Budapest: The Pearl of the Danube

• HelloHelló
  [heh-loh]
• GoodbyeViszlát
  [vee-slaht]
• YesIgen
  [ee-gen]
• NoNem
  [nem]
• Please/You're welcomeKérem
  [keh-rem]
• Thank youKöszönöm
  [kuh-suh-noem]
• Excuse me/SorryElnézést
  [el-nay-zayst]
• How are you?Hogy vagy?
  [hoj vuhdj]
• Fine. And you?Jól vagyok. És te?
  [yol vuhdj-ohk. ays teh]
• Do you speak English?Beszélsz angolul?
  [be-seyls ahn-goh-lool]
• I don't understandNem értem
  [nem aye-rt-em]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSzeretnék látni a menüt, kérem
  [seh-reht-nayk laht-nee ah meh-noot, keh-rem]
• I don't eat meatNem eszem húst
  [nem eh-sem hoosht]
• Cheers!Egészségedre!
  [eh-gay-sheh-ged-reh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseSzeretnék fizetni, kérem
  [seh-reht-nayk fee-zeht-nee, keh-rem]

• Help!Segítség!
  [sheh-geet-sayg]
• Go away!Menj el!
  [men yel]
• Call the Police!Hívj rendőrt!
  [heev rend-uhrt]
• Call a doctor!Hívj orvost!
  [heev or-vosht]
• I'm lostEl vagyok tévedve
  [el vahdj-ok tay-ved-veh]
• I'm illBeteg vagyok
  [beh-tehg vahdj-ok]

• I'd like to buy...Szeretnék vásárolni...
  [seh-reht-nayk vah-shah-rohl-nee]
• I'm just lookingCsak nézelődöm
  [chahk nay-zeh-loyd-ohm]
• How much is it?Mennyibe kerül?
  [men-nyee-beh keh-rool]
• That's too expensiveTúl drága
  [tool dra-gah]
• Can you lower the price?Le tudnád engedni az árat?
  [leh too-dnahd ehn-geh-dnee ahs ah-raht]

• What time is it?Mennyi az idő?
  [men-nyee ahz ee-doh]
• It's one o'clockEgy óra van
  [edj oh-rah vahn]
• Half past (10)Fél (tíz) óra múlva
  [fayl teez oh-rah moo-lvah]
• MorningReggel
  [rehg-gel]
• AfternoonDélelőtt
  [deh-leh-loht]
• EveningEste
  [eh-shteh]
• YesterdayTegnap
  [teg-nahp]
• TodayMa
  [mah]
• TomorrowHolnap
  [hol-nahp]
• 1Egy
  [edj]
• 2Kettő
  [ket-toh]
• 3Három
  [ha-rohm]
• 4Négy
  [neydg]
• 5Öt
  [oht]
• 6Hat
  [haht]
• 7Hét
  [hayt]
• 8Nyolc
  [nyolts]
• 9Kilenc
  [kee-lents]
• 10Tíz
  [teez]

• Where's a/the...?Hol van a...
  [hol vahn ah]
• What's the address?Mi a cím?
  [mee ah cheem]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Meg tudod mutatni (a térképen)?
  [meg too-dohd moo-taht-nee ah tayr-kay-pen]
• When's the next (bus)?Mikor jön a következő (busz)?
  [mee-kor yern ah koo-veht-keh-zoh bus]
• A ticket (to ....)Egy jegy (....-ra)
  [edj yehdj rah]

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is the result of the unification of three cities: Buda, Óbuda, and Pest, which occurred in 1873. Its history dates back to Roman times when the area was known as Aquincum, a prominent military base. The city has evolved through various periods, including the medieval era when Buda served as the royal residence.

Budapest fell under Ottoman rule in 1541 after the Battle of Mohács. The city remained under Turkish control for over 140 years, which left a lasting impact on its architectural and cultural landscape. Many thermal baths in the city, such as the Rudas and Király Baths, date back to this period.

Following the defeat of the Ottomans, Budapest came under Habsburg rule in 1686. This period saw significant urban development and the construction of iconic structures, including the Buda Castle, which was rebuilt in a Baroque style. The Habsburg influence is still evident in the city's grand architecture and cultural institutions.

The Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1867, or Ausgleich, marked the creation of the dual monarchy of Austria-Hungary. Budapest became a co-capital alongside Vienna, leading to rapid industrialization and urbanization. This era saw the construction of many iconic buildings, such as the Hungarian Parliament Building and the Chain Bridge.

During World War II, Budapest was heavily bombed, and the city suffered extensive damage. The Siege of Budapest in 1944-1945 was one of the longest and bloodiest battles of the war, leading to significant loss of life and destruction of infrastructure. The city's Jewish population faced devastating persecution during the Holocaust.

Budapest was a focal point of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution against Soviet-imposed policies. The uprising began as a student protest and quickly escalated into a nationwide revolt. Despite initial successes, the revolution was crushed by Soviet forces, resulting in thousands of deaths and widespread repression.

Following the fall of communism in 1989, Budapest underwent significant transformation. The city embraced market economy principles, leading to economic growth and urban renewal. Today, Budapest is a vibrant metropolis, known for its rich cultural heritage, bustling nightlife, and architectural marvels.

Budapest has experienced a cultural renaissance in recent decades, with the restoration of historic buildings and the emergence of a dynamic arts scene. The city's numerous festivals, including the Budapest Spring Festival and Sziget Festival, attract visitors from around the world. Budapest's thermal baths, ruin bars, and vibrant culinary scene make it a unique destination.

Budapest, Hungary's capital, is well connected by air, rail, and road. The primary international gateway is Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), located about 16 kilometers southeast of the city center. Numerous airlines offer direct flights to Budapest from major cities worldwide. For those traveling by train, Budapest is a central hub in the European rail network, with three major railway stations: Keleti, Nyugati, and Déli. Bus services, including international routes, are available from the Népliget Bus Terminal. The city is also accessible by car via the extensive European highway network.

Budapest boasts an efficient and affordable public transportation system, including buses, trams, and a metro network with four lines. Tickets can be purchased at metro stations, newsstands, or via mobile apps. Budapest's tram lines, particularly lines 4 and 6, are popular for their scenic routes. Taxis are widely available, but ensure you use licensed ones with a taxi sign and meter. Ride-sharing services like Bolt and Uber (as of the latest update) are not available, but local alternatives like Főtaxi are reliable. For a unique experience, consider taking a boat ride on the Danube River, which offers both public transport and sightseeing options.

Hungary's official currency is the Hungarian Forint (HUF). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, especially in tourist areas. However, cash is still preferred in smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful throughout Budapest, and currency exchange offices offer competitive rates. Avoid changing money on the street to prevent scams. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and emergencies.

Budapest is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as in any major city, it's important to remain vigilant. Pickpocketing can occur in crowded places like public transport, markets, and tourist attractions. Areas such as Districts 7 and 8, particularly around the Keleti Railway Station, have higher crime rates. Avoid poorly lit and deserted areas at night. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious when approached by strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

In case of an emergency, dial 112, the European emergency number, for police, ambulance, or fire services. Budapest has numerous hospitals and clinics offering high-quality medical care. Pharmacies (gyógyszertár) are widely available; look for those open 24 hours if needed. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. The U.S. Embassy and other consulates in Budapest can provide assistance to their nationals in case of serious emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress smartly when dining out or attending cultural events. Avoid overly casual attire in upscale settings. Religion: Do respect religious customs, especially in churches. Dress modestly and avoid loud conversations. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding. Don't put your feet on seats or eat and drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. Hungarians value politeness, so a friendly 'Hello' (Szia) goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like goulash and chimney cake. Don't clink beer glasses when toasting, as this is considered bad luck due to historical reasons.

To experience Budapest like a local, visit the city's ruin bars, such as Szimpla Kert, which offer a unique nightlife experience. Enjoy a soak in one of the thermal baths, like Széchenyi or Gellért. Explore local markets like the Great Market Hall for fresh produce and traditional Hungarian goods. Take a walk along the Danube Promenade for stunning views of the Buda Castle and Parliament building. For a quieter experience, visit the Margaret Island, a green oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls.