Hlohovec to Nove Zamky, Nove Zamky to Vac, and Vac to Budapest

Hooray! Wind has changes direction and really much easier day to Nove Zamky. Extraordinary Hotel in Nove Zamky, the biggest room I think I have ever slept in, all a bit tired but much nicer than some of the modern hotels which are devoid of any character - and the staff were all so friendly. It's funny but every country I travel through, I warm to it as I spend more time there. Brilliant days cycling from Nove Zamky to Vac (Hungary). Meeting the Danube again on a bicycle was amazing; never thought I would do it again, but 4 years later, here I am. Vac is a lovely place situated on the east side of the river. Another great little hotel about €23 bed and breakfast. Gentle run in to Budapest and booked into Fortuna boat hostel (again €23 b & b). Took bike to good little bike shop nearby to have worn back tyre changed and one or two other running repairs done, so here for a couple of nights. Budapest is great place, and I've found out that I can travel on the trams for free - now that I'm 65! Lazlo, the bike shop man tells me that the chain and sprockets need changing, glad I found out before major problem in the middle of Turkey. Anyway I'm here for an extra day.