Expat Community > Hungary

peddington
Joined 2013
Posts: 382

Friendliest city? A matter of opinion!

10 years ago

Budapest is the 10th friendliest city according to some travel guide! Well I suppose that is a matter of opinion. Another site on the internet doesn't even mention Budapest so I suppose any argument can be supported if you look in the right place. While Budapest "old" Buda side is very picturesque and it is rich with history, the Pest side not so much especially if you move away from the central area (near the Danube). Graffiti, trash and homeless is pretty much everywhere. Due to "human rights" which is another topic altogether, homeless is not required to move from door ways or metro steps. Hungarian food is great just find a place to park while you eat. You pay fro parking just about everywhere near the center of the city and by golly don't park illegally because your car will be "booted" and 15,000 forint and three hours later you may get the use of your car back. Public transportation is the way to go but ticket prices for one ride on the bus or metro is nearly about $1.40. This of course directed toward foreigners and those coming up from the country as most living in the capital city buy "passes". Incidentally the fine is advertised as 16,000 forint. Note of caution. You must validate a ticket on the bus and metro and sometimes these machines jam and don't work. Also some print a 2 mm line on the ticket you may not be able to see without glasses. Other's machines punch holes in the ticket so don't get the tickets mixed up. Incidentally if you rent a car and hit the Hungarian "autobahn" be careful. There are more radar traps then cops in Hungary. If you a foreigner they won't find you but your rental company will charge you no doubt. Thinking about fighting a ticket? Forget it! There is no such thing because in Hungary it is an "administrative fine" not directed toward the driver just toward the car which if the fine is not paid can be de-registered by the state. So have fun but remember you can be stopped by the police anytime there is no "cause" that has to be given. But fear not because that seldom happens as the police has a relatively small budget and have no money for gas. Therefore stationary radars and radar gates are used that are less expensive. Have fun while sightseeing but keep a wary eye on pick pockets. Is it as bad as Italy or France (in some places). NO but you should still keep your wallet or pocketbook close to you. The forint is low right now so your dollar, pound or euro will go far. Come visit and enjoy!

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Friendliest city? A matter of opinion!

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