Things to know before traveling to Hungary
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So you wanted to go to Hungary for your next travel? Good Choice. The country is blessed with breathtaking natural wonders, some of the best thermal spas, and several historical attractions. Budapest, the country’s capital is also graced with beautiful architectural buildings.
While this sounds perfectly fun (and yes it is), there are several things you need to be aware of before you visit the place. Every turn in Hungary induces a strong sense of history and tradition. Simple things like eating, talking, or even accepting drinks may make your travel experience better or worse.
The last thing you want to be is the tourist who attracts negative attention. So, we listed below some things you need to know before you go to Hungary.
Betting and gambling are allowed
If you fancy gambling, Hungary might be the best place for you. Gambling and sports betting are completely legal in the country. Since 1991, people are allowed to play in brick-and-mortar casinos in the country. Casino establishments in the country are heavily regulated.
You’ll find some of the biggest casinos in Budapest. Some of the world-renowned names you’ll find include Las Vegas Casino, Tropicana casino, and Kincsem Park.
If you can’t insert a casino in your itinerary, you can still enjoy placing a wager in your hotel as the country also legalized online casinos. You can play all types of casino games from the simple online slot to card games like poker, baccarat, blackjack, or even the Vietnamese’s bắn cá đổi thưởng thẻ cào which means fish hunting games for a scratch card. There are also live casinos that allow you to play and interact with real croupier online.
The last name comes first
If you are not from Hungary, you may be surprised by their name order. In the Hungarian language, they put the surname first. So when the Hungarian people introduce themselves family names come first. However, when you introduce your name to someone in Hungary, you don’t need to reverse your name.
Some Hungarian etiquette you should know
There are several etiquettes in Hungary that are very interesting. For example in greetings, handshakes, bowing, or kissing the ladies’ hand are only normal. If you want a handshake, however, gentlemen should wait for a lady to offer her hand first.
Let’s say you are invited to someone’s home for a meal, it is a good choice to bring goodies such as a box of goodies or flowers. Arriving late is considered rude as you are expected to be early.
They are proud of their wine
Hungarian are proud of their wine. They consider themselves as an expert in choosing a wine. They all have the right to that because wines in Hungary are truly delicious. If you are offered a drink in a bar, refusing it may offend some Hungarian people.
On the other hand, if the wine doesn’t fit your taste buds, it is better to keep it to yourself. Don’t make any negative comments about the wine because many will get pissed.
No clinking of glasses in Hungary
Hungarians will appreciate if you take drink offers however clinking glasses and saying “cheers” or in the Hungarian language, “Egészségedre” are not recommended and should be avoided.
This tradition is based on the story that during their defeat in the 1848 revolution, the Austrians celebrated by drinking beer and clinking glasses. Back then 13 senior Hungarian generals were executed. Hungarians vowed not to clink their glasses for 150 years.
Foods are absolutely delicious
Not only for the wines but Hungarian also take great pride in their foods. They also love adding paprika and sour cream to their dishes. There are also few Hungarians who will be offended if you add salt or pepper to your food.
When you are invited for a meal in Hungary, don’t leave food on your plate if you don’t want to offend the host. It can be interpreted that you are not satisfied with the food. When you are done eating, place your knife and fork parallel across the plate.
