Heartfelt story: Sri Lankan children receive gifts from Hungarian Santa
Tamás Smidt and his wife Zsuzsa have brought festive joy and cultural exchange to their adopted home in Sri Lanka, blending European traditions with local life. From launching a unique Santa Claus Day celebration to year-round acts of generosity, their efforts have created lasting connections and meaningful moments.
Overcoming cultural differences
Travelo writes that Tamás Smidt and his wife Zsuzsa embraced a new chapter in Sri Lanka over nine years ago, eventually launching a travel agency catering to Hungarians with cruises, exotic holidays, weddings, and retreats. In 2016, they introduced a unique Santa Claus Day tradition, blending European culture with local life by organising festive events to delight children and foster community spirit. Initially celebrated under the banana trees on 6 December, the couple later adapted to local customs by adding Christmas Day festivities too, resulting in two joyous celebrations each year. Their efforts reflect a heartfelt cultural exchange in Sri Lanka. Tamás says:
Since most of the population is Buddhist, they do not celebrate Christmas or Santa Claus. The small Christian population does, but they also only celebrate on 25 December according to the Anglo-Saxon system. Their most important day is 14 April, the first day of the Sinhalese and Tamil New Year. They also give each other presents. A nearby pearl fisherman told me that he had heard of Santa Claus with a big beard, but he never came to Sri Lanka. So we decided to bring him here and surprise the children in our village with a little something.
Santa in Sri Lanka
Tamás and Zsuzsa carefully prepared for their first Santa Claus Day in Sri Lanka by estimating the number of children expected, creating Sinhalese flyers with the help of a local friend, and buying gifts. On the big day, they set up in front of the village chief’s house, ready to bring festive joy. Despite challenges like sourcing a Santa suit suitable for Tamás’s 1.85 m height—creatively solved with Zsuzsa’s sewing skills—they focused on the essence of the tradition.
Their initial event included simple treats like fruit and sweets, but the true highlight was Santa Claus himself, or Nattalthaththa in Sinhalese, captivating children and curious elders alike. The tradition has since grown, with Sinhalese children eagerly embracing the novelty. They trustingly line up, smiling and craning their necks to glimpse the gifts being handed out, displaying a heartwarming openness.
Gifts from Hungary
Tamás and Zsuzsa have touched the lives of many in Sri Lanka through their acts of generosity, extending beyond their annual Santa Claus tradition. They have distributed gifts such as Sport bars, school supplies, and clothing, with contributions even coming from Hungarian guests. Their support continues year-round, as seen when Tamás helped a friend repair a flood-damaged home and offered financial assistance, which transformed the family’s living conditions. These heartfelt moments of giving back have become a cherished part of their life in Sri Lanka.
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PHOTOS: Michael Jackson’s daughter, Paris Jackson, got betrothed in Budapest!
The second child and only daughter of Michael Jackson, the King of Pop, got betrothed in what is probably Budapest’s most beautiful restaurant and café, the New York Palace. She has spent weeks here with her boyfriend, now fiancé, Justin Long, who is well-known to the public as a member of the band 5 Seconds of Summer.
Paris Jackson engaged in Budapest’s New York Café
Blikk, a Hungarian tabloid, wrote that Paris Jackson had been enjoying the amazing experience and exceptional beauties of the Hungarian capital for weeks. She shared multiple snaps on her social media accounts about her wonderful stay here with 5 Seconds of Summer band member Justin Long and her cute puppy.
The 26-year-old model, actress and singer stayed in two hotels in Budapest. Based on her Instagram posts, she lived in the Dorothea Hotel while later moved to the Corinthia Hotel. Both hotels are in the downtown. Dorothea is in the 5th district, the heart of the city, close to Vörösmarty Square, where one of the most popular Budapest Christmas fairs is, and also close to Váci Street, the main shopping avenue of the Hungarian capital.
New York Café celebrates its 130th birthday
Justin seemed to have a much more serious intention when coming to Budapest than just embracing the vivid vibes of the capital with his love. He proposed to Paris in the New York Café, an iconic Budapest place celebrating its 130th birthday in 2024. Check out what you should know about it in THIS article.
In Paris’s Instagram story about the engagement, you may find multiple photos, some showing the giant ring she received from her love. Paris and Justin were rumoured to have been dating since 2022.
The couple has not shared more details about their engagement yet.
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Budapest named the 5th most beautiful Christmas market in Europe
A new study for 2024, conducted by Solopress, has analysed Instagram hashtags and TikTok posts to reveal which markets can take the title of Europe’s most scenic this year. Budapest has been named the 5th most beautiful Christmas market in Europe. Here is the ranking:
Budapest is Europe’s fifth-most beautiful Christmas market, with 617 TikTok posts and 13,230 Instagram hashtags. Running from November 22nd to December 31st, 2024, visitors can enjoy the festive atmosphere in this stunning city. Set against the backdrop of St. Stephen’s Basilica, Budapest’s market is the perfect spot for capturing the holiday spirit.
Edinburgh is crowned the most beautiful Christmas market in Europe, with 2,738 TikTok posts and 55,304 Instagram hashtags. Running from November 15th, 2024, to January 4th, 2025, visitors planning a festive getaway have plenty of time to capture the perfect festive scenes at this Scottish gem!
London’s Winter Wonderland ranks as the second-most beautiful Christmas market in Europe, with 3,409 TikTok posts and 43,237 Instagram hashtags. Running from November 21st, 2024, until January 5th, 2025, visitors will soon be able to get their magical Christmas shots.
Further insight:
- Edinburgh also steals the crown as the most scenic Christmas market in the UK.
- Greenwich Christmas Market is named the best hidden gem Christmas market in the UK.
Read also:
- 5 breathtaking Hungarian Christmas markets beyond Budapest – read more HERE
- Top 5 Christmas markets in Budapest that will leave you breathless!
Snow covered Hungary, Budapest public transport changed, Budapest-Austria train line collapsed – PHOTOS, VIDEO
Extensive snowfall reached Hungary and Budapest in the last few hours. As a result, a thin, a couple of centimetres thick snow layer covers most of the country, including the urban areas. Concerning some bus lines in the capital, that means disruptions. The snowfall made passenger transport collapse on numerous train lines.
Budapest public transport changed in the hilly regions
According to idokep.hu, the snowfall caused some changes in the public transport system of Budapest. BKK says the changes concern bus lines nr 21, 212, 212B, 221, 212A, 21A, and 210, all of which commute in the hilly areas of West Buda.
PM Orbán’s first snowman:
Gergely Karácsony cleared in a previous Facebook post that the authorities follow a strict schedule concerning snow removal from the roads. In that regard, inferior roads in West Buda are at the end of their priority list, which is why snowfall usually results in changes there.
Less precipitation over the weekend, MÁV line collapsed
According to portfolio.hu, Storm Darragh, causing cancellations and delays due to strong winds in the Netherlands’ air traffic, changed course. Instead of arriving in the Carpathian Basin with intensive precipitation, it will swirl in the Alps region, slow down and a Mediterranean cyclone will be born Southwest of Hungary.
As a result, the amount of precipitation on Sunday will decrease, and extensive rains will only arrive next week.
Both Saturday and Sunday will be cold (1-7 and 3-9 degrees) and cloudy, and the Southern wind may become heavy. Rainfall will be rare these two days.
According to portfolio.hu, some suburban, InterCity and international trains commute with 20-40 or even 40-60 minutes delays. Based on MÁV, the problems concern the trains commuting on the Budapest-Győr-Hegyeshalom-Vienna line.
Here are some more photos of this afternoon’s snowfall:
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BREAKING: Budapest flights cancelled due to horrible weather!
Because of Storm Darragh, the Dutch Schiphol Airport cancelled hundreds of flights, including some coming to or arriving from Budapest Airport.
According to Reuters, the flights were cancelled due to the heavy winds at Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam. Schiphol is one of Europe’s air travel hubs. Thus, problems at the airport have consequences for the entire continent. Additional flights have been delayed, some up to an hour.
“Due to strong winds caused by storm Darragh, fewer flights are expected to take off and land Friday, 6 December,” Schiphol (SCHP.UL) said.
According to the Hungarian News Agency, wind speed can reach 120 km/h but is and will be above 75 km/h everywhere in the Netherlands.
Santa Claus visited Budapest Airport
Santa Claus visited Budapest Airport today and surprised the visitors of Terminal 2 with small gifts. “Both young and old greeted him with sparkling eyes, and smiles on their faces, and now the snow is falling in large flakes; he brought it with him in his bag. Miracles do happen”, Budapest Airport wrote in a Facebook post. Here are some photos:
New cargo flight between Budapest and Hongkong
According to airportal.hu, the Huixin Aviation Service (HXAS) cargo flight will commute thrice a week between Hongkong and Budapest, serving companies with a Boeing 767-300ER (BDSF) type plane. Planes land in Almaty (Kazakhstan) for a technical stop. The first cargo plane landed at Budapest Airport on 4 December with 52 tonnes of cargo on board:
Read also:
- Extremely popular Wizz Air pass is back – Unlimited flights for a year!
- Good news: Santa brought a new flight to Budapest, another may follow
Good news: Santa brought a new flight to Budapest, another may follow
Vueling, a member of the renowned IAG Group, returned to Budapest with a seasonal flight commuting between the most populous Basque city and Budapest Airport. If demand is sufficient, they may keep the flight in their summer schedule and expand their Budapest network with another city in Spain.
New flight to Budapest from Bilbao
Yesterday, Budapest Airport was happy to announce the arrival of the first Vueling flight from Bilbao, the largest city of Basque Country, an autonomous region of Spain. They wrote that from December to 1 January, a total of 6 flights will operate between Bilbao and Budapest, offering a chance to discover Basque culture and gastronomy.
Budapest Airport recommends all tourists visit the Guggenheim Museum, the old town, Casco Viejo and the famous pintxos bars in the Basque city. If you are in Bilbao, do not forget to tell your Basque friends about Lipót Hertzka, a Hungarian football trainer who trained Athletic Bilbao between 1926 and 1928.
“Bilbao is a true gem, where modern art meets historic architecture and a new culinary experience awaits around every corner”, Budapest Airport concludes.
Vueling may launch a new flight to Barcelona from Budapest
According to Budflyer, a Hungarian air travel-focused Facebook page, another route may follow the opening of the Bilbao-Budapest flight. Vueling may keep the flight in its summer schedule if demand is high enough and may open a new flight to Barcelona in 2025. According to airportal.hu, the low-cost airline belonging to the IAG Group connected Budapest with Barcelona and Rome.
International Consolidated Airlines Group S.A., trading as International Airlines Group and usually shortened to IAG, is a British-Spanish multinational airline holding company with its registered office in Madrid, Spain, and its corporate headquarters in London, England. It was formed in January 2011 after a merger agreement between British Airways and Iberia, the flag carriers of the United Kingdom and Spain respectively, when British Airways and Iberia became wholly owned subsidiaries of IAG.
Since its creation, IAG has expanded its portfolio of operations and brands by purchasing other airlines – BMI (2011), Vueling (2012) and Aer Lingus (2015). The Group also owns the Level brand and Avios, the IAG rewards programme.
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- Extremely popular Wizz Air pass is back – Unlimited flights for a year, read more about the offer HERE
- Going home for Christmas? Budapest to increase airport shuttle bus frequency
VIDEO: Large roaming brown bear seen in Hungary
In the 20th century, nobody could encounter bears in Hungary because there were none due to their low population in the surrounding countries. The situation changed in the last few years and brown bear spottings have become frequent. Some experts believe that Hungary already hosts a bear community able to reproduce, others still think bears only roam to Hungary but leave the country and return to Slovakia or Ukraine. Nevertheless, the number of footage showing bears in Hungary is increasing. Here is the newest.
Numerous brown bears roam in Hungary, some may even live here
According to Blikk, a Hungarian tabloid, the number of bear spottings from hikers has been increasing lately. Reports about bear encounters are rare but the signs of bear activity are growing. Therefore, the media outlet wrote that Hungary’s fauna is already enriched by our favourite furry animal.
The last time a bear spotting was reported was on 23 November in Lillafüred, a popular Hungarian tourist destination in the Bükk Mountains, near Lake Hámori. Later, the bear roamed to Felsőhámor and Újmassa and was caught on CCTV footage shared by WWF Hungary.
The recording was made in November but they only shared it now. They believe the bear is the same specimen they filmed in the summer.
Here is the August footage:
Mihály, the brown bear from Bükk, in a daylight video:
Do not try to run away from a bear!
According to turistamagazin.hu, it is impossible to tell exactly how many brown bears roam the Hungarian wilderness because they can walk huge distances spanning even tens of kilometres during one day. All hikers should be aware that bears are the most active in the May-June period because that is the mating period of the species.
Moreover, the portal wrote that people should never try to run away from bears if the animal notices them because the animal can run faster than humans. You’d better not look into his eyes, not turn your back to him and not try to scare him away. Instead of doing something hasty or foolish, you should wait until the bear decides to walk away.
The number of bear spottings is the highest in the Bükk, Mátra and Börzsöny mountains in Northern Hungary.
Henrik Orbán, a secretary of the Hunters’ Chamber of Győr-Moson-Sopron County, told Magyar Nemzet that cohabitation with bears is impossible in Hungary because of the country’s high population density. Therefore, Hungary is unable to sustain a bear population that can reproduce. However, there is no plan to regulate the number of bears in Hungary. Currently, the brown bear is a highly protected species.
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Extremely popular Wizz Air pass is back – Unlimited flights for a year!
Wizz Air has reintroduced its highly sought-after “All You Can Fly” pass after the initial launch in August sold out within 48 hours. For EUR 599, the pass offers travellers unlimited access to nearly 800 flights across the airline’s extensive network of 50 countries and almost 200 destinations for a year.
Wizz Air’s popular All You Can Fly pass is back
The Wizz “All You Can Fly” pass is once again available in limited quantities via the airline’s website. The annual membership allows travellers to book flights for a fixed EUR 9.99 fee per journey, excluding baggage and seat selection costs. Passholders can book flights up to 72 hours before departure and enjoy a free first flight as part of their membership, Turizmus.com writes.
Since its launch, over 90% of users have successfully secured seats on their preferred flights, with popular destinations including Budapest, Abu Dhabi, London, Rome, and Bucharest. On average, members have flown two to three times since joining, with some taking up to 38 trips.
The pass not only provides flexible travel opportunities but also helps optimise Wizz’s flight occupancy by filling seats closer to departure. While membership doesn’t guarantee availability on all routes, it is ideal for frequent flyers seeking spontaneous travel options.
Wizz Air is the only European airline to offer such a program, further enhancing its appeal to adventurous travellers looking to explore its extensive route network while saving on ticket costs.
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BREAKING – Second scandal: Government-aligned Budapest priest suspended amid child abuse allegations
The Archdiocese of Esztergom-Budapest, led by Cardinal Péter Erdő, has announced that well-known priest András Pajor has been barred from all clerical activities following serious allegations. This marks the second high-profile case involving church figures with close ties to the government in recent weeks.
In its statement, the Archdiocese explained that a complaint had been filed with its Child and Youth Protection Service, leading to a preliminary investigation. Pending its outcome, Pajor was suspended and later requested to be relieved of his duties due to his age and health. According to Válasz Online’s report, he has since been retired, although the investigation and restrictions remain in place. Additionally, the matter has been reported to the police.
Known for his political allegiances: Fidesz, Russia
András Pajor, a parish priest from Zugló, has been a controversial figure in Hungary, openly campaigning for Fidesz, criticizing opposition parties, and promoting anti-migrant and pro-Putin conspiracy theories. Last year, he received the Knight’s Cross of the Hungarian Order of Merit for his contributions to Christian culture and youth education, an award proposed by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and presented by President Katalin Novák.
Reports from Válasz Online indicate that multiple victims came forward after hearing a podcast by a Catholic child protection advocate, Benedictine friar Benedek Dobszay. One victim noted, “In the past, we buried this issue within ourselves, feeling it was hopeless to seek action against Father Pajor. This time, however, we saw immediate and thorough measures, including detailed witness interviews.”
Disturbing allegations against the priest
Victims have described systematic abuse of power and authority by Pajor, often targeting altar boys. Allegations include invasive “tick checks” requiring boys as young as eight to undress fully and submit to physical inspections (which included touching the young boys’ private parts), which reportedly continued into their teenage years. Pajor allegedly also performed full-body massages on selected boys and subjected them to questionable “therapies” like quartz lamp treatments.
Witnesses emphasised that the abuse was not limited to isolated incidents, with multiple individuals providing testimony to church investigators. When approached, the priest declined to comment on the allegations.
Broader context
This case follows recent revelations of abuse within the Kalocsa Archdiocese. The Hungarian Catholic Bishops’ Conference issued a statement expressing “sympathy and sorrow” for victims of clerical abuse but avoided issuing an apology or acknowledging systemic issues. Critics argue that Hungary’s Catholic Church has historically underreported cases of abuse, with investigative outlets like 444 documenting numerous cases over the past 25 years.
While many remain shocked by these recent allegations, they underscore the persistent relevance of addressing clerical abuse in Hungary. Observers note that the swift action in Pajor’s case contrasts with the church’s historically opaque handling of such matters, potentially signaling a shift in its approach.
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Faster train connections between Budapest and Vienna with major railway upgrade
By the end of 2024, a major upgrade on Hungary’s busiest railway line between Budapest and Hegyeshalom will be completed, promising faster and more reliable travel for both domestic and international passengers. The project includes state-of-the-art traffic management systems, improved passenger information, and reduced travel times, significantly benefiting connections between Budapest, Győr, and Vienna.
Faster connection between Budapest and Vienna
The Budapest–Hegyeshalom railway, Hungary’s most critical line for passenger and freight transport, is undergoing a transformative upgrade set to be completed by the end of 2024, Magyar Nemzet reports. The EUR 70 million project, supported by the European Union and the Hungarian government, aims to eliminate bottlenecks, enhance rail interoperability, and align with EU transport standards.
One of the key outcomes of the project is improved connectivity between Budapest and Vienna,
with the introduction of 16 daily train pairs expected to run with shorter travel times.
Enhanced traffic control systems, including the replacement of outdated equipment with the latest Central Traffic Management (Központi Forgalomirányító berendezés, Köfi) systems, will ensure greater reliability and punctuality across the line. Additionally, passenger information systems will be centralised, providing clearer and more consistent updates.
The upgrade also includes critical infrastructure improvements such as track replacements, modernisation of signalling systems, and the integration of advanced train control technology (ETCS L1–L2), allowing trains to travel through the Hegyeshalom border station at speeds of up to 100 km/h without stopping.
While Hungary’s upgrades are nearing completion, the full benefit for international travellers will materialise once Austria completes its own line renovation by 2028. This project not only strengthens Budapest–Vienna links but also enhances suburban and regional rail services, particularly for commuters in and around Győr. With this modernisation, travellers can look forward to a faster and more convenient rail experience in Central Europe.
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Discover the magic of the season: 8 Santa experiences to enjoy in Budapest
Santa (Mikulás) is coming to Hungary, bringing festive cheer with a host of magical events in Budapest. From train rides and winter wonderlands to secret rooms and special performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this holiday season.
Santa Party on Fashion Street
Femina collected 8 Santa experiences you can enjoy with your little ones. Fashion Street will host its grand annual Santa Claus Day celebration on 6 December at 6 pm, welcoming everyone to enjoy a magical evening in the city centre. The event will feature enchanting Christmas lights, Lindt surprises, magic shows, and a winter LEGO wonderland. Performances by Levente Harsányi and Reni Tolvai will set the mood before the grand arrival of the Fashion Street Santa. Staying true to its tradition of giving, Fashion Street, in collaboration with Pappas Auto and the Csodalámpa Foundation, will fulfil the wishes of two children battling illness, who will join Santa to illuminate the lights.
Santa trolley
Budapest‘s festive Light Fleet began its journey on 2 December, and from 5 December, the beloved Santa Claus Trolley will return, offering children and adults the chance to meet Santa himself. Running until 17 December, Santa and his helper will welcome passengers each afternoon on routes 72, 75, 76, 77, 80, and 82. Continuing its tradition of giving, BKK and BKV will collect shoebox gift packages during the event and deliver them to the Baptist Charity Service to brighten the holidays for children in need.
Santa event at Savoya Park
On 5 December, Santa Claus and his Elf will make a grand entrance to Savoya Park aboard a decorated fire engine, bringing festive cheer and a gift-giving ceremony. Children who share their good deeds with Santa will receive surprises. The event kicks off with a performance by the choir from Széchenyi István Secondary School in Újbuda, followed by Santa greeting children with gifts and goodies from 5 to 7 pm. Be sure to arrive early to enjoy the festivities!
Train ride with Santa
The Children’s Railway continues its festive tradition with decorated carriages and a special Santa Claus train in Hűvösvölgy on 6–8 December 2024. Santa and his helpers, including the Krampus, will greet children with carols, games, and small gifts, offering a chance to meet Santa in person. Tickets for the one-way journey (Hűvösvölgy–Szépjuhászné–Hűvösvölgy) must be purchased in advance, with boarding and drop-off exclusively at Hűvösvölgy station and reservations made upon arrival.
Town Hall Park
Santa Claus will visit the Town Hall Winter Experience Park on 6 December 2024 at 4 pm, offering children a chance to meet, chat, and take photos with him. The park, transformed into a winter fairytale kingdom, features an ice rink, a festive atmosphere, and delicious food and hot drinks, making it a must-visit destination in the heart of the city.
Santa Express
The popular Santa Claus Express returns this Advent season, inviting families to meet Santa in his new vehicle. Hosted at the Railway History Park on 7 and 8 December, the event features concerts by Alma and Apacuka, magic shows, face painting, children’s films, all-day games, and a Santa gift pack included with entry.
Santa’s secret room
Campona will become a Christmas fairytale house on the weekends leading up to Christmas, offering festive surprises from 10 am to 5 pm. Visitors who follow the magic can discover Santa’s secret room, where children can share their wishes with Santa and leave with a free printed photo to remember the special moment.
Finnish Santa in Hungary
The Finnish Santa, Joulupukki, will visit Hungary again this year between 1 and 8 December. More details HERE.
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Budapest: Europe’s hidden gem ranks among top party cities
When it comes to unforgettable nightlife, Budapest has carved its place among the elite. Recently ranked as one of the top five 24-hour cities in Europe by Mattress Next Day, Hungary’s capital proves it’s more than just a historic destination—it’s a vibrant playground for party lovers.
Budapest’s nightlife scene shines bright
Landing in the fifth spot on Mattress Next Day’s ranking, the Hungarian capital outranked iconic destinations like Paris and Lisbon, making it a must-visit for night owls. With over 50,000 Google searches for local parties each month, the city’s reputation for nightlife continues to grow. Budapest offers 33 diverse clubs, ranging from ruin bars in the Jewish Quarter to riverside venues with breathtaking views of the Danube.
But it’s not just about partying. The capital also caters to foodies, with nearly two-thirds of its restaurants boasting high TripAdvisor ratings. Start your evening with a gourmet dinner, then hit the town for an unforgettable night.
What sets Budapest apart?
Unlike many bustling European cities, the Hungarian capital combines affordability and accessibility. Public transport operates late into the night, making it easy to hop between venues without breaking the bank. Pair this convenience with the city’s rich cultural backdrop, and Budapest becomes an irresistible mix of fun and history.
Whether you’re exploring the legendary Szimpla Kert or dancing the night away on a party boat, Budapest offers something for everyone. And with its balance of exciting nightlife and cosy retreats, it’s the perfect destination for travellers seeking a lively yet charming experience.
A city worth losing sleep over
While the hustle and bustle of the Hungarian capital’s nightlife might not make it the easiest city for light sleepers, it’s a small price to pay for the experience. If you’re planning a trip to Europe and want to mix history with a thriving party culture, Budapest should be at the top of your list.
Pack your dancing shoes and prepare for a night—or several—that you won’t forget. Budapest isn’t just the pearl of the Danube; it’s Europe’s hidden gem for nightlife lovers.
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Winter magic: Ice skating rink opens at iconic Buda Castle
Starting on 5 December, a picturesque ice skating rink at the Savoyai Terrace in the Buda Castle will welcome visitors to enjoy breathtaking views of Budapest. This scenic winter attraction promises not only skating but also a magical atmosphere with colourful programs for families, friends, and couples alike.
Ice skating rink at Buda Castle
A charming outdoor ice skating rink will open on 5 December at the Savoyai Terrace in the Buda Castle. Nestled among the castle’s hills, the rink offers stunning panoramic views of Budapest, making it an ideal destination for families, friends, and couples seeking a romantic outing.
The rink, called the Savoyai Ice Terrace, is described as one of Budapest’s most scenic skating spots, Turizmus Online writes. According to its operators, visitors can look forward not only to skating but also to a magical winter experience with various colourful programs designed to create unforgettable memories.
Important information:
- Skating rink entrance fee: HUF 3,500 (EUR 8.45)
- Skate rental: HUF 2,000 (EUR 4.85)
- Opening hours: every day between 12:00-22:00
- Where? Savoyai Terrace (In Buda Castle next to the entrance of the Hungarian National Gallery)
Read also:
- Great news: The most astonishing ice rinks in Hungary will open soon! – PHOTOS
- Budapest’s City Park Ice Rink to open soon: Exciting events await this season!
Featured image: depositphotos.com
Hungary requests US exemption for Russian Gazprombank sanctions to secure gas payments
The Hungarian government has requested that United States authorities exempt Russia’s Gazprombank from sanctions to allow countries in the region to pay for their gas deliveries, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó said in Brussels on Wednesday.
Fielding questions from journalists after a meeting of NATO foreign ministers, Szijjártó said that the United States’ chief diplomat had signalled a willingness for some form of consultations with allies on the sanctions affecting Gazprombank.
“It would have been better if this had happened before…but that’s how things turned out,” he added.
Szijjártó said the new sanctions on Gazprombank could cause serious difficulties for Hungary and two other NATO members, as well as for Serbia, as any stoppage in imports of Russian gas would threaten the security of their energy supplies.
“I have indicated to the American secretary of state that this is the kind of measure that could cause trouble for allies,” he added.
Szijjártó said the government had submitted a request to the relevant US authority on Tuesday asking for an exemption from the sanctions in the case of payments for gas deliveries. Such an exemption would not be without precedent, he added, noting that a number of Russian banks, mainly ones involved with the trade of Russian uranium, had received similar exemptions.
Szijjártó said he had consulted on the matter by phone with the energy ministers of Serbia, Slovakia and Türkiye, with whom coordinated steps would be taken.
Hungary ensures one-third of Ukraine’s imports of electricity and will continue to do so in future, too, he added.
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Hungarian opposition calls on Pope Francis to address child sexual abuse cases in Hungary’s Catholic Church
The Democratic Coalition (DK) has asked Pope Francis to ensure that the Catholic Church in Hungary uncovers sex crimes committed against children and names the perpetrators.
Noting the prime minister’s Wednesday meeting with the pontiff, Ágnes Vadai, the party’s deputy group leader, told an online press briefing the number of cases of “Catholic priests … using the Bible as cover to rape children” was as yet unknown, and she noted that DK’s proposal to set up a relevant parliamentary investigative committee comprising civilians and church figures had been rejected.
She said her party insisted that everyone was under obligation to report sexual abuse against children.
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Hungarian man violates sanctions against Russia, receives fine
A man from Sándorfalva (close to Szeged) was fined for attempting to import car parts worth HUF 35 million (EUR 84.5 thousand) from Russia in violation of EU sanctions imposed due to the war in Ukraine. The accused, who tried to conceal the Russian origin of the goods by involving a Belarusian company, admitted his guilt and reached a settlement with prosecutors. He was fined HUF 1 million (EUR 2,400), ordered to pay additional legal costs, and had the parts confiscated.
A man from the Szeged region faced charges on Wednesday for violating sanctions imposed on Russia, after he attempted to clear a shipment of car parts worth HUF 35 million, originating from Russia, through customs in October 2022. The parts were intended for free circulation, which would have allowed them to be sold and used in Hungary, Szegeder reported.
Hungarian man tried to bypass sanctions
The accused, identified as M. M., tried to conceal the Russian origin of the goods by introducing a Belarusian company into the supply chain. This act violated EU sanctions against Russia, which were enacted due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. These sanctions, as per the 833/2014/EU regulation, prohibit the purchase, import, or transfer of goods to the EU that could generate significant revenue for Russia, thereby enabling destabilising actions in Ukraine.
M. M., a seasoned trader with decades of experience in importing car parts from foreign companies to Hungary, had developed ties with various international businesses, facilitating the importation of goods from Russia. During the investigation, a settlement was reached between the defence and the prosecution. The prosecution suggested a fine of HUF 1 million, the confiscation of part of the evidence, and the payment of legal costs.
The defendant, acknowledging his guilt, agreed to the terms of the settlement. The Szeged Court approved the agreement, confirming the HUF 1 million fine, the confiscation of the car parts, and the payment of additional criminal costs amounting to approximately HUF 56,000 (EUR 135).
Read also:
- Hungarian minister: We are working with the Russians on a solution to avoid US sanctions 🔄
- POLITICO: The price MOL would accept to abandon Russian oil in Hungary
Featured image: depositphotos.com
A former policewoman is on police wanted list in Hungary for refusing military service
The case of Katalin Zsiga, a former policewoman wanted for refusing military service, has captured widespread attention due to its complexity. Listed on police.hu since late November, Zsiga previously accused colleagues of serious misconduct, including rape, claims that were dismissed by investigators.
Former policewoman on the wanted list
As Blikk reports, a former policewoman, Katalin Zsiga, is wanted by the Investigation Prosecutor’s Office of the Capital for refusing military service. The 32-year-old, listed on police.hu since 27 November, had previously accused colleagues of raping her and filming the act, allegations that were never proven. The case has sparked public interest, with some mistakenly contacting an unrelated woman whose phone number has been in use for 20 years. Frustrated by persistent calls, the woman threatened to report the harassment to the police, highlighting the controversy and confusion surrounding Zsiga’s case.
Sexual violence case
In 2021, former policewoman Katalin Zsiga alleged that two colleagues from the border service drugged, raped, and videotaped her at a boarding house, claiming the footage was shared in a Viber group. She reported the incident to her commanding officer but was instead sent to a psychiatric hospital. Following this, Zsiga went on leave but was later called back to duty, which she refused out of fear of encountering one of her alleged abusers. Her refusal was classified as a refusal of military service, a serious charge against her.
Zsiga also filed a complaint with the Regional Investigation Prosecutor’s Office in Szeged, accusing the two officers of aggravated sexual violence. However, the investigation concluded swiftly in February 2023, with authorities determining no crime had been committed.
Wanted for refusing military service
The case of former policewoman Katalin Zsiga, wanted for refusing military service, remains shrouded in mystery. When queried about the proceedings, the Central Investigating Prosecutor’s Office provided a guarded response, citing the presumption of innocence and legal protections around personal data. They stated that only limited details about their actions, such as decisions to initiate investigations or procedural steps, can be disclosed, leaving many questions unanswered.
No way to reach her
In December 2022, Zsiga was reportedly ordered to the Judicial Observation and Treatment Institute by the Military Council of the Metropolitan Court, though it is unclear if this was carried out. Attempts to contact her have been unsuccessful, as her Facebook profile is now unavailable, and she remains unreachable by phone. The silence surrounding her case continues to fuel speculation and interest.
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Pope Francis hosts PM Viktor Orbán at the Vatican
Pope Francis on Wednesday received Prime Minister Viktor Orbán in an audience at the Vatican.
A Vatican statement said that after the morning papal audience, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state, and Miroslaw Wachowski, its under-secretary for relations with states, received the prime minister.
It added that during the “cordial” secretariat-of-state meeting, it was agreed that relations were “solid and fruitful”, and appreciation was expressed for the Catholic Church’s commitment to promoting the development and well-being of Hungarian society.
In a video posted on Facebook after the audience, Orbán said “we must grasp the chances of peace”, adding the Pope’s prayers and the invaluable diplomatic experiences of the Vatican were both needed for that.
Orbán said that since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, the Vatican and Hungary had been the two countries that continued to believe in peace. “Peace now is within reach,” he said.
“While the world is preparing for Christmas, several European leaders are arguing for continuing the war and boosting its intensity,” Orbán said. “This is dangerous,” he said, adding that “we are living dangerous weeks when the war could spread further”.
“We must together hold back the world’s leaders from taking irreversible decisions; we need a ceasefire as soon as possible so that we can grab the chance for peace,” the prime minister said.
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