Travel tips to Hungary

Hungary is a pretty safe country to travel. However, it is always wise to be cautious rather than to repent later. Here is a brief guide for safe traveling in Hungary.

Hungary is in the Central European Time Zone (GMT+1) but during daylight saving time, the time is GMT+2. The country code for Hungary is 36. To call long distance within Hungary, first dial 06 followed by the city code. The tourists can make domestic and international calls from most public telephones. Telephone card are easily available at post offices. Telephone boxes with a black and white arrow, red target on the door and the word ‘Visszahivhato’ display a telephone number, so you can be phoned back. 

Hungary is an extremely clean country. Be careful not to throw trash or cigarettes on the street. Smoking is prohibited on public transport in towns and public buildings. Travelers may smoke on long-distance trains. Military installations and other places with signpost suggesting restrictions should never be photographed. The electric current in Hungary is 220V, 50 Hz AC. Plugs are the European type (euro-plugs) with two round pins.

EU citizens can import and export as much of anything as they like. Everyone else is limited to importing up to 250 cigarettes, a liter of spirits and two liters of wine. Importing of illegal drugs, unlicensed weapons, paprika, pirated cassettes and CD’s and pornographic products is strictly prohibited. Non-EU residents can re-claim VAT (ÁFA in Hungarian) on goods purchased over 50,000 HUF within 90 days of purchase. A VAT refund form is available at the shop and can be presented to customs upon departure.

Always study the prices on the menu and make sure to know how much the dish costs before you order it. Do not place the order, if it does not provide the prices on the menu. In some bars and clubs, girls might come to lure you to buy them drinks. Politely turn them down, otherwise the staff might surprise you with an exorbitant bill. It is appreciable to give tip up to 15% of the bill. Never leave money on the table in a restaurant rather tell the waiter how much of a tip you want to give when paying the bill.

Violence is rare in Hungary and seldom directed against travelers though racially motivated attacks against Gypsies, Africans and Arabs are not unknown. Travelers are most vulnerable to car thieves, pickpockets and taxi louts. The most frequent crimes committed against foreigners are confidence tricks, pick pocketing and car theft. Avoid street vendors and beggars and beware of pickpockets, who are active on public transport vehicles and in popular tourist destinations. Always keep your bag closed and do not keep your money and credit card in the same place. Avoid carrying too much cash. Changing money in the street is not only forbidden but can be dangerous and unprofitable operation.

Before getting into a taxi, always ask the driver how much it will cost. Try to take a meter taxi and make sure the driver turns it on before setting out. Ask for the receipt at the end of the journey. You should call a taxi to your hotel rather than getting one in the neighboring streets. Never leave valuable articles in your car.

For any kind of injury like swindling, theft or violence, contact the Complaints Office of the Budapest Municipal Police Headquarters V., Deák Ferenc u. 16-18. The English and German speaking staff members are on 24-hour-duty from 1 June to 1 September. From 1 July to 1 September, tourist policemen and public guards in uniform patrol the streets, accompanied by translators. In the case of an incident, policemen have the right to ask to present your passport but not your money or credit card.

By: Shuchita Bist

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