attraction

The most visited Hungarian tourist destinations – top list

abbey, building, tihany

Tourism in Hungary is flourishing: records of guest reservations are broken every year, and hotels are full all the time, which also makes tax grow significantly. HelloVidék.hu has examined the most visited settlements where local governments get the highest income from tourism tax.

According to the analysis of KSH (Hungarian Central Statistical Office) from 2018, the sector has constantly been growing since 2013. The accommodation service’s gross income grew by 8.8% (on the same rate) in 2018 and exceeded the average growth tempo of the GDP in the country. The number of employees in the sector was 105000 last year, which means a 3% growth compared to 2017. 

Since 2009, the number of overnights has been rising significantly every year.

Last year, it exceeded 30 million and is still rising.

During the first 5 months of 2019 (10015827), there have been more guest overnights spent than during the same period of 2018 (962450), based on the information of KSH.  

Serious differences can be recognised based on seasonality. According to KSH, in July and August, the number of guests was three times more than in January and February this year. The warmer climate intensifies tourism, and at the end of the year, during autumn and winter, it slows down again. 

Bazilika
St. Stephen’s Basilica

There are five special regions in the country that are financially supported by the government to attract tourists. In Tokaj, Felső-Tisza, and Nyírség, significant growth was achieved in terms of guest overnights compared to 2017. The guest turnover increased by 12.9%. At the Danube Bend, the rise was 6.9%. The region of Balaton has not achieved outstanding growth. However, it is still the most visited tourist site of all in the country. 

According to the Hungarian Touristic Agency (MTÜ), the top three accommodation sites of 2018 were in

Budapest, Hévíz, and Hajdúszoboszló.

Among the Hungarian citizens, Budapest and Hajdúszoboszló are the most popular, with Zalakaros in the third place. Foreigners prefer the settlements around Balaton after Budapest because of the spas. In 2018, the ten most-visited settlements registered altogether 16 646 635 overnights, and this is 53.5% of the whole customer turnover in Hungary. 

Hévít - tófürdő
Hévíz – Lake Bath

Here is the list of the 20 most visited settlements of Hungary

  1. Budapest
  2. Hévíz
  3. Hajdúszoboszló
  4. Bük
  5. Balatonfüred
  6. Zalakaros
  7. Siófok
  8. Sárvár
  9. Győr
  10. Szeged
  11. Gyula
  12. Eger
  13. Miskolc
  14. Debrecen
  15. Sopron
  16. Visegrád
  17. Pécs
  18. Kecskemét
  19. Velence
  20. Gyöngyös

Compared to the previous one, this list changed a lot. We can see that the spas and county seats are the most favoured destinations of tourists. The settlements including spas for all seasons have made considerable progress on this list. So, we can see what we should aim to improve. 

Széchenyi Gyógyfürdő
Széchenyi Thermal Bath

Who pays tourism tax (IFA)?

Those who are not residents and spend at least one night on the territory of the local government are obligated to pay this tax. People under the age of 18 who spend the night in social institutions are free from paying it. The local governments impose different sums of this tax, but the maximum limit can only be 4% of the reservation price or a fixed price, and it has a separate block on the bill. This fixed price used to be 300 HUF (circa 1 USD) when the law was introduced, but due to inflation, it is 517 HUF (1.75 USD) this year.

There are very few settlements where IFA is under 400 HUF (1,35 USD), but it has not reached the maximum of 517 anywhere. The towns of Hévíz and Balatonfüred are very close, though, with 515 HUF (1,74 USD), and in Bük, Hajdúszoboszló, Zalakaros, and Sárvár, this tax is 500 HUF (1,69 USD) per night. The domino effect is very likely to appear concerning this issue – if one settlement raises, the others follow. The winner that benefits the most from IFA and the overnights is Hévíz, with a profit of

600 million HUF (2.031.832 USD) per year. 

The estimated IFA-income of Hajdúszoboszló can be 495 million HUF (1.676.261 USD), and Bük can count with circa 370 million HUF of profit (1.252.963 USD) in 2018 – based on the estimation of HelloVidék. Balatonfüred’s IFA-income is also considerable: 362 million HUF (1.225.872 USD).

There are smaller towns and villages that are less visited but tend to follow the tendency of raising IFA in order to receive a higher income. Sárndorfalva in Csongrád county plans to raise IFA by 50 HUF per year, and by 2021 (300 HUF – 1 USD), the amount of the tax is going to be doubled compared to 2018 (150 HUF – 0,5 USD). The local government of Kőszeg has already raised IFA from 380 HUF (1.28 USD) to 450 HUF (1,52 USD) in one year – nevertheless, it is still stuck behind its more visited rival towns and cities. 

Magyar vidék 2
Countryside – Hungary

However, there are settlements that have chosen another strategy. Instead of raising IFA, they decreased it, e.g. Gyöngyös or Mogyoród. In Gyöngyös, IFA was decreased from 505 (1,71 USD) to 450 HUF (1,52 USD), and the same thing happened in Mogyoród where it was reduced from 450 (1,51 USD) to 290 HUF (0,98 USD). If we take a look at the IFA income of Mogyoród, it raised after the reduction from 3 million HUF to 4.6 million HUF. How is it possible? The renters’ willingness to pay their share was motivated by the tax cut. There are settlements where there is no income from IFA at all, e.g. in Csobánka, but there, it is imposed all the same. 












Heritage services available all summer in Budapest

The nostalgic tram called Termál

Centre for Budapest Transport has announced that their widely popular heritage services are back and rolling in the summer, starting from the 2nd of June.

Turizmus.com understands that there are new additions in this year’s throwback. That means that along with fan-favourite tramlines like N2 and N19 (which operate on the same routes as their respective twin lines), there is a nostalgia bus line labelled N109 that goes around the heart of Budapest, showing the capital’s most famous venues to anyone onboard. Another novelty is retro bus line R158 which operates between Széll Kálmán square and Zugliget.

Perhaps the most well-known old school vehicles available are trams labelled 436 and 611 which were manufactured in the early 20th century. They await passengers eagerly to provide some retro vibes.

There are a couple of ways for passengers to hop on a ride of nostalgia,

You can buy specific daily or single nostalgia tickets or you can acquire an annual nostalgia pass.

Whichever you opt for, they are available for purchase both at BKK centres or on the nostalgia line, just like last year. 

Retro lines require standard tickets

Watch the Hungarian umbrella man on top of Debrecen Eye! – Video

#Hungary #Debrecen #eye #rainbow #man

A mysterious Hungarian man climbed up to a 45-metre-high wheel and even walked on the moving Debrecen Eye to amaze people. It was not the first spectacle by the man, and we hope that it was not the last either…

On a February morning, the people of Debrecen were shocked when they saw a man stepping aloft. Among other Hungarian online newspapers, hvg.hu posted a video of the umbrella man, climbing up and walking forward on the moving wheel of the Debrecen Eye, on the city’s Kossuth Square.

See how he climbed up and walked on the wheel:

As seen in the video, he did not use a securing rope or protective gears; it would have annoyed him anyway, he commented.

“Do not do it after me!” – said the man after his action, warning everyone that only professional stunts are allowed to do similarly dangerous spectacles.

It was not his first action though. The nameless hero was standing on top of  VOLT Festival‘s eye before, appeared on Elisabeth Bridge and even on the surface of the River Danube.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bq_4vF2BtQE/

His photographer, Péter Kálló, told the media:

“It is not for the public who this person is, but I can say that he is a very good friend of mine, a stunt, for whom the Debrecen-show was not as life-threatening as it looked.”

Umbrella man has been a stunt for 30 years. The spectacles and challenges that he has been doing are part of his ‘Balance’ project, which includes climbing up and posing on Hungary’s sights in his usual clothing: the black suit, the umbrella and the black cylinder. The purpose of ‘Balance’ for him is to perceive and feel everything around him that creates a balance between his mind and physical surroundings.

Featured image: youtube.com

The 10 best ways to spend the winter holidays in Budapest

christmas, light tram, budapest

Hungary is often referred to as the ‘heart of Europe’, and it will surely make your heart tender and joyful if you visit the heart of Hungary, Budapest. When it comes to December and Central-Eastern Europe, the first city that pops into mind might be Vienna, but let us assure you that the Christmas fairs and events are just as lovely in Budapest too.

If you need more reasons to visit Budapest, then Travel Pulse’s compilation of the best holiday programmes in the Hungarian capital city will come in handy.

  1. Christmas fairs

There are numerous Christmas fairs set up in Budapest, usually in close proximity to each other; take for example the fair in front of the magnificent St. Stephen’s Basilica and the market at Vörösmarty Square. Interested in more? We have a few suggestions for you to check out if you would like to get in a Christmassy mood and would also like to get to know Hungarian folk traditions while sipping on a mulled wine.

Advent Market Vásár Budapest
St. Stephen’s Basilica
photo: www.facebook.com/adventiunnepabazilikanal/

  1. Delicious treats

If you have a sweet tooth and/or are keen on trying special desserts, then we suggest trying the chimney cake, a traditional Hungarian cake, specific to Szeklerland – it is crunchy on the outside (coated in either walnut, chocolate, coconut, sugar, sprinkles and many other things) and irresistibly soft on the inside.

Another traditional cake that is never missing from the Christmas table in Hungarian homes is the bejgli, a rolled sweet bread filled with minced walnut or poppy seed.

Chimney cake
photo: www.facebook.com/VitézKürtős

  1. Become a master of ice skating

The ice rink at the City Park is not an ordinary one; after all, the park’s lake serves as a skating rink during the winter chills. On top of this, the rink has a scenic setting, as you will find the Vajdahunyad Castle behind it. This way, your holiday photos will be extra special.

  1. Warm up your bones at the thermal baths

After a long tour in Budapest, you really deserve to sit back and relax in a hot tub, for which the various spas of Budapest are just the thing. The Széchenyi Bath is not only one of the largest hot spring spas in Europe, but it is also lavishly decorated, so both your body and mind will be thankful for this experience. Did we mention that it is open even on Christmas day?

Or you could consider dipping in the waters of the Lukács Bath, which is open on every Saturday,

where even spa parties are organised, proving that baths can be colourful and fun – brought to you by popular DJs, a laser show and a cocktail bar.

If you still have no idea where to spend the New Year, then one of these parties might be the right choice for you.

If you would like to breathe in healing steams and history at the same time, the Rudas Thermal Bath is just for you. What makes the Rudas Bath so special? First, it has a long history, since it was a medieval Turkish spa. Second, it is open until 4 in the morning on Fridays and Saturdays, so if you are horribly jetlagged, you can give your body a refreshing rest here. There is an outdoor swimming pool on top, from where you can watch the lights playing on the Pest side of the city, as well as on the Elizabeth and Liberty bridges at night.

  1. A festive ride on public transport

During the holiday season, some trams, buses and trolleys get dressed up for Christmas: they are decorated with enchanting fairy lights (consisting of 40 thousand colourful blinking LED lights) which make them look like they have arrived right from the North Pole, from Santa. The Christmas tram serves until the 6th of January. Tram 2, one of Europe’s most beautiful tramlines, will become a Christmas tram too, so you can enjoy a view of the sights on the Danube bank by taking it.

www.facebook.com/Fényvillamos

There is, however, a lesser-known Santa speciality, the Santa Claus Train, the former Hungarian Pioneer Railway. It allows you to explore the Buda Hills while listening to Christmas carols and watching dance performances just outside the station.

Hold on to your seatbelts as this train is run by children!

(with the supervision of adults, do not worry)

  1. Vintage markets in Christmas mood

You might have heard about the Gozsdu Court, a hip café, restaurant, ruin pub in the heart of Budapest. Gozsdu organises weekly Sunday markets, so it is no surprise that they have given the markets a new wrapping, organising a Christmas Fair where you can grab the most fashionable and gorgeous vintage or retro accessories, clothes and décor. Even if you do not find anything to take home with you, the lively atmosphere and the great music provided by street performers will have a lasting impact on you. Do not miss the Fair that lasts until the 23rd of December every Wednesday through Sunday.

  1. The best views in the city

The Buda Castle and the Fisherman’s Bastion are must-visit spots in the city, especially if it is snowing – just imagine your vacation photos in front of the Matthias Church or near the Fisherman’s Bastion: it has a truly magical feeling. In addition, you can behold downtown Pest from here, including the Chain Bridge, the Parliament, and St. Stephen’s Basilica.

Fisherman’s Bastion photo: www.facebook.com/KardosIldikóPhotography

Speaking of St. Stephen’s Basilica: if you get the chance, visit its lookout tower to get a magnificent view of the Buda side of the city, too.

  1. The Pearl of the Danube

Budapest is often referred to as the Pearl of the Danube (it was almost named similarly), so why not enjoy a romantic or peaceful dinner with those closest to you while on a cruise? Tasty meals, live music and a view of Budapest will sweep you off of your feet. Luckily, there are cruises on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Or you can opt for just a wine cruise; after all, Hungarian wines should not be missed out on.

  1. No Christmas without the Nutcracker

Budapest is well known for its excellent and classy theatrical, musical and opera scene, so we suggest checking out a performance while you are visiting. Although the Hungarian Opera House is currently under renovation, the performances are relocated to the Erkel Theatre, so

if you happen to be in Budapest during the holiday season, you might be lucky enough to be able to snatch some tickets to The Nutcracker.

Another option to consider for culture lovers in Budapest is the Müpa Winter Open Air Festival at the Palace of Arts, where, aside from musical performances and contemporary exhibitions, you can catch the Müpa Melody Wheel, the world’s largest interactive music box. If you are travelling with your family, your kids will love this venue, as there is also an ice rink and several circus performers, various concerts and other programmes, especially for kids.

müpa open air budapest
Müpa Open Air
photo: mupa.hu

Last but not least, if you wish to dive deep into the ancient history of Christmas, visit the Aquincum Museum where the Budapest Saturnalia festival is held. As the name already reveals, this festival of lights is dedicated to Saturn, the god of agriculture of time. It ends on the 23rd of December, on the winter solstice. Once you are there, check out the museum too, and the workshops, along with the antique gifts you can get for those who are waiting for you back at home.

  1. Advent countdown at Várkert Bazaar Buda

The recently renovated Várkert Bazaar is worth visiting after you have explored the Castle District and the Buda Castle, as it lies right at the foothills of the latter. On the four Sundays leading up to Christmas, you can catch festive programs celebrating the Advent waiting: live theatrical performances, workshops where you can make your very own ornaments or decorating the Christmas tree in the Neo-Renaissance Garden on the 23rd.

Várkert Bazár, Christmas, Advent
Photo: www.facebook.com/varkertbazar

If you get hungry, you can grab some traditional Hungarian food like lángos from the street food vendors, but also waffles and burgers.

featured image: MTI

Huge Hungarian success at the world’s biggest circus festival!

circus, hungary success. edinburg

A Hungarian group called Recirquel absolutely impressed the critics at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. They keep getting 5-star reviews and are deemed to have the best show out of thousands of spectacles at the prestigious circus festival – reports szeretlekmagyarorszag.hu. 

The show mesmerising everyone

The group’s show is called My Land that has sold out all tickets ever since the premiere happened on the 1st of August. All of the reviews have been very favourable, calling the show a “masterpiece” that has a “spectacular visual world, a brilliant production” and showcases

“the best ever technical solutions put on stage at the Fringe”.

The show was directed by Bence Vági who combined contemporary dance with circus moves and the theatre. In Edinburgh, it can be seen until the 26th of August while the Hungarian premiere will take place in October during CAFe Budapest.

recirquel, fetival, edinburgh
Recirquel performance
Photo: facebook.com/Recirquel

My Land focuses on the roots of humanity and the unbreakable connection between humans and Mother Nature. It all takes place in a space full of various illusions. It is also Recirquel’s first production that only features artists from abroad. The Hungarian director  Bence Vági invited 7 internationally acclaimed Ukrainian acrobats and

incorporated their journey, their stories – about tradition, freedom and love – when he created the show.

He said that “They really liked us at the Fringe last year as well but My Land‘s reception has surpassed all our expectations.” The founder-director explains that the atmosphere around them is often revolutionary, a standing ovation closes each show and almost all tickets have been sold out in advance, attracting the attention of critics and fellow acrobats.

Critics’opinion

A magazine called Voice wrote about the spectacle that it is an incredible show combining physical theatre, contemporary dance and circus techniques where “suddenly you just catch yourself falling into a swoon out of bliss”. A Scottish paper called The Scotsman emphasised the atmosphere of the show, noting how “every little movement is full of tension that forever keeps on escalating”.

recirquel, festival fringe
Recirquel performance
Photo: facebook.com/Recirquel

The EdinburghGuide calls it a “mystical show”, adding that no definition of circus is enough to describe all the limits that Recirquel is pushing. The biggest critics paper of the festival, BroadwayBaby, was absolutely mesmerised by the show’s “strength and flexibility”, emphasising how this was

the spectacle with the most amazing technical solutions that they have ever seen at the Fringe.

Critics were not the only ones captured by the show. Alessandro Serena circus historian and professor at the Milan University claims that My Land is truly a masterpiece and a real milestone in the history of modern circus shows. She also said it is like nothing she has ever experienced.

About the festival

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival lasts for about 4 weeks each August and attracts about 2 million people. Close to 4 thousand shows get put on stage, with performers coming from all over the world. The Recirquel Group made an appearance last year, with a show called ‘Paris at Night’. They received overwhelmingly positive reactions and got the call-back for this year because of it.

recirquel, edinburgh, festival
Advertisement for My Land in Edinburgh
Photo: facebook.com/Recirquel

Thousands of productions get reviewed each year at the festival.

Right now, Recirquel has five 5-star and one 4-star review, putting their show in the first place – 2nd place if the entire festival’s programmes are considered.

Not to mention the other two 5-star reviews, by The Voice and The Edinburgh Reporter, that do not even count when it comes to the ranking.

For more news, check out this article about the Hungarian group that dazzled Britain’s Got Talent judges.

Featured image: facebook.com/Recirquel

Wait, why is there a Columbo statue in Budapest?

COLUMBO STATUE IN BUDAPEST

The famous Columbo statue in Budapest causes a great deal of head-scratching to tourists, according to szeretlekmagyarorszag.hu. They cannot figure out the reason behind it ever being made or why exactly it stands where it stands.

Background of the statue

It was revealed in 2013, two years after his death, that there would be a statue commemorating Peter Falk, the actor who took on the role of Columbo for many years. The plan was to immortalise the actor in one of his most famous roles, as Lieutenant Columbo, a homicide detective of the LAPD, in district V. in Budapest. There was a call for applicants to make the statue.

The plan was to portray Peter Falk, who died aged 83, in his signature tanned raincoat and together with his loyal sidekick, a basset hound. The statue of the world-famous detective role was to be set up at the end of Falk Miksa Street, since Peter Falk himself mentioned in his autobiography that he had Hungarian ancestry thanks to one of his grandparents.

Perhaps this is what sparked the rumour that many people claim to have known: that Peter Falk is the descendant (great-grandchild or great-great-grandchild) of the famous Hungarian writer and journalist, Miksa Falk.

The competition was a success and the statue was unveiled in 2014 at the junction of Falk Miksa Street and Saint Stephen Boulevard, sparkling wonder and confusion ever since.

COLUMBO STATUE IN BUDAPEST
Photo: Alpár Kató – Daily News Hungary

Although the statue is a popular tourist destination and featured many times on various social media photos, certain foreign sites do like to make fun of it.

These sites like to point out the three curiosities of the statue.

  1. It features not Peter Falk the actor, a private person and regular human being, but one of his roles.
  2. It is not certain at all that he was, in fact, a descendant of Miksa Falk.
  3. The unveiling of the statue is connected neither to the birth date nor to the death of the actor, it is absolutely arbitrary.

Peter Falk’s acting career

Peter Falk was born in 1927 in New York, as a child of Jewish immigrant parents. His parents were both born in New York, while his paternal grandparents were from Russia, his maternal grandmother was from Czechoslovakia and his maternal grandfather was from Hungary.

Falk played sports as a child and was interested in acting, too. Although he was preparing to become a federal agent, he took acting classes and turned towards acting in the ‘50s, aged 28. His first roles were for the stage but he later managed to get into movies and TV shows.

He was nominated for two Oscars (Murder Inc., Pocketful of Miracles) and several Golden Globe and Emmy Awards, a lot of which he won.

columbo, peter falk
Peter Falk as Columbo
Photo: facebook.com/lieutenant.columbo

Although he has played in a plethora of movies, most Hungarians got to know him from Columbo. It is therefore interesting that, after the first episode (Prescription: Murder) in 1968, the second only came out three years later due to Falk’s hesitation and doubt regarding the role. Nevertheless, this second episode (Ransom for a Dead Man), shown in Hungarian cinemas, really launched the Columbo series, conquering the whole world.

For his role as Columbo, Falk was nominated for 10 Emmys, 5 of which he won, and 9 Golden Globes, of which one he could take home. The man in the role of the shabby-looking and tame detective who pretended to be slow and not too sharp but was, in reality, a genius, captured the hearts and attention of Hungarian fans as well, to which the brilliant dubbing only added.

Peter Falk’s ancestry

Even though one of Falk’s grandfathers was, in fact, born in Hungary, he did not bear the Falk name but was named Hochhauser. There are other plot holes in the urban legend that Miksa Falk is in any way connected to Peter Falk.

Miksa Falk was born in 1828, to an impoverished Jewish-Hungarian merchant family. He was working by the age of 14, as well as going to school. His reviews and translations were first published in 1843, and he soon became the sub-editor of the paper called Ungar. He enrolled in a school in Vienna but then decided to get a job at the savings bank while still working as a journalist.

He said of himself that ‘I was still half a child when I began writing, so I have up to 50 years of scribbles before I came to the public light.’

He had met István Széchenyi several times, paying weekly visits to the ‘greatest Hungarian’ in Döbling. They developed a friendship and won each other’s trust, so the majority of the count’s anonymous writings saw the light with the help of Falk, to which he added forewords or at times entire chapters.

His articles helped the Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1867 to come about and he became a corresponding member of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences.

He was introduced to Elisabeth, more commonly known Sisi, the wife of Franz Joseph, in 1866. Beginning in 1867, the countess and Falk met regularly. At the time, he was still involved with journalism while also dipping his toes into politics. He retreated from the spotlight in 1906 and died just 2 years later.

COLUMBO STATUE IN BUDAPEST
Photo: Alpár Kató – Daily News Hungary

When the possibility of a connection between the two Falks was first suggested, the chief archivist of the Budapest Capital Archive, Gabriella Csiffáry, wrote that

‘I have been researching the Hungarian ancestry of Peter Falk for a year now but only found clues on his maternal side. I have no idea where the theory of a connection to Miksa Falk originates from. I have checked every single one of Miksa Falk’s descendants’ birth certificates and not one suggests any kind of connection.’

Ergo, it turns out the statue commemorates more an urban legend than actual historical facts. Recently, the addition of the small Mihály Kolodko-statue behind Columbo provides a twist to the entire myth.

Kolodko-statue Budapest Falk Miksa
Photo: Alpár Kató – Daily News Hungary

Even though there is likely no connection at all between Peter Falk and Miksa Falk, it is fun to make up theories or just take pictures with the statue that has by now become a signature tourist destination in Budapest.

Featured image: Alpár Kató – Daily News Hungary

The longest lunar eclipse of the century is fast approaching!

eclipse, holdfogyatkozás

In the past few years, several spectacular eclipses could be witnessed from different parts of the world. Nevertheless, the next and possibly most marvellous lunar eclipse can be witnessed soon, at the end of July, according to sokszinuvidek.24.hu. You definitely do not want to miss it.

On the night of July 27th, it is going to be the longest lunar eclipse of the 21st century for those living on the Eastern hemisphere (Eastern Africa and Central Asia). Do not be discouraged if you live elsewhere, though, as the natural wonder will be partially visible from Western Africa, East Asia, South-America, Australia as well as from Europe, too.

The eclipse will take place in a span of 1 hour and 43 minutes. Counting the partial eclipses, too, the natural wonder will last 3 hours and 55 minutes on the Eastern hemisphere.

It is important to note that the longest lunar eclipse so far lasted 1 hour and 47 minutes altogether.

Lunar eclipse

A lunar eclipse is an astronomical phenomenon during which the Moon gets partially or entirely behind the Earth’s shadow. It occurs when the Earth is between the Sun and the Moon and its shadow or half-shadow is reflected onto the Moon.

It is an extraordinary thing as it will be visible from everywhere on the Earth and from space, as long as the Moon is visible. Considering Hungarian time, the lunar eclipse will start at 8:24 pm, the Moon will turn red at 9:30 pm, and it will all end by 11:13 pm.

blood moon

The eclipse is also going to bring a blood moon, as the moon will not darken entirely. Its light will turn orange and shine through the Earth’s atmosphere, creating a hollow semidarkness.

When it is a partial lunar eclipse, the Earth casts a grey shadow onto a part of the surface of the Moon.

The next phenomenon will come shortly after. Only a few days later, Mars will be a mere 57.6 million kilometres away from the Earth. This means that the red planet is going to be visible for the naked eye as well, for the first time since 2003.

For more news, check out this article about the possibility of getting rid of Daylight Saving.

Szigetmonostor, the treasure of the Szentendre Island – DRONE VIDEO

This video introduces Szigetmonostor, a lovely village on the Szentendre Island, close to Budapest. It shows the village from a brand-new perspective including the smallest details, as sokszinuvidek.24.hu reports.

It is a charming village on the most southern end of the Szentendre Island that is situated near to the Danube bend, 20 kilometres away from North Budapest. Szigetmonostor means ‘Island Monastery’ that shows the village’s commitment to religion. This name preserves the memory of the long-ago Saint Salvador Abbey that was situated in this area. Szigetmonotor can be proud of the fact that it has the highest birth rate in Hungary. Furthermore, its inhabitants have been living in close harmony with nature for a long time.

Additionally, this lovely village is an abundant water source that provides water for many people living in Budapest. Furthermore, this water source is also the clearest one in Europe. Ten stores below the Danube’s surface, there is the mystical tunnel system of Budapest Waterworks connecting the island with the shore.

About the area

It is a less known fact that the biggest military hospital lied here during the Ottoman attacks. Many doctors arriving at the “Island of Peace” gave back the hope of homecoming here.

The Szentendrei Island and its surroundings is a nature reservation due to its wonderful location, beauty, and values. 200 bird species live in the flood basin’s pine forest, and tourists can examine 25 protected plants near to the paths. The charm of the quaint village lies in the Danube and its mesmerising natural beauties. Due to the calmness and silence, many people travel here to escape the hectic everyday life in busy cities.

If you would like to have a break from the everyday treadwheel, this beautiful village is the perfect destination for you.

Featured image, photos and video: www.youtube.com/watch?v=XnPbyMwGkHg

The beautiful bridges of Budapest

chain bridge Széchenyi Lánchíd

There are many bridges connecting Buda and Pest above the Danube. Some of them became symbols of the Hungarian capital due to their beauty. However, there are others that are notable for their practical features. Whether they are old or modern, exploring them is a great adventure. Magyarorszagom.hu collected the most important facts about these bridges.

Széchenyi Chain Bridge

There is no doubt that this bridge is one of the most famous and most popular bridges in Budapest. It connects the Four Seasons Gresham Palace and the Buda Castle District. Széchenyi Chain Bridge was being built for nine years and got finished in 1849. There is a pair of stone lion statues on each end of it to protect the bridge. Furthermore, this Classic style attraction got its name after the chains hanging between the 48 metres tall columns.

Hungary Budapest tourism success visit
The Chain Bridge /Bódis Krisztián / Budapest Images/www.facebook.com/pg/budapestimages/

Margit Bridge

This is the second oldest bridge in Budapest, which connects not only Buda and Pest but also the Margit Island between the two. Its six arches are connected by seven columns, which were decorated by French artist Thabard. On the contrary to the Chain Bridge, Margit Bridge does not have a luxurious style and does not aim to stand out from its surroundings. Unfortunately, it had been blown up twice: by the escaping German troops during the Second World War, and in 1944. After that, it got renovated and visitors can admire its original look even today.

Margit bridge híd

The Szabadság Bridge (Liberty Bridge)

This bridge, which is the shortest out of all in Budapest, was finished before the millennial celebration in 1896. It is a cantilever bridge with a Secessionist architectural style. It also got damaged during WWII. However, the bridge got entirely renovated by 1946.

szabadság híd liberty bridge

Erzsébet Bridge

Erzsébet Bridge got its name after Elisabeth Wittelsbach who was also known as Sisi for many people. The bridge was originally built as a chain bridge and started functioning in 1903. After the destruction of it in WWII, it was the only bridge that got not renovated according to the original construction plans.

erzsébet elisabeth bridge híd
Photo by László Cseke

Petőfi Bridge

It connects Boráros Square (Pest) and György Goldmann Square (Buda). Its low-key style perfectly represents the Hungarian situation after WWII. Originally, this bridge was named after Miklós Horthy but got renamed in 1952.

Petőfi Bridge híd
Photo: Wiki Commons by OsvátA

Árpád Bridge

Árpád Bridge got its name after Hungary’s Grand Prince who was the leader of the Hungarian tribes’ confederation in the 9th and 10th century. The bridge connects Pest and Óbuda and generally handles big traffic during the day. Because of WWII, its construction had to be suspended for a while. Therefore, it got finished only in 1950, after eleven years. Due to the communist regime, it was first called Stalin Bridge but got its new name in 1958. After its renovation in the 1980s, there are two railway lines for trams and six lanes for cars on it.

Árpád bridge híd
Photo: Wiki Commons by Christo

 

Rákóczi Bridge

This bridge lies in the most southern part of Budapest and it exists since 1895. It was Lágymányos Bridge originally but was named after the famous Rákóczi family after that. The MÜPA (Palace of Arts) and the Hungarian National Theatre are near to its end in Pest.

Rákóczi Bridge Lágymányosi híd
Photo: Wiki Commons by Derzsi Elekes Andor

Megyeri Bridge

This is the youngest and longest bridge in the area of Budapest. Its construction had been planned since the 1990s but eventually started only in 2006, lasting for two years. There was a voting about the newest bridge’s name and even though Stephen Colbert American comedian came out as a winner, the bridge still got the name Megyeri.

Megyeri bridge híd
Photo: Wiki Commons by Civertan

Are you interested in the newest addition? Here is how the brand-new bridge is going to look like, check it out.

 

Big cities in Hungary – 5 facts you may not know about Siófok – PHOTOS

Siófok óriáskerék ferris wheel

For most of the people, Budapest is the first thing that comes to their mind when they think about Hungary. This country is beautiful, and it has many other beautiful cities. We have already written about Győr, Szeged, Debrecen, Veszprém, Sopron, Pápa, Szolnok, Miskolc, Kecskemét, Szekszárd, Tatabánya, Salgótarján, Kaposvár, Szombathely, Esztergom, Keszthely, Balatonfüred, and many other cities. Now, let us take a look at Siófok.

General information

Siófok is a beautiful port- and holiday town next to Lake Balaton in Somogy County. Even though its population is about 25,000, it is the biggest city on the shore. An interesting fact about it is that Balatonkiliti and Balatonújhely are attached to it. It was used to be called Fok (degree in English) but got the prefix ‘Sió’ in 1901 because of the Sió Canal next to it. Siófok existed even at the Roman Times.

What to see

Siófok is a beautiful city; this is why visitors should take a nice walk here. One of the latest attractions is the Ferris Wheel. It is a seasonal program since visitors can enjoy it only during the summer season. However, it is good to know that the minimum height is 140 cm for all of the visitors.

Siófok Farris Wheel óriáskerék
Photo: www.facebook.com/SiófokÓriáskerék

It is also a great way to take a look at the area nearby from the Siófok Water Tower. On the top, you can admire the view the beautiful landscape while drinking a cup of coffee, refreshers, or eat some sweets at the café.

víztorony Siófok water tower
Photo: www.facebook.com/SiófokiVíztorony

For those who like museums, the Mineral Museum could be an excellent choice. It is a nice programme not only for children but also for adults since the exhibition is very informative.

Water activities

There is a wide range of water activities in this city. First of all, the most popular way to enjoy the water is Lake Balaton. There are not only beaches on the shore, but one can also find adventure here, too. Bebo Aquapark is a perfect example for that because everyone, no matter how old they are, will find the most exciting activities for themselves. There are trampolines, “monkey cages”, obstacle courses, and many more. Safety is very important for the park, therefore everyone is safe while having fun here.

Bebó Aquapark Siófok
Photo: www.facebook.com/beboaquapark/

After bathing, you can even go on a boat trip that can be a refreshing experience due to the wind blowing on the open water. If you like paddle boating, we can assure you that there are many places to rent one. Furthermore, a romantic date idea could also be rowboating during the sunset.

If you are not keen on bathing in the lake, we have good news for you because there is also a Thermal Bath in Siófok. Its name is Galerius Bath and Wellness Centre that offers different kinds of activities for all ages. There are multiple pools, some slides, massage, and hot water.

Siófok Galérius élményfürdő és welness központ bath
Photo: www.facebook.com/galeriusfurdo/

Adventure

Siófok is a busy city full of adventures. If you want to have a break from bathing and relaxing under the sun, here are some ideas to spice up your holiday.

Escape Game Siófok is also an exciting program. Here, teams have to escape from a room with brain-teasers and hidden clues using good examining skills and cooperation. It offers fun and brings the team members closer together.

Bala Ball is a place of fun, an unusual sport, and a lot of laughing. Here, you can try the so-called “Bubble Soccer” that means you can play football while your body’s upper part is in a giant, air-filled, special kind of “balloon”. Additionally, there is no need to know all the rules of soccer, and anyone can play this game.

Bala Ball bubble soccer buborékfoci Siófok
Photo: www.facebook.com/pg/balaball.balaton/

For adrenaline addicts

Ugrani Jó (It is good to jump) is a great opportunity to release your stress and get some adrenaline instead. It is a company that flies you up in the air and then let you jump with a well-trained expert and a parachute of course. It is a great way to see the area from a bird’s-eye view while experiencing something astonishing and memorable.

Ugrani Jó tandemugrás Siófok jumping
Photo: www.facebook.com/ugranijo.hu/

If you like playing paintball or you always wanted to try it, Adrenaline Paintball Action Park is your place. The friendly staff members know a lot about this sport and can explain the sport in great details also in English and German. There is also a restaurant to refill your energy after the fight.

Featured image: www.facebook.com/SiófokÓriáskerék

These castles are for you if you are fond of Kincsem, the movie – PHOTOS

Almásy kastély castle Gyula

Do you like luxury, elegance, history, and fairy tales? Divany.hu collected these eleven castles you have to visit.

Festetics Castle

Keszthely, Zala County

Being one of the most fabulous castles in Hungary, Festetics Castle comes to many people’s mind when they think about Hungary. The Festetics Family was one of the most wealthy family in their time. Their library, the Helikon Library contains about 80,000 books. Furthermore, the castle has an exhibition about the baronial life, a palm house, as well as a coach and a hunting exhibition.

Keszthely kastély castle Festetics
Photo: www.facebook.com/festeticskastelyhivatalos/

Grassalkovich Castle

Gödöllő, Pest County

This charming castle has a breathtaking interior and a well-maintained park. Furthermore, if you are searching for entertainment, you can attend concerts, or watch operettas and theatre plays.

Grassalkovics kastély castle Gödöllő
Photo: www.facebook.com/GödöllőiKastély

Esterházy Castle

Fertőd, Győr-Moson-Sopron County

This castle is famous not only because of its beauty but also the fact that Joseph Haydn himself lived here. During the Spring Festivals, there are classical music concerts. Additionally, visitors can admire the exhibition introducing the baroque theatre.

Eszterházy castle Fertőd
Photo: Wiki Commons by Szvitek Péter

Schossberger Castle

Tura, Pest County

Unfortunately, this castle was closed in the fall of 2016 due to renovation, and there is no information about the reopening dates yet. However, you should still take a look at the building from the outside if you happen to be around. The castle is called the “Little Sibling of the Opera House” because of its neo-Renaissance style.

Schossberger castle kastély Tura
Photo: Wiki Commons by CivertanS

Wenckheim Castle

Szabadkígyós, Békés County

Miklós Ybl designed this fantastic neo-Renaissance building for Krisztina Wenckheim, the customer. According to her unusual request, the castle has as many windows as there are days in a year, as many rooms as there are weeks in a year, and as many entrances, as there are seasons in a year. There are also bedrooms, dining rooms, a winter garden, a library, a chapel, a lady’s music saloon, and a gentlemen’s saloon as well.

Wenckheim castle kastély Szabadkígyós
Photo: Wiki Commons by Laszlo Kulisics

Nádasdy Castle

Nádasladány, Fejér County

This lovely castle has a romantic story. When Ferenc Nádasdy married Ilona Zichy, they started planning their life together. They wanted to build the castle, but in the meantime, Ilona passed away. However, Miklós finished the castle as a tribute to their love and never married another woman in his life.

Nádasdy castle kastély Nádasladány
Photo: www.facebook.com/pages/Nádasdy-Kastély-Nádasdladány

Károlyi Castle

Füzérradvány, Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County

This is the castle you have to visit if you like admiring not only the spectacular building but also its beautiful garden. There, you can spend hours walking, having a picnic on the shore of the small stream or in the shadow of the giant platan trees. In case you have time, visit the Castle of Füzér as well. There, one can see the interactive exhibition about the everyday life in the middle ages in the castle.

Károlyi Castle kastély Füzérradvány
Photo: Wiki Commons by RHerczeg

Andrássy Castle

Tiszadob, Szabolcs-Szatmár-Bereg County

This castle indeed looks like Disney castle and to have a real fairytale experience; visitors can also enjoy the boxwood labyrinth. Numerology played an important role in designing the castle because it has 4 entrances, 12 towers, 52 rooms, and 365 windows.

Andrássy castle kastély Tiszadob
Photo: Wiki Commons by Mmaminti

Festetics Castle

Dég, Fejér County

There are many legends in connection with this castle. According to one of them, it was the secret centre of the Freemasonry. It is a must for Kincsem lovers since many scenes were caught on camera here. The building’s frontage looks like the Hungarian National Museums’ because Mihány Pollack designed both of them. It has a mesmerising garden and an island in the middle of a pond.

Dég Festetics kastély castle
Photo: Wiki Commons by Tóth-Piusz István

L’Huillier-Coburg Castle

Edelény, Borsod-Abaúj-Zemplén County

This castle has had many functions before. It functioned as a prison, but even chickens lived here. Luckily, it got renovated after a new owner could finally appreciate its beauty. Since then,  visitors can admire the gorgeous Baroque castle.

L'Huillier-Coburg castle kastély Edelény
Photo: Wiki Commons by MilanPataky

Almásy Castle

Gyula, Békés County

This castle has a fantastic interactive exhibition about life at those times when the castle was full of life. It is worth joining a guided tour where one can find out more about those times and the secrets of the castle. Visitors have the opportunity to smell perfumes, see which dresses would have fitted them the best with the help of a magic mirror, and can play on the piano on which Ferenc Liszt performed according to the legends.

Almásy kastély castle Gyula
Photo: Wiki Commons by Erkelferencmuzeum

Featured image: Wiki Commons by Erkelferencmuzeum

Big cities in Hungary – 5 facts you may not know about Balatonfüred – PHOTOS

ake Balaton view landscape

For most of the people, Budapest is the first thing that comes to their mind when they think about Hungary. This country is beautiful, and it has many other beautiful cities. We have already written about Győr, Szeged, Debrecen, Veszprém, Sopron, Pápa, Szolnok, Miskolc, Kecskemét, Szekszárd, Tatabánya, Salgótarján, Kaposvár, Szombathely, Esztergom, Keszthely and many other cities. Now, let us take a look at Balatonfüred.

General information

Balatonfüred lies in Veszprém county, and it is the northern centre of Lake Balaton. Even though Veszprém is the capital in Veszprém county, Balatonfüred is more popular in the summer, due to its location. It has only about 13,000 inhabitants, but it is one of the busiest cities in summer. Additionally, Balatonfüred is the oldest holiday town around Lake Balaton.

Explore Balatonfüred

Tagore Promenade is one of the best-known places in the city. It got its name after Nobel prize winner Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore, who came to the sanatorium and planted a tree after he had healed. It became a tradition, and even Gandhi has a tree at the promenade since then, as ilovebalaton.hu reports.

Balatonfüred Tagore sétány promenade
Photo: Wiki Commons by Regasterios

Balatonfüred Tagore sétány promenade
Photo: Wiki Commons by Derzsi Elekes Andor

Next, to Tagore Promenade, there is the famous Heart Hospital and the Kossuth Lajos Drinking Hall in front of it. It is a fantastic architectural masterpiece with drinking pipes from where good-quality mineral water flows.

Balatonfüred Kossuth Lajos forrás drinking hall
Photo: Wiki Commons by Jarba

There are many ways to explore the wonders of Balatonfüred. One of them is cycling. There are many bike paths, so biking is not only convenient but also faster than sitting in a traffic jam in summer. If you are looking for something adventurous, we recommend the High Tech Sportok Bázisa (Base of the High Tech Sports). This company organises segway tours in- and outside the city. Finally, Lilliput Train is the best choice if you cannot walk a lot, you have children, or you have only a little time, and you want to see as many attractions as possible. This charming little train drives you around the city and shows you the most popular places in Balatonfüred.

Museums

There are many museums in Balatonfüred. The Vaszary Mansion is one of the most popular ones on the list, where visitors can enjoy a fine arts exhibition, wonderful paintings and photos. Additionally, there is a pleasant atmosphere to relax in the mesmerising garden eating sweets and drinking beverages.

Balatonfüred Vaszary Villa Mansion
Photo: Wiki Commons by Globetrotter19

The Bodorka Balaton Aquarium introduces the animal kingdom of Lake Balaton. It has a brief but informative exhibition that is perfect for smaller children, who are not patient enough for a long exhibition.

The Jókai Mór Emlékház (Mór Jókai’s House) commemorates Mór Jókai, a famous Hungarian writer. The exhibition is neatly organised, there are many possessions that visitors can see. It is a good choice for those who adore literature.

Balatonfüred Jókai Mór Emlékház House
Photo: Wiki Commons by EtelkaCsilla

Vitorlázeum is a sailing museum which tells about the history of sailing and has an interactive exhibition that can be a good family programme.

Nature

There are more options besides Lake Balaton to explore nature nearby. From the Jókai Lookout, that is on the top of Tamás Hill, there is a gorgeous view of the area. From the modern and safe lookout, the entire Tihany Peninsula is visible. At the bottom of the hill, visitors can take part in a guided tour in the Lóczy Cave. The tour guides are well informed and have a deep understanding of the cave and its history. This programme suits everyone, whether they are seven, seventeen, or seventy years old.

Balatonfüred Lóczy barlang cave
Photo: Wiki Commons by Kavol

Adventures

We recommend you two adventurous programmes in case you are seeking something exciting.

The first one is the Brázay-KalandPart (Brázay AdventurePark), where you can climb on trees, balance on ropes, jump on trampolines, or challenge yourself on the cableways. The restaurant is wonderful, there is not only fast food but warm meals as well.

Balatonfüred Brázay KalandPark adventure park

Balatonfüred Brázay KalandPark adventure park

Balatonfüred Brázay KalandPark adventure park

Photos: www.facebook.com/kalandparkfured/

The second option for a more active way to spend free time is the Annagora Aquapark. Here, visitors can try out the various pools and slides. There are also further entertainments and, besides, also some relaxing programmes such as wellness or sunbathing.

Balatonfüred Annagora Aquapark

Balatonfüred Annagora Aquapark

Balatonfüred Annagora Aquapark

Photos: www.facebook.com/annagoraaquapark/

Nearby

The nearest attraction is the Tihany Peninsula where travellers can explore the city of Tihany, the abbey, many museums, and also the wonderful lavender field.

Tihany apátság abbey
Photo: www.facebook.com/TihanyHivatalosOldala

Balatonfüred is also a great location for starting one’s bike trip around Lake Balaton on the well-maintained bike paths.

Featured image: Wiki Commons by Susulyka

Extreme Hungarian adventure parks for adrenaline junkies – PART 2

adventure park

In the previous part, we enumerated extreme Hungarian adventure parks for adrenaline lovers who need something to get their heart pumping. In this article, we continue the list of these Hungarian adventure parks concentrating more on places where whole families and always energetic kids can have fun together and push their limits. Given that these parks are in different parts of Hungary, the discovery of them also make you more familiar with the Hungarian countryside.

What can both perk up and exhaust kids who are always tireless? Undoubtedly, those colourful activities that are offered in Hungarian adventure parks where everybody can find a suitable attraction that is challenging and exhausting at the same time. In the following, you can get to know more about 5 incredible adventure parks where activities range from those that can be done on the ground or in the water to those which are done up in the air close to the dense foliage of trees.

1. Maros Adventure Park, Makó

Besides the Hagymatikum Thermal Bath, Makó is also noteworthy for its adventure park constructed in 2011 to popularise the town and its famous river, the Maros, reports Karpatinfo.net. What is so special about this place is that the park offers tracks with different difficulty levels, so that everybody can find the most suitable one. Tracks composed of 19 playing elements are located on the ground for the smallest ones while adults can enjoy the death-defying heights 3-4 meters above the ground. At such a height, you can experience what it feels like to take a walk at the level of the tree foliage.

adventure park
/www.maroskalandpart.hu/

adventure park
/www.maroskalandpart.hu/

If you need something more unique, then you should not miss flying over the Maros river on the canopy zipline. This is the only zipline in Hungary which goes over a river within 2 minutes. The unforgettable experience costs 1,600 Ft (5.3 euros) for an adult and 700 Ft (2.3 euros) for a child.

2. Fun Extreme Canopy Tour, Visegrád

The world’s first canopy zipline was opened in Costa Rica, in the Moteverde Cloud Forest, and its aim was to make rainforest research easier by using cables attached to trees, can be read on Canopy.hu.

The one in Visegrád is the 1st of this kind in Hungary, and only after one ride, you can understand why this town is the perfect location for such a park.

Within seconds, such a panorama unfolds before your eyes that is beyond belief. The Danube Bend, the Citadel of Visegrád and the view overlooking the Börzsöny and Pilis Mountains immediately bewitch you.

adventure park
/visegrad.hu/

The track is composed of 10 parts and is altogether 900 metres long that can be covered in approximately an hour. The track is excellent for team building as it can build trust and strengthen the feeling of unity within the team or the family. The cost of a ride is 3,900 Ft (13 euros) per person.

3. Forest Adventure Park, Szilvásvárad

The largest adventure park in the Bükk Mountains offers colourful attractions for friends, families and teams as well. In a spectacular surrounding, the zipline of the park goes over the Szalajka stream, reports Kalanderdo.hu. There are ziplines for more advanced level riders, for example, the Adrenaline, Balance and the Flying Fox ziplines, but the smallest ones can also have fun by trying themselves in the Mini Forest Adventure Park.

adventure park
/kalanderdo.hu/

Besides the ziplines offering extreme heights, those suffering from fear of heights should not worry either since they can opt for monsterroller, Euro Bungee or gold washing activities.

The latter one is a fun and educational activity for adults and children alike where everyone can find the treasures hidden in the sand by using traditional gold washing techniques.

The prices of the park depend on the activities you choose, so for more information, you can visit the website of the park here.

4. Crystal Tower, Bükfürdő

Have you ever dreamed of walking in a real crystal tower? Then, you should not miss the one located in Bükfürdő. This is a unique, three-storey construction using state-of-the-art technology, reports Visitbuk.hu. Visitors can try out all the 90 elements of the park, but great emphasis is placed on liberty. This means that visitors can skip some elements that they judge too difficult while they can go through those elements that they like the best several times.

adventure park
/kristalytorony.hu/

adventure park
/kristalytorony.hu/

Besides the exceptional height of the tower, it can also host 120 people simultaneously.

The Mini Crystal Tower aims to attract younger visitors while the Giant Swing and the cycling activities are more meant for adult adrenaline lovers.

Most park tickets are valid for 3 hours, but if you want to spend the whole day in the park, one-day tickets are also available. For more information, please visit the website of the park.

5. Oxygen Adrenalin Park, Gyöngyös-Sástó

This adventure park is far from the bustling capital but is close enough to reach it within an hour. The park is located in Gyöngyös-Sástó, between Mátrafüred and Mátraháza. As Gyongyos-matra.hu reports, it is not only the spectacular attractions that leave you breathless, but the unique view unfolding before your eyes as well. If it is sunny, you can even see the Great Hungarian Plain. Amazing, right?

adventure park
/facebook/Oxygen Adrenalin Park – Mátra-Sástó/

There is a lot to discover in this place for the lovers of height including the canopy zipline, the forest rope bridge adventure and the pedestrian suspension bridge.

For those fond of water activities, water walking balls, water rollers and electro jet skis are offered, but you can also try out the hand car, a train-like vehicle, which operates on a railroad, but works like a bicycle requiring human power to ride.

adventure park
/facebook/Oxygen Adrenalin Park – Mátra-Sástó/

Featured image: kristalytorony.hu

Extreme Hungarian adventure parks for adrenaline junkies – PART 1

tandem fly air

Are you one of those people who are obsessed with adventure holidays and extreme sports? Or are you one who despite being terrified of extreme activities still want to prove how to overcome one’s fears? Are you not terrified of death-defying heights or frantic speed?  Then, you might want to check out what kind of extreme sports activities are available in Hungary which definitely get your heart pumping.

If you are an adrenaline junkie who is fond of extreme things from jumping, through falling to gliding on a wakeboard, then this article is for you. The most extreme activities are collected here which besides being fun, thrilling and freaking exciting, also offer a phenomenal view. Join us in this heart-racing adventure.

1. Bringaréna, Eplény

If the name of Eplény is familiar to you, it is not a coincidence. This Hungarian town is famous for its ski slopes where thousands of people ski every year when winter sets in. However, what would a place like this do with its slopes and ski lift in the summer?

eplény bike
This is how it looks like when bikes are transported instead of skis/facebook/Bringaréna Eplény/

No, they do not close the establishment but provide an opportunity for bikers and their bikes to get to the mountain top from where various slopes start, reports Veszpreminfo.hu.

From the very beginning to the more advanced bikers, there is a lot to enjoy besides the scenery.

Those seeking some adventures might want to try out the cross country, the free ride or the downhill paths where the adrenaline rush is absolutely guaranteed.

eplény motorcycle
/facebook/Bringaréna Eplény/

If you get tired of the constant jumping over smaller or bigger hills, you might want to take enjoyable mountain trips as well to the neighbouring towns and mountains, for example to Kőrös Mountain, Római Bath or to the Arboretum of Zirc.

2. Venice Beach Cable Park, Velence

If you are the lover of water sports and the sunnier weather puts you in a mood for wanting to glide on water by standing on a wakeboard, then the Venice Beach Cable Park is for you.

While your family can take a long walk around the lake, you can try out this sport.

As soon as the temperature of the water increases, sportspeople can get on their wakeboards and fight with the wind and the various obstacles constructed to perform some tricks.

beach water sport
/facebook/Venice Beach Cable Park/

It is absolutely thrilling and only the most experienced ones can get away without getting wet. Those pursuing a career in this sport have to dig deep into their pockets since a monthly ticket is 120,000 Ft (400 euros) while a single beginner ticket is 4,000 Ft (14 euros). For a one-time experience, it is worth trying out.

water sport
/facebook/Venice Beach Cable Park/

3. Tandem Team, Balatonkeresztúr

If you have not get excited so far, then the following opportunity will certainly get your heart pumping. The Hungarian team, Tandem Team, dealing with this extreme activity and guaranteeing your safety was founded in 1999 in Australia and it was them who introduced the accelerated freefall training in Hungary, reports Tandemugras.co.hu.

tandem jump air
/facebook/TandemTeam/

So, considering their professional background, would you trust them and jump into the air falling with 220 km/h? Are you ready to face your biggest fear?

If your answer is yes, then you might want to try out this sport requiring only 50-55 seconds to reach the ground.

But the question is: why would some people really want it? In fact, the tandem skydive is the most popular among first-time jumpers because it only needs 5 minutes to acquire the basics before the person can enjoy the free fall.

tandem jump fly
/facebook/TandemTeam/

And this amazing opportunity is offered for how much? The tandem jump costs 45,000 forints (150 euros), but if you would like to remember the amazing moments of free fall, you can record the event for another 9,000 forints (30 euros).

4. Zemplén Adventure Park, Sátoraljaújhely

The aim of the adventure park of Sátoraljaújhely is to help visitors overcome their fears whether they are physical or psychological ones, reports Zemplenkalandpark.hu. Therefore, it offers a test of courage where one’s mental preparedness is as important as the physical well-being. Besides the bobsleigh track, the ski slopes and the longest sitting chair elevator of the country, visitors can also try out the extreme zip line, the latest attraction of the park.

adventure fly
/facebook/Zemplén Kalandpark Sátoraljaújhely/

The zip line is called Sólyom (Falcon) and it was inaugurated to the public in 2015. The 1,036-meter-long zip line connecting two mountains offers an amazing experience for those brave enough to overcome their fear of heights.

These volunteers can fly with 80 km/h in the first Hungarian zipline of this kind.

And in order to remember the amazing adventure, GoPro video cameras can be attached to the helmet of everyone recording the spectacular surrounding and the reaction of the panic-stricken volunteers. This experience costs 3,850 Ft (13 euros) per person.

adventure park fly
/facebook/Zemplén Kalandpark Sátoraljaújhely/

5. High-Tech experience, various locations

You can enjoy the High-Tech experience in Hévíz, Balatonfüred, Budapest or Mátrafüred where more than 200 km of paved and off-road are offered for the courageous visitors, reports Hsb.hu. There are so many opportunities offered to the lovers of extreme activities, that the whole family would find something enjoyable. From mountain cart and monster roller, through cross country, quad and shredder opportunities to dog scooter, e-jeep and snow scooter options, there are many things available that are hardly possible to enumerate.

nature sport
/facebook/HSB.hu – High-tech élménytúrák az év minden napján/

Tours can be taken with your children or alone and there are activities for real beginner, intermediate and advanced level riders, too. The price depends on the tour and the extreme sport you choose, so for more information, visit the website of the team.

/facebook/HSB.hu – High-tech élménytúrák az év minden napján/

Hopefully, you have obtained some ideas for blowing off a little steam and enjoying the Hungarian countryside. Whether up in the air or down on the ground, you would be amazed by how beautiful the Hungarian landscape is in each season.  🙂

Featured image: facebook/TandemTeam

Budapest Zoo introduces its brand-new attraction

Budapest Zoo entrance

Spring season starts this weekend at the Budapest Zoo. Programmes include petting rabbit as well as various shows. The zoo also opens a new area called Holnemvolt Vár (Once upon Castle). Funzine.hu reports about the details.

Budapest Zoo prepared many entertaining programmes for the long weekend: etymological shows and training elephants and sea lions, among others. Visitors can admire 850 species all in all at the zoo. Furthermore, there are also newborn animals such as gorillas, muntjacs, orangutans, giraffes, kangaroos, elephants, and agoutis.

baby newborn animal Budapest Zoo
Photo: www.zoobudapest.com

Once upon Castle

However, the biggest attraction is the Holnemvolt Vár (Once upon Castle), that is the first part of the zoo’s developmental process. It offers programmes for kids between the ages of 3 and 10 on its 1.6 acres. This new play area is situated in the former amusement park’s place and the zoo’s former business area. Here, children can get to know the tame animals. Therefore, the animal petting area will be here as well as a guinea pig town and bigger domestic animals. At the Nyíhangár (Neih Barn), visitors can learn about horse riding traditions. Additionally, craft activities, pottery, and a bakery will entertain the smaller ones in the Macskakő utca (Cobble Street).

The Hetedhét Palace will be an indoor play centre decorated with the animal characters of the Hungarian folk tales. This 3000 square metres area offers an opportunity for children to challenge their physical strength as well as their wit. They can also meet Vuk the fox and The Great Angler, who are famous Hungarian cartoon characters.

Budapest Zoo carousel körhinta Scheffner
Photo: MTI, Balogh Zoltán

The Once upon Castle will also have an area where visitors can feel as if they were at a Hungarian funfair of the older times. Here, people can enjoy the fully renovated Schäfner carousel from 1908, the old barrel, and other traditional toys. Also for the sake of the traditions, the frontage of the zoo will look like in the 20th century, reflecting the long-ago Royal Vio Cinema and Sámuel Helfgott’s photo store.

Featured image: Wiki Commons by ato

Big cities in Hungary – 5 facts you may not know about Szombathely – PHOTOS

Szombathely Savaria museum

For most of the people, Budapest is the first thing that comes to their mind when they think about Hungary. This country is beautiful, and it has many other beautiful cities. We have already written about Győr, Szeged, Debrecen, Veszprém, Sopron, Pápa, Kecskemét, Szekszárd, Tatabánya, Salgótarján, Kaposvár, and many other cities. Now, let us take a look at Szombathely.

General information

Szombathely is the county seat of Vas county and lies in Western Hungary, about 220 kilometres from Budapest. Its Latin name is Savaria or Sabaria that was the name for the Gyöngyös Stream, which flows through Szombathely. It is one of the oldest cities in Hungary and is also called the Queen of the West. It is situated by the Alpokalja Mountain (Feet of the Alps) on the Kisalföld (Little Hungarian Plain). According to the latest happiness survey, Szombathely is the happiest city in Hungary. It has about 80 thousand inhabitants.

Szombathely
Photo: Wiki Commons by Civertan

Close to nature

Szombathely is a city that lies in a beautiful area where visitors can enjoy being close to nature.

The Parkerdő Zöld Utak (Forest Green Roads) is a forest that provides safe, well-maintained and lovely paths. These are suitable for walking, jogging, running, and biking as well. Path “A” is 2,3 kilometres long with gentle hills and downhills. It is perfect for small, relaxing walks, jogging and running. The 3.7 kilometres path “B” offers a great opportunity for a long walk in the woods, fitness training, and cycling. The length of path “C” is 2.6 kilometres, and it has gentle hills and downhills, just like path “A”.

The Kámoni Arboretum introduces the trees and bushes, 3000 species all in all. The 27-acre big park lies by the Gyöngyös Stream and can be visited all year long. There is an Ecotouristic Centre that entertains visitors with a colourful variety of programmes and exhibitions. It is in front of the arboretum’s entrance.

There is an artificial rowing and fishing lake in the city. It was formed by filling up the former clay mine’s hole. Its perimeter is 1500 meters that we can follow by walking on the nice pavement around it. Those who are not keen on fishing can also rent row- and paddle boats by the lake.

arboretum Szombathely
Photo: Wiki Commons by Deadend85

Kámoni arboretum Szombathely
Photo: Wiki Commons by Deadend85

History and traditions

The Museum Village of Vas County (Vasi Múzeumfalu) opened in 1973, and it aims to preserve traditions. It has already settled many indigenous domestic animals, saved 43 traditional buildings and created an ethnobotanical garden. The village organises programmes to teach people about the Hungarian traditions and customs.

The Historical Theme Park (Történelmi Témapark) introduces the antique natural sciences. It reveals how inhabitants worked with ancient materials, shows the technological breakthroughs of those times, and teaches about philosophy in an interactive, experimental way. It is a perfect programme for children and adults as well.

The István Járdányi Paulovics Ruin Garden (Járdányi Paulovics István Romkert) displays the biggest contiguous part of the antic Savaria. It exhibits remains of a cesarean palace, ruins of a castle, a public bath, mosaic surfaces, and workshops from the 1-4th centuries. However, the most interesting piece is the former palace complex. It had a large hall with the biggest contiguous mosaic floor in Pannonia.

The Iseum Savariense Archeological Workshop and Repository (Iseum Savariense Műhely és Tárház) is one of the most important relics of the antic times. The sanctuary built for Isis Goddess has an unbelievably huge size and beautiful style. This serves as evidence for the fact that Szombathely was the centre of the Isis cult of the Danube area.

Vasi Skanzen Szombathely
Photo: www.facebook.com/Vasi-Skanzen

Szombathely
Photo: Wiki Commons by ciladis

Museums

Szombathely offers a wide range of museums, especially when it comes to history.

The Savaria Legio Show-room (Savaria Legio Bemutatóraktár) lies right next to the Historical Theme Park in Szombathely. It exhibits the equipment, accessories, and possessions of the Appolinaris Legio from the 1st century. Furthermore, there are guided tours and special History classes if registered beforehand.

The Savaria Museum displays the characteristic of the Alpokalja’s (Feet of the Alps) geology, natural resources, and the most important points of history from the antique times. There are also colourful, high-quality maquettes on a small scale and sculptures.

The Schmidt Museum has an interesting variety of different exhibitions. Visitors can get to know Dr. Lajos Schmidt, a retired hospital director and head surgeon. He donated his private collection to Szombathely establishing the museum. First of all, there are poems, stories, and narratives from him. Visitors can also read the thank notes for his successful surgeries and the articles written about him. Additionally, there is a military and weapon history collection in the museum. Besides that, collections of works of art, medical devices, musical instruments, and many more make the exhibition even more colourful.

The Sala Terrena is the first Hungarian museum that displays inscribed Roman rocks. Fantastic frescos cover the walls of the building which eternalise the antique memories of that time.

Szombathely Savaria museum
Photo: www.facebook.com/Savaria-Múzeum

Sala Terrena Szombathely
Photo: www.facebook.com/kastelyokmagyarorszag

Kid-friendly places

The first location on the kid-friendly list must be the Adventure City Playground (Kalandváros Játszópark). It is one acre big and has a breathtaking amount and variety of toys such as a wooden castle, slides, and rope ladders. The biggest tower is seven metres tall, and the castle complex is 27 metres long. Additionally, there are tiny water parks, built-in slides on small hills, a swing park, and a cableway course besides the traditional, well-known toys. The park is also suitable for disabled kids and children of all ages.

Agora is a KRESZ (Rules of the Road) park for kids between the ages of 3 and 12. There is a traffic lights system on the tiny roads traffic signs so that the children can learn about the rules of the road. Additionally, bicycle and go-kart renting is available. The park is situated in a pleasant, green area with trees and benches.

Photo: www.facebook.com/pages/Szombathely-Kalandváros

KRESZ park Szombathely
Photo: www.facebook.com/pages/Szombathely-Kresz-Park

Further sights and programmes

Featured image: www.facebook.com/Savaria-Múzeum

We introduce you: the Bear Farm in Veresegyháza – PHOTO GALLERY

bear farm Veresegyháza zoo

There is a small town near Budapest, called Veresegyháza. Here, you can find a unique kind of zoo, the Bear Farm. Magyarorszagom.hu writes about this special place.

About the farm

The Bear Farm became famous very quickly, and today, it is the fifth most visited zoo in Hungary.

The aim of the founders was to guarantee a safe environment, where visitors can admire the animals without disturbing them.

The park got its ‘zoo qualification’ in 2009 and admits 200 thousand visitors a year. The facility is five and a half acres big and is the only place of its kind in Europe that is supported by the local government and the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA).

The farm opened in 1998 and its mission is to save bears living in bad conditions.

About the bears

There are bears from zoos, private owners, and also abroad this is why the population is constantly growing. They live in a separated area with two lakes and twelve caves. Additionally, there is also a forest, where they can climb on the trees or hide in the shadows from the heat.They have plenty of water and big space for playing. The workers keep these bears as free as it is possible in a natural environment.

Other animals

In 2000, wolves arrived at the park and today, 19 of them live here. There is a big lake, and 1,5 acres are available for these animals. The three packs live separately: the gentle ones, the calm ones who live with the bears, and the big pack in the forest.

In 2010, new residents arrived; the washing bears and the South American coatis. Today, you can also meet raindeers here. Feeding times attract a lot of birds, so it is worth looking at the sky these times.

Programmes and entertainment

The Bear Farm is continuously getting nicer and nicer, for this reason, it can be a whole-day trip. The playground and the little engine entertain the smallest ones, what is more, there is also an adventure park. However, the best part for all ages is that visitors can feed the bears by themselves with honey from wooden spoons. In the park’s restaurant, we can buy delicious homemade meals. The farm has different kinds of programmes. Therefore, you should check out their website.

If you are interested in a unique profession in connection with bears, click here.

This article is also for you if you want to read the latest news about the Hungarian zoos.

Photos: www.facebook.com/medveotthonveresegyhaz

Spring arrives with the BKK Heritage Services

The Heritage Service trams of the Centre for Budapest Transport (BKK) and of BKV are back on track since Sunday (18 March), reports napi.hu. You can hop on one of the trams for a round of nostalgia each Sunday until the 15th of April.

You can enjoy a sense of vintage and ‘retro’ in Budapest by taking one of the Heritage Service vintage trams that run between Széll Kálmán Square and Hűvösvölgy on Sundays from the 18th of March until the 15th of April. The wooden-framed two-axle vintage trams (marked 611 and 436) take off at 10, 11, 13 and 14 o’clock each Sunday from Széll Kálmán Square, arriving 26 minutes later to Hűvösvölgy.

[button link=”https://dailynewshungary.com/sunshine-budapest-heritage-services-convertible-bus-convertible-yes/” type=”big” newwindow=”yes”] The latest addition to the Heritage Service fleet was a convertible Ikarus bus last June[/button]

The 436 wooden-framed two-axle yellow vintage tram was manufactured in Budapest in 1913. After serving the city for several decades, it was taken out of service in 1980.

This was followed by almost ten years of rest in storage, just to be repaired and revamped to its original state in 1987.

Up until the mid-2000’s, the 436 marked tram was on display at the Urban Public Transport Museum in Szentendre. Today, it is part of the Budapest Heritage Service Fleet and is happily awaiting everyone to take them on a nostalgic tour around Budapest.

tram villamos budapest heritage nosztalgia

The brown 611 wooden-framed vintage tram was manufactured in 1908 by the Schlick factory. Due to the increased traffic in the 1950’s, it was necessary to transform a part of the fleet into twin cars. These cars were equipped with more adequate, state-of-the-art engines.

In 1975, the tram bearing the number 611 barely escaped dismantling.

Similarly to the 436 tram, the 611 tram was restored in 1987 too.

tram villamos heritage budapest nosztalgia

A Heritage service single ticket cost 500 forints (EUR 1.6), while a Heritage service travelcard (can be used for 24 hours) costs 2000 forints (EUR 6.42). If you are interested, you can also buy an annual Heritage service pass for 15 thousand forints (EUR 48.18).

photos: bkk.hu, www.instagram.com/bkkbudapest/