Funny Do’s and Don’ts in a Hungarian Thermal Bath

A relaxing soak in a Hungarian thermal bath is a quintessential experience during the colder months.The therapeutic waters invite an international crowd from all over the globe. It’s the perfect place to unwind and let loose. However, some visitors tend to take it quite literally. Here are our top 5 tips for first-timers who want to avoid any awkward faux pas when visiting a Hungarian Thermal Bath. Come to warm yourself up in one of Budapest’s great mineral springs!

Hungarian thermal baths are architectural wonders and are must-visit attractions for everyone. Over the centuries, the therapeutic baths have washed a pool of different nations from the Celts and the Romans to the Ottoman Turks. During the communist era, the steamy bathhouses often operated as covert meeting points. Spies and secret agents often frequented these wellness spots to exchange confidential information. The loud gushing of water masked all the murmured political discussions while the steam rising off the hot pools provided the perfect coverage. Now, you could conclude that whatever happens in the steam, stays in the seam. Though we suggest you hold back a little. 

Keep the conversation light 

It’s absolutely alright to engage in a light-hearted conversation with a stranger next to you while soaking up the therapeutic properties of the waters. Even when there is a language barrier, people are usually flattered by your interest and curious to talk to you. However, basic politeness goes a long way in every Hungarian thermal bath.

Even if you feel particularly chatty that day, avoid disturbing your fellow bathers with the following topics: politics, religion, the lengthy medical history of your arthritis, or lame and outdated pick-up lines.

Instead, stay on the safe side and choose your icebreaker wisely! Weather and water temperature discussions are always safe bets. 

Avoid too much PDA 

Outdoor pools are charming both day and night but they take on an entirely different vibe after dark. When the crowd begins to thin and the lights twinkle with a romantic glow, it’s not just the open-air pool that tends to get steamy. 

The thick mist lingering above the Hungarian thermal baths creates a feeling of privacy. Plus,  you can barely see farther than your nose. Whetever amorous thoughts this evokes in you, just nip them in the bud.

You don’t want to accidentally cause a Hungarian grandma paddling nearby to have a heart attack.

Nor do you wish to get caught by the lifeguard in a compromised position with your sweetheart. The same rule of thumb goes to the changing cabins.

Hygiene & politeness

You should always think twice about what kind of souvenir you want to bring home from your visit to a Hungarian thermal bath. Don’t forget to take your flip-flops and always rinse your feet before entering the pool.