Culture Shock in Hungary

With its mix of Hungarian and European cultures, as well as a cosmopolitan feel in the big cities, expats will most likely experience little culture shock in Hungary. The key cultural differences that expats are bound to come across include the cuisine and language.

Hungary has a unique culture and history. The population is largely homogenous, with Hungarians making up the majority. Of the minority groups, Roma and Germans are the largest. Christianity is the predominant religion, but Hungary also has a significant Jewish population; Budapest is home to Europe’s largest synagogue. Hungarians are generally friendly people who enjoy socialising and sharing their country and culture with visitors.

Meeting and greeting in Hungary

Handshakes are a common way of greeting in Hungary. Eye contact is important and should be maintained during handshakes; avoiding eye contact may be interpreted as being evasive or having something to hide. When greeting a woman, male expats should wait for her to initiate the handshake. Meanwhile, close friends may greet one another with a kiss on each cheek.

Language barrier in Hungary

Hungarian, or Magyar, is the official language in Hungary. It is spoken throughout the country and is the language on signs and notices. Although it may help to memorise a few key phrases, Hungarian is a notoriously difficult language to learn and expats will generally be forgiven for not being able to speak it.

English is also spoken in parts of Hungary, especially in large cities such as Budapest, as well as popular tourist regions such as the Danube Bend and Lake Balaton. English is an important language of business in Hungary and, as such, expats working in Hungary should have no trouble communicating in a business setting.

Relationships and communication in Hungary

The Hungarian communication style is direct, and it’s not unusual for Hungarians to ask very personal questions and share very intimate details about their own lives. This may be something expats are not used to; however, it is in no way meant to offend, but is rather a part of getting to know one another.

Family is the centre of social structures in Hungary. Family members look after one another and it’s not uncommon for extended families to all live together. Women and elders are highly respected in Hungary.

Food in Hungary

Hungarian food is quite distinct and has very particular tastes. Hungarians are famous for their hearty meals, the most popular of which is goulash, a thick soup made with meat, vegetables and paprika. Some expats may find the use of paprika (not hot, just spicy) difficult to stomach; however, Western foods are available in supermarkets and restaurants, particularly in Budapest. Nonetheless, most expats will find that they take to Hungarian gastronomy quite quickly.

Coffee culture is incredibly popular in Budapest. Hungarians also enjoy drinking, and it goes without saying that beer is very popular. Hungarian wines have also gained prominence in recent years; something that Hungarians are quite proud of.

Folk culture and the arts in Hungary

From Roman ruins to Turkish baths and Gothic churches, Hungary’s architecture is a unique blend of the different nations that have occupied the country over the centuries. Budapest, sitting on either side of the Danube River, is often cited as the most beautiful city in Europe, and there is plenty in terms of arts and cultural activities to keep expats occupied.

Hungarians are immensely proud of their culture and the country has a rich folk tradition, with dancing, music and decorative arts, such as colourful embroideries and potteries, preserved in museums and kept alive in smaller towns and villages.