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Will Hungary be kicked out of the NATO? US bipartisan delegation comes, FM Szijjártó saber-rattling

PM Viktor Orbán Joe Biden NATO - diplomacy

On Sunday, February 18, a bipartisan delegation of United States Senators will travel to Hungary on a mission focused on strategic issues confronting NATO and Hungary. According to the Embassy of the USA, the delegation will include:

Senator Jeanne Shaheen, co-chair of the Senate NATO Observer Group, member of the Committee on Foreign Relations and Committee on Appropriations;
Senator Thom Tillis, co-chair of the Senate NATO Observer Group;
Senator Chris Murphy, member of the Committee on Foreign Relations and Committee on Appropriations; and
Senator Chris Van Hollen, member of the Committee on Foreign Relations and Committee on Appropriations.

Not worth it for visiting US senators to try to pressure Hungary, says foreign minister

Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has said a US congressional delegation scheduled to visit Hungary this weekend should not try to put pressure on the country, underlining that Hungary “is a sovereign country”.
Answering a question at a press conference on Friday in connection with a planned visit by a bipartisan delegation of US senators to Hungary, Szijjarto said the government welcomed the senators just as it did every foreign visitor.

“We’re glad that they’re coming, because they’ll be able to see with their own eyes that everything they read about Hungary in the liberal American media is a blatant lie,” Szijjarto said. “And so, they’ll be able to see with their own eyes that we here in Hungary are in no way an obstacle to Hungarian-American cooperation and its improvement.”

An incomplete American mission?

“They’ll see how excellent economic cooperation is between the two countries and they’ll get to see the beauties of the country, so we welcome the US congressmen the same way we welcome any other foreign visitor,” the minister said.

“If they’re coming with the purpose of telling us how we ought to live or what decisions we ought to make, I wouldn’t recommend that because that would definitely be — as they say — an incomplete mission, so it wouldn’t be worth it,” he added.

Szijjarto said he was not aware of the senators having any plans to meet anyone from Hungary’s government sector, noting that their counterparts were the Hungarian members of parliament. “I don’t know if there will be any meetings there,” he said.

We await the Swedish prime minister’s visit

He said the reason why it was not worth trying to put pressure on Hungary was because it “is a sovereign country, and we think a sovereign country shouldn’t put pressure on others, especially if it’s an ally”.

Szijjarto said the Hungarian national assembly was the sovereign parliament of a sovereign country, and its decisions were not based on visits by congressional delegations.

“Our position on the ratification of Sweden’s NATO membership is clear,” Szijjarto said. “We await the Swedish prime minister’s visit to Hungary. I think that if he was able to visit Turkiye during the ratification process, then he can also pay us a visit.”

Read also:

Hungarian government does not see Russia as a security threat to any NATO member – Read more HERE
Orbán: Ukraine has to be a buffer zone between Russia and NATO

February 17, 2024

Discover the hidden Budapest parks with us

Budapest, a city brimming with delights, becomes even more enchanting with the arrival of the first hints of spring! As the warm weather graces us, the Budapest air draws out many from their winter nooks. It’s time to discover the outdoors, now that spring has showed it’s first rays of sunshine. We have collected five hidden Budapest parks, where you can enjoy the fresh spring breeze in the heart of the city.

1. Zugló Japanese Garden

Transport yourself to the Far East within Budapest’s Zugló Japanese Garden. Legend has it that even Japanese royalty, Prince Takamacu and his wife, once visited this serene haven. With Asian eateries cropping up across the city, there’s no better way to indulge than by savouring tasty bites amidst this picturesque setting, so you too can feel like Eastern royalty. The park offers an especially lovely view in the spring, when the flowers are in bloom. In any case, the fresh air in the heart of the city summons a truly inspiring atmosphere. Located at 1 Kövér Lajos St.

2. Szenes Hanna Park

Tucked away in the heart of Budapest lies Szenes Hanna Park, a 10-minute stroll from Oktogon in the central 7th district. Surrounded by historic landmarks and architectural marvels, this hidden gem at the intersection of Rózsa Street and Jósika Street holds a fascinating tale. Named after Hungarian poet Hanna Szenes, renowned for her great courage during World War II as a parachutist in the British army, this park stands as a testament to her bravery, writes magyarorszagom.hu. A statue and quote within the park honour her legacy, offering a tranquil setting for an afternoon immersed in poetry.

3. Károlyi Garden

Nestled discreetly amidst the urban sprawl, the Károlyi Garden is every city-dwellers favourite place to be, when the concrete jungle heats up. The garden provides great shelter from the hustle and bustle of the capital. Spending a quiet afternoon here can revitalise the soul and replenish inner peace. The park has plenty of benches and a lovely fountain as well as a book vending machine. Families coming to enjoy their time at Károlyi Garden can drop their children off at the exceptionally well-equipped onsite playground. Those who are looking for some extra energy can get their daily fill at the cosy coffee shop at the entrance of the garden.

4. Garden of Philosophers

Perched on the iconic slopes of Gellért Hill, just beneath the Citadel, lies the secluded Garden of Philosophers. A hidden gem amidst the city, this serene spot offers a panoramic vista free from the crowds. Ideal for contemplation and admiring the cityscape, the garden boasts the striking ‘Meeting of Buda and Pest’ statue, known as the Kilátókő statue. It’s a haven for those seeking a nature retreat without straying far from urban comforts.

5. Gül Baba’s Tomb

Prepare to be breathless, both from the awe-inspiring view and the climb up the lengthy staircase to Gül Baba’s Tomb. Yet, the ascent rewards with unparalleled vistas over the city centre. A relic of Hungary’s Turkish occupation, the tomb pays homage to the eponymous Turkish warrior, adorned with fragrant roses – fittingly, as ‘Gül Baba’ translates to ‘Father Rose’. Despite recent renovations, the tomb remains adorned with roses, offering a poignant scene against one of the city’s finest panoramas.

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February 11, 2024

President Novák flew to the Middle East amid biggest pedophile scandal in Hungary: will she resign?

President Katalin Novák met Hungarian sportspeople at the World Aquatics Championships Doha 2024 during her official visit in Qatar on Friday, her office said.

Novák met the athletes and leaders of the Hungarian Swimming Association (MUSZ), members of the national waterpolo team and FINA President Husain Al-Musallam. She watched a Hungary-Qatar men’s waterpolo match which ended with a 28:1 Hungarian victory and granted an award to player of the match Vince Vigvari. During the meeting with the FINA president, she said preparations were progressing well for the move of the FINA headquarters to Budapest. She added that it represented the recognition of Hungarian sports, especially watersports, and the world-class events hosted by Hungary.

She also noted that 2024 had been declared a “Year of Movement” in Hungary, with a focus on community as well as competitive sports. Novák and Mussallam discussed the preparations for the 2027 World Aquatics Championships in Budapest and Mussallam expressed his appreciation for Hungarians’ openness and support for watersports. Novák is in Qatar on an official visit and she is scheduled to meet Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on Sunday. He paid a visit to Hungary last August and invited Novák to visit Qatar.

The biggest pedophile scandal in Hungary

We wrote about the child abuse scandal and the presidential clemency in detail HERE. The presidential pardon towards the helper of the abuser came to light earlier this week. Since then, several NGOs and political parties demanded the president’s resignation, who was responsible for family affairs as a member of the Orbán cabinet. One of the most experienced Hungarian political analysts, Gábor Török, wrote that the political career of Novák ended with the scandal. That is true even if she remains president and serves her term until 2027.

Furthermore, the president convened an advisory board with popular members of the Hungarian society and business sector, including writers, anchormen, investors, etc. Several of them quit their job after the scandal broke out, including Gábor Gundel-Takács and János Lackfi.

February 9, 2024

Budapest-Yerevan direct flight will be launched?

The President of Armenia, Vahagn Khachaturyan, said in his official visit to Budapest that his country would welcome Hungarian tourists and find a Budapest-Yerevan direct flight favourable.

rime Minister Viktor Orbán met Armenian President Vahagn Khachaturyan in his office in Budapest on Wednesday, and pledged to further strengthen diplomatic ties between the countries, the PM’s press chief said.

Orbán said the relations between Hungary and Armenia were strong and based on mutual respect, Bertalan Havasi said.

“Hungarians value Armenia’s cultural and Christian traditions. It is time we stepped up diplomatic relations too,” Orbán said.

At the talks, Orbán an Khachaturyan said economic cooperation was expected to develop apace in the coming period, especially in the areas of energy and tourism.

Read also:

Hungarian President calls for closer ties with Armenia – Read more HERE
Hungary provides humanitarian aid to Armenia

Agriculture minister discusses Ukrainian grain influx, farmers’ protests with Slovak counterpart

Agriculture Minister Istvan Nagy on Tuesday met his recently appointed Slovak counterpart, Richard Takac, to discuss the difficulties caused by the inflow of Ukrainian grain into European markets, the farmers’ protests in Europe, trade and animal health, the ministry said on Tuesday.

Nagy called for closer cooperation as a key to better representation of shared interests.

Even amid a “wholly new set of requirements” brought by the new Strategic Plans of the Common Agricultural Policy, Hungary managed to pre-finance 70 percent of the EU funding for 136,000 farmers, he said.

To protect Hungarian farmers, the government will maintain the ban on Ukrainian grain it announced on its own authority last year, “in view of the lack of EU action”, he said.

Nagy said Hungarian farmers would join the protesters in Brussels, demonstrating against EU agricultural policies. “Hungary would like as many member states as possible to support its fight in Brussels against the threat posed by Ukrainian agriculture.”

Ukraine’s EU accession would bring lasting difficulties for Hungarian producers “as Hungarian farmers working amid the limits of EU regulations can’t compete with [giant] Ukrainian farms which are in the hands of global capital and must abide by much laxer rules”, he said.

Nagy said Hungary’s upcoming EU presidency would head the negotiations on CAP regulations after 2027, adding that Hungary would focus on crisis management during the talks. Reducing food waste and preserving the EU’s “food sovereignty” will also be high on the agenda, he said. “We will insist that food arriving from third countries must fulfil the same requirements as EU produce,” he said.

February 7, 2024

Hungary-Bosnia will deepen military cooperation

“It is especially important in the current era of dangers that international attention is maintained in the Western Balkans in order to preserve stability, and Hungary continues to play a role in this,” the defence minister said in Sarajevo on Tuesday after talks with Zukan Helez, his counterpart from Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The ministry cited Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky saying that Hungary had a vested interest in the political and economic stability of South-Eastern Europe, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, because it contributes to the security of Hungary and Europe.

“We are ready to deepen bilateral military cooperation, including professional meetings and training,” he said.

“Our defence ministries are continually working together to strengthen relations,” he added.

Read also:

Hungary to spend a record percentage of GDP on arms? – Read more HERE
PM Orbán’s only son, Captain Orbán serves in an African country

He noted that Hungary was going to fulfil the role of European Union president in the second half of this year.

“It is among our most important goals that during Hungary’s European Union presidency we highlight the importance of EU enlargement and the strengthening of European defence capabilities,” he added.

The ministry said Szalay-Bobrovniczky was scheduled to meet on Tuesday the heads of the EUFOR Althea peacekeeping mission set up 20 years ago, its Hungarian commander and Hungarian soldiers serving in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

January 31, 2024

This year’s Busójárás in Hungary promises to be bigger than ever – programme guide

Bidding farewell to the gray winter and welcoming the breath of spring can only be done in one right way, according to the inhabitants of Mohács. Come with us to witness the Busójárás!

More than seventy busó groups, meaning more than 2500 masked individuals, will participate in this year’s Busójárás. This is a record high number in recent history. The Busójárás is a traditional Hungarian event that takes place in Mohács. This well-known celebration will welcome spring, and say goodbye to the gray winter between 8 and 13 February this year.

The Busójárás

Busójárás Carnival Season Farsang Télűzés Winter — Photo: Alpár Kató – Daily News Hungary

Mohács residents welcome guests every year with folklore shows, folk dance performances, dance workshops and busó presentations, all in a family-friendly manner. This year, they will offer over 160 heritage programmes. All in all, they expect around 110,000 visitors during the six days. On Saturday and Sunday, the city prepares for a good 40-45,000 visitors, Travelo writes.

The first day

Lasting from the last Thursday of the Carnival season (farsang) to Ash Wednesday, this event will be chuck-full with adventures of Hungarian folklore and culture. The first day will put the youth into the center of things. There will be many school folk dance groups, and entertaining competitions will take place that are sure to entice all the young souls out there.

What is more, Thursday will boast a dizzying dance workshop where you can even dance with the masked busós. During the day, you can enjoy a marching band, with busós everywhere and children participating in traditional Hungarian wear. During the whole event, the Southern-Slavic dance houses in the evening are all free. There will also be a group of wine stands installed to ensure a good mood.

This could also interest you:

Read more about a possible new Hungaricum HERE
Read more about another Hungarian specialty and the programme guide to it HERE

The second day

On Friday, the programme is going to be an exhibition. Not just any exhibition, but the one they will open explicitly for the Busójárás this year to spread knowledge of the history and culture of Mohács and as such, the Busójárás. The exhibition will feature carved masks of past busós and current-day carvers with other folk creators. There will be a number of folklore shows to choose from, like performances by bands at the Busóudvar and a dance house with Versendi Kovács and his band who are well-known masters of Croatian folklore dance. For the literature lovers, there will also be a book presentation, featuring an exciting book about Baranya’s Croatian costumes and their stories.

The third day

On Saturday, those interested can get a glimpse at the traditional way of making Sokac garments and the secrets surrounding it. For those who are keen on the arts, visiting the opening of the folk arts and crafts center is highly recommended. This same day, guests can enjoy tambourine orchestras and the performances of folk dance groups as well as presentations held by the busós. There will also be a wedding procession taking place, which is a lovely sight to watch in any weather.

The fourth day – Featured day

Busójárás Farsang Carnival Season Hungary — Busójárás in Mohács
Photo: facebook.com/busojarasmohacs

On Sunday, participants can sneak a peek at the preparations for the carnival and enjoy other activities such as a puppet concert, food tasting and other folk demonstrations. Sunday’s highlight will most definitely be the busós, who will get in their boats and row to the other side of the Danube, to Sokacrév. This will be followed by the largest procession of the folk tradition. What a sight it will be! Especially as an unprecedented number of busós are expected this year.

The last days – Featured day

Monday’s events are all very laid back. For the youngsters, there will be a children-centered carnival activity, which is engaging for all age groups, if we’re honest.

On Tuesday, the busós will start their well-known house visits around Kóló square and the surrounding streets. Naturally, there will be a parade too, and a closing ceremony for the whole carnival. The lighting of the giant bonfire symbolises the end of the winter and the coming of spring.

The elements of this winter-expelling, spring-welcoming folk tradition have remained unchanged for centuries, since the first recorded mention of the Busójárás dates back to 1783. Adults wearing shaggy busó coats, linen trousers and adorned with carved masks and distinctive accesories, such as bells and giant rattles, bid farewell to the harsh winter and welcomed spring.

January 29, 2024

Hungary-Vietnam ties can gain new momentum in the future, says official

Hungary-Vietnam ties PM Orbán press conference

As the next president of the Council of the European Union, Hungary has a vested interest in the continued development of the EU’s relations with Vietnam, the ministry of EU affairs said on Saturday.

In a statement, the ministry said Barna Pál Zsigmond, the parliamentary state secretary of EU affairs, paid an official visit to Vietnam, where he outlined the priorities of the coming Hungarian EU presidency. At his talks, Zsigmond said Hungary saw the future of EU member states in connectivity rather than Europe’s isolation. Vietnam and Hungary both have an interest in international connectivity and in the broadest possible cooperation between themselves as well as between EU and ASEAN member states, he said.

Zsigmond said Hungary-Vietnam ties could gain new momentum in the future, arguing that the Southeast Asian country was back on a growth path following the end of the pandemic, opening the door to opportunities for cooperation in every area.

The state secretary said both countries were pro-peace when it came to the war in Ukraine.

Zsigmond’s talks also touched on the investment protection agreement between the EU and Vietnam, and he assured his partners that during its EU presidency, Hungary would urge member states that have yet to ratify the agreement to do so.

At his talks with the deputy minister of public safety, Zsigmond discussed cooperation between the two countries’ police forces and their fight against organised crime.

Joint responses to global challenges

Meanwhile, Zsigmond talked about bilateral academic and university ties with the deputy head of the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam and the rector of Vietnam National University, the ministry said.

At the academy, Zsigmond gave a talk about Hungarian-Vietnamese relations and the possible joint responses to global challenges.

He said the Stipendium Hungaricum programme offers grants to 200 Vietnamese students each year, adding that there are currently 900 Vietnamese students pursuing studies in Hungary.

The ministry said Zsigmond also held talks with the rector of the Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology.

He also discussed the development of business relations with the deputy director of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the head of Business Association of Overseas Vietnamese (BAOOV), leaders of the local representations of Hungarian pharmaceutical companies Gedeon Richter and EGIS, as well as the delegations of the Central and Eastern European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam and EuroCham.

Read also:

PM Orbán walks hand in hand with Vietnamese prime minister in Budapest – Details and VIDEO HERE
Hungarian FM: Vietnam offers great opportunities for Hungary’s economy

January 21, 2024

VIDEO: PM Orbán walks hand in hand with Vietnamese prime minister in Budapest

The Vietnamese Prime Minister, Pham Minh Chinh, is on official visit to Budapest. Orbán welcomed him yesterday with military honours in front of the Hungarian Parliament. Later, he made an even more symbolic gesture many can misunderstand in Hungary.

PM Viktor Orbán grabbed the Vietnamese leader’s hand and led him on the corridors of the Carmelite Monastery, where his office operates in the Buda Castle. The images and video footage spread quickly in the Hungarian media, and several people misunderstood the gesture.

In Hungary, the Orbán government does not support the LGBTQ+ movement. They accepted several laws restricting LGBTQ people in the country. Apart from the fact that gay marriage is forbidden in Hungary and it is extremely difficult for an LGBTQ person to adopt and raise kids, the Hungarian government made it compulsory for each bookstore to wrap LGBTQ books. Furthermore, the minister sacked the director of the National Museum due to the World Press Photo exhibition in which LGBTQ-related photos were displayed even for an under-18 audience.

Same-sex couples walking hand in hand in Hungary is not usual

Therefore, for a same-sex couple to walk hand in hand is not a usual in Hungary. What’s more, that is brand new for the Hungarian prime minister living in a seemingly happy marriage with his wife, Anikó Lévai, and five children. But, of course, there is an explanation for walking with the Vietnamese prime minister like that.

According to telex.hu, it is a traditional gesture in Vietnam to do so with your friends and allies. In the Southeastern Asian country, it is not surprising if same-sex people walk on the streets hand in hand. It is an act of respect and friendship. If people in a higher rank lead another in a lower rank, that can mean disdain. But that cannot be the case in the Orbán-Chinh relationship since both of them are the leaders of their countries. Here is the video:

Read also:

Hundreds of thousands of Vietnamese, Kyrgyz, and Filipinos will come to work in Hungary – Read more HERE
Hungarian Catholic Church goes against Pope Francis concerning blessing same-sex couples – Details in THIS article

January 20, 2024

150 concerts: Here’s the Fishing On Orfű festival lineup

Fishing on Orfű has been a well-liked festival for underground music for over a decade now. It’s eclectic and ever-shifting music programmes provide an unchanging part of our summer plans.

This year, the 2024 Fishing on Orfű will feature 150 musical attractions in seven different venues in four days. Their passes are already 80% sold out, which is not that big of a surprise as it has been this way for a decade now. What is surprising though is the fact that they sold it even before their lineup was announced. Now that it’s finally out, let’s see who is going to be there!

The Main Stage

This is where the magic happens, as they say. The magic of being in a crowd of all ages and enjoying the music of a beloved artist. Here, you can listen to the crowd favourites such as Carson Coma, Elefánt, Esti Kornél, Krúbi, Csaknekedkislány, aurevoir., Ivan & the Parazol, Blahalouisiana, Beton.Hofi and Pogány Induló. Also Deva and Analog Balaton will be performing here, upgraded, since just two years ago, they weren’t on the main stage yet. Let’s not forget the creators of this year’s Fishing anthem, Bohemian Betyars and Platon Karataev, whose music you can also enjoy on the main stage.

Second Main Stage

In the opening slot of the second main stage, there is a lineup specifically highlighting emerging acts deserving a larger audience, such as Hűvös, Raklap, Barkóczi Noémi, and Fiúk, writes turizmus.com. Fans of well-established bands won’t be disappointed either, as Orfű’s main stages will feature performances by 30Y, Kiscsillag, Quimby, Vad Fruttik, Bëlga, Péterfy Bori & Love Band, Hiperkarma, and Pál Utcai Fiúk.

Large Tent lineup

The large tent is always a mix and match of fantastic upcoming artists of all genre. Wednesday’s program in the large tent will be a special treat for hip-hop enthusiasts, where one can catch underground artists such as Sisi, Bongor, Lil Frakk, Mike Mykanic, 6363, Dé:Nash, and Co Lee. Excellent rap productions can be expected on the following days as well, since Ótvar Pestis, NKS, zïp, EPMK, and Tranzkaphka never disappoint. The large tent will also be the home of eclectic alternative music, featuring performances by Szűcs, Európa Kiadó, Frenk, Erik Sumo, P.A.S.O., Besh o Drom, Óperentzia, Óriás, A kutya Vacsorája, LAZARVS, and Lóci játszik.

The Amondó stage

Here, as expected, a true club atmosphere will be found. The Amondó stage hosted by the Panoráma camping area where you can find performances by The Devil’s Trade, Grand Mexican Warlock, Felső Tízezer, Sorbonne Sexual, egy5egy, TÖRZS, Cataflamingo, HOCUSPONY, Zækar, Boebeck, and many others. This stage will also feature the winners of talent competitions and will be the place to be for a dance party that lasts until dawn, with DJs Suhaid, Urban Vinyl, DJ Elf, and Tesco Disco spinning records after the concerts.

Borfalu

This spot is for music lovers who are not afraid to mix things up. The Borfalu scene never disappoints with a little out-of-the-box thinking with its musical programme. Here, relaxed productions will alternate with real party bands. Performances by Romano Drom, Lázár Tesók, Henri Gonzo, Papírsárkányok, Nasip Kismet, Mordái, Los Orangutanes, and Mörk are scheduled.

Near the fire

The forest stage continues the tradition of opening the day with classical music. This will be followed by the thematic program ‘The Forest Speaks,’ where young songwriters play some songs and talk about their inspirations, challenges, and naturally, songwriting. In the evenings, you can catch the new programme introduced at MiniFishing, which brought together two performers who hadn’t collaborated before. This way, artists will be creating something completely revolutionary and unconventional – the performers for this will be announced in February.

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Read more on refreshing programmes in Hungary HERE.
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January 20, 2024

These are the top Hungarian patisseries in 2024

Everybody has a secret sweet tooth and now is the time to indulge yours! The Audi Dining Guide Top100 has finally arrived and it lists the top Hungarian patisseries around the country.

The Hungarian cuisine is excellent, especially when it comes to sweets. The past years have only proved this with Hungarians excelling in national and international competitions alike. Revolutionary visions of sweetness are made reality with increasing frequency. The Audi Dining Guide has spared us the miles of going through every pastry shop in the country and evaluating them. Now, we’re here to tell you where to look for the best bites! Check out the list and embark on a journey to taste these delights!

The best of Hungary

The Audi Dining Guide Top100 Restaurant Guide has assorted for us the best of the country – capital and countryside alike. The winners include those who represent the French culinary scene in Hungary along with those who are going for a more traditional gastronomic experience for their visitors. Some are famous for their extravagant creations, others are for their more refined forms. Let’s not waste time any longer, here are the sweet top ten!

First place went to Málna The Pastry Shop this year. They have broken into the culinary scene with fervour and outbreaking success! They bring a special lightness into their creations which are absolutely unmissable.

Below, you can see which patisseries made it into the TOP10 of the Audi Dining Guide Top100 Restaurant Guide:

Málna The Pastry Shop
Auguszt József Patisserie
Bergmann Patisseries
Chouchou
DessertForYou
Gerbeaud Café
Harrer Chocolate Workshop and Patisserie
Kollázs Patisserie
Nour – Art Of Desserts
The Ritz-Carlton Budapest

TOP 7 countryside patisseries

Usually when a list says “the best of Hungary”, it mostly means Budapest. Well, to avoid this, the Audi Dining Guide has assembled the list of the top 7 countryside patisseries:

Harrer Chocolate Workshop and Patisserie – Sopron
Bergmann Patisseries – Balatonfüred
Desszertem – Miskolc
Le Téne Dessert Workshop & Café – Badacsony
Mónisüti – Gyenesdiás
Nour – Art Of Desserts – Budaörs
Sakura Patisserie – Nagymaros

The best of the best

Another important award that was given out this year is a brand new category from the Audi Dining Guide. The ‘best of the best’ rating only goes to, well, the best of the best. This was given to the Mihályi Patisserie which is located in Vác. It is a must visit spot for all those who have a strong sweet tooth.

This award is an especially nice gift for the Mihályi Patisserie’s 14th birthday. The founder, László Mihályi, brought his experience from abroad and incorporated it into the traditional Hungarian sweet scene. Allegedly, as magyarorszagom.hu writes, he was the one to introduce the so-called French pastry style into Hungary. Making the best of both worlds, the Mihályi Patisserie is offering a wide range of desserts from the Hungarian as well as the Italian and French culinary spectrum. You can order a simple Dobos cake from them and receive an unexpected take on the timeless classic, which won’t disappoint you.

Read also:

We wrote about Hungarian patisseries before HERE.
Read about this fantastic recipe idea HERE, if you want try your hand at baking a tasty snack for yourself.

January 15, 2024

Budapest among best honeymoon destinations

According to a new study by Tripadvisor, Budapest is one of the most liked spots for a honeymoon. The Hungarian capital has managed to end up in the leaderboard of more than one of the best destinations category. Seems like the capital of Hungary is well-liked for several reasons among travelers.

The 2024 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best Destinations category has been released this week. This is a guide that focuses on the most recommended of travel destinations. In this, Budapest holds a prominent position in more than one category.

The Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice Awards

The Tripadvisor list is an extremely exclusive one. Only the best of the best make it into the final leaderboard. The finalists are decided by the Tripadvisor community throughout the year. Only places with the highest ratings can be considered the top hot spots of the year. The criteria included hotels, restaurants, attractions, and program options, all of which were rated by travelers between October 2022 and September 2023.

Quite a few rankings were published, such as Emerging Destinations (worldwide and in the USA); Best Destinations (worldwide, by continent, and by major region); Natural Destinations (worldwide); Culinary Destinations (worldwide, in the USA, and in Europe); Cultural Destinations (worldwide); Honeymoon Destinations (worldwide); and Sustainable Destinations (worldwide).

According to szeretlekmagyarorszag.hu, the top 10 most popular destinations in the whole world are Dubai, Bali, London, Hanoi, Rome, Paris, Cancun, Marrakesh, Crete and Hoi An.

Ideal wedding destination

Budapest has made it onto the lists in two subcategories. Among the recommended honeymoon destinations, it ranks 19th best in the world. The other category that Budapest scored high in is among the best European destinations, where it secured a modest 16th position.

Those looking for a great wedding destination chose Budapest for its many great qualities. There are hundreds of unique spots to have a wedding photoshoot and lovely churches are scattered throughout the city. Nature lovers can opt for a secluded wedding at the small church of Margaret island. Those who are looking for a grand entry into their married life can choose to get married at the extravagant Fishermen’s Bastion, where they are sure to attract a crowd. Adding to this the dozens of hotels the city boasts, all of which have a romantic honeymoon package.

Budapest, the Queen of the Danube

According to the recommendations on the website of Tripadvisor, Budapest offers an astonishing variety of baths, highlighting the quality and legendary healing properties of Budapest’s thermal waters. The Tripadvisor community also agreed on the natural beauty of the city, saying it is a fantastic combination of bustle and calm. This makes the city perfect for all kinds of travel, whether it is a trip for business or a relaxing outing, says a community member. Another much-loved aspect of the city was its rich history. According to Tripadvisor, you can find a historical site around every corner. Last but not least, visitors dubbed Budapest the Queen of the Danube.

This could also interest you:

Read about the best hotels of Budapest HERE.
Read more about tourism in the capital HERE.

January 14, 2024

PM Orbán’s new Central European ally comes to Budapest next week

Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó met the leaders of Slovakia’s ethnic Hungarian Alliance party, in preparation for Prime Minister Robert Fico’s visit to Budapest next week.

Szijjártó said on Facebook that he and Alliance leader Krisztian Forro had reviewed the most important issues for ethnic Hungarians living in Slovakia.

The foreign minister said that the Hungarian government was looking forward to the visit, and pledged to give emphasis at the talks to “crucial” development projects in southern Slovakia where a large number of Hungarians live.

“We are ready to increase the number of border crossings between the two countries so that the border should connect rather than separate people,” he said. Hopefully, “empty railways will fill up again, and there will be joint bus routes and new bridges,” Szijjártó said.

Read also:

Attention! Major change coming to the Hungarian-Slovakian border in weeks – Read more HERE
Orbán-Zelenskyy summit can pave the way for Orbán’s strongmanship in the EU – Details in THIS article

January 14, 2024

Reviving heritage: Renovation beckons for Hungary’s oldest Church in Zsámbék – PHOTOS

The premonstratensian church in Zsámbék, one of the most iconic and beautiful sacred buildings of medieval Hungarian church architecture, will be rebuilt.

It’s a well-known fact that few historical buildings survived the medieval age in Hungary. However, amidst the echoes of time, certain treasures persist. These include the churches in Ják and Lébény, the monumental former Premonstratensian cathedral in Ócsa, and the lovely church in Zsámbék. Albeit their historical impact is great, not all of the above were preserved in their original forms, let alone the Zsámbék Castle, which is often referred to as a ruin temple. However things are bound to change, thanks to the new developments.

The old church in Zsámbék

The Old Church and the Premonstratensian monastery, constructed circa 1220, stand as poignant remnants of Central European classic Gothic, preserving the charm of a bygone era. Originally fashioned in the Romanesque style, it underwent remodelling into the Gothic style, notwithstanding the objections of the Premonstratensian order. Nonetheless, the main body of the temple has endured unchanged through the centuries.

In 1753, the church suffered severe damage, writes HelloMagyar. Nearly one hundred and fifty years ensued before a dedicated professional took charge of its restoration. István Möller, a significant figure in Hungarian monument protection, initiated the restoration efforts in 1889, concentrating on the ruins of the three-aisled basilica. Contrary to initial expectations, the church was not reconstructed. István Möller, a true expert of monument preservation, assumed the responsibility of ensuring the temple’s enduring legacy. Approaching the project with a modern perspective, he handled the building’s remains in harmony with contemporary principles of heritage conservation. Despite four years of meticulous work, the restoration, completed in 1900, retained the church in its ruined state, preserving it as a testament to its post-earthquake condition.

However, in the present day, after nearly three centuries of decay and numerous unsuccessful interventions in recent decades, this irreplaceable monument threatens with collapse.

Remaking history

With the support of the Ministry of Innovation and Technology, the Municipality of Zsámbék has unveiled an open design competition, declaring the imperative to rebuild the Zsámbék Old Church. The former Romanesque structure, transformed into the Gothic style, no longer serves its original purpose. Nevertheless, it now fulfils a vital role in promoting its own historical significance. The entire Zsámbék ruin resonates with the essence of the 13th century, embodying the architectural spirit of the pre-Tatar invasion era.

Visitors exploring this site will discern the authentic 13th-century ambience in every facet of the building mass, from the intricately incorporated stones to the weathered mortar.

The competition for the renewal of the Zsámbék Old Church and its surroundings, announced by the Municipality of Zsámbék with the support of the Ministry of Innovation and Technology, has successfully concluded. A total of 17 entries were received, with the winning proposal by Közti Ltd charting a course for the church’s reconstruction through brick supplementation. The plan includes a specific proposal for concealing the towers, demonstrating a meticulous approach and ensuring collaborative efforts between the restorer and the architect.

Monument preservation

According to their statement, the Ministry of Innovation and Technology is committed to strengthening monument protection. To this end, they have enlisted a state secretariat to supervise monument preservation and have been formulating a concept aimed at ensuring the long-term survival of historic buildings. The rebuilding of the Zsámbék Church aligns with this commitment, echoing successful restoration efforts in churches like Ják, Lébény and Ócsa. This overarching concept seeks to underscore the significance of historical monuments, offering visitors a glimpse into the realm of medieval Hungarian architecture.

Hopefully, the renovations will be approached with due consideration for the sacred character of the grounds, ensuring that the temple’s historical significance will not be lost to ravages of time and shabby workmanship.

Should all proceed as planned, the return of the premonstratensian monks to the monastery post-renovation would mark a significant milestone. Visitors, in turn, would have the opportunity to experience the Zsámbék Church anew, as if it were being unveiled for the first time.

Read more about historical castles in Hungary HERE.
Read about forgotten historical sites in Hungary HERE.

Here is how it will look after the renovation:

January 6, 2024

PM Orbán talked to the French TF1 TV channel about Jacques Delors

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán said Hungary was grateful to Jacques Delors “for what he did for us”, after attending the funeral service of the former European Commission president in Paris on Friday.

Orbán was invited to attend the ceremony by French President Emmanuel Macron.

Speaking to French television TF1 on Friday evening, Orbán noted that Delors had paid a visit to communist Hungary in 1989.

He said Hungary had been preparing for a democratic transition and “I was active working in the anti-communist opposition movement; and he [Delors] had the courage to come and visit the country before the first free elections”.

“Therefore we in Hungary remember him as a European leader who fought, or at least tried to do something for the freedom and sovereignty of central European countries under Soviet occupation.”

Read also:

PM Orbán travelled to Paris
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Farewell from Jacques Delors, Orbán wrote below his relevant post:

In a video posted on his social media site, he called Delors Hungary’s friend:

January 6, 2024

PM Orbán travelled to Paris

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán attended the funeral service of former European Commission President Jacques Delors in Paris on Friday, the PM’s press chief said.

Orbán was invited by French President Emmanuel Macron. Macron will also preside over a national tribute ceremony to Delors on Friday morning, Bertalan Havasi said.

Delors, who died aged 98 on December 27, lead the EC between 1985 and 1995. He played a key role in creating the euro, and shaping the common market, the Schengen Area, the Erasmus programmes and the Common Agricultural Policy.

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EXCLUSIVE – Shareholder’s warning: Budapest Airport’s purchase may not happen – Read more HERE

European commemoration, Orbán wrote under the photo he shared about the burial:

January 5, 2024

Photos: Lovely Advent happenings at the Hungarian Children’s Railway

This year, the lightshow returns to the Hungarian Children’s Railway!

By now, it’s become a regular tradition to make the carriages shine at the Children’s Railway. This year, the carriages will be joined by some new additions as well!

True winter spirit at the Children’s Railway!

This year, visitors can experience the true Christmas spirit. Thanks to the heavy snowing recently in Hungary, the region has transformed into a winter wonderland. Perfect time for some outdoor exploring, or even better, enjoying the view from one of the nicely decorated carriages of the Children’s Railway.

The Children’s Railway operates throughout the whole year, including winter. During the school term, it runs every day with the exception of Mondays. Through the winter vacation, trains go out more frequently, operating with weekend hours. This means there’s a train going out every hour, which is lucky for visitors waiting out in the cold. Of course, on 24th December and 1st January, there are fewer services. Still, the Children’s Railway is open and has prepared some exciting features for guests, writes Impress Magazine.

Let the light show begin!

The carriages of the railway will be lit up from the start of December for the whole of the winter vacation. This year is special, since compared to last year there will be some surprising new additions to the illuminated section of carriages, writes Impress magazine.Three of the usual winter carriages will be transformed into a light show for the season. Added to this, the steaming new addition to the fleet of the Children’s Railway, introduced only last year, the ‘Debrecen’ carriage is also lit up, contributing to the winter wonderland. However, the season wouldn’t be whole without a proper light train, that’s why they decorated an Mk45 diesel locomotive too, making the whole set matching in holiday spirit.

For the holiday season, the Children’s Railway also treats its guests to another nostalgic classic. For the other lit up train, they are bringing out two of the most well-known and beloved sidecars.

One of them is the Lillafüred carriage from 1929. This could be familiar to those who frequent the Children’s Railways, since this carriage has already received a Christmas interior in the past. The other sidecar is one of the oldest from the collection of the Children’s Railway. This is none other than the green open-platform carriage made in 1912 in Arad. This train car can rarely be sighted in everyday traffic, however, for the special occasion of the holiday season, it will operate regularly. Until Christmas comes, it will mostly be accompanied by passenger trains, but during the winter break, it may be seen with the steam engine too.

Unmissable programme

Additionally, between the two holidays, there are fun programmes to try out, especially for train-lovers. On the 28th and 29th of December, a fantastic family programme will be held that caters to everybody. There will be a display of trains no longer in use where you can take a closer look at these discontinued vehicles and even climb into the engineer’s cab of locomotives. Another fun feature of this event will be the temporary exhibition that opens at the operational building of the station, which will also be available, because of its 75th anniversary.

Read about another fun winter programme HERE.
Read about other train related news HERE.

December 18, 2023

New luxury hotel opens at Dobogókő

The Cardoner Hotel and Conference center opened just this week in the Visegrád Mountains. The four-star hotel awaits visitors with all kinds of luxury services. The Cardoner Hotel successfully merges luxury with the closeness of nature, providing a unique experience of Dobogókő.

A promising start

The building was originally given to the Jesuit Order in 1993 to compensate for their Manrésa grounds lost to the socialist nationalisation in the 1940s. To honor their lost estate, they named the compensationally received plot Manrésa Hotel. Since it was run by a religious organisation, events were regularly organised in the building by church and church-related organisations. After it closed, the operational tasks were taken over by the Service 4 You Hospitality Management Ltd., which runs the hotel now, writes turizmus.com. The building was thoroughly renovated and now awaits customers with 57 comfortable living units. Out of the 57, 43 are Classic, 9 are Superior, 3 are Deluxe Corner, and 2 are family rooms, which have a connected anteroom.

The hotel opened its doors on 15th of December, welcoming guests in the renewed Hotel Cardoner. Stepping in the spacious lobby with its natural stone flooring and crackling fireplace, guests are immediately flooded with the atmospheric feeling of Dobogókő.

Conference to commence!

Implied by the name as well, the Cardoner Hotel offers a wide range of possible locations for conferences and other such events. The hotel can accommodate up to 150 people in its main conference room. Additionally there are three section rooms, sequestered from the main conference room for more private events. All of the rooms are equipped with natural light.

From spring to autumn, there are also outdoor meeting locations in the park of the hotel for hosting an event even closer to nature. The park is filled with ancient trees and houses a garden pavilion. All of the above equals a place perfect for all kinds of meetings or events.

Fine Dining at the peak

The restaurant of the hotel brings the highest quality in every aspect. Their variety ranges from traditional Hungarian dishes to excellent game dinners. Along with the foods, the restaurant offers the finest wines from the nine best wine regions in Hungary. The experience is made whole by the fantastic view of the Visegrád Mountains thanks to the panoramic glazed terrace, which supplies diners with the best view in the house.

Peak Relaxation

The hotel also boasts an extensive wellness section with both inside and outside experiences. Inside guests can relax with a wide range of opportunities. Indoors guests can choose from several saunas, such as infrared sauna, biosauna and a Finnish sauna. There’s also a jacuzzi, a rain shower and a salt room, which is said to have great health benefits. The massage treatments are also an unmissable feature of the wellness services. Guests can also experience the unique sensation of weightlessness in the Float Spa premium floating tank.

The wellness experiences don’t stop there! The outside wellness area features a stunning outdoor swimming pool fed by a lovely waterfall located in the ancient tree park. Additionally, there’s also a wood-fired and an electrically heated hot tub, which gives guests a much closer feel of nature. It’s not only the hot tubs that provide this experience, since the hotel also has an outdoor Finnish sauna with a fantastic panoramic view of the Visegrád Mountains.

If visitors want to relax in a more active way, the hotel also offers a wide range of opportunities for local excursions and sports activities, such as sledding. There are also fantastic hike opportunities, and the Visegrád Castle isn’t far away either. HERE you may check out additional photos of the hotel.

Read more about Hungarian award winning hotels HERE.
Read more about another prestigious Hungarian hotel HERE.

December 17, 2023

PHOTOS: Hungarian castles that you should visit in the winter

Hungarian castles that you should visit in the winter - Almásy Castle Gyula

Thanks to a recent wave of reconstruction, all three castles have born anew. Immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit at Gyula, uncover the clandestine history of the Nádasdy family, or take a glimpse into the life of a great Hungarian painter – and better yet, experience all three!

Celebrate Christmas at the Almásy Castle in Gyula!

This year, Gyula’s iconic castle will host its Advent programme, the Magical Christmas Castle. Visitors can relish the festive atmosphere amid magical surroundings, with everything a Christmas fair could offer and more! The Almásy Castle ‘s Christmas tree will be exhibited in the winter garden, alongside a terrain model depicting a snow-covered town and a giant nutcracker.

During Advent Saturdays, guests can partake in various workshops – from crafting gingerbread houses to fashioning pine decorations, Advent wreaths and Grinch trees. Moreover, they can receive guidance in preparing sauces for roasted meats and wrapping gifts, all within the castle’s walls.

The castle park will host various events, including theatre performances and concerts. On 23rd December, the Erkel Ferenc Mixed Choir will deliver a special Christmas performance. Throughout this period, a shoebox fundraiser will also take place.

Discover the secrets of the Nádasdy Castle!

This castle hides many secrets, from its roof to the library and the charming English garden with its pond and waterfall. Delve into the past of the Nádasdy family, commissioned by Ferenc Nádasdy and his wife, Ilona Zichy, completed in 1876 and inhabited by the family until World War II.

Initially, the building was constructed by István Linzbauer, but the master architect could not finish the castle, so the work was taken over by Alajos Hauszmann, whose influence is evident in the Ancestors’ Hall, showcasing life-size family portraits. Another noteworthy addition by Hauszmann is the impressive library, captivating visitors with intricate bookshelves, columns, and paneling.

Nádasdy Castle offers a tour titled “The Castle of Legends,” guiding visitors through the entire castle to explore the history of the renowned family and everyday life in that bygone era.

Hungarian castles that you should visit in the winter Nádasdy Castle winter — Source: Nádasdladány, Nádasdy-kastély – hivatalos

Peek into the life of one of the greatest Hungarian painters at the Benczúr Manor!

After three years of extensive renovations, Benczúr Manor is reopening its doors on the 1st of December, writes turizmus.com. Thanks to over one billion HUF (EUR 2,630,759) in non-refundable European Union funds, the manor has been restored to its original state as part of the National Castle Programme and National Fortress Programme, complete with a new permanent exhibition.

Within the renovated spaces, 18 original Benczúr paintings, relics, drapes, reproductions, photos and short films guide visitors through the manor and the life of the famous painter. Gyula Benczúr’s love for Nógrád landscapes inspired him to buy and reconstruct this manor in his old age, even converting the old granary into a separate studio.

Mostly serving as a summer residence and studio, the building later functioned as a school, council house and cultural centre after nationalisation. The intense use over the years led to deterioration, but luckily EU funds saved this crucial piece of Hungarian cultural history. The reconstruction also added features to better accommodate a tourist complex showcasing Gyula Benczúr’s life.

New service areas, including a reception area, cloakroom, café, gift shop and renovated restrooms, have been introduced. The manor’s surroundings have been revitalised, and a visitor parking lot has been established. The building is now prepared to welcome curious souls seeking a culturally refreshing insight into the life of one of Hungary’s greatest painters.

Hungarian castles that you should visit in the winter - Benczúr Manor — Source: FB @travellina.hu

Read about another Hungarian castle that opened this December HERE.