5+1 interesting and practical facts about Hungary you need to know
Change language:
Hungarian customs and traditions are probably googled a lot. In this article, we will give you something more useful. These facts are both interesting and practical. Some of them can even save you from trouble.
1. The language
Many people find Hungarian to be a beautiful language that cannot be compared to any other. The vocabulary is very rich, and many words have multiple meanings. But foreigners need not worry. THIS video contains enough information for them to get by using basic Hungarian for their travels. Of course, there are more videos, but this one is more than enough.
2. Last name comes first
In Hungary, the surname comes first, followed by the first name, then the middle name. So, for example, Ed Sheeran’s name in Hungarian would be Sheeran Edward Christopher, instead of Edward Christopher Sheeran. I hope my explanation is relatively easy to understand.
3. Taxi
In Budapest especially, foreigners must be careful with freelance taxi drivers. Almost all of them scam tourists by taking them on the longest routes or asking for more money than what the actual ride would normally cost. It is very much advised to call companies for a taxi. Another thing to know is that taxis can be ordered for a person specifically, and before taking your seat in the car, drivers will ask your name to make sure you called the taxi. So, in some cases, taxis are not operating on a first-come, first-served basis. Do not be furious if someone “takes your taxi” right in front of you. However, you can ask the driver if they are free. Another great thing is that taxi companies send you a text message with the car’s information. If you are super cautious, you can screenshot the message and send it to a friend or family member.
The name thing is patently ridiculous, a hangover from long ago and should be scrapped. I have to add a number to my address book so that I know who is who, even in my family ie. Gyula1, Gyula 2, Gyula3, Zsolt1, Zsolt 2 etc . I have lost count of many girls / women are called Lili (a name that went out of fashion in the Anglosphere in the 1920’s). Time for this silly rule to be scrapped and give people FREEDOM to choose names they want to give to their children.