PHOTOS: Malaysia celebrated National Day, diplomatic ties with Hungary and 2025 ASEAN chairmanship in Budapest
An Official Diplomatic Reception on the occasion of the 67th National Day / 61st Malaysia Day and in commemoration of the 55th Anniversary of the Establishment of Malaysia-Hungary Diplomatic Relations, as well as in promotion of Malaysia’s 2025 ASEAN Chairmanship was held at the Budapest Marriott Hotel on the 12 September 2024.
About 200 officials & guests from the Hungarian central and local government agencies, ambassadors and members of the Diplomatic Corps, NGOs and think-tanks, business people and members of the media attended the reception.
The Ambassador of Malaysia to Hungary, Francisco Munis, in his address underscored Malaysia’s achievement and journey as a progressive nation, the Malaysian-Hungarian long friendship and active relations, as well as Malaysia’s readiness as the 2025 Chair of ASEAN.
The Ambassador highlighted that the journey of Malaysia and Malaysians has indeed been colourful. Malaysia progressed as a nation, weathering the different eras of challenges and development, a journey made possible with Malaysia’s national unity that stems from the progressive and harmonious people of Malaysia.
Malaysia and Hungary: cordial and warm relations
Internationally, Malaysia’s foreign policy which is founded on the values of peace, humanity, justice, and equality with the thrust to contribute meaningfully towards a just and equitable community of nations, has allowed Malaysia to be a friendly country that is able to play role and contribute towards international peace, stability and prosperity. In the context of Malaysia-Hungary relations, the Ambassador stated that since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1969, Malaysia and Hungary have nurtured cordial and warm relations, sharing common values and mutual respect, and demonstrating an enriched and mature friendship.
The long decades of constant engagements by the leaders and peoples of both countries’, were effectively translated into formal collaborations, in numerous mutually beneficial areas of common interest, through the signing of strategic bilateral Agreements and MOUs in the areas of trade and investment, education, agriculture, visa waiver, fiscal and taxation, information, air services and scientific and technological.
In the last few years, regular exchange of visits undertaken at all levels by the public and private sectors, have seen increasing awareness and interest on the potentials of the Malaysian-Hungarian relations, deepened understanding and opening up prospects for collaboration in areas of untapped competence, such as collaboration in tourism, cultural, environmental, security, healthcare, renewable energy and digital economy.
55th Year of Diplomatic Relations with Hungary
The year 2024 denotes the 55th Year of Diplomatic Relations. As both countries commemorate the 55 years of milestone, the outlook of both bilateral and multilateral collaborations is moving robustly. The Ambassador looks toward elevating further the Malaysian-Hungarian relations with more engagements, cooperations and exchanges, particularly in enhancing further the volume of total trade, which stands at 660 million Euro in 2023.
Looking forward, the Ambassador is positive that with the recent establishment of the Joint Intergovernmental Committee for Economic and Industrial Cooperation (JIEC) between Malaysia and Hungary, trade and investment exchanges can be further elevated in the years to come.
The 90 days visa free agreement between both countries will continue to complement the effort and strengthen further bilateral foundation, especially in promoting and encouraging people to people connection and interactions in businesses and tourism, effectuating the prospect for future mutually beneficial collaboration and cooperation. Malaysia highly values its friendship with Hungary and remains committed to complementing and maximizing the potentials of the Malaysian-Hungarian relations.
2025 ASEAN Chairmanship
On Malaysia’s 2025 ASEAN Chairmanship, the Ambassador reiterated that Malaysia as one of the founding members of ASEAN, had advocated and constructively played significant role in the development of peaceful ASEAN. Under its Chairmanship, Malaysia will continue to foster and emphasize the vision for a united ASEAN that stands as a formidable regional bloc and promote the importance of ASEAN Centrality and ASEAN as a Zone of Peace, Freedom and Neutrality.
Stressing on Malaysia’s readiness as the Chair of ASEAN 2025, the Ambassador also echoed that Malaysia welcomes and is supportive of Hungary’s intention to be part of the ASEAN Treaty of Amity and Cooperation and hopes that Hungary’s accession to the treaty could soon be concluded. It is also of Malaysia’s wishes for a successful Hungarian Presidency of the European Union. Hungary’s full support for the principle of ASEAN Centrality and efforts to promote ASEAN-EU relations during its EU Presidency will help bridge the strengthening of the ASEAN-EU relations, as well as the Malaysian-EU relations.
Hungarian government official’s address
Representing the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary, Mr. Ádám Stifter, the Deputy State Secretary for the Development of Eastern Relations in his address, highlighted that the 55th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Hungary and Malaysia, since its establishment in 1969, is testament to the flourishing of bilateral cooperation, transcending geographic distance, based on mutual respect and friendship and have never been stronger than they are today. Both countries cooperated closely in international organizations and share the belief in a rules-based international order and multilateral solutions to address global challenges.
The Deputy State Secretary added that Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó has just visited Malaysia in March 2024 and Hungary is already looking forward to Minister Szijjártó’s upcoming visit to Kuala Lumpur to co-chair the Inaugural Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for Economic and Industrial Cooperation between Hungary and Malaysia. We are delighted to observe that high-level dialogue between our countries is frequent, demonstrating the mutual commitment of both parties toward the further enhancement of our multifaceted relations. We believe that amid today’s global challenges it is of utmost importance to establish mutually beneficial political and economic cooperation with countries that we share similar values with. Hungary’s aim is to play the role of a bridge between Eastern and Western economies. On this note, we consider Malaysia as a key partner in Southeast Asia, and as such, a cornerstone in the Hungarian strategy of the Eastern Opening.
As a founding member of ASEAN, Malaysia has demonstrated its ambitions in both the regional and global spheres, and made a significant contribution toward the preservation of stability and security in Southeast Asia and the wider region. We commend Malaysia’s commitment to global stability.
New heights in economic cooperation
The economic cooperation between Hungary and Malaysia has reached new heights in the last years. Malaysia is our second largest trading partner among the ASEAN countries; thus, we strive to create more opportunities for cooperation in various areas. We are pleased to note that the bilateral trade between Hungary and Malaysia has been constantly growing in recent years. Last year, the volume of bilateral trade exceeded 828 million US dollars.
We are looking forward to the Inaugural Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for Economic and Industrial Cooperation between Hungary and Malaysia. Hungary considers this event to be a key forum for the development of our economic and trade relations, providing an excellent institutional framework to discuss areas of cooperation based on mutual interest. I am confident that the session will give new impetus to our bilateral economic cooperation across a wide range of new sectors.
Education is an important segment of our bilateral relations, since cooperation in the field of higher education and skills developments is a long-term investment that contributes to strengthening people-to-people relations, as well as our scientific, economic and political ties in the forthcoming decades.
Lots of scholarships
Hungary has been taking initiatives to deepen cooperation in the areas of skills development, education, science and technology. I am proud to note that the Hungarian-Malaysian academic relations have been evolving significantly, with scholarship programmes such as the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship programme and inter-institutional cooperation playing a particularly important role. We offer 40 scholarships for Malaysian students annually to study in Hungary within the framework of the Stipendium Hungaricum Programme. The main goal of this programme is to support and strengthen international cooperation, to enhance diversity in higher education and to promote its competitiveness. Since its inception in 2016, the popularity of the programme is increasing in popularity in Malaysia, this year 122 students applied.
Deputy State Secretary Stifter concluded in his address that the past 55 years of bilateral relations serve as an inspiration for the future. Hungary remains committed to further developing cooperation with Malaysia. We are convinced that in today’s rapidly changing world, we need reliable and stable partners, a partner with whom we could cooperate on the basis of mutual respect and shared interests, for the equal benefit of our nations.
Earlier on 31 August 2024, the Ambassador of Malaysia also hosted a flag raising ceremony and a reception to commemorate the 67th National Day and 61st Malaysia Day, at the Embassy of Malaysia in Budapest Chancery’s compound for the 200 strong Malaysian community in Hungary.
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INTERVIEW – Diplomatic insights: Pakistan’s Ambassador discusses trade, education, and bilateral relations between Pakistan and Hungary
Daily News Hungary had the honour of conducting a rich and lengthy interview with Pakistan’s Ambassador to Hungary, His Excellency Asif Hussain Memon. In this candid conversation, the Ambassador shared insights into Pakistan’s vibrant culture, its growing ties with Hungary, and his views on global geopolitical issues, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict and the Palestinian-Israeli situation.
Daily News Hungary: Before my interview, I asked people what they knew about Pakistan. They were generally aware of its location, but they didn’t know much more about it, even though it is one of the most populous countries in the world (6th), and it even has one of the 10 strongest militaries in the world. If you were to present 5 things that stand out about your country, what would they be?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: Pakistan is a country with a rich heritage and a great future. It is cradle of one of the most ancient civilizations in the world, the Indus Valley civilization. It is the 6th most populous country in the world having 50 percent of its population below the age of 30. It has incredible people known for their warmth and hospitality, a diverse and breathtaking landscape with one of the highest mountains in the world and also deserts in the south. I must also mention the diversity in cuisine. It is hard to shortlist five things but I would say the people, history, culture, food and the geography make it stand out.
DNH: Today’s geopolitical situation is not exactly simple. How does Pakistan relate to Russia’s war against Ukraine?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: Pakistan maintains excellent bilateral relations with both Russia and Ukraine. Pakistan and Russia relations are strengthened by high level visits, shared perspective and commonality of views. In case of Ukraine, it is important to note that Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba visited Pakistan in July 2023. It was the first-ever visit by a Ukrainian Minister to Pakistan country since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1993. Pakistan has always advocated for dialogue and diplomacy. We believe that the conflict can only be resolved through dialogue between the two parties. We are always ready to play part in promoting peace and stability.
DNH: Another important conflict that is much closer to you is the Israeli-Palestinian war?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: Pakistan has consistently advocated for a two-state solution as the key to enduring peace in the Middle East, with a just, comprehensive and lasting solution to the Palestinian question. We believe that a viable, sovereign and contiguous State of Palestine should be established on the basis of pre-1967 borders, with Al Quds Al-Sharif as its capital. The current situation is Gaza is a catastrophe. Pakistan has repeatedly called for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, unlimited provision of humanitarian assistance and de-escalation of the tension in the region.
DNH: It is not so obvious to most that Pakistan has a nuclear arsenal. Why was this necessary, and what responsibility is there for countries with nuclear weapons?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: Pakistan believes that any initiative on nuclear disarmament must take into account the vital security considerations of each and every State. Pakistan is committed to the goal of a nuclear weapons free world through the conclusion of a universal, verifiable and non-discriminatory, comprehensive convention on nuclear weapons. This objective can only be achieved as a cooperative and universally agreed undertaking, through a consensus-based process involving all the relevant stakeholders.
DNH: I am also sure that the majority of Hungarians do not know that one of our largest companies, MOL, has a major role in Pakistan’s oil and gas industry?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: Pakistan is rich in oil and gas sector and hence Hungarian company MOL has capitalized on the potential. MOL is a story of success for Hungarian companies. MOL has an investment of $500 million with $2.8 billion with its subsidiaries. MOL has remained an important feature in the bilateral relationship. MOL is celebrating 25 years of its business this year. In view of the potential in the hydrocarbon sector, I think it is high time that MOL expands its operations in Pakistan.
DNH: Are there any other Hungarian companies and products that could prevail in your country?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: As our bilateral trade is increasing with a good pace, there is a great scope for Hungarian exporters to do business in Pakistan. Pakistan is a market of more than 220 million people, hence there is a lot of potential for Hungarian companies to invest in Pakistan. Another Hungarian company Vitafort is also doing great business in Pakistan in the field of animal feed, fisheries and aqua culture. Traditionally, Hungarian exports to Pakistan involve machinery, pharmaceutical products, medical apparatus and optical instruments. However, there is a great scope in investing in agriculture, livestock, fisheries.
H.E. Ambassador Memon: During the last 5 years the exports of Pakistan to Hungary have increased at an annualized rate of 15%, from $21.6 million in 2017 to $45 million in 2023.This shows increased interest of Pakistani investors and businessmen in the Hungarian market. The main exports included textile products, cotton, sports equipment and broadcasting equipment. Among the famous Pakistani products available in Hungary are world famous Pakistani mangoes, basmati rice, spices and sports goods. Pakistan is known for manufacturing world class footballs which are used in all major tournaments in the world including the World Cups and EUFA.
DNH: How do you assess the current relationship between the Hungarian and Pakistani governments?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: Due to the special focus of the leadership of both countries, the current state of relationship between the both countries is excellent. I must say that Hungary’s “Look East” Policy and the visit of H.E Peter Szijjártó to Islamabad in April 2021 followed by first ever visit of our Foreign Minister to Budapest in 2023, the relationship has witnessed a monumental growth. Next year, we are also celebrating 60 years of establishment of diplomatic relations. The relationship is multifaceted and has grown in all spheres including political, trade and economic, cultural and people to people ties.
DNH: Stipendium Hungaricum can be a strong link between the two countries in the long run. How many students have come to Hungarian universities in recent years? And what are the experiences of students who have completed the program?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: One of a very important feature in our relationship has been the “Stipendium Hungaricum” scholarship under which many Pakistani students come and study in high quality Hungarian universities. During the visit of our Foreign Minister to Hungary in February 2023, the Hungarian Government increased the quota for Pakistani students. There has been a very keen interest among the Pakistani students to study in Hungary. These students not only prove to be a bridge between our both countries but also play a significant role in promoting the image of Hungary.
DNH: There is a growing labour shortage in Hungary, which is increasingly being addressed by companies using Asian workers. Are Pakistanis also recruiting workers for Hungary? What is your experience?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: Hungary’s economy is growing at an excellent pace due to which there is potential for skilled workers from Pakistan. The number of Pakistani workers in Hungary is not much but we are witnessing increased interest by Hungarian companies in hiring skilled Pakistani workers. I often visit some Hungarian companies who have employed a number of Pakistani workers and I get excellent feedback. Pakistan has a huge potential in offering skilled, semi-skilled workers to countries facing labour shortage.
DNH: Tourism is an important “product” for Hungary. Apart from Budapest, what Hungarian attractions can you recommend to Pakistanis? Why should they come to Hungary?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: Hungary is renowned for its tourism. Budapest is a historical city with rich culture and great architecture. In Budapest, Buda castle, thermal baths, Heroes square, Fisherman Bastion and the majestic Hungarian parliament are jewel of the city. Outside Budapest, Balaton is known for its beauty and landscape. Apart from these amazing places, the friendly people, relaxed atmosphere and excellent connectivity makes Hungary a must-see country in bucket list.
DNH: Pakistan is not really considered a tourist destination at the moment. Why should we, Hungarians go to Pakistan? What are the five must-see tourist attractions for Hungarians visiting Pakistan?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: Pakistan has an amazing and diverse landscape. From the second highest mountain in the world, K-2 to a beautiful sea coast in Karachi and Gwadar and desert in Bahawalpur, it offers a lot for all types of tourism. Anyone who is planning to visit Pakistan, I must say that a visit to northern Pakistan is a must since the nature, beauty and mountains are unmatched. Every year, a large number of mountaineers and hikers visit northern Pakistan to climb highest mountains and enjoy breathtaking scenery. Karachi is the biggest city and an economic hub which offers a mega city lifestyle. For history lovers, Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa and other historical places would be a great option. Lahore is the cultural capital of Pakistan, having architecture from the Mughal era and a variety of cuisines. There are amazing sightseeing places like Swat, Malam Jabba for skiing, not to forget the delicious cuisines.
DNH: Pakistani and Hungarian cuisine differ in many ways, but I am confident that there are Hungarian favourites. If you could choose any, what is the best Hungarian starter-course-dessert trio?
H.E. Ambassador Memon: There are several amazing Hungarian cuisines ranging from street food to high end restaurants with a lot of variety. Goulash soup is similar to Pakistani dish and very unique in taste. Similarly, Langos is a very popular. Then there is a large variety of light snacks which are very tasty. My favourite will be combination of Halaszle soup, and Dobos torte.
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Excellent news for passengers: Travelling to exotic Southeast Asian countries from Budapest is now cheaper!
State-owned China Airlines is attracting passengers from Hungary with appealing discounts to exotic Southeast Asian destinations much cheaper than before. Firstly, passengers do not have to pay for the train ticket between Hungary and Vienna. Secondly, their plane ticket is EUR 3-400 cheaper. Let us show you how.
According to turizmus.com, China Airlines introduced discounts on non-stop flights departing from Vienna International Airport to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, which serves Taipei. The discount is also valid for flights from the Taoyuan International Airport to Southeast Asian destinations, including Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Cambodia, the Philippines, Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand.
If you book your flight until the end of 2024, the price will be 10-12% cheaper, provided you choose business class. As a result, you may save EUR 3-400. For people travelling with China Airlines from Budapest, the discount is higher. The Chinese airline provides free return train tickets for CI63 and CI64 flights departing from the Vienna International Airport (Schwechat). You may board the train in Budapest or Győr.
Southeast Asian destinations cheaper from Budapest
If the transfer time in Taipei is longer, passengers can participate in a sightseeing tour in the Taiwanese capital for free three times a day. The tours depart from the airport.
As we wrote HERE, China Airlines introduced their “Rail & Fly” service in June for trains commuting between Budapest and Vienna International Airport. That allows passengers from Hungary to book Austrian train tickets from Győr and Budapest that connect with China Airlines flights. The train ticket is issued on the same reservation as the China Airlines flight ticket, enabling passengers to receive both bookings simultaneously. This new, affordable service can be booked directly through the airline’s website.
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Thai Festival 2024: a celebration of Thai culture in Budapest
The Royal Thai Embassy in Budapest is proud to announce the Thai Festival 2024. This annual event invites local communities and visitors to immerse themselves in the rich and vibrant Thai culture. The 2024 edition will be an unforgettable experience, featuring various activities and a deeper dive into Thailand’s unique cultural heritage.
This year’s festival, set to take place on Sunday, 15 September 2024, from 11 am to 7 pm at the Hungarian National Museum, will bring a full day of spectacular events, promising to deliver an even richer experience with true Thai essence.
Event Highlights:
- Traditional Thai Dance Performances: Witness the elegance of traditional Thai dancers from Kalasin College of Dramatic Arts as they perform authentic, mesmerising Thai dances on stage. These performances showcase Thailand’s rich artistic heritage and capture audiences of all ages.
- Live Cooking Demonstrations: Engage with Thailand’s culinary master through live cooking demonstrations that will show you how to prepare some of the country’s most beloved dishes.
- Culinary Delights: Explore a variety of mouth-watering dishes prepared by selected Thai restaurants in Budapest. From savoury curries to sweet desserts, the festival is a paradise for food lovers.
- Authentic Thai Massage: Experience instant relaxation with Authentic Thai Massage, available on-site. This is a chance to unwind and experience traditional Thai wellness practices.
- Exciting Prizes and Giveaways: Attendees can participate in a lucky draw to win plane tickets to Thailand from Turkish Airlines. Additional activities like quiz shows and egg-fishing to win other exciting prizes add more fun and excitement to your Thai Festival experience.
Thai Festival 2023 highlights
The Royal Thai Embassy in Budapest warmly invites everyone to join this celebration of Thai culture and hospitality. With free admission, the Thai Festival 2024 offers families, friends, and culture enthusiasts a perfect opportunity to enjoy a vibrant, fun-filled day exploring the unique aspects of Thai culture.
Come and be a part of this extraordinary celebration of Thai culture. Mark your calendars, and don’t miss out on this incredible cultural experience!
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- Direct flight between Budapest and Bangkok: new details emerged!
- Avenue in Bangkok is named after Budapest and a statue of János Xantus is unveiled, details HERE
Indonesia-Hungary summit in the Hungarian Parliament
Speaker of Parliament László Kövér met Puan Maharani, his Indonesian counterpart, for talks in Budapest on Thursday.
According to information from parliament’s press office, Kövér informed his counterpart about the Hungarian government’s commitment to deepening relations with partners in Southeast Asia with the aim of finding joint answers to global challenges.
“Indonesia, the third largest parliamentary democracy in the world … with its tolerant values is a key Asian partner for Hungary,” the statement quoted Kövér as saying.
Apart from strengthening inter-governmental ties, Kövér said it was important to boost relations between the two countries’ parliaments, adding that exchange in the latter area was regular.
Puan is also scheduled to meet members of the Hungarian-Indonesian Friendship Group of parliament.
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Orbán: European politics collapsed, Asia to be centre of the world in new global system
European politics “has collapsed”, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said in his address at the Bálványos Summer University in Baile Tusnad, Romania, on Saturday, arguing that Europe had relinquished the protection of its own interests.
“Europe is currently following the politics of the US Democratic Party unconditionally, even at the cost of self-destruction,” Orbán said, adding that sanctions imposed on Russia were hurting European interests, raising energy prices and making the European economy uncompetitive.
Orbán said the European system of powers had so far been based on a “Paris-Berlin axis”, but this no longer existed, or had at least “become irrelevant and evadable” compared with the “new power centre” comprising London, Warsaw, Kyiv and the Baltic and Scandinavian states.
He said the idea of replacing the Paris-Berlin axis was not a new one but rather “an old Polish plan” that involved Poland becoming the continent’s main American base. This, he added, required “calling the Americans in there, between the Germans and the Russians”. But this, he added, could only be made a reality owing to the current war.
“This is an old plan: weaken Russia and surpass Germany,” Orbán said, insisting that Poland was pursuing the “most deceitful politics” in Europe, arguing that “they’re obliviously doing business with the Russians while morally lecturing us for doing the same thing”.
Orbán: Asia to be centre of the world in new global system
In the next decades Asia will be at the centre of the global system, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said in his address at the Balvanyos Summer University in Baile Tusnad, Romania, on Saturday.
“Europe can then decide whether it wants to be an open-air museum or a part of global competition,” he said, adding that changes were now afoot that had not been seen in the past 500 years.
Leading powers had come from the West over the past 150 years while change was now coming from Asia, he declared.
Orbán said former US president Donald Trump was seeking an American response to this state of affairs, and this represented America’s “last chance” to remain as a world leader.
The prime minister said that Europe had two options: to become an open-air museum in a “subordinated role to the US” or to follow French President Emmanuel Macron’s proposal to achieve strategic autonomy and “enter the competition for changing the global system”.
Orbán insisted that it was feasible to recover Europe’s ability to attract capital and implement big infrastructure developments, “especially in central Europe”.
“We need a European military alliance with strong European military industry,” he said, adding that Europe must also be self-sufficient in terms of energy, for which nuclear power was indispensable. All this, he added, must be concluded after a post-war agreement with Russia is forged.
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Planning a 3-Day Itinerary for Singapore- A Detailed Guide
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Singapore is often referred to as the Lion City and is known for blending modernity with tradition seamlessly. It combines rich cultural heritage, seen from the architecture alongside stunning architecture. All these features alone would enable one to believe the above statement regardless. With a duration of 3 days when you plan on visiting Singapore; below are some suggestions that will help you make it as good as possible.
Day 1- Exploring the Heart of Singapore
Morning- Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay
Marina Bay Sands
- For day 1 you will have to start your day a little early. Head to the SkyPark Observation Deck which is on the 57th floor and offers a breathtaking view. If you want to avoid crowds, you will have to visit early to enjoy it to the maximum. The sunrise is mesmerizing from that height, make sure you don’t miss that.
- Visit the ArtScience Museum located within the Marina Bay Sands complex. It is a fascinating stop for people who visit Singapore for the first time.
Evening- Gardens by the Bay
- Walk over to the Gardens by the Bay as it is located at walking distance from the Marina Bay Sands. You can explore the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest which showcase flora from different climates.
- You can also take a walk on the OCBC Skyway for a unique view of the gardens and Marina Bay skyline.
Also, you can go back to Marina Bay Sands for light and water show which is a unique experience in itself.
Day 2- Cultural and Historical Exploration
Morning- Chinatown and Little India
- If you like rich culture and history Chinatown is the best bet for you. You can visit the famous Buddha Tooth Relic Temple which is a stunning Buddhist temple that houses a sacred relic.
- If you want to learn about the history and lives of early Chinese settlers in Singapore, do visit and explore the Chinatown Heritage Center.
Little India
- Head to Little India and visit one of the oldest Hindu temples in Singapore; Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple. Post that, you can explore the vibrant streets filled with colorful shops and fragrant spice stalls.
- Also, explore the Tekka Center, which is a bustling market where you can find everything that you need.
Evening- Orchard Road
- In the evening, visit Orchard Road which is one of the best shopping streets in Singapore. This place has something for everyone.
- Have dinner at a rooftop restaurant or bar to enjoy the amazing food and a panoramic view of the bustling streets below.
Day 3- Nature and Adventure
Morning- Sentosa Island
- If you are into adventures, then Sentosa Island will be the perfect fit for you. Enjoy a great view as you make your way to the island.
- Visit S.E.A. Aquarium which is one of the largest aquariums and home to over 100,000 marine animals.
Evening- Dinner at Clark Quay
- Have dinner at Clark Quay Singapore and choose from a variety of riverside dining options while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
A few tips for travelers
- Public Transport- Singapore’s traveling system is efficient and affordable. You can purchase an EZ card for more convenient travel. You can also check out several platforms for travel-related arrangements like CouponzGuru and avail yourself of the best discounts and deals while exploring Singapore.
- Weather- Singapore is usually hot and humid around the year, so make sure you are hydrated at all times to avoid falling ill
- Local Cuisine- Try to eat as much local cuisine as you can such as Hainanese chicken rice, chili crab, and more.
Our Final Thoughts
Singapore’s compact size and excellent public transport system make it easy to explore the city’s diverse attractions in a short time. This 3-day itinerary takes you through some of Singapore’s most exciting places, from its modern marvels to its rich cultural heritage. You can also check out the Europe itinerary here.
Disclaimer: the author(s) of the sponsored article(s) are solely responsible for any opinions expressed or offers made. These opinions do not necessarily reflect the official position of Daily News Hungary, and the editorial staff cannot be held responsible for their veracity.
New direct LCL connections between Hungary and Asia
Dachser’s Air & Sea Logistics business field, which deals with transport logistics, warehousing, and customized services in the air and sea freight sector, is significantly expanding its range of services: at the end of last year and during this year, new LCL (less than container load) lines were launched between Europe and several Asian ports, among others. This weekly delivery at fixed times is beneficial for customers whose goods do not fill an entire container in one shipment. The LCL service is also very popular in Hungary, thanks to which Dachser LCL containers depart from Shanghai and Ningbo in China every week with a direct arrival in Budapest.
At the end of 2023, Dachser‘s new weekly fixed export and import lines started: from Rotterdam, Netherlands to Shanghai in China, to Nhava Sheva in India, and to Dubai, which is an important distribution point for the Gulf countries, and from Shanghai and Shenzhen in China to Europe. The range is expected to be expanded with additional LCL connections during this year.
Partial loads in sea shipping are basically used to allow senders to share the space and costs of a container if their cargo would otherwise not fill the entire container. However, Dachser’s service offers more than just sharing. On the one hand, weekly LCL sailings make transportation extremely flexible, customers can send smaller shipments more often, and they don’t have to wait for an entire container to be full. On the other hand, within the Dachser network, LCL shipping is only one element of the very efficient network, within which sea, air, road and rail transport connects even the most distant points of the world.
Dachser manages the entire supply chain of shipments. For example, an export shipment with an Asian destination is transported from its sender in Europe by road, by truck to one of the company’s designated European Logistics (EL) warehouses. Here, the containers are assembled, the individual shipments are loaded together with other shipments, then the container is transported to the port, and finally delivered by ship to the destination port overseas. Here, Dachser Air & Sea Logistics employees take care of customs clearance and delivery to the final destination. In the opposite direction, the container travels by sea and land in the same way – after the voyage by container vessel is completed, a truck takes it to the company’s warehouse, where the shipments are broken down and delivered to their destination via the EL network. In all countries in which Dachser is represented by European logistics branches, no third parties are involved in the process, not even the unloading and loading of shipments, everything takes place in Dachser’s own logistics facilities.
“We reliably manage and optimize the entire customer supply chain through LCL routes and the Dachser groupage network,” says Christian Kruse, Head of Dachser Global Ocean Freight LCL. “Our international teams provide professional work on all continents, even though they are not in an easy situation – after the COVID crisis, the Red Sea crisis makes shipping goods by sea difficult. Despite this, the integrated, network-oriented service they implement is unique in the market.”
LCL shipments arrive in Hungary from Shanghai and Ningbo every week. “As everywhere at Dachser, in our case too, many people work within the network to ensure that the goods sent to the country from the other side of the world reach their destination in the most optimal way,” says György Tamás, country manager business field Air & Sea Logistics at Dachser in Hungary, who plans the launch of additional direct lines. “Dachser’s colleagues in Asia take care of picking up and loading the goods into containers. At destination, we ensure that the shipment arrives at the domestic warehouse by combined rail/road transport. After the customs clearance solution chosen by the customer our business line European Logistics delivers it to the final recipient. The system works smoothly and flexibly with the offices and colleagues involved in the delivery process.”
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Will Wizz Air fly to US, Canada destinations in 2025? – the President answered
President Robert Carey gave an interview to AeroTelegraph, a German air travel media outlet. He talked about the expansion plans of the Hungarian low-cost airline, their operation in Ukraine, the problems with the Pratt & Whitney engines and where Wizz Air would like to fly with its new A321 XLR planes.
50 Wizz Air planes on the ground due to engine problems
Mr Carey said that they were able to solve the problems arising after the breakout of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, 2024 will be a year without further growth because of the problems of the Pratt & Whitney engines.
He said 50 of their planes are currently on the ground due to the reparation process, so they must be super efficient to maintain their flight programme. He added that it took almost six months to identify the real problems.
He said they ordered 330 aircraft from Airbus and they would get them with minor delays.
New destinations with the new, long-haul aircraft
Carey highlighted that the first A321 XLR was scheduled to fly in March 2025. The budget airline has not yet announced its destinations. Carey said they had large bases in the West, but the markets were in the East. Therefore, they would turn to North Africa and Asia. As an example, he mentioned that the new plane could fly from Abu Dhabi to Singapore.
He cleared they had many goals in the East, but Transatlantic destinations were not on the agenda.
Concerning their expansion in Eastern Europe, Carey said the expansion potential is greater in the East than in the West of the continent. That is because 50% fewer people fly in Eastern Europe than in Western Europe.
They want to be market leaders again in Ukraine
Concerning Ukraine, he expressed their will to return the moment the war ends. He said they were the leading airline in the country before the Russian invasion and planned to hold that title after the end of the violence. He added they had four planes stationed at the moment of the Russian attack. One from Lviv could leave the country, but three remained in Kyiv. They removed their engines and used them in other aircraft.
Concerning staff problems, Carey said they struggled with difficulties before. However, their cadet programs helped a lot. That is why they opened a new school in Rome.
Robert Carey has been working as President of Wizz Air since 2021.
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Filipino guest workers in Hungary may far exceed government claims
According to news agencies in Manila, there are over 16,000 Filipino guest workers in Hungary, contradicting previous claims by Péter Szijjártó. The Hungarian foreign minister visited the Philippines last week, where he held talks with Philippine foreign minister Enrique Manalo and also met with President Ferdinand R. Marcos.
While in Manila, the Hungarian foreign minister made a statement regarding relations between the two countries. He emphasised that illegal migrants should not be confused with those who travel to another country to work in lawful conditions, as illegal border crossing is not a human right but a crime. This meeting was particularly significant as Hungary is set to take over the presidency of the European Union on 1 July, amid a challenging global security and economic climate.
Although the minister did not provide an exact figure on Thursday, he stated that there are more than 10,000 Filipino guest workers in Hungary, who are not considered illegal migrants, as reported by24.hu. Both Hungary and the Philippines agree that a country has the sovereign right to decide who it allows within its borders and with whom it wishes to share its territory.
How many Filipino guest workers are in Hungary?
Szijjártó’s visit was also covered by the Manila newspapers, which highlighted that many Filipinos have recently chosen Hungary as their “second home”. According to these reports, in 2023, Hungary was the Philippines’ 46th trading partner, 30th export market, and 64th source of imports. One news agency reported that as of December 2023, there were approximately 16,098 Filipinos residing in Hungary. This figure is significantly higher than the one previously mentioned by the Hungarian foreign minister, as 24.hu highlighted.
Manila newspapers also reported that the majority of Filipino guest workers in Hungary are employed in various sectors, including automotive technicians, machine operators, drivers, forklift operators, hotel workers, agricultural workers, warehouse workers, logistics operators, and truck drivers.
We previously reported, according to Szijjártó, cooperation between Hungary and the Philippines is “the best example of successful East-West relations”. Furthermore, the turnover of bilateral trade has exceeded 300 million dollars, largely due to Hungary’s significant increase in agricultural exports to the Philippines. He added that Hungarian companies are undertaking major water management projects in the Philippines, and preparations are being made to start nuclear cooperation between the two countries, as they celebrate the 50th anniversary of establishing diplomatic ties.
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- Everything you need to know about guest workers in Hungary – Read here
- Are foreign workers really better than Hungarian employees?
Hungary to become fourth EU state to open embassy in Laos
Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó on Friday opened a Hungarian embassy in Vientiane, the capital of Laos, making Hungary the fourth European Union member country operating an embassy in the country.
Hungarian Embassy in Laos
The ministry cited Szijjártó telling the opening event that Hungary and Laos had established diplomatic relations more than sixty years ago but they raised their cooperation to a level of strategic partnership only five years ago. Since then, Laos has had an embassy in Budapest and now Hungary also has one in Laos, he added.
Hungary is the fourth EU member state after Germany, France and Luxembourg to open an embassy in Vientiane, Szijjártó said.
He said that despite the tens of thousands of kilometres distance between the two countries, he and his Laotian counterpart could develop successful political and economic cooperation thanks to a common appreciation of the importance of mutual respect and dialogue. Building ties is also helped by the fact that both countries have fought much for their freedom, he added.
Hungarian companies have made investments worth some 200 million dollars in Laos in recent years, mainly in agriculture, water management and the development of public adminstration, he said.
The success of cooperation is also demonstrated by a fifty-fold increase in bilateral trade this year, he added.
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FM Szijjártó: Hungary as EU president to cooperate with ASEAN
During its European Union presidency starting on July 1, Hungary will cooperate with Laos, which is currently serving as president of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and will work to strengthen ties between the regions, the foreign minister said in Laos on Friday.
Péter Szijjártó in Laos
Péter Szijjártó told a press conference after talks with his Laotian counterpart Saleumxay Kommasith that the importance of cooperation was clear from the fact that this had been the 15th meeting between the ministers, according to a ministry statement.
As presidents of their respective regional alliances, Hungary and Laos had a duty to stand up for peaceful negotiations and diplomatic solutions, Szijjártó said.
Freezing ties and communication channels was “dangerous and wrong”, Szijjártó said. Security challenges can only be overcome through negotiations, he added.
It is important that the presidents of the EU and ASEAN stand for the same message: that solutions cannot be found on the battlefield but at the negotiating table, he said.
Europe has a vested interest in stronger ties with south-east Asia, as “it needs new momentum and to improve competitiveness”, he said.
Hungary will work to “restart and speed up” the talks on free trade agreements between the EU and Indonesia, Malaysia, the Phillippines and Thailand, among other countries, he said.
Meanwhile, Hungarian agricultural and water management companies are extremely successful in Laos, contributing to food safety, the modernisation of agriculture and to drinking water supply, Szijjártó said.
The ministers have signed an agreement on expanding cooperation in water management. The sector greatly contributes to the recent jump of bilateral trade. Hungary is also offering university grants for 150 Laotian university students, he added.
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Hungarian FM Szijjártó: ‘Law-abiding guest workers’ not to be mixed up with illegal migrants
Illegal migrants should not be mixed up with people that go to another country “under organised circumstances” to work, the Hungarian foreign minister said in Manila on Thursday.
FM Szijjártó talks about guest workers
Péter Szijjártó said that illegal border crossing “is not a human right but a crime”.
According to a statement from the foreign ministry, Szijjártó met Enrique Manalo, his Filipino counterpart, for talks and said both countries saw eye to eye that “any given country should have the right to decide to whom it wants to grant entry and whom it wants to live together with”.
Hungary holds the over 10,000 Filipinos working in Hungary in great esteem, Szijjártó said.
The foreign minister noted that the Philippines and Hungary were celebrating the 50th anniversary of establishing diplomatic ties. He said the two countries were similarly affected by the recent global security and economic crises, and were interested in promoting peace and a balanced economic development in the world. Szijjártó said that conflicts should be resolved “through dialogue and diplomacy rather than constantly passing judgements and criticism.”
According to Szijjártó, Europe is “in very bad shape” with a war going on for the past two and a half years on the continent and with “political and ideological endeavours aimed at hindering East-West cooperation”. “The upcoming Hungarian EU presidency will work to improve the situation, but it requires peace on the continent,” he said.
Cooperation between Hungary and the Philippines is “the best example of successful East-West relations”, he said, adding that the turnover of bilateral trade had exceeded 300 million dollars as a result of Hungary’s significantly increasing its agricultural exports to the Philippines. He added that Hungarian companies were completing major water management projects in the Philippines, while preparations were being made for starting nuclear cooperation between the two countries. The Hungarian FM shared his thoughts in a Facebook post:
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Important change concerning Budapest-Beijing flight
Air China is increasing the number of its flights between Beijing and the Hungarian capital from three to four a week, with Boeing 787s flying on Sunday evenings from mid-July.
More flights to Beijing
Air China’s latest schedule update will see four flights a week on the Beijing–Budapest route between 14 July and 1 September, instead of the current three, according to a post on the Aeroroutes schedule analysis site.
In addition to Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays, the Chinese airline’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners will now fly the route on Sundays.
On Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays local time, CA 719 takes off from Beijing at 03:15 and arrives in Budapest at 07:35, returning with CA 720 at 12:20 and landing at 04:10 the next day.
On Sundays, flight CA 577 departs the Chinese capital at 14:10 local time and arrives in Budapest at 18:30, returning as CA 578 at 20:30 and arriving at 12:20 the next day.
In addition to Budapest, Air China is also expanding its capacity to Athens, Copenhagen, London Gatwick and Istanbul by adding new flights or larger capacity aircraft, AIRportal.hu writes.
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Featured image: depositphotos.com
Hungary donating EUR 10 m to advance peace process in Syria
Hungary is donating nearly 10 million euros with the aim of advancing peace in Syria and helping Syrian refugees return to their homeland, the state secretary in charge of aid to persecuted Christian communities said on Facebook on Tuesday.
Speaking on the sidelines of an international conference held in Brussels on support to Syria and to countries accommodating Syrian refugees, Tristan Azbej said he was promoting the Hungarian government’s “pro-peace and anti-migration position and solidarity with persecuted Christians” at the conference.
He said Hungary’s position urging the international community to do everything to ensure that Syrian refugees could return had been shared by Lebanon and other neighbours of Syria.
“Western proposals under which refugees and migrants would stay in other countries without limits are dangerous and unacceptable,”
Azbej said, arguing this would seriously burden the recipient country and enhance risks for them.
Azbej noted that the nearly 80 participants of the conference did not include any religious leaders from the Middle East. “Not only is it pointless to discuss Syria’s future without religious players, without the churches; it is also impossible to make peace and help the most vulnerable,” he said.
Hungary has previously helped “those suffering in Syria” with a donation off 25 million euros and will continue promoting stability in the region, helping Christian communities and contributing to the prevention of migration, he said.
Azbej said the Hungarian donation includes health equipment for Egypt to help with services delivered to Syrian refugees, as well as a contribution to humanitarian programmes in Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, and Iraq in coordination with Christian partner organisations.
read also:
- Hungarian government continues to be ready to contribute to intl humanitarian aid – details HERE
- Orbán cabinet official in Iraq helps local Christian communities, details HERE
Direct flight between Budapest and Bangkok: new details emerged!
As Daily News Hungary reported in March, a direct flight between Budapest and the Thai capital Bangkok is on the horizon. Now, new details have emerged about the possible flight.
Bangkok to be accessible from Budapest
As we wrote earlier, AirAsia, a Malaysian low-cost airline, may launch a new direct flight between Budapest and Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, this autumn: at least that is what Hungarian foreign minister Péter Szijjártó said after a visit to the Thai metropolis in March.
Budflyer, a Hungarian Facebook page specialising in aviation news, wrote on 23 May that the final touches are being made behind the scenes as low-cost AirAsia makes its return to Europe, with the launch of a new direct flight from Bangkok to Budapest and Prague under the Thai Air Asia X brand.
This was reported by the Deputy Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) for Europe, Africa, Middle East and the Americas to the Thai news site LINE TODAY.
Flights are currently scheduled to start in November: however, the specific timetable is not yet public.
According to Budflyer, the last direct flight between Budapest and Bangkok was operated by Malév. The Hungarian airline flew the route with its Boeing 767 wide-body aircraft until the end of March 2008. Between 1996 and 2001, Malév operated scheduled flights to the Thai capital, and between 2001 and 2005, it operated charter flights.
If Thai AirAsia now finally launches the service, the aircraft will probably fly to Suvarnabhumi Airport, the airport most used by international airlines, the Facebook page concludes.
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Largest Asian airline launches flights to Budapest!
The largest Asian airline, China Southern Airlines, which has a fleet of 950 aircraft and carried 142 million passengers last year, will start flying to Budapest four times a week from the end of June.
Largest Asian airline comes to Budapest
The largest Asian airline in terms of passengers was recently presented in Budapest, turizmus.com reports. As Attila Tóth, Director of Aviareps, the carrier’s domestic representative, pointed out at the event, it is a four-star Skytrax-rated airline that not only offers 630 routes and 167 destinations within China, but also connects 71 destinations worldwide through its network of 146 routes.
China Southern flies to seven cities in Europe, with a particularly rich network in East and Southeast Asia, offering connections to Vietnam, Bangkok, Seoul, Japan and many cities in the Philippines. They also offer flights to major cities in Oceania, Australia and New Zealand.
No visa required for Hungarian travellers
Attila Tóth pointed out that since no visa is required for Hungarian travellers to China, it is worthwhile to interrupt our trip in Guangzhou. What is more, those with a transit time of at least six hours or up to 30 hours in the same place are entitled to free transit accommodation and transfers.
To Budapest, China Southern Airlines is planned to operate modern Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft with 3 classes on board.
Business class and premium economy will seat 28 and 28 passengers, while economy will seat 220.
The flight departs from Guangzhou at 00.50 and arrives in Budapest at 7.20 in the morning, returning at 1 PM and arriving in the Chinese city at 5.50 AM the next morning. Western and Chinese food is served on board, and 22 special dietary options can be ordered in advance.
Read also:
- Top Asian airline returns to Budapest Airport
- Fierce battle: Chinese airlines and the Hungarian state compete for Budapest Airport
Featured image: depositphotos.com
Uzbekistan through Hungarian eyes: we visited Tashkent and Samarkand – Photo gallery
Central Asia is always an excellent travel destination for Hungarians, as here we can find the common roots of our history while entering a world that is quite different from our own. We visited Uzbekistan, and this time, we took a closer look at Tashkent and Samarkand.
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan is a curiosity even for experienced Hungarian tourists, as it is not a typical tourist paradise where hundreds of thousands of Hungarians flock year after year. Still, it deserves more attention for its attractions, culture, and gastronomy.
Perhaps we should start from the fact that this Central Asian country has a population of 35 million and a surface area of 447,000 km2. The former Silk Road ran through the region, giving it the commercial and cultural plus that made it stand out from its neighbours.
Interestingly, it is one of only two countries in the world, along with Liechtenstein, that must cross at least two states to access the world’s oceans. Geographically, the area is heavily mountainous but rich in mineral resources, which could provide the basis for economic development in the coming decades, and the recent reforms that have been announced offer excellent opportunities for foreign investors. Read more here: Taskent International Investment Forum 2024: record number of participants, $26.6 billion in contracts signed
Uzbekistan, as a former member of the Soviet Union, has many Soviet legacies, such as Russian, rather than English, as the universal language, Cyrillic letters are still used in many places, but most young people now speak English. Looking at the cars, it is not uncommon to see a Siguli or a Volga, although the vast majority of cars are American Chevrolets in white or black.
Some of the public spaces still bear the old markings, but at the same time, Tashkent, for example, has in recent years seen the erection of huge skyscrapers, such as the Nest One Main Tower, the tallest office building at 266 meters, almost twice the height of our MOL tower. Still, there are also plenty of other sky-high buildings that proclaim that we are in a country that is becoming stronger and more dynamic.
Tashkent
As tourists, our first stop will be Tashkent International Airport, directly accessible from Budapest, starting from 30 June. The airport is modern and has its own airline, Uzbekistan Airways. The city centre is a 20-minute drive away, where you will find international hotel chains (Hilton, InterContinental, Hyatt, etc.). Still, there are also smaller hotels where you can relax after a long day of travelling and touring.
As Tashkent is not usually on the top 10 list of European or American tourist destinations, we didn’t bump into onlooking foreigners on every corner, but this was a positive for us. Walking the streets, we were immersed in the daily life of the Uzbek people, and, more importantly, the capital is a livable and clean city. There is a lot of green space, the parks have a good atmosphere, and the large boulevards are lined with huge trees.
In the evening, the city takes on a completely different look: the most spectacular buildings are illuminated, the largest city park is lit up with special lighting to entertain the onlooker, and the Magic City is truly magical, as the name suggests. I highly recommend it for theme park lovers, especially as Budapest hasn’t had a similar attraction for a long time.
Uzbekistan has a Muslim population of almost 90%, so there is a cultural influence of Islam, but at the same time, the Turkic connection makes the Uzbek people feel close. Amir Timur (1336-1405) created a vast empire in Central Asia, so a biography of the great leader is a must for history buffs, at least to a moderate degree. Tashkent has a park, a statue, and even a museum dedicated to Amir Timur, and he proudly proclaims that the natives of Uzbekistan conquered many of the surrounding states using Mongol-Turkish cavalry warfare, which was the basis for the earlier warfare of the Hungarian conquerors.
Also typical of Uzbek landmarks is the ornate gate, on which unique patterns have been painted, and the main defining feature is the blue and white colour scheme. Stopping in front of one of these gates, one can admire the dazzling motifs that dazzle the Hungarian eye.
Such buildings can also be found in Tashkent, which will later be revealed in all its glory in Samarkand and Bukhara. The Kukeldash Madrasah, or Hazrati Imam complex, which we visited, used to be a mosque but is now a tourist attraction in bright colours, where anyone can enter and take pictures or buy souvenirs. Nearby, there is a pleasant park where you can take a break.
If you’re looking for an authentic market atmosphere, head to Chorsu Bazaar, a place to visit on Sundays, when Uzbeks from all over the capital and the countryside come to buy potatoes from trucks, locally processed beef, and mutton, but also a vast selection of dairy products (cottage cheese, cheese) and vegetables. It is particularly recommended to bring pistachios, almonds or dried fruit from here, which are much cheaper than in Hungary.
There are several metro lines in Tashkent, and several downtown stations are unmissable for tourists. They are decorated with unique paintings and light fixtures, with a touch of Soviet nostalgia. The most famous and perhaps the most beautiful is the Kosmonavtlar metro station, but you can also see spectacular elements in the surrounding stations.
If you want to see the Uzbek capital from above, head to the upper levels of the 375-meter-high Tashkent Tower for a panoramic view.
Not far from the tower is the city and one of the points of pride of the locals, the Plov (Uzbek rice meat) Center, where the traditional Uzbek dish is prepared in giant cauldrons. Here, you can take photos and get up close to each cauldron. And if you fancy it, you can have a bowl of plov next to the show kitchen.
The Uzbeks, who are very proud of their gastronomy, offer a variety of salads as starters, and we can highly recommend lamb soup. Main courses include local beef or lamb dishes, but horse meat is also standard on the menu. As for desserts, those who prefer caramel are definitely in for a treat, as most cakes contain some form of burnt sugar. In fact, Uzbek cuisine is worth a separate article because it is very tasty and is very popular with Hungarians.
Samarkand
If you want a taste of rural Uzbekistan, the Samarkand-Buhara-Khiva triangle is a great destination, with its magnificent buildings and authentic markets. This time, we travelled to Samarkand on the former Silk Road, 300 kilometres from the capital, and got there in about two hours by train, which was a clean, comfortable, and quick option.
Our first trip was to the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, where Timur’s resting place was located. Let our pictures speak for us:
After the mausoleum, we moved on to the ancient centre of Samarkand, Registan Square, whose name means sandy place or desert in Persian. The square is framed by three monumental buildings, known as madrasa: the Ulug Bey Madrasa, the Tilla Kari Madrasa, and the Shir Dar Madrasa, built in the 15th and 17th centuries. The Registan was a public square where people gathered to hear royal proclamations, but it was also the site of public executions. It is now a tourist attraction, with exhibitions and souvenir shops inside the buildings.
Bibi-Khanym Mosque is the third attraction we would definitely recommend to visitors. Although it is not a place of worship, it retains its splendid colours and religious character and is a pleasant walk from Registrant Square.
Samarkand is a cultural centre, but it is also very strong economically. For example, it can produce outstanding-quality carpets and fabrics. We went to the SAG showroom, where they produce everyday products or even custom-made carpets decorated with jewels.
Conclusion
We recommend Uzbekistan to Hungarian tourists looking for something special at an affordable price, i.e. not the usual destinations (Prague, Egyptian beach, Roman holiday). In this post-Soviet country, you can feel the cultural and religious differences from Hungary, but you also feel at home as the rich past intersects with the future built before you. Uzbeks know and understand the significance of the Turan and are very proud to have a distant sister nation that has preserved the memory of the Turkic peoples in Western Europe.
- You can read our article in Hungarian HERE – Üzbegisztán magyar szemmel: Taskentben és Szamarkandban jártunk – Helló Magyar
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