What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Szentendre?

We asked people in Szentendre if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...

"In Szentendre, it's important to avoid discussing politics, especially the country's communist past, as it can be a sensitive topic. It's also considered rude to refuse food or drink when offered by a host, as hospitality is highly valued in Hungarian culture. When greeting someone, a firm handshake is the norm, but avoid overly enthusiastic displays of affection in public. It's also considered polite to say "hello" and "goodbye" when entering and leaving shops or restaurants. Hungarians are proud of their language, so making an effort to learn a few basic phrases can go a long way. However, avoid making jokes about the Hungarian language's complexity, as it can be seen as disrespectful. In Szentendre, as in the rest of Hungary, punctuality is highly valued. Arriving late to an appointment or social gathering can be seen as disrespectful. It's also important to respect local customs and traditions. For example, in Szentendre, there's a tradition of leaving a small amount of food on your plate to indicate that you're full. Finishing all the food on your plate can be seen as a sign that you're still hungry. Finally, avoid comparing Hungary to other Eastern European countries, as Hungarians consider their culture and history to be unique," commented one expat who made the move to Szentendre, Hungary.

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