Budapest

Japanese premium coffee brand opens 1st shop in Budapest! – PHOTOS

Japanese premium coffee brand opened 1st shop in Budapest

% Arabica, the Japanese-owned, Hong Kong-registered coffee brand has opened its first shop in Hungary, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade said in a statement on Friday. According to their official Facebook page, the official opening of the place was on 26 January and Péter Szijjártó, Hungary’s foreign minister, visited it yesterday. Here is what you should know about the new café, where you can find it and some photos of its astonishing 22nd-century-like interior.

Japanese premium coffee brand opened 1st shop in Budapest

Speaking at the inauguration in Budapest, Szijjártó highlighted Hungary’s role as a “bridge” for cooperation between East and West and noted that it was now no longer difficult to hop on a direct flight to Budapest from a number of big Chinese cities, such as Shenzhen or Hong Kong. He added that Chinese tourists had spent over half a million guest nights in Hungary last year, supporting the sector’s record performance.

Japanese premium coffee brand opened 1st shop in Budapest
Photo: FB/Arabica Hungary

Szijjártó said the choice of Hungary for the first % Arabica shop in Central Europe was reason for pride, adding that the franchise owners saw it as a first step with more to follow. He pointed to an eight-year cooperation with the investors that extends to gastronomy, tourism and an exhibition space for young Hungarian artists, offering them a chance to raise their profiles on Asian markets.

Tradition and modernism

Szijjártó said that the investment of the Arabica blends international modernism and national traditions since the interior of the shop is entirely 22nd-century while Zsolnay, a prestigious Hungarian trademark, is also present. He said that is how tourists visiting Hungary can learn about our traditions while seeking something new.

The owners of the franchise said that the opening of their first shop is just the first step which will be followed by more. Szijjártó hoped that their investment would bring much success, so they would continue their expansion in Hungary.

He said that the Hungarian government had been cooperating with the owners for eight years, and they already inaugurated an exhibition place where they provided space for young Hungarian artists to showcase their talent on the Far Eastern markets.

In his Facebook post, Szijjártó concluded that it was worth opening the country for Eastern investments since they made Hungary a flagship of Eastern efforts in Europe.

Japanese premium coffee brand opened 1st shop in Budapest
People stood outside for hours after the opening. Thankfully, the weather was nice on 26 January. Photo: FB/Arabica Hungary
Japanese premium coffee brand opened 1st shop in Budapest
Photo: FB/Arabica Hungary

% Arabica started recruiting last December and kicked off with a staff of seven people.

Kenneth Shoji, the founder of the franchise

On their Facebook page, they introduce Kenneth Shoji, the founder of the franchise. “I truly need an amazing cup of coffee every day. This is why I founded % ΔRΔBICΔ.” Born in Tokyo, Kenneth developed a love for coffee while studying in California for university. His father was the owner of a trading company and would take Kenneth overseas whenever possible during his frequent business trips – ultimately helping to inspire Kenneth’s love of multiculturalism, design, and architecture.

Japanese premium coffee brand opened 1st shop in Budapest
Kenneth Shoji in Budapest. Photo: FB/Arabica Hungary

Despite his father’s advice to never go into a business that you will have fun with, Kenneth decided in his 40s to pursue his passion and started % ΔRΔBICΔ in 2014. Today, he is constantly flying across the world and working 24/7/365. He focuses his time on formulating each location’s design language as well as selecting coffee beans and maintaining quality control.

Before the opening, Mr Shoji travelled to Budapest for a final check and staff training. “Kenneth also spent time enjoying our city’s attractions and food. He really enjoyed Hungarian food – his favourites were stuffed cabbage and lángos!”, Arabica Hungary wrote on their Facebook page.

Here is a map showing where you can find them:

Japanese % Arabica in Budapest
Source: Google Maps

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New police measure to increase public safety in Budapest

New measure increases public safety in Budapest hungary news

Police in Budapest are stepping up checks on underpasses in the city after receiving mounting complaints about public order and cleanliness in those public spaces, a government official said on Friday.

In the latest checks, 446 people were stopped, eight arrested, two were presented to the courts, one security measure was made and nine warnings were issued, Bence Rétvári, the interior ministry’s parliamentary state secretary, told a press conference held at the Astoria junction underpass in Budapest, adding that the ministry’s aim was to make everyone feel safe in the underpasses.

New measure increases public safety in Budapest
Photo: MTI

When the current mayor’s predecessor, István Tarlós, was in charge, the underpasses were safer, he said, adding that related complaints had become more frequent after he left his post.

Read also:

  • Breaking: Murdered Japanese woman’s ex-husband arrested

No more mini Dubai: Budapest secures Rákosrendező plot, paving way for green urban development

Budapest Park City rákosrendező

A decision in favour of the capital city has been made in the Rákosrendező (Grand Budapest) plot case: Budapest can use its right of first refusal to acquire the property, which was previously to have been purchased by the Eagle Hills Group of the United Arab Emirates.

The 85 hectares of land, which cost HUF 50.9 billion (EUR 126 million), is not just an empty piece of land: the recultivation and other preparatory works required for its development will consume significant additional funds. The original investor would have earmarked HUF 25 billion (EUR 61.9 million) for this purpose, which will now be the responsibility of Budapest.

The first instalment is HUF 12.7 billion (EUR 31.4 million), to be paid within ten days, fortunately, the money is already there, as the capital is financing the initial payment from the sale of the incinerator. This development could not only rewrite the real estate development plans but also put a heavy financial and legal burden on the capital. The decision will allow Budapest to replace the buyer and implement a completely new urban development concept.

budapest assembly karácsony gergely
Photo: Facebook/Karácsony Gergely

Funding and the plans with the land

According to Világgazdaság, the remaining 75% of the purchase price is to be paid in instalments: a 35% instalment is due once all legal obstacles have been removed, while the remaining 40% is due by 2039. The cost of the infrastructure improvements undertaken by the state, amounting to HUF 303 billion (EUR 750 million), is also a significant factor. One potential source of funding for the capital could come from a lawsuit: Budapest is claiming back more than HUF 30 billion (EUR 74.3 million) from the state for the deduction of the solidarity tax. If it receives this, it could be a significant help in financing the investment.

rákosrendező railway station intergovernmental agreement Mini-Dubai budapest
The Rákosrendező railway station. Source: Wikimedia Commons/12akd

Instead of developing the area itself, the capital is launching an international tender to develop it. Instead of the previously planned “Mini-Dubai,” a “Park City” concept is envisaged, with an emphasis on green spaces and housing solutions. It is envisaged that 8-10 thousand dwellings could be built, providing homes for 20-25 thousand people. These would not be luxury apartments, but affordable homes for the middle class.

Park City Project Budapest (Copy)
Source: FB/Karácsony

The original investment plans supported by the government included skyscrapers that could have reached heights of up to 500 metres. This was rejected by Budapest’s authorities, who introduced rules to prevent the construction of skyscrapers that would spoil the cityscape. The capital’s vision is that only high-rise buildings that pass a visual impact assessment and do not disturb the harmony of Budapest’s iconic buildings can be built.

The 500-metre-high skyscraper would have looked like this:

The urban development goals

Budapest has long been looking for ways to increase its population and reduce out-migration. The Rákosrendező area is the perfect place to do so, as it could be a modern, sustainable part of the city. According to Telex, the idea is to build a 30-40-hectare public park in the middle of the area, which would be complemented by a lake by swelling the Rákos stream. Office and residential buildings would be developed in the surrounding areas, taking advantage of the proximity of districts XIII and XIV.

The capital aims to make the new district easily accessible by public transport. An intermodal hub is planned, linking the rail, metro, and tram networks. The extension of the subway would make transport in the area even easier. In addition, a connection to Tram 3 via the Szegedi Street flyover is also planned.

What to expect?

Although the decision offers the opportunity to create a sustainable urban area, financial and legal obstacles remain significant. The removal of 300,000 cubic metres of waste could consume a considerable amount of money, and it is not yet clear whether the capital or the state will finance it. It is also questionable whether the other company involved in the area, Stockton Ltd, can still exercise its right of pre-emption, which could cause further complications.

In the period ahead, Budapest needs to decide quickly on the next steps. Gergely Karácsony and his team are committed to realising the Parkváros concept, but financing issues and legal challenges will continue to pose long debates. The city administration has already indicated that it wants to prepare a comprehensive long-term urban development plan, on the basis of which investors will be sought to implement the project.

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Superbug resisting all known meds infected people in Budapest hospital!

new superbug in budapest hospital

According to RTL Klub, a Hungarian commercial broadcaster, three people have been infected by a superbug resisting even the strongest meds at the intensive care unit of the Uzsoki Street Hospital in Budapest. The hospital leadership cancelled all admissions to the unit and separated the infected patients.

Superbug in Budapest hospital

According to RTL Klub, they got hold of the relevant official letter issued by the National Centre for Public Health and Pharmacy (NNK). Based on the document, three patients have been separated at the intensive care unit of the Uzsoki Street Hospital of Budapest, one of the filiales of Hungary’s prestigious Semmelweis University. Interestingly, the hospital asked the NNK to close the entire unit due to the infestation. However, the NNK did not accept the proposal, so the hospital only separated the infected people. They also made it clear that they were unable to provide separate medical staff for them.

According to the letter sent by the NNK to the hospital, the examination of the contact persons is underway. Tamás Svéd, an intensive therapist, told RTL News that superbugs can cause severe illnesses. The progress of the disease usually depends on the general medical state of the patient, which is why patients needed to be separated and provided with a separate medical team for their treatment. The hospital made it clear that they were unable to provide such medical help, but the NNK still refused to close the entire unit.

new superbug in budapest hospital
New pandemic on the horizon? Illustration. Source: FB/Koronavirus gov

An employee said that the hospital did not ban visits to patients, but cancelled admissions to the ward. The hospital confirmed that they cancelled admissions to the unit but said they provided a separate team for the three patients following protocols. They did not comment on the medical state of the patients.

Dramatic scenes in a Budapest hospital

A 70-year-old woman had to lie down on the floor at the emergency department of the Bajcsy-Zsilinszky Hospital in Budapest, RTL News said in another report. The woman was there due to pancreatitis and waited for 13 hours to be told to lie down on the floor. She had severe pain, but the painkiller they gave her was ineffective. Since there was no room to lie down, she collapsed on the floor.

István, the woman’s son, told RTL News that the situation at the emergency department was chaotic. Employees said they had to provide treatment for 36 patients, which is more than enough. Some asked for a bed, but none were free. Others had to vomit in a bag and then lie down on the floor, István added.

Bajcsy-Zsilinszky Hospital Budapest superbug
Inside the hospital. Illustration. Photo: FB/Bajcsy-Zsilinszky Hospital

The hospital issued a statement saying that doctors and nurses kept all rules, but the event sheds light on the growing pressure on the emergency departments caused by the introduction of the new duty system. The National Directorate General for Hospitals did not comment on the issue, so nobody knows how they would like to deal with the problems.

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Hungarian doctors have had enough: Campaign and demonstration for drastic changes

Doctors Medical Staff Hungarian doctors

Hungarian doctors are urging the government to act on the country’s underfunded healthcare system. The Hungarian Chamber of Doctors (MOK) is launching a campaign for greater investment and a shift in public attitudes. On 8 March, doctors will stage a demonstration in Budapest to demand urgent change and better support for the healthcare sector.

Hungarian doctors raise concerns

As Pénzcentrum writes, Hungarian doctors are raising concerns over the country’s struggling healthcare system through a social campaign. At a press conference, Dr Péter Álmos highlighted the severe underfunding of the sector, with a shortfall of HUF 10 billion (EUR 24.6 million) already impacting public health. The president of the Hungarian Chamber of Doctors (MOK) warned that the pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic have left medical staff exhausted, increasing tension between doctors and patients. He pointed to alarming statistics, including Hungary’s highest cancer mortality rate in the EU and declining health screenings. Dr Álmos stressed that beyond financial shortcomings, generational habits and lifestyle choices also play a role in the nation’s health crisis.

Doctors Medical Staff Hungarian doctors
Illustration: Unsplash / Sasun Bughdaryan

National campaign

Hungarian doctors are intensifying efforts to address the chronic underfunding of the healthcare system, with the Hungarian Chamber of Doctors (MOK) launching a campaign to push for increased government support. MOK President Dr Péter Álmos criticised the lack of response to professional recommendations, citing the restructuring of the on-call system as a factor accelerating the departure of GPs.

Upcoming demonstration

The campaign seeks immediate targeted funding and a long-term commitment to increasing healthcare expenditure as a percentage of GDP. Beyond financial support, experts will also be involved in shaping reforms. To raise awareness, MOK and the Hungarian Doctors’ Trade Union will stage a public demonstration in Budapest on 8 March, highlighting the urgent need for political and public attention on healthcare.

Sorting out underfunding

Hungarian doctors are calling for a long-overdue investment in the country’s healthcare system, emphasising that the sector’s chronic underfunding spans decades and is not solely the responsibility of the current government. Previous campaigns have failed to bring lasting improvements, but the Hungarian Chamber of Doctors (MOK) urges decision-makers to take action now to begin addressing this debt.

Beyond financial resources, the campaign aims to shift public and political attitudes, reinforcing that healthcare is a vital investment. MOK President Dr Péter Álmos highlighted how strained medical staff often bear the blame for systemic shortcomings, leading to frustration and declining professional esteem. The campaign seeks to improve conditions for healthcare workers while ensuring that both politicians and society recognise the true value of a well-funded health system.

doctor surgery healthcare staffing hospital Hungarian hospital
Source: Pixabay

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Did the Hungarian government drop Rákosrendező fearing uproar?

PM Orbán Rákosrendező

Fidesz, “scared of public anger and uproar”, has “dropped” the contested “Maxi-Dubai” development project for the Rákosrendező area in Budapest, Péter Magyar, the leader of opposition Tisza, said on Thursday.

Magyar said in a Facebook post that his party had recently pledged to prevent the government’s “corrupt mega-project” from going ahead, and “Fidesz criminals have already backed down: they have been forced to let go of plans for a money pump bigger than ever.” The Tisza leader said the prospective UAE investors had intimated their intention to abandon the project due to social protest in Hungary.

Magyar said that Tisza if it forms Hungary’s next government, would use legal and political means to prevent the robbery of “major traffic hubs and the national heritage”. Magyar called on Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to “stop distributing the nation’s assets”. “The homeland is not for sale at any price,” he added.

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Minister Gulyás: Brussels is attacking Hungary’s 13th-month pensions

Gulyás Brussels pension

The 13th-month pension remains an important part of the Hungarian pension system, and the government is committed to increasing the purchasing power of pensions and protecting pensioners, head of the Prime Minister’s Office Gergely Gulyás said at a government press briefing on Thursday.

Gulyás said “one of the most important proposals” at Wednesday’s government meeting was on the situation of retirees. In the past 15 years, the average pension has grown to nearly 250,000 forints (EUR 615) from around 100,000 forints, he said. Gulyás said the 13th-month pension and was being constantly attacked “by the opposition in the hands of Brussels”. “The Tisza party’s experts are also calling for changes to it, and Brussels has obliged Hungary to get the OECD to prepare a study. The OECD suggested that the 13th-month pension be curbed and reformed,” he said.

The government will not comply with those requests, and the 13th-month pension will remain an important part of the Hungarian pensions system, Gulyás said, adding that the 13th-month pension will be transferred on Feb 12, costing the budget 550 billion forints this year. The government is also helping pensioners by extending its rural home renovation scheme to include them, he said, with pensioners able to access government funding for half of the costs of renovation, up to 6 million forints, and a low-interest loan for the rest of the costs, he said.

Regarding the rehabilitation of a brownfield area in Budapest’s 14th district, for which the government and the Budapest municipality have conflicting plans, Gulyás said the government acknowledges the pre-emption rights of Budapest Kozmuvek Nonprofit (BKM) over Rákosrendező, adding that the relevant government decree will be issued later on Thursday. BKM, a company owned by the Budapest municipality, has exercised its pre-emption rights over the brownfield area in Budapest’s 14th district, Gergely Gulyás said. The government has studied the declaration to clarify how the international agreement relates to the civil law agreement concerning the area, he said.

BKM has declared it will take on all duties that would have fallen on the investor-developer from the United Arab Emirates, Gulyás said. “In view of that, the government acknowledges the pre-emption rights.” The city’s administration and BKM will be mandated to pay for the area under the terms and conditions of the agreement and will be liable for the clean-up for 25 billion forints (EUR 61.5m), half the value of the sales price, he added.

Regarding the government’s 21-point economic action plan, Gulyás said that the first results were already visible. The recently introduced loan for employees has already received 9,000 applications, with the average amount requested being around 3.9 million forints, he said. Some 2,000 loans have already been paid, while 5,400 applications are being processed, he said. Rural home renovation subsidy requests have come to a total of 2 billion forints so far, he added.

Some 1,885 small and medium-sized enterprises have submitted applications for the government’s new 48 billion forint support scheme, Gulyás said, adding that the requests amounted to 137 billion. Another 100 billion forint scheme designed to support the investments and competitiveness of SMEs has received more than 1,800 registrations, he said.

Government spokeswoman Eszter Vitályos said, in line with the agreements signed last year, the raised minimum wages for workers and skilled employees are scheduled to be paid in the coming days. The raises affect some 1 million people, she added. According to the 3-year wage agreement, the minimum wages will increase by 40 percent in total, including a 9 percent raise to 290,000 forints this year, she said. Some 143,000 teachers are receiving wages increased by 21.2 percent on average this year, after a wage hike of 32.2 percent last year, she added.

State investments with a value of close to 100 billion forints have been completed in recent weeks, Vitályos said. These included kindergarten, school and creche constructions and renovations as well as transport and regional developments. She also highlighted the inauguration of the National Film Institute’s new studio complex in Fot.

Regarding the Rákosrendező brownfield site, Gulyás said that by exercising its pre-emption rights, the capital and the company owned by it had taken the place of the buyer, so the capital now enjoyed the rights arising from the contract but also bore related obligations.

This also means that the city must clean up the area, the minister said, adding that in the contract the Arab investor undertook to clean up the area for up to half of the purchase price, which is around 25 billion forints. Citing professional estimates, he said the area could be cleaned up for roughly this amount.

Commenting on what may be built at the site, he said the government would try to reach an agreement with the city if building regulations needed to be changed, and if this was not necessary, “then the city will do what it wants with its own property”. On the fact that another company also has a pre-emption right, Gulyás said this was only a theoretical possibility because a small company could not pay the purchase price.

He said the UAE side had been informed late on Wednesday of the situation arising from Budapest exercising its pre-emption right, so they would not find out from the press. Gulyás noted that it had been said repeatedly that the capital was the country’s richest municipality. Yet even though the city was close to bankruptcy, according to a State Audit Office report, apparently it could still afford to buy the land for 50 billion forints. He indicated that the government approved the payment of the purchase price as it represented a long-term liability.

Gulyás said Rákosrendező was Budapest’s largest completely neglected area. Gulyás wished the capital “good luck” in proving that the area was in the right place in their hands, but indicated that he was unsure whether what happened was good for Budapest or the country. Answering another question, he insisted that the government had not “let go” of the investment, but “this is how a constitutional state works”: someone had exercised their pre-emption rights, and “democracy has a price”.

The minister received a number of questions about the case of the Japanese woman who died in a house fire in the capital at the end of January, suspected of murder by her ex-husband. He was asked whether legislation might be needed in connection with the case, considering that the woman had previously asked for help from the police several times but was turned down.

Gulyás said he would wait for the result of the police investigation which should reveal whether a mistake had been made, adding that it was important for the police investigation to have a clear outcome so that people in similar situations could trust the Hungarian state. Domestic violence can be prevented if the party in need asks for help and receives it, but in many cases, police and the state have no chance to intervene because the act does not take place in a public area, and many domestic disputes escalate into violence, he said.

Asked about a “smear campaign” against Prime Minister Viktor Orbán financed by Ukraine, he said both ruling and opposition members of parliament’s national security committee had been informed about it. Gulyás said it was regrettable that EU-aspirant Ukraine treated an EU country in such a way, adding that such actions would have a negative impact on relations between the two countries.

When asked whether the Ukrainian secret service action could be related to the fact that “destabilisation processes” had started in Slovakia and Serbia, Gulyás said there were signs of political pressure from the NGO network bearing the hallmark of George Soros in both Slovakia and Serbia. He expressed hope that the democratically elected governments of both countries would get the situation under control as soon as possible.

Regarding possible the spillover of demonstrations in Slovakia and Serbia, Gulyás said that the political forces behind the Hungarian government were stable and the situation could not be compared with either Slovakia or Serbia.

In response to a suggestion that aid from Hungary to Kyiv may be suspended, Gulyás said many different types of aid were being sent, mostly to Transcarpathia, and the EU also provided financial help to Ukraine. The Hungarian government, he added, believed that peace was in Ukraine’s interest as against “forced sanctions policies”. In response to reports about planned EU tariffs on Ukrainian fertilisers, he said the lessons of the US presidential election had not yet reached Brussels, adding that anything that harmed Hungarian interests would be met with a veto or the threat of a veto until an exemption was agreed to.

Commenting on the establishment a special European Parliament committee on the protection of democracy, he said a democratic political culture had ceased to exist in the EP long ago. The fact that new members had not been picked for parliamentary posts from the third largest group, the Patriots, was ample evidence of this, he added.

Regarding migration, Gulyás said further changes were needed in Europe. The migration pact, supported in the EP by Hungary’s opposition Tisza Party, prescribed mandatory distribution, whereas the Hungarian ruling parties “believe that Hungary should not accept any migrants at all”, he added, “No matter how much they fine us, we must not surrender…” he said, adding that western countries that had embraced a migrant society “constantly face the threat of terrorism”.

In response to a question concerning whether the Hungarian government agreed with the US plan to take over Gaza, Gulyás said the Hungarian government was aware of its own diplomatic weight and did not wish to participate in the Gaza settlement. Meanwhile, Gulyás said the government must consider quitting all international organisations that the US, “the strongest democracy in the world”, exited.

Commenting on the latest industrial output data, he said the fundamentals of the Hungarian economy were strong and industrial output, which waned last year, depended on the state of foreign economies. Last year, he said, Hungary achieved growth of 0.5 percent because the drop in industrial output was counterbalanced by the increase in consumption, services and tourism. Industrial output is expected to increase this year, he said, adding that agriculture, too, was expected to see an uptick based on figures from the first couple of months. In addition, robust growth is expected in consumption, while records were being broken in tourism. Services were also doing well, he added.

In response to a question concerning journalist Zsolt Bayer’s proposal to draw up a list of judges who attend a Feb 22 demonstration organised by the National Judicial Council, he said it was accepted by the courts that if a demonstration could be reported, its participants may be included in the report. Branding this as a “list” was “tasteless”, he insisted. Any impression of a judicial lack of impartiality should be avoided, he said, adding that it would be hard for a judge attending a protest not to create such an impression.

Gulyás said the independence of judges was guaranteed in Hungary. The judicial system “should maintain its own independence and impartiality, and sort out its ranks internally,” he said. The government, he said, had nothing to do with judicial administration. The law determines consultation obligations, which the government fully complies with, he added.

Concerning a demonstration planned by the chamber of doctors for March, Gulyás said while the government was open to negotiations, “the chamber is taking a political rather than a professional role”. He said the government had increased salaries in health care in recent years and the sector’s financing was at “unprecedented” levels. “Even so, many areas call for an improvement,” he said.

Asked about racist remarks recently made by a Socialist municipal representative in Budapest’s 11th district, Gulyás called the remarks “unacceptable” and “incommensurate with a role in public life”, though he could not “morally identify with the practice introduced by” the opposition Tisza Party “to record private conversations and then publish the footage”.

Asked about intensifying droughts in eastern Hungary, the minister said the government had taken a number of measures in recent years to improve the water supply using the network of canals and backwaters there, but resolving related problems amid the sandy landmass would cost “several thousand billion forints”.

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Breaking: Murdered Japanese woman’s ex-husband arrested

March in Budapest for Japenese murdered woman

A 43-year-old Irish citizen has been arrested on suspicion of premeditated murder of his ex-wife, a Japanese woman, in Budapest’s 5th district. The tragic incident has left two children, a seven-year-old girl and a ten-year-old boy, orphaned and temporarily placed in foster care.

Details of the case

The case took a significant turn after initial investigations. On 29 January, authorities responded to a fire in an apartment on Stollár Béla Street, Budapest, where they discovered a charred female body. While preliminary examinations suggested the fire was caused by smoking in bed, suspicions arose about the true nature of the incident.

Investigation developments

  • CCTV footage analysis: Revealed discrepancies in the suspect’s account of his movements on the day of the fire.
  • Forensic examination: A subsequent autopsy found signs of struggle and abuse on the victim’s body, contradicting earlier medical opinions.
  • Suspect’s actions: The Irish man allegedly disguised himself, returned to the apartment after taking his daughter to the pool, committed the murder, and then returned again to call emergency services.

Legal proceedings

The court has ordered the detention of the Irish man, 24.hu reports. According to Ferenc Rab, deputy spokesperson for the Budapest Chief Prosecutor’s Office, the suspect has not admitted guilt and has not provided a detailed statement. The suspect and his defence attorney have appealed the decision, making the ruling non-final. József Szabó, spokesperson for the Budapest Metropolitan Court, stated that the detention was ordered due to the risk of flight, hiding, and potential repeat offences.

Background

The Patent Association, citing friends of the Japanese woman, reported that the victim had never smoked and had been living in fear of her husband. She had previously filed complaints about harassment, but these were allegedly not addressed by the police. The Budapest Police Headquarters (BRFK) has initiated an investigation to determine why the woman’s earlier complaints were dismissed.

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New airline in Budapest to take us to a special place from May

scat airlines Shymkent Budapest

Kazakhstan’s Scat Airlines will launch direct flights connecting Shymkent and Budapest starting 27 May 2025, marking a new air link between Central Asia and Central Europe. The twice-weekly service will operate on Tuesdays and Saturdays using Boeing 737 aircraft, with tickets available through the end of the 2025 summer schedule.

Flight details

The DV 489/490 route will depart Shymkent at 8:00 AM local time, arriving in Budapest at 10:30 AM. Return flights leave the Hungarian capital at 11:25 AM, landing back in Shymkent at 8:00 PM local time. The scheduled flight duration is 5.5 hours in both directions, the airline reported.

scat airlines Shymkent Budapest
Photo: Scat Airlines

Operational schedule

DayDeparture (Shymkent)Arrival (Budapest)Return DepartureReturn Arrival
Tuesday8:00 AM10:30 AM11:25 AM8:00 PM
Saturday8:00 AM10:30 AM11:25 AM8:00 PM

This new route expands Central European connectivity options for Kazakh travellers while providing Hungarian passengers with direct access to southern Kazakhstan’s commercial and cultural hub. The airline has opened ticket reservations through its standard booking channels, though specific pricing details remain unavailable at this announcement.

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Government acknowledges Budapest’s pre-emption rights over Rákosrendező, mayor: ‘Budapest has won’

Rákosrendező Budapest pre-emption rights

The government acknowledges the pre-emption rights of Budapest Közművek Nonprofit (BKM) over the brownfield area in Rákosrendező, the minister leading the Prime Minister’s Office told a regular press conference, adding that the relevant government decree will be issued later on Thursday.

Rákosrendező Budapest pre-emption rights
Rákosrendező, Budapest. Photo: MTI/Szigetváry Zsolt

Government acknowledges Budapest’s pre-emption rights over Rákosrendező

BKM, a company owned by the Budapest municipality, has exercised its pre-emption rights over the brownfield area in Budapest’s 14th district, Gergely Gulyás said. The government had “studied” the declaration to clarify the links between the civil rights agreement and the international agreement in the works over the same area, he said.

BKM declared to take on all duties that would have fallen on the investor-developer from the United Arab Emirates, Gulyás said. “In view of that, the government acknowledges the pre-emption rights.”

City Hall, and BKM, will be mandated to pay the price for the area under the terms and conditions of the agreement. It will also be liable for clearing the area to the value of half the price, HUF 25 billion (EUR 61.5 million), he added.

Karácsony: ‘Budapest has won, city’s interests overrode real estate racket’

“The government has finally backed down, on Thursday they acknowledged what they should have done years ago: Budapest’s interests have prevailed instead of ‘mini-Dubai’,” Budapest mayor Gergely Karácsony said on Thursday, responding to an announcement made by the head of the prime Minister’s Office at a regular press briefing.

The mayor said “we will exercise our pre-emption rights, Budapest will take on all duties that the Arab billionaire undertook in the sale and purchase agreement.” “Meanwhile, we will increase the city’s wealth and revenues, and we will build in Rákosrendező what serves the city’s future, all in an open, transparent manner, with the involvement of the residents of Budapest,” he added.

The head of ruling Fidesz-KDNP’s Budapest chapter said on Facebook in response to the announcement by Gulyás that “the fate of Rákosrendező is sealed. If 50 billion [forints] can be paid for a landfill, then there should be money for other things as well, clearing up the rubbish, developments, serving the interests of the people of Budapest, such as repaving roads, developing fixed-track transport, building P+R parking, or managing the housing crisis”.

Alexandra Szentkirályi said Budapest had suffered a huge loss, and the damage was caused by the city’s elected leaders who said no to a HUF 5,000 billion investment, thousands of jobs and billions of revenue for the city.

“Karácsony and his allies decided, from now on it is their responsibility what will happen to Rákosrendező. We know what will happen: nothing. Like the City Hall park, which was never completed… Budapest develops only when the government develops it,” she said. “Now is the time for Karácsony to prove that they have a plan and they put it into practice. But everyone knows what to expect… Budapest’s leaders are buying the past for 50 billion when they should only have supported the future,” Szentkirályi said.

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Closures expected in Budapest due to filming, Emilia Clarke and Keanu Reeves seen in the Hungarian capital

Keanu Reeves

Budapest is currently abuzz with Hollywood star power as multiple film and television productions have brought international celebrities to the Hungarian capital. The city is experiencing temporary closures and traffic changes to accommodate these high-profile projects.

Weekend closures for filming

This weekend, Budapest residents and visitors should be prepared for significant traffic disruptions. The Chain Bridge (Lánchíd) and a section of the Pest lower embankment between Eötvös Square and Jászai Mari Square will be closed from Friday midnight until 4 AM on Monday due to filming activities, Index reports. These closures will affect several bus routes, including lines 16, 105, 178, 210B, and 216, which will be rerouted via the Elizabeth Bridge. Passengers should note that some stops will be temporarily relocated or skipped.

Budapest Chain Bridge and Buda Castle western leaders
Budapest Chain Bridge and Buda Castle. Photo: depositphotos.com

Star sightings in the Hungarian capital

Emilia Clarke

The “Game of Thrones” star Emilia Clarke has been spotted in the capital, where she is reportedly filming her new series “Ponies”, according to Index. The show, set in 1970s Moscow, follows two secretaries at the American embassy who become CIA agents after their husbands mysteriously die in the Soviet Union. Clarke has been embracing local services during her stay: she was seen getting her nails done at a Budapest salon called YomTov nail art, though the Instagram post about her visit was later removed (however, it can still be seen on a fan page HERE).

Keanu Reeves

Keanu Reeves has also arrived in Hungary for a film project. The Canadian actor is reportedly staying in downtown Budapest and has been discreetly exploring the city streets, Blikk reported. Reeves is working on a film titled “The Entertainment System is Down,” directed by Swedish filmmaker Ruben Östlund. The production is expected to shoot in Hungary for 70 days, with filming taking place at Astra Studios near the Hungaroring race track.

Keanu Reeves
Photo: depositphotos.com

Impact on the city

These high-profile productions showcase Budapest’s appeal as a filming location, particularly for projects set in other European cities. The city’s architecture and infrastructure make it an ideal stand-in for various historical and contemporary settings. While the closures may cause some inconvenience for locals and tourists, they also bring excitement and potential economic benefits to the Hungarian capital. As these productions continue, Budapest residents might catch glimpses of international stars exploring their city between takes.

UPDATE

What’s happening? Keanu Reeves clinging to a chopper in Budapest downtown, near the Chain Bridge? – VIDEO

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Featured image: depositphotos.com

Al Habtoor Group presents Al Habtoor Palace Budapest: the new era of luxury hotels in Europe

AlHabtoorPalace_Opening

In a landmark moment, global conglomerate Al Habtoor Group has officially launched its ultra-luxury brand, Al Habtoor Palace Budapest, bringing the first Emirati luxury hotel brand to Europe. The grand opening ceremony was held at the hotel’s exclusive location on Elisabeth Square in the heart of Budapest. Diplomatic dignitaries, business leaders, industry experts, and international media representatives attended the event to witness the launch of this exceptional property.

The opening of the Al Habtoor Palace Budapest is a strategic milestone for the Al Habtoor Group, coinciding with the company’s 55th anniversary and further strengthening its global expansion strategy. The new ultra-luxury hotel is a harmonious blend of Dubai’s legendary hospitality standards and Budapest’s rich European heritage, taking the city’s luxury hotel scene to a new level.

Al Habtoor Palace hotel
Photo: Al Habtoor Group

A vision of luxury that transcends borders

Al Habtoor Hospitality’s story began in 1979 with the opening of the Metropolitan Hotel in Dubai, marking the beginning of home-grown hospitality in the UAE. As Dubai evolved into a global hub for luxury, innovation, and unique experiences, so did Al Habtoor Hospitality, setting a new benchmark for excellence and sophistication. Over the decades, the group has steadily expanded, shaping Dubai’s hospitality industry with iconic properties such as Al Habtoor Palace Dubai, Al Habtoor Grand Resort, and the iconic Al Habtoor City lifestyle resort, redefining the concept of ultra-luxury hospitality in the region.

Al Habtoor Hospitality – 14 hotels worldwide

Today, Al Habtoor Hospitality operates 14 hotels worldwide, in the UAE, the UK, the US, Austria, Hungary, and Lebanon. This has made Al Habtoor Hospitality the first pioneering Arab hospitality brand in Dubai, creating world-class services, iconic developments, and revolutionary hospitality concepts. Now, with the opening of Al Habtoor Palace Budapest, it has become the first Arab hospitality brand to enter the European market, bringing Arab hospitality, impeccable service, and unparalleled luxury to the heart of Central Europe.

Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, Founding Chairman of Al Habtoor Group, said, “It is a strategic move that reinforces our long-term vision to expand the Al Habtoor Group’s global presence and bring our heritage of excellence to new markets.

AlHabtoorPalace_Opening
Photo: Al Habtoor Group

He added: “For over five decades, we have been building not just businesses, but institutions that set new standards. The opening of Al Habtoor Palace Budapest demonstrates our commitment to representing Arab excellence on a global scale. This is just the beginning as we continue to look for new investment and expansion opportunities in Budapest and beyond. Al Habtoor Palace Budapest is a milestone in the evolution of our hospitality business and reflects our belief in growth, innovation, and uncompromising luxury. This is the dawn of a new era for Al Habtoor Hospitality, and I am excited to see our vision come to fruition in the years to come.

AlHabtoorPalace_Opening
Photo: Al Habtoor Group

Mohammed Al Habtoor, Vice President and General Manager of Al Habtoor Group, said, “Our mission has always been to provide exceptional experiences, and with this opening, we bring Al Habtoor Hospitality’s world-renowned hospitality and services from Dubai to Europe. This is a defining moment for our hospitality division as we introduce a brand that embodies personalised service, world-class comfort, and a commitment to excellence. We are excited for our guests to experience the pinnacle of luxury at Al Habtoor Palace Budapest.

A unique blend of culture and hospitality

AlHabtoorPalace_Opening
Photo: Al Habtoor Group

Located in one of Budapest’s most exclusive squares, Al Habtoor Palace Budapest is a masterpiece of early 20th-century architecture, now a reinterpreted symbol of timeless luxury for the modern age. The property’s design blends sophisticated European grandeur with contemporary Arabian luxury, offering guests a truly unique and sophisticated experience.

Preferred Hotels & Resorts partnership

To further strengthen its position as a world-class luxury destination, Al Habtoor Palace Budapest has announced that it has officially joined the Preferred Hotels & Resorts Legend Collection—the highest category in the brand’s portfolio of the world’s most iconic and sought-after independent hotels. This exclusive partnership provides guests with the opportunity to join the ‘I Prefer Hotel Rewards’ programme, the world’s largest loyalty programme for independent hotel chains. This allows members to enjoy exclusive benefits, room upgrades, and VIP services at Preferred Hotels & Resorts properties worldwide.

Rahim Abu Omar, General Manager of Al Habtoor Palace Budapest, said, “This partnership gives us the opportunity to reach discerning travellers who seek the highest standards of luxury and personalised service. We are proud to join this prestigious collection and look forward to welcoming travellers from around the world to experience the sophistication and hospitality of our brand.

We are honoured to welcome Al Habtoor Palace Budapest as the newest member of Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ esteemed Legend Collection, following the addition of its sister property, Al Habtoor Palace Dubai, last October,” said Lindsey Ueberroth, CEO of Preferred Hotels & Resorts. She added, “This marks the continuation of a successful partnership united by our shared passion for exceptional independent hospitality experiences.


Brenda Collin, Executive Vice President, Preferred Hotels & Resorts Europe, added, “This partnership further strengthens our expansion in Central Europe, seamlessly blending the rich heritage of the region with the world-class services of the Al Habtoor Group, setting a new standard of luxury. Al Habtoor Palace Budapest is a valuable addition to our global portfolio, elevating the travel experience for discerning guests worldwide.

A benchmark in luxury hospitality in Budapest

AlHabtoorPalace_Opening- István Mázás Executive Chef at AHP Budapest
Photo: Al Habtoor Group

Budapest’s growing reputation as a luxury travel destination has provided Al Habtoor Group with an ideal entry point for the expansion of its ultra-luxury brand in Europe. The company has been present in Hungary since 2012 and has become one of the largest Arab and foreign investment groups in the country.

Al Habtoor Palace Budapest stands out thanks to:

  • Personalised luxury – Unique valet service, carefully crafted guest experiences, and unparalleled hospitality.
  • Gastronomic excellence – The iconic Ottimo restaurant combines Arabic and Italian cuisine with an international fine dining experience.
  • Unique guest benefits – Guests can enjoy exclusive discounts at both Al Habtoor Palace Budapest and Al Habtoor Palace Dubai, ensuring a seamless global luxury experience.

With this expansion, Al Habtoor Group is redefining the Budapest stay experience and introducing a comprehensive hospitality concept that combines tradition and modern luxury.

An exciting future ahead

As part of its global expansion strategy, the Al Habtoor Group has ambitious plans to bring its hospitality brand to other key international markets. The opening of Al Habtoor Palace Budapest is a milestone that paves the way for European and international growth. Al Habtoor Palace Budapest is now welcoming guests, and the group invites travellers from around the world to experience the highest levels of luxury in the heart of one of Europe’s most vibrant cities.

About Al Habtoor Group

The Al Habtoor Group was founded in 1970 by Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor and has since grown to become one of the Middle East’s most prominent and diversified business conglomerates. Its interests range from hospitality to real estate development, automotive, education, and publishing. The group is known for iconic projects such as Al Habtoor City, Al Habtoor Polo Resort, and Habtoor Grand Resort in Dubai. Continuing its tradition of pioneering excellence, the Al Habtoor Group continues to expand its global presence and take its unique hospitality approach to new international markets. The group’s hospitality division now operates 14 luxury hotels worldwide, in the UAE, the UK, the US, Austria, Hungary, and Lebanon.

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Ex-husband charged with Japanese woman’s murder in Budapest: Arson, death list, and a chilling history of threats

David A murderer of Megumi japanese woman police

A 45-year-old Irish national, David A., faces murder charges following the death of his Japanese ex-wife, Megumi, whose body was discovered in a charred Budapest apartment on 29 January. The case has sparked outrage as details emerge of a years-long pattern of threats, a clandestine weapons cache, and a chilling “death list” targeting even his own parents.

Background and the tragic incident

David and Megumi, who had lived in Hungary for over a decade, divorced after their relationship deteriorated. While their two children (a 10-year-old son and a 6-year-old daughter) remained with Megumi, David relocated to the Netherlands but frequently returned to Budapest. During visits, he stayed in Megumi’s apartment in the city’s 5th district.

David A murderer of Megumi japanese woman police
PrtScr: YouTube/PoliceHungary

On the morning of 29 January, David claims he took his daughter swimming and returned to find the apartment ablaze. However, police disproved his alibi using CCTV footage, concluding he deliberately set the fire that killed Megumi, Blikk writes.

Custody battle and family dynamics

The children are currently with foster parents, though relatives from both sides are expected in Hungary to determine long-term custody. Notably, David’s parents—despite being on his alleged “death list”—reportedly supported Megumi during their son’s threats. According to lawyer Júlia Spronz, the suspect had a fraught relationship with his father and stepmother, whom he also threatened lethally.

A history of violence and firearm obsession

  • Death threats: David allegedly maintained a list of individuals he intended to harm, including Megumi and his parents.
  • Weapons cache: Police confiscated firearms from the apartment, which Megumi had repeatedly expressed fear about. Neighbours initially perceived David as a devoted father, but social media posts revealed he took the children to shooting ranges and allowed them to handle guns.

Ongoing investigation

The Budapest Police Headquarters confirmed the firearms’ seizure but declined further comment as the homicide probe continues. The case has reignited debates about domestic violence protections and firearm regulations in Hungary.

This article synthesises reports from Hungarian news sources. Key details remain subject to ongoing judicial review.

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Forty-five years since the first Ikarus articulated bus bid farewell to Budapest

ikarus 180 hungary magyarország

It has been 45 years since the Budapest Transport Company (BKV) withdrew the last Ikarus 180 articulated bus from service. It was the first articulated bus to be produced in-house and laid the foundations for Ikarus’ later worldwide success.

Ikarus 180

The Ikarus 180 began to take shape in 1958 when the factory set its sights on developing a new, large-capacity articulated bus inspired by the West German Henschel HS 160 USL. László Finta, a renowned designer of the period, designed the vehicle. The first working prototype was presented in 1961 at the Budapest Local Industry Fair, where the new articulated bus was a massive hit with the public, writes PestBuda.

The Ikarus 180 was considered outstanding by the standards of the time. Its engine was placed under the vehicle’s floor, providing a quieter and more comfortable passenger compartment. The 16.5-metre-long bus had three doors and a seating capacity of 180 passengers, which was particularly advantageous in congested urban traffic. The vehicle was initially powered by a Csepel diesel engine, but later, more powerful Rába engines were installed.

ikarus-180
Fotó: Fortepan / Prohászka Imre (288772)

The articulated bus revolution in Budapest

Although the idea of articulated buses did not originate in Hungary, Budapest was one of the first cities in the world to introduce this type of vehicle. The first articulated buses were home rebuilds of two scrapped buses. The Ikarus 180 was a more professional and modern solution, which entered service in 1963 at the Budapest Bus Operating Unit (FAÜ). They served passengers in Budapest from the mid-1960s and were a key element of urban transport for 16 years.

A transitional type that laid the foundations for success

The Ikarus 180 was, in fact, a transitional model. Production lasted only until 1973, with a total of 7,802 units built. Of these, only 520 remained in Hungary; the rest were destined for export to countries from Mongolia to Egypt. However, the success of the bus and the experience gained paved the way for the Ikarus 280, which became one of the world’s best-known articulated buses. More than 61,000 units of the 280 were built, and for decades, it played a major role in transport from Los Angeles to Vladivostok, according to HellóMagyar.

ikarus 180 hungary magyarország
Ikarus 180. Photo: Jácint Mayer

Farewell and remembrance

By the late 1970s, the 180s were gradually replaced by the more modern Ikarus 280s. The last 180 buses ran in Budapest on 20 January 1980. At the time, the event did not receive much press coverage, and the previous example was not preserved. However, the memory of the type has been kept alive by a fortunate coincidence: in 1990, an Ikarus 180, formerly converted into a mobile shooting range for the Communist Youth League, was restored and can still be seen today.

The heritage of the Ikarus 180

The Ikarus 180 represents an important chapter not only in the history of Hungarian bus manufacturing but also in the transport history of Budapest. Although it was only in production for a short time, its impact went far beyond its own era. By paving the way for the development of modern articulated buses, it contributed to Ikarus’ worldwide reputation and the golden age of Hungary’s transport industry. Today, we recall the 180 with nostalgia, but its legacy lives on in history and on the roads.

Read also – Ikarus buses: the most successful Hungarian products of the 20th century – details and PHOTOS

Hungary hosts space industry showcase, backs sustainable development

Astronaut Hungary HUNOR Space Nasa

The National Economy Ministry and the European Space Agency (ESA) hosted a showcase for Hungarian space industry companies and researchers in Budapest on Wednesday.

About 150 people participated at the event that focused on sustainability and space policy, the National Economy Ministry said. A declaration entitled “Statement for a Responsible Space Sector”, aimed at advancing the sustainable development of the sector, was signed at the event. The ministry affirmed its backing for innovative Hungarian companies’ more intensive participation in international space technology developments and missions.

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Disastrous conditions: 2024 saw 7 years’ worth of delays at Hungarian railways

International train schedule modified railway revamp delays

Hungarian State Railways (MÁV) reported its worst annual performance since adopting a revised delay-tracking methodology in 2018, with trains accumulating 6.9 years of total delays in 2024. While the company’s public communications emphasised that 78.5% of its 1.14 million trains ran “on time,” critics argue the statistics mask systemic issues, particularly on regional routes.

Revised metrics and rising delays

Since 2018, MÁV has counted trains as “on time” if delays remain under six minutes—a threshold critics call misleading, 444.hu writes. Even by this lenient standard, 21.5% of trains (244,000) missed the target in 2024. Delays exceeding 20 minutes—which will qualify for partial refunds starting summer 2025—affected 5.9% of services (67,656 trains).

International train schedule modified railway revamp
Photo: FB/MÁV

The total delay time reached 3.6 million minutes (3.8% of all travel time), a sharp increase from pre-pandemic levels. For context:

  • 2018: 4 years of delays (2.54% of travel time)
  • 2020: 3.1 years (1.95%)
  • 2023: 5.7 years (3.23%)
  • 2024: 6.9 years (3.8%)

Regional disparities and “statistical tricks”

Urban-suburban routes, such as Budapest’s HÉV lines, skewed national averages with 99.6% punctuality. Meanwhile, rural services lagged dramatically:

RoutePunctuality (sub-6-min delays)
Székesfehérvár-Szombathely45.3%
Budapest-Győr74%
Budapest-EsztergomOver 90%

Analysts like Dávid Vitézy note that MÁV’s aggregated data obscures poor regional performance by emphasising high-frequency suburban services.

h5 hév bkk budapest
H5 HÉV. Source: bkk.hu

Infrastructure strain and response from the government

MÁV attributed delays to ageing infrastructure and increased demand following 2024’s fare reforms, which boosted passenger numbers. However, Construction Minister János Lázár admitted the system’s dire state, likening modernisation efforts to “building castles from mud”.

Contrast with Buses and HÉV

While trains faltered, MÁV’s bus services achieved 97.7% punctuality, with regional buses outperforming Budapest-agglomeration routes. HÉV suburban railways maintained world-class reliability at 99.6%.

Prospects

MÁV’s pledge to refund tickets for 20+ minute delays marks a transparency shift, but experts question whether financial penalties alone can address infrastructure decay. With rural delays persisting and urban networks straining under demand, 2025 will test the viability of Hungary’s rail modernisation promises. The 2024 data highlights a stark difference: while Budapest’s commuters enjoy relative efficiency, regional passengers face a reliability crisis—one that revised metrics and refund policies alone cannot resolve.

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Budapest residents submit over 700 ideas for community budget projects

Fishermans budapest Hungary among the top budget-friendly travel destinations

Budapest residents have submitted more than 700 project ideas for the city’s community budget, the Mayor’s Office said on Wednesday.

The metropolitan council’s fifth participatory budget received over 730 submissions by the 31 January deadline, the office said in a statement, adding that the ideas included plans aimed at supporting bicycle and pedestrian mobility, green developments, community building, sports, recycling and making better use of the riverbanks.

Of the submissions, the 300 most popular ones will advance to the expert evaluation stage. Residents can express support for their preferred ideas on the otlet.budapest.hu website between 6 and 21 February, the statement said. Community voting is expected to be held in the autumn after the expert evaluations, it added. The city council will spend up to a total of HUF one billion (EUR 2.5 million) on implementing residents’ urban development ideas, the office said.

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Featured image: depositphotos.com