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Hungary
Hungary is a landlocked country in central Europe. The Danube River bisects its capital, Budapest. Amongst the cityscape are a plethora of architectural landmarks from Buda’s grand neoclassical buildings and medieval Castle Hill and grand neoclassical buildings along Pest’s Andrássy Avenue, to the 19th century Chain Bridge. Turkish and Roman influence on Hungarian culture also introduced mineral spas, including at thermal Lake Hévíz.
Despite its small size, Hungary boasts eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The panorama of Budapest along the Danube, the world-famous wine region where the famous Hungarian dessert wine Tokaji Aszú is grown, the Millenary Benedictine Abbey, the endless plains of Hortobágy with centuries of shepherding traditions, the early Christian Necropolis, and finally the Aggtelek karst are all heritage ambassadors for Hungary.
Budapest is a bustling, metropolitan city where life never stops. Situated on the bank of the Danube, the Palace of Arts (Müpa) often stages English speaking performances. This institute offers a wide range of classical and popular music concerts, theatrical, dance art and contemporary circus performances. It is the home of the Ludwig Museum of Contemporary Art and the Franz Liszt Academy of Music. The famous Hungarian composer had contributed to the establishment of the Academy, now in place for over 140 years. There are so many reasons to visit Hungary, so come and enjoy the rich tapestry of history and culture.
Upcoming Departures
Visa:
UK: Not required for a stay of up to 3 months in duration.
USA: Not required for a stay of up to 90 days in duration
Currency:
Hungarian Forint.
Packing advice:
In the summer, wear light cotton clothes, t-shirts, shorts, and sandals. Although, if you are planning to visit the cities and towns, you may want to bring comfortable walking shoes. Pack sunglasses, a sun visor or hat, and sunscreen for the sunnier days. In winter, it's wise to dress up warm as temperatures can drop fairly low.
Cultural differences:
Hungarians make up the majority of the population although there are some minority groups, including Roma and Germans, which are the largest of these. Christianity is the predominant religion, but Hungary also has a significant Jewish population. Hungarians are usually friendly people who enjoy socialising. They love sharing their country and culture with visitors. Hungarians greet each other with handshakes. Eye contact is important and should be maintained during handshakes. Avoiding eye contact may be interpreted as being evasive or having something to hide. When greeting a woman, men should wait for her to initiate the handshake. Meanwhile, close friends may sometimes greet each other with a kiss on both cheeks.
Language:
Hungarian.
Tipping:
The practice of tipping is much more common in Hungary than its neighbouring countries, such as the Czech Republic and Slovakia. Giving gratuities is never mandatory, but there are some circumstances where it is expected. At restaurants and bars first check if service is already included in your bill, since most restaurants include a 12.5% service charge. If it’s not, the standard is to tip 10-15% for good service. Also, do not leave change on the table because it is considered rude. Tips should always be given directly to the waiter. Andante Travels will take care of gratuities to restaurant staff, local guides and drivers.
