Travel Guides: Hungary

Parliament Building In Budapest, Hungary (photoatlas.com)

Surrounded by a sea of Slavs, Hungary is a small country with a unique language and ability to survive.

Immense pride of the locals comes not only from the power of resistance of this nation. Hungary is an area with historic urban centers and a picturesque landscape, quality wines, thermal waters and a flourishing culture. The capital Budapest is a fantastic city, divided in two by the Danube. Buda is an old city, hilly and grace and Pesta is a commercial center decorated with Art Nouveau buildings. In Budapest are the best bars and clubs in the country, the city being for a long time a favorite among artists and writers. The capital is called “the Paris of Eastern Europe”, because of its monuments. Downtown train station (Nyugati pályaudvar) was designed by Gustave Eiffel, the same who built the Eiffel tower in Paris. Castle District and Royal Palace are visited by tourists all year round and in the Obuda area are Roman ruins and Kiscelli museum.

“Puszta”, a seemingly endless prairie, is the defining landscape for Hungary, but the natural beauty does not stop there. There are 11 national parks and hundreds of protected areas you can explore, along with Lake Balaton, the largest freshwater lake in Europe, a multitude of rivers and vineyards. At the end of a day of walking, nothing is more pleasant than relaxing in one of the 150 resorts, some of which date from Roman times. Main attractions: Visit Budapest and explore the cobbled streets of Buda. In Pest admire the Hungarian parliament, Vajdahunyad Castle and the Museum of Applied Arts. Take a field trip to the communist statue park. Follow the Danube to the historic towns of Szentendre and Esztergom Visegrad. In Szentendre is a large colony of artists and a lot of churches, ruins of a fifteenth century palace and in Esztergom is located the largest basilica in Hungary.

Visit medieval centers Koszeg and Sopron in western country. In Sopron 240 buildings are national treasures, among which the lookout tower, house Storno and Gothic church, and in Koszeg you can see a wealth of Baroque architecture, Renaissance and Gothic. Take a trip back in time to Hollókő, among the 60 houses and remains of thirteenth-century castle. Discover the country’s remote northeast, where the tiny medieval churches and one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the country, the Greek Catholic cathedral Máriapócs, which houses the icon of the Virgin mourning. Explore the northern shore of Lake Balaton, Tihany Benedictine monastery, castle and cobbled streets of Veszprem and 10 km from the lake, castle and church in Sumeg. Visit the university town of Szeged, economic and cultural center, which houses the most beautiful parish in the country. Take a trip to Kecskemet, a center of Art Nouveau architecture.

Admire the fifth-oldest university in Europe (1367) and most beautiful example of Ottoman architecture in Hungary, in Pécs. Visit the cathedral mosque of Gazi Kasim Pasha and the Museum of Archaeology. Head on for Eger, one of the oldest and most colorful cities of Hungary which contains around 200 monuments. Hike in the mountains of Hungary. Zemplen mountain ranges and Matra Bükk located northeast of Budapest are popular, but for easier trips, go to the hills to the north and south of Lake Balaton. Taste the wine vineyards in the valley of Szepasszony. You can taste the famous wine Bikaver (bull’s Blood) and Tokaj (the equivalent of champagne). Around Villany you can taste excellent wines. Ride in Great Plain, where there are several horse farms that organize exhibitions. You can take riding lessons at schools across the country.

Budapest At Night (moveoneinc.com)

Relax at the thermal lake Heviz, near Lake Balaton. Waters temperatures are over 33 º C. Fish in the river Tisza. Here you will find accommodations and guides. Follow the marked trails in the national park and admire Kiskunság marshes, migratory birds and lakes in the reserve tourism. Visit Aggtelek cave national park, which is part of Gomorrah Torna karst area. Gastronomy: Hungarians are proud of their food, which is usually spicy and mostly delicious, but healthy – many dishes are fried in lard or oil. National spice is paprika and goulash is a national menu, a kind of thick stew with paprika. But Hungarians call it porkolt, for them as goulash soup with paprika. Less known to the rest of the world are paprikas csirken (chicken in paprika sauce) and Halasz (fish soup with paprika). Goose meat is also popular in Hungary, is best known as sult libacomb, roast goose leg. They consume all kinds of stuffed vegetables, sweet and salty crepes. A Hungarian-style meal is almost always accompanied (even breakfast) by pickles called savanyusag.

In general, Hungary is a country with a modern lifestyle, while rural areas that still preserve their traditions and culture. Public exposure of the red star and sickle emblem and communist Hammer and Nazi symbols (swastika and Hungarian Arrow Cross) is prohibited by law. Make sure you do not have these logos on clothing, even if it is a joke. Talking loudly in public is considered rude. One kiss on the cheek is a common form of greeting, even if you were just introduced to the person. Hungary is located in Central Europe. Its name comes from the old Turkish language and translated by ten arrows. Budapest, Hungary’s capital is divided by the Danube in Buda, the medieval houses, churches and cathedrals and Pesta with building of impressive architecture and grand boulevards. The two, Buda and Pest are linked by eight bridges.

Danube Panorama is part of UNESCO world heritage due to its sublime beauty, especially at night when everything is lit. Another attraction is the Margaret Island, best known for the largest outdoor pools in Budapest because of the numerous possibilities for relaxation. Panorama City and Margarita Island can best be seen during a walk or a cruise on the Danube at night. The price is 3,600 forints walking during the day and at night is 4200 forints. Royal Palace is located on Castle Hill, the location of the main attractions in town. Today it is headquarters for cultural institutions and museums such as the Hungarian National Gallery, National Szechenyi Library, Museum of Contemporary Art and the Budapest History Museum. Matthias Church, as old as the Royal Palace, was the venue of several coronation ceremonies. Around it, lies the Castle District, the most romantic pedestrian zone of the city, a medieval town with streets, picturesque houses and numerous monuments.

Budapest Castle District (travel.nationalgeographic.com)

In Pest is the Parliament building, a symbol of Budapest, the grandest building in the city. It hosts two rooms called Upper House and Lower House, where there are held meetings of the two chambers of Parliament. Opera Building is one of the most beautiful buildings of its kind in the world, built in Renaissance style, the main staircase and the auditorium was decorated with frescoes. Nightlife is very dynamic, the most popular areas being Market Franz List and Margarita Island. Other places worth visiting are: Fishermen’s Bastion, Buda Castle Labyrinth of, the Citadel and Statue of Liberty, Witches Hill, Vajdahunyad Castle and many others. For those who like shopping, Central Market and Ecseri flea market are ideal places. Lake Balaton, also called Hungarian Sea, is one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe, a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and fishermen.

Near it you can visit the ruins of Balatonfoldvar, where many artists currently reside. Hungaroring, famous for its Formula 1 circuit, is only 13 km from Budapest. The contest is held annually in August. Godollo is the town where is located the Palace Grassalkovich, Hungary’s largest and favorite residence of Queen Elizabeth in the nineteenth century. Visegrad spa town became famous for its castle dating from the golden age of King Matthias, the tower which you can admire the beautiful view of the Danube. Tourists can buy the Budapest Card, as it offers free transportation and unlimited free entry to over 60 museums and sights, discounted tickets to shows, restaurants, spa baths, sports halls and more. Cards are valid 48 hours and costs about 4,500 forints, or 72 hours, at a price of 5,500 forints.

Currency: Euro. Documents required: Identity card, passport for children under 14 years. Areas of interest: Budapest, Lake Balaton, Eger-Tokaj Region. Hungary does not impress by the mountains or seaside, but has a special charm. Budapest metropolis with effervescent cultural life has a unique location, the Danube separating the mountain that is located on the Buda side of which is placed over the plain. The capital impresses both the cultural life and nightlife, but also by the number of health tourism, featuring most of the European capitals. Balaton Lake the most vast in Europe is the paradise of lovers of water featuring numerous amenities.  We must not forget the Eger-Tokaj region, a region that includes three national parks or nouvelle cuisine Hungarian growing their crops.

Bridge Over Danube, Budapest, Hungary (europe-trips.eu)

Conditions of entry and residence regime: other citizens do not need a visa to travel to Hungary. Entry is permitted in Hungary with a passport or identity card valid at least 6 months after entering the territory of Hungary. For verification and other conditions on entry and establishment in Hungary, it is recommended consulting the official information provided by the Hungarian authorities. Hungary is not considered a risk country for foreign tourists. Minor offenses such as pick pocketing, deception or theft of cars can occur in crowded areas (stations, stations, parking lots, shopping centers, gas stations or motorway service areas). Recommendations: Keep documents in a safe place and personal values, cash tickets, credit cards and do not expose them clearly on you or in your car.

Cars should be locked and secured with alarm system. If traveling by bus or train, keep attention on luggage throughout the journey. For out in the city, especially in congested areas, leave the personal documents at the hotel and keep only one copy of identity documents (passport, residence permit). In case of loss of passport or other documents people are recommended to contact the police, obtain a certificate attesting to the loss / theft of passport and then presentation to the Embassy to prepare a travel title, with which they can move in the country. In case of serious incidents (accidents, robbery), the Hungarian authorities take immediate action, call the emergency number 112. If you accidentally call 112, do not hang up the phone, otherwise, police can send a car to the place where you are, to see if everything is all right.

In the event of incidents affecting security of person or property, it is recommended to contact local police and the nearest consular office. Health insurance is compulsory in Hungary. It is strongly recommended that you insure health care or obtain a European Health Card before leaving on a trip. If you become ill or have an accident during a temporary stay in an EU Member State, E112 form or your European Health Insurance will give you access to necessary medical care. This card will allow you to receive necessary medical care during a temporary stay in any EU country. It is good that additional medical insurance to be valid in all countries. On the basis of such insurance, optional, you have access to emergency services from both public health system, and the private (depending on the type of insurance policy).

Hungary (ejc.net)

At the conclusion of such an insurance check coordinates partner insurance company in the country of destination and transit. It recommended that you conclude, before departure, travel insurance. This is valid in all countries and can cover the basic risks (illness, accident, emergency dental care, sanitary repatriation or death) to all travel risks, including loss / theft / damage to baggage, cancellation of leave for abroad, airline bankruptcy, etc. Life insurance has proved beneficial to the families of those who died in accidents or due to illness. In the European Union you do not need special vaccinations. Auto Traffic Conditions – Auto Circulation: On public roads outside built-dipped must be used. Toll highways is paid for all M0, M1, M3, M5, M6 and M7 – Before entering the highway through the purchase of any gasoline station sticker for the vehicle category and the corresponding period.

Fines can be paid only to postal units in the Republic of Hungary and only received the check at finding and sanction enforcement by traffic police. It is recommended paying the taxes immediately because otherwise the Hungarian authorities resort to suspension of the right of entry into the Republic of Hungary. Safety Belt: It is mandatory. Using mobile phone while driving: It is forbidden. Anti-radar devices to detect radar: Do not use anti-radar devices. Parking: Parking is permitted in special places; parking fees are between 180 and 250 forints. The hotel parking fee units is between 16 and 25 euros per day. Driving license is valid in Hungary. Information on traffic accident cases: In case of accident, make the standard form provided by local insurance company and note all the particulars of the other parties involved.

If you are injured in the accident, announce the local police, after you have given first aid. Customs Regulations: There are no checks at internal borders among the signatory states to the Schengen Agreement: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Hungary, Iceland, Norway and Switzerland. For reasons of public order, public health or national security, the EU’s internal borders controls may be placed for limited periods. In Hungary it is allowed to take cigarettes stamped to the limit of 200 pieces of cigarettes a person aged over 17 years. Amounts exceeding this limit must be declared when entering the territory of Hungary and it is mandatory payment of excise duty on cigarettes and then apply these special stamps.

Parliament Buiding, Budapest (forum.cs.tuiasi.ro)

If unpaid cigarettes (those purchased in duty-free), the maximum permissible limit is only 40 bits of a person aged over 17 years. Violation of these obligations is the sanctioning of cigarettes seized in Hungary and not taxed properly. Hungarian legislation allows even seizing control by the authorities (Customs and Financial Guard of Hungary, by tax agents on the ground) means of transport that are hidden in cigarettes that exceed allowable limits, to pay the fines involved. It is forbidden in Hungary any quantity of alcoholic beverages manufactured craft, if the carrier does not have a certificate of authorized manufacturer (for example, is not allowed the introduction of “brandy” produced in private households). In order to receive consular assistance in case of need, you should contact the consular offices in Hungary.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommends consulting official information provided by authorities of destination and transit country, with the introduction of goods (especially alcohol and cigarettes) or according to the quantity limited production mode. Drug regime: Are excluded both on entry and exit of any type and drugs doping substances. Do not take with you more than the amount of drugs than is strictly necessary. It is recommended you carry your doctor’s prescription for drugs that go beyond the usual. Antibiotics are issued only on prescription. Pet Conditions: For the EU countries you need the European passport for your pet. This document can be obtained from the veterinarian and must contain information on rabies vaccination. The animal must be identified by an electronic microchip. By July 2011, it is accepted, a clearly readable tattoo.

Demographics: in 900 AC, 250 000-500 000 Hungarians settled in the Pannonian Plain, inhabited mainly by Slavs; in 1711 – 3 000 000 Hungarian population, during wars end of “curuts” (1.6 million Magyars); 1790 – 8000000 (39% Hungarian); 1828 – 11495536; 1846 – 12033399; 1880 – 13749603 (48% Hungarian); 1900 – 16838255 (51.4% Magyars); 1910 – 18264533 (54.5% Hungarians, 5% of Hungarian Hebrew); 1920 – 7516000 after the Treaty of Trianon (90% Hungarians, 6.1% Hebrew); 1981 – 10800000; 2001 – 10197119; 2007 – 9899000; 2008 – 10030000 (KSH). Present: Magyar population of Hungary today is 89-95%, its language is Hungarian from Ugro-Finic family, other minorities: Rroma or Hungarian romák (5%), German or Hungarian svábok or németek (1.2%), Slovaks ( 0.4%), Croats or horvátok (0.2%), Serbs or szerbek (0.2%), Ukrainians and Ruthenians (0.1%), and románok (0.1%). Romanians in Hungary, particularly in the Gyula area, are from 8000 to 10.000 people in the country’s total population (10 million).

Budapest, Hungary (propertyworld.com)

Roman Catholicism is the dominant religion (67.5%), 16% – 20% of the Hungarian population in Hungary is a reformed (Calvinist) and 3% -5% of evangelical religion (Lutheran) and about 0.2% of the population are religious Jewish (Hebrew). There are also significant Orthodox Christian communities (Romanian, Serbian), Uniat (Greek Catholic, Ruthenian and Romanian), neo-Protestant community and a Muslim community. Hungary’s official language is Hungarian an Ugro-Finic language. Hungarian language contains many words of Slavic origin. Significant Hungarian communities living in countries neighboring Hungary, particularly in Slovakia, Croatia, Romania, Serbia (Vojvodina) in Transcarpathian Ukraine, Austria (Burgenland), and (emigrated) in the USA, Canada, Germany, France and Latin America. In Israel live tens of thousands of Hebrew Hungarofon, originally from Hungary and Transylvania.

Population: Hungarians represent 94.4% of the Hungarian population. In Slovakia represent 10.7%, 6.6% in Romania, 3.9 in Serbia, Croatia 1%, Ukraine 0.3% and 0.2% in Austria. In neighboring Hungary Hungarian minorities exist in: Slovakia in the south where it borders with Hungary; Ukraine, Ruthenia region where we meet 12% of the population; Romania 6.6% of the total population, mostly in Transylvania, with 19.6% of the population is Szeklers and even 84.9% and 73.81% in Harghita County, Covasna County; Serbia, north of the region called Vojvodina (Backa in Banat, a few villages Sirmia); Croatia, in some areas near the border with Hungary (Baranja, a few villages in western Slavonia), and a small community from Fiume, Hungary considered that it was the only landlocked Hungary; Slovenia, in some areas near the border with Hungary (Prekmurje); Austria, Burgenland especially where there are over 7% of the population.

Hungarians are generally proud of their “variety” unlike most people in Europe are Indo-European languages. There are few villagers of Hungary, which even today bear, after disintegration of the multinational Austro-Hungarian territorial consequences of reducing Hungarian peace treaties imposed by the victorious powers of Austria-Hungary in World War I, peace was followed by expulsion mass and the so-called ethnic cleansing against fellow former multinational empire. But it is clear that the Hungarians by the Trianon peace were in the minority compared to all other nationalities in Hungary, justifying decisions made peace treaties after the First World War. Political system: Every 4 years are held the parliamentary elections. The Prime Minister is appointed by the President. Prime Minister appoints ministers, and appoints the Government. Hungary has a single chamber Parliament, consisting of 386 members. The electoral system is one of the most complicated systems in the world. 176 members are elected by district, 152 by proportional representation in multiple constituencies, and 58 are chosen to achieve proportional representation.

Hotel In Hungary (europe-travel-guides.com)

In the member constituencies the proposals of at least 750 voters, authenticated by the signature, are required for nomination. The parties may make nominations regional constituencies for regional lists. A regional overview can be designed by a party that already a number of candidates nominated in accordance with the Annex to this Act, setting the unique regional constituency, but at least two constituencies. A national list may be established by a party that has lists at least in seven regional districts. A candidate in a constituency will become a member of parliament in the first round of elections, if it obtains more than half the valid votes, the votes of more than half of the voters in that constituency. Each voter may vote to set their own candidate. If during the first round election more than half of voters from one constituency did not vote, then they organize a second round.

Form of State: State type is a republic (Hungarian: Köztársaság). The Hungarian Constitution was amended several times, first in 1949 was the biggest change in 1989 came into force on October 23, 1989. The President is elected every five years, the President is the representative function (symbolic), but it designates the Prime Minister and is the supreme authority of the army, parliament initiate laws must conform to the Hungarian constitution, then the president approves them. In the event that a law does not comply with the constitution the president has the right to annul the law by Parliament, by the Constitutional Court. Hungary is part of NATO and became an EU member in May 2004.

Accession to the European Union: Hungary has submitted application to join the European Union on 31 March 1994, negotiations began after just four years and ended on December 13, 2002, the day that was announced Hungary’s forthcoming accession to the EU together with nine other countries. Hungary held a referendum on accession it was held on 12 April 2003, approved the accession country citizens with 84% of the votes with a turnout of 45%. Hungary became a member of the EU on 1 May 2004 and since 23 December 2007 is a member of Schengen. New media law: Orban government in 2010 adopted a new law to control the media, which strikes many critics outside the European Union countries and EU Commission in Brussels. There has also been expressed open criticism of Berlin and Paris in the sense that the law of Orban government is not compatible with EU law on freedom of expression of the media.

Budapest, The Danube River (galenfrysinger.com)

A European group known for human rights activists including Vaclav Havel and Marianne Birthler in a open letter criticized the Hungarian law, seeing in it a limitation of parliamentary democracy in an EU country. Prime Minister Orban, on 19 January 2011 was subjected to criticism of a part of the EU Parliament (except the Conservatives), defended the controversial law before the lawmakers, noting however, that if democratic shortcomings will prove its provisions, it would be possible corrections. EU Commissioner Neelie Kroes told the European Union headquarters in Brussels, the EU Commission calls for the government to give clarifications to Orban respect some key points of law on which the EU expressed serious reservations that would be compatible with the Treaty (status) Union. The deadline for response is 4 February.

Kroes said that otherwise, the EU Commission will open an infringement procedure for condemnation of the EU Treaty by the Hungarian government. It was sent in January 2011, Budapest appropriate letter from the committee EU, the controversial provisions of the law. One of the critical points seen in the Hungarian law is the composition of the supervisory authority of the media business, consisting only of members of the ruling party, Fidesz, Prime Minister Orban. At the end of January (according to news agency MTI), the Hungarian Foreign Minister Martonyi announced the availability of Hungary to make changes to the law of media, 2010, in paragraphs that EU Commission considers to be law compliant.

Economy: Hungary continues to be on an upward trend of economic growth as a new member of the European Union (since 2004). The private sector generates about 80% of GDP. Hungary treats about a third of total foreign investment in Central Europe. Since 1989 the cumulative foreign investment was over 23 billion dollars. Inflation and unemployment have increased slightly in recent years and is expected to rise further. The confidence of foreign investors in Hungary’s economy is in a slight decrease after the measures taken by the government in 2006 had the effect of increasing rather than decreasing revenues and expenditures. The Hungarian government has expressed willingness to join the Euro-zone in 2010. Business analysts consider, however, that date as unrealistic given the existing problems, they more likely considering the period 2013-2014. Some analysts have even suggested that nine other EU members including Bulgaria or Romania – could overcome Hungary in the adoption of the euro.

Hungary (tripadvisor.com)

Administrative divisions: Hungary is divided into 19 counties (megye) and in the capital Budapest. There are 23 municipalities (Megyei jogú varos): Békéscsaba, Debrecen, Dunaújváros, Eger, Érd, Győr, Hódmezővásárhely, Kaposvár, Kecskemét, Miskolc, Nagykanizsa, Nyíregyháza, Pécs, Salgótarján, Sopron, Szeged, Székesfehérvár, Szekszárd, Szolnok, Szombathely, Tatabánya, Veszprém and Zalaegerszeg. Main Cities: Major cities outside the capital Budapest are: Debrecen, Miskolc, Szeged, Pécs, Győr, Nyíregyháza, Székesfehérvár, Eger, Esztergom.

At the end of the nineteenth century, the Hungarians crossed the Carpathian passes to establish in the Central Danube Basin. There they founded an empire that lasted 1,000 years, today’s power over the territories of Hungary, Croatia, Slovakia, Romania, Ukraine and western parts of Serbia and Austria. At this time, were devastated by the Mongols in the thirteenth century, and have endured 150 years of Ottoman rule in the centuries XVI and XVII. Although they were fighters, luck did not smile much in wars; in fact, they have not won any. From the national point of view, Hungary is somewhat claustrophobic. It is a serious truncated state, if we think of territories formerly under its dominion. These detached from Hungary as a result of military defeats, are still inhabited by Hungarians; in Romania live two million Hungarians and in Slovakia and Serbia another million.

Culture, values, and leadership style and status concepts: During the old aristocracy, the Hungarians have often been led astray. Lack of evidence of military victories and political victories led the Hungarians to adopt a cynical attitude towards any kind of leadership. Soviet regime did nothing change that attitude. A nation of individualists, the Hungarians from the successes gained prestige in the intellectual, artistic and scientific support that benefit. Teachers, poets, artists, film and theater directors, composers, etc. enjoy great respect, although not as far paid. Space and time: From a personal point of view, the Hungarians “stay close” to each other. Physical contact is frequent, and shaking the hand binding. Budapest is crowded and is common enough that several generations of the same family live under one roof. Buses and trains are crowded. Hungarians are quite punctual at meetings, but completely lose track of time when involved in a discussion which is animates.

Hungary Peace Rally (kkmull.wordpress.com)

In this regard, they have a very similar behavior to that of the Latin people, behavior and activities while being conditioned by the psychological requirements of the meeting. The art of conversation can not be planned for further meetings are scheduled for not strictly overlap with others or simply be canceled. Cultural factors of communication and communication patterns of language use: discussion with the Hungarians can be very misleading. They hold large reserves of charm and charisma and leave the impression of being unflappable. Businesses are invariably preceded by a discussion of adjustment. They look really conversation as an art form; there are some talented storytellers, they do not lack humor. Anglo-Saxons and Norse will soon begin to wander away. As you build an argument, the Hungarians gradually renounce reason in favor of emotion and logic in favor of rhetoric.

Fluidity equates with intelligence, and the Hungarians, it is known, are great masters of words, often hiding what they actually say. The exaggeration and emphasis filter discussion placed with refinement. However, they can quickly switch from their natural temper to criticism. It is perfectly good to complain. Pessimism and melancholy, unexpectedly introduced, can be distracting. The discussions are usually dominated by male representatives. Compliance row is a problem, and they have a tendency to talk all at once. Choose carefully your entry point into the discussion. Type of listeners: listening habits of Hungarians are quite complex and require various ingredients to spark their interest. Conduct meetings and negotiations: when there are in meetings with representatives of several powerful states, the Hungarian national honor their initial concern.

They have to be taken easily and should not be speaking up. They are pretty sensitive about it, but soon relax once established social status. However, meetings not far from relaxed in terms of style and length negotiation. Meetings are rarely quiet and tidy and the agenda does not comply. Hungarians are often capricious and raise all sorts of problems without offering solutions; they seem to expect the other side has come up with proposals. The negotiation process is usually long-lasting and popular. From the perspective of Northern people they constantly exaggerate the analysis. Often pessimistic, they will sprinkle pessimism with optimistic forecasts about the businesses to be closed. Avoid saying no, but often do not give a direct response to questions. Really need to read between the lines.

Austro-Hungary Colonnade (old-picture.com)

Businesses must be dealt face to face, because only in this way you establish a relationship based on trust. Hungarians often fail to keep promises, but improves with skill, although often falls into apathy verbal energy physics. They always have to guard their back. Filled with great intentions, they are weak in chapter of responsibility and even weaker in terms of making things happen. Manners and taboos: Hungarians are revelers, prefer wine rather than beer, like foods high in cholesterol and attending traditional cafes, the endless discussions and bitter-sweet Turkish coffee you thinking of going back to Ottoman occupation. In Hungary, the meetings are very personal in nature, predominantly squeezing hands, eye contact and many highly confident. Women in business although sometimes observed, are idealized in the way outdated. Kissing the hand is common; women and men go to the left (as a sword to defend them). Men before women enter the theater, cinema and visits, but in harsh environments, like bars, restaurants or cafes, go after them. In conversation, Hungarians use the third person and you have four shapes, with different degrees of politeness.

How to get along with Hungarians: First of all, be familiar with Hungarian history and its contributions to the world, especially in science and music. Listen to their complaints and problems, but do not start with your own. Manifest understanding of the telecommunications and transportation problems that occur every day. Follow their example of patience. Hungarians are impressed by the offices, cars, fancy clothes and display their wealth. For them, quality clothes are an essential and should strive to present you faultless before them. This, plus the knowledge of Hungarian and a nimble and flexible mind are some advantages when treated with the Hungarians. Most Hungarians that are in influential positions are very well educated and show respect for an academic track record, rich and intelligent discussion over on their magnificent history. Always refer to Hungary as part of Central Europe rather than Eastern Europe. Avoid talking about ethnic minorities such as Jews, Gypsies, Romanians or others if you are not well documented. Sense of humor is essential.

Hungary is well above the expectations of someone who knows Eastern Europe ties with the West that were made long before other neighboring countries. Therefore, hospitality, refined comfort food and accommodation have always been developed in this region. Despite the turbulent history of the population, this country has values that attract visitors from distant lands. There are, after Iceland‘s largest reserves of thermal springs in the world, hundreds of springs of healing waters erupted from depths are unique in Europe and contribute annually to restore health to many thousands of people. In Hungary you can visit one of the most beautiful European capitals, Budapest, where ancient traditions and modernity are intertwined with the tumultuous history, you can take a peek at some of the most famous vineyards in Europe, Eger and Tokaj, to taste wines recognized in the world, can go to Lake Balaton, or the country’s numerous spas for relaxing vacations, or you can enjoy delicious dishes of one of the best chefs in the world.

Curiosities: Lake Balaton is the largest lake in Central Europe and second largest in Europe. The area is 592 km² with a length of 79 km. Danube River divides Budapest into two, with the 2850 km and is the second longest river in Europe after the Volga. Lake of Hévíz is the largest natural thermal lake, biologically active in the world, with the springs at a depth of 38 m wide and is sufficient to allow water to refresh every 48 hours. Roman Military Amphitheatre at Óbuda (the old city of Buda) is much roomier than the Colosseum in Rome. Budapest Metro was put into operation in 1986, the first subway on the continent, second after the one in London. Hungaroring, the largest stadium in Eastern Europe, is hosting the Formula 1 circuit, which takes place in August of each year. The circuit collects every edition, about two hundred thousand spectators. Sziget Music Festival is one of the largest in Europe, and the last edition was attended by 400,000 people.

Hungary is a country of plains, water, hills and of course, wine. From north to south and from east to west, Hungary offers lovely scenery, castles and palaces, beautiful and a great value, numerous hot springs with curative properties verified, around which were built baths and hotels, museums, and Hungarian wines to places such as Tokaji – “king of wines” were often rewarded. The Hungarian land is the second largest deposits – after Iceland – in thermal waters. Hungary is a land and a history of 1,100 years of living in the heart of Europe. Land typical Hungarian and cuisine and wines will know how to conquer the soft palate of any gourmet, art and monuments will know how to inspire awe and amazement, old customs and modern attractions will provide moments of relaxation and entertainment.

Regions of Interest: Balaton, Budapest surroundings; Hungarian Plain and Lake Tisza, Eger-Tokaj wine region, Pannonia. Budapest and surroundings: Hungarian capital is Budapest. It is situated on both banks of the Danube, resulting in the city consisting of two parts. In the east of the Danube is Pest, which occupies two thirds of the surface and on the west side is Buda, the remaining third of the city. Rivers of all sizes are scattered throughout the territory of Hungary as veins in the human body. If you like water, you will be attracted many routes from the calm waters of the rivers up fast, from small streams to large ones. In size, Danube is the second largest in Europe and ranks first in Hungary, where goes through more than four hundred miles before exiting the country. Tourism is a form of aquatic life in Hungary. Water, sun, fresh air, a harmonious form of motion, camping and camp fires are part of the magic of this lifestyle.

Holidays: January 1 – New Year, March 15 – National Holiday, Religious Holidays – Easter – Monday, Pentecost – Monday, May 1 – Labor Day, 20 August – Constitution Celebration, October 23 – Republic Day, 25 to 26 December – Christmas. Transportation:
Train: Budapest is a direct connection by rail to 25 European capitals and many cities. Coach and car: the country’s road network length exceeds 30,000 km and all regions of the country (about 3200) have a hard pavement. Highways are marked with the letter M, and national highways with the letter E. Airplane: The international airport is Budapest’s Ferihegy airport with two terminals. Malev is the official aviation company connecting Budapest with more than 40 cities around the world. 19 other companies besides Malev fly to Budapest from 48 cities in 32 countries.

Hungarian cuisine and drinks: culinary customs and culture, arteiculinare development, professionalism and enjoyment of food and drink offered reveal more about the Hungarian nation. Hungarian viticulture has a history of several centuries and Hungarian cuisine has a special character, mixing delicate oriental elements with elegant French and Italian cuisine. Paprika, onions, Mako, pepper to taste the world’s richest, goulash, goose liver, brandy, and bull’s blood more than a thousand varieties of wine from 22 regions are indeed Hungarian. Tourism in Hungary focuses on natural landscapes and rich history of its heritage. Traversed by the Danube, Hungary has a varied landscape, including mountains of medium height, classic regions such as Lake Balaton and Tokaj wine region Hortobágy National Reserve, which is one of the most well preserved meadows of Europe. An important role in tourism in Hungary is the rural tourism, which highlights the traditions of centuries of well-preserved rural areas.11