties, with a look into the city’s nightlife. And, naturally, no trip to Budapest is complete without a visit to its renowned thermal baths. Will the soothing waters offer respite from the rigors of tuk-tuk travel and fish gutting? One can only hope.
This episode forms part of a six-part series chronicling Perkins’ journey along the historic Orient Express route, from Paris to Istanbul. Each stop offers a window into the diverse cultures and hidden gems along the way, filtered through Perkins’ distinctive lens. This week, it’s Budapest’s turn to be dissected with wit and warmth.
Tune in to Channel 4 this Tuesday, November 26th at 9:15 PM for “Sue Perkins’ Big Adventure.”