Budapest, Hungary Report of what it's like to live there - 04/28/10
Personal Experiences from Budapest, Hungary
Background:
1. Was this post your first expatriate experience? If not, what other cities have you lived in as an expat?
I have lived in Guatemala, Mexico, Argentina, and Spain.
2. Was this post your first expatriate experience? If not, what other cities have you lived in as an expat?
I have lived in Guatemala, Mexico, Argentina, and Spain.
3. What is your home city/country? How long is the trip to post from there, with what connections? How easy/difficult is it to travel to this city/country?
Home base is Minneapolis. A flight on Delta with a layover at JFK will take approximately 15 hours total.
4. What is your home city/country? How long is the trip to post from there, with what connections? How easy/difficult is it to travel to this city/country?
Home base is Minneapolis. A flight on Delta with a layover at JFK will take approximately 15 hours total.
5. How long have you lived here?
2 years from September 2008.
6. How long have you lived here?
2 years from September 2008.
7. What brought you to this city (e.g. diplomatic mission, business, NGO, military, teaching, retirement, etc.)?
Affiliated with the US Embassy.
8. What brought you to this city (e.g. diplomatic mission, business, NGO, military, teaching, retirement, etc.)?
Affiliated with the US Embassy.
Housing, Groceries & Food:
1. What is your housing like? What are typical housing sizes, locations, and commute times for expatriates?
We lived on the Pest side in an amazing apartment with three levels and two large terraces. Generally, embassy housing seems to be larger than what I've seen elsewhere, on both the Buda and the Pest sides. Those who live in Pest tend to live in spacious apartments near the embassy (generally within a 30-minute walk). Those who live on the Buda side tend to live in standalone houses with yards or townhouses with small yards. Those on the Buda side commute via public transport or car.
2. What is your housing like? What are typical housing sizes, locations, and commute times for expatriates?
We lived on the Pest side in an amazing apartment with three levels and two large terraces. Generally, embassy housing seems to be larger than what I've seen elsewhere, on both the Buda and the Pest sides. Those who live in Pest tend to live in spacious apartments near the embassy (generally within a 30-minute walk). Those who live on the Buda side tend to live in standalone houses with yards or townhouses with small yards. Those on the Buda side commute via public transport or car.
3. How would you describe the availability and cost of groceries and household supplies relative to your home country?
The embassy has a commissary where the cost of items is similar to that in the US. Otherwise, large grocery stores (Tesco and Interspar) exist here too, and offer everything you could need. For specialty items, look to Culinaris, which has 3 locations (and cooking classes, too). Culinaris is expensive but really great.
4. How would you describe the availability and cost of groceries and household supplies relative to your home country?
The embassy has a commissary where the cost of items is similar to that in the US. Otherwise, large grocery stores (Tesco and Interspar) exist here too, and offer everything you could need. For specialty items, look to Culinaris, which has 3 locations (and cooking classes, too). Culinaris is expensive but really great.
5. What household or grocery items do you wish you had shipped to post?
I wish there were more vegetarian products available. There are actually quite a few soy products here (soy yogurt, soy milk), but few items like tempeh. I would definitely ship clothes, as shopping here can be disappointing (though not always).
6. What household or grocery items do you wish you had shipped to post?
I wish there were more vegetarian products available. There are actually quite a few soy products here (soy yogurt, soy milk), but few items like tempeh. I would definitely ship clothes, as shopping here can be disappointing (though not always).
7. What typical restaurants, food delivery services, and/or takeout options are popular among expatriates?
All the fast food joints are here--everything from Subway and KFC to TGI Fridays. I think the cost is comparable to the US. But there are other good/fast restaurants here too. For example, there are many falafel/kebab places and Indian restaurants that offer quick take-out service.
8. What typical restaurants, food delivery services, and/or takeout options are popular among expatriates?
All the fast food joints are here--everything from Subway and KFC to TGI Fridays. I think the cost is comparable to the US. But there are other good/fast restaurants here too. For example, there are many falafel/kebab places and Indian restaurants that offer quick take-out service.
9. Are there any unusual problems with insects or other infestations in housing?
None.
10. Are there any unusual problems with insects or other infestations in housing?
None.
Daily Life:
1. How do you send and receive your letters and package mail? Are local postal facilities adequate?
DPO
2. How do you send and receive your letters and package mail? Are local postal facilities adequate?
DPO
3. What is the availability and cost of household help, and what types of help are typically employed by expatriates?
We pay 1300 HUF per hour, which I think is only slightly above the norm.
4. What is the availability and cost of household help, and what types of help are typically employed by expatriates?
We pay 1300 HUF per hour, which I think is only slightly above the norm.
5. What kinds of gyms or other sports/workout facilities are available? Are they expensive?
The embassy has a small gym that is very inexpensive to join (something like $7/year), but there are also private gyms, including Holmes Place.
6. What kinds of gyms or other sports/workout facilities are available? Are they expensive?
The embassy has a small gym that is very inexpensive to join (something like $7/year), but there are also private gyms, including Holmes Place.
7. Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
Works the same as in the US, no problems.
8. Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
Works the same as in the US, no problems.
9. What English-language religious services are available locally?
There is an English-language Catholic mass and an English-language Anglican mass.
10. What English-language religious services are available locally?
There is an English-language Catholic mass and an English-language Anglican mass.
11. English-language newspapers and TV available? Cost?
The embassy distributes "Hungary around the clock" daily, which is a synopsis of all the most important news stories. There are other English- language sources, like the Budapest Sun, which is business oriented. If you have cable television, you'll get all the news channels, HBO, etc. The cost is approx 8000 HUF/month ($40).
12. English-language newspapers and TV available? Cost?
The embassy distributes "Hungary around the clock" daily, which is a synopsis of all the most important news stories. There are other English- language sources, like the Budapest Sun, which is business oriented. If you have cable television, you'll get all the news channels, HBO, etc. The cost is approx 8000 HUF/month ($40).
13. How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
You really don't need to know anything for daily living. I have picked up a tiny bit here and there (mostly at the dog park), but it really is not necessary, and I would advise against spending time and energy in a class. Instead, concentrate on a language you can use after your two years here!
14. How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
You really don't need to know anything for daily living. I have picked up a tiny bit here and there (mostly at the dog park), but it really is not necessary, and I would advise against spending time and energy in a class. Instead, concentrate on a language you can use after your two years here!
15. Would someone with physical disabilities have difficulties living in this city?
Many. Some metro stops don't have elevators/escalators--only stairs. Same goes for underpasses for crossing the street.
16. Would someone with physical disabilities have difficulties living in this city?
Many. Some metro stops don't have elevators/escalators--only stairs. Same goes for underpasses for crossing the street.
Transportation:
1. Are local buses, trams, trains or taxis safe and affordable?
You can purchase a monthly transportation pass that is good for the metro, the tram and busses---it costs something like $40/month.
2. Are local buses, trams, trains or taxis safe and affordable?
You can purchase a monthly transportation pass that is good for the metro, the tram and busses---it costs something like $40/month.
3. What kind of car do you recommend bringing to post, given the terrain, availability of parts, burglary/carjacking risks, etc.? What kind of car do you advise not to bring?
Some roads outside of Budapest (for example on the way to Tokaj) are pot-holey, but generally you won't need anything special, just a regular car. I don't know about what kind of parts problems/restrictions might exist, though.
4. What kind of car do you recommend bringing to post, given the terrain, availability of parts, burglary/carjacking risks, etc.? What kind of car do you advise not to bring?
Some roads outside of Budapest (for example on the way to Tokaj) are pot-holey, but generally you won't need anything special, just a regular car. I don't know about what kind of parts problems/restrictions might exist, though.
Phone & Internet:
1. Is high-speed home Internet access available? How long does it typically take to install it after arrival?
Yes, we have good service from T-Home that costs around $40/month.
2. Is high-speed home Internet access available? How long does it typically take to install it after arrival?
Yes, we have good service from T-Home that costs around $40/month.
3. Do you have any recommendations regarding mobile phones? Did you keep your home-country plan or use a local provider?
Everyone at the embassy seems to use T-mobile, and I haven't had anything to complain about with regard to the service.
4. Do you have any recommendations regarding mobile phones? Did you keep your home-country plan or use a local provider?
Everyone at the embassy seems to use T-mobile, and I haven't had anything to complain about with regard to the service.
Pets:
1. Are qualified veterinarians and/or good kennel services available? Do animals need to be quarantined upon entry to the country? Are there other considerations regarding pets that are particular to this country?
I don't know, as our dog joined our family here.
2. Are qualified veterinarians and/or good kennel services available? Do animals need to be quarantined upon entry to the country? Are there other considerations regarding pets that are particular to this country?
I don't know, as our dog joined our family here.
3. Quality pet care available (vets & kennels)?
We have a vet that only makes house calls; she doesn't have a clinic. There is a well known animal hospital here (St. Istvan) that is attached to an apparently very good veterinary school.
4. Quality pet care available (vets & kennels)?
We have a vet that only makes house calls; she doesn't have a clinic. There is a well known animal hospital here (St. Istvan) that is attached to an apparently very good veterinary school.
Employment & Volunteer Opportunities:
1. What types of jobs do most expatriate spouses/partners have? Locally based or telecommuting? Full-time or part-time? Can you comment on local salary scales?
There are some very good opportunities, but be prepared to negotiate your salary (do not accept a Hungarian salary). There are universities, NGOs, corporations and media outlets that hire expats here. I was able to negotiate an expat salary before I came. Friends work as consultants to NGOs, and are paid their regular US daily rate. Fair salaries are out there to be had. I recommend (to find work) you join as many networking organizations as you can (Professional Women's Association, InterNations, etc.) and go to Chamber of Commerce events (not just the American Chamber, but Canadian, British, and Dutch, too).
2. What types of jobs do most expatriate spouses/partners have? Locally based or telecommuting? Full-time or part-time? Can you comment on local salary scales?
There are some very good opportunities, but be prepared to negotiate your salary (do not accept a Hungarian salary). There are universities, NGOs, corporations and media outlets that hire expats here. I was able to negotiate an expat salary before I came. Friends work as consultants to NGOs, and are paid their regular US daily rate. Fair salaries are out there to be had. I recommend (to find work) you join as many networking organizations as you can (Professional Women's Association, InterNations, etc.) and go to Chamber of Commerce events (not just the American Chamber, but Canadian, British, and Dutch, too).
3. What is the typical dress code at work and in public places? Is formal dress ever required?
I would say similar to what we are used to as Americans (in terms of work clothes).
4. What is the typical dress code at work and in public places? Is formal dress ever required?
I would say similar to what we are used to as Americans (in terms of work clothes).
Health & Safety:
1. Are there personal security concerns to be aware of at this post? Please describe.
The right wing is growing in numbers and strength, as evidenced by the 2010 elections. There are regular protests by the right wing, and I have heard of some isolated incidents of violence associated with minority groups. Sometimes, as in one case I witnessed, the victim only LOOKED like a minority: a Latino American apparently mistaken as a Roma. I think it's important to remember that these groups do exist here, so keep your wits about you. And (sorry to say) be suspicious of aggressive types who fit the stereotype (don't sit next to them in a crowded bar).
2. Are there personal security concerns to be aware of at this post? Please describe.
The right wing is growing in numbers and strength, as evidenced by the 2010 elections. There are regular protests by the right wing, and I have heard of some isolated incidents of violence associated with minority groups. Sometimes, as in one case I witnessed, the victim only LOOKED like a minority: a Latino American apparently mistaken as a Roma. I think it's important to remember that these groups do exist here, so keep your wits about you. And (sorry to say) be suspicious of aggressive types who fit the stereotype (don't sit next to them in a crowded bar).
3. Are there any particular health concerns? What is the quality of available medical care? What medical conditions typically require medical evacuation?
The quality of medical care is not very good. Emergency rooms basically do not exist here. There are two private hospitals, First Med and Rosakert, which offer good service -- and apparently emergency service after 8pm. The embassy sends us to Vienna or London for anything beyond routine matters (including for delivering babies).
4. Are there any particular health concerns? What is the quality of available medical care? What medical conditions typically require medical evacuation?
The quality of medical care is not very good. Emergency rooms basically do not exist here. There are two private hospitals, First Med and Rosakert, which offer good service -- and apparently emergency service after 8pm. The embassy sends us to Vienna or London for anything beyond routine matters (including for delivering babies).
5. What is the air quality like at post (good/moderate/bad)? Are there seasonal air quality issues? Does the air quality have an impact on health?
Moderate, I would say--especially on the Pest side. Vehicle emissions are not strictly controlled.
6. What is the air quality like at post (good/moderate/bad)? Are there seasonal air quality issues? Does the air quality have an impact on health?
Moderate, I would say--especially on the Pest side. Vehicle emissions are not strictly controlled.
7. What is the overall climate: is it extremely hot or cold, wet or dry, at any time of year, for example?
From mid-September to April 1, it is cold, grey and really kind of depressing. But April 1, the skies clear and the city becomes alive. If you can make it through the winter months, you will definitely be rewarded with a beautiful and warm spring/summer.
8. What is the overall climate: is it extremely hot or cold, wet or dry, at any time of year, for example?
From mid-September to April 1, it is cold, grey and really kind of depressing. But April 1, the skies clear and the city becomes alive. If you can make it through the winter months, you will definitely be rewarded with a beautiful and warm spring/summer.
Schools & Children:
1. What is the availability of international schools? What has been your general experience with them, if any?
Central European University is a highly-regarded American university that offers Master's, PhDs and MBAs.
2. What is the availability of international schools? What has been your general experience with them, if any?
Central European University is a highly-regarded American university that offers Master's, PhDs and MBAs.
3. What accommodations do schools make for special-needs kids?
4. What accommodations do schools make for special-needs kids?
5. Are preschools available? Day care? Are these expensive? What has been your experience with them, if any? Do the schools provide before- and/or after-school care?
6. Are preschools available? Day care? Are these expensive? What has been your experience with them, if any? Do the schools provide before- and/or after-school care?
7. Are local sports classes and/or activities available for kids?
8. Are local sports classes and/or activities available for kids?
Expat Life:
1. What is the relative size of the expatriate community? How would you describe overall morale among expatriates?
Large--there are many NGOs and corporations with regional headquarters here.
2. What is the relative size of the expatriate community? How would you describe overall morale among expatriates?
Large--there are many NGOs and corporations with regional headquarters here.
3. Morale among expats:
Very good, except in the winter when things tend to drag for a bit.
4. Morale among expats:
Very good, except in the winter when things tend to drag for a bit.
5. What are some typical ways to socialize, either with local people or with other expatriates? Are there groups or clubs that you can recommend?
There is always something going on here, Budapest has a very vibrant social scene. Clubs, bars, and restaurants aplenty.
6. What are some typical ways to socialize, either with local people or with other expatriates? Are there groups or clubs that you can recommend?
There is always something going on here, Budapest has a very vibrant social scene. Clubs, bars, and restaurants aplenty.
7. Is this a good city for single people? For couples? For families? Why or why not?
This is a good city for just about anyone--as long as you can make it through the long winters! There is a lot to do for everyone.
8. Is this a good city for single people? For couples? For families? Why or why not?
This is a good city for just about anyone--as long as you can make it through the long winters! There is a lot to do for everyone.
9. Is this a good city for LGBT expatriates? Why or why not?
There is a seemingly vibrant gay/lesbian scene. However, see note above about the emergence of right-wing groups.
10. Is this a good city for LGBT expatriates? Why or why not?
There is a seemingly vibrant gay/lesbian scene. However, see note above about the emergence of right-wing groups.
11. Are there problems with ethnic, race/racial minorities or religious prejudices? Gender equality?
See note above about emergence of right-wing groups. And Hungary has traditionally suffered from ethnic violence and discrimination against Roma.
12. Are there problems with ethnic, race/racial minorities or religious prejudices? Gender equality?
See note above about emergence of right-wing groups. And Hungary has traditionally suffered from ethnic violence and discrimination against Roma.
13. What have been the highlights of your time in this country? Best trips or experiences?
Great work opportunities, excellent travel (both within Hungary and in the region), making good friends.
14. What have been the highlights of your time in this country? Best trips or experiences?
Great work opportunities, excellent travel (both within Hungary and in the region), making good friends.
15. What are some interesting/fun things to do in the area? Can you recommend any “hidden gems"?
There are many good restaurants, lots of sight seeing, excellent (and cheap) spas, and great travel opportunities within a few hours of Budapest.
16. What are some interesting/fun things to do in the area? Can you recommend any “hidden gems"?
There are many good restaurants, lots of sight seeing, excellent (and cheap) spas, and great travel opportunities within a few hours of Budapest.
17. Is this a "shopping post"? Are there interesting handicrafts, artwork, antiques, or other items that people typically buy there?
Paprika, antiques, travel, embroidery, days at the spa, great Hungarian wine.
18. Is this a "shopping post"? Are there interesting handicrafts, artwork, antiques, or other items that people typically buy there?
Paprika, antiques, travel, embroidery, days at the spa, great Hungarian wine.
19. What are the particular advantages of living in this city?
Excellent working opportunities for professional spouses.
20. What are the particular advantages of living in this city?
Excellent working opportunities for professional spouses.
21. Can you save money?
if you try, I suppose, not unlike anywhere else.
22. Can you save money?
if you try, I suppose, not unlike anywhere else.
Words of Wisdom:
1. Knowing what you know now, would you still move to this city?
YES, in a heartbeat.
2. Knowing what you know now, would you still move to this city?
YES, in a heartbeat.
3. If you move here, you can leave behind your:
expectations of good customer service and your yoga mat (there is one studio in the sense we are used to -- and it's on the Buda side. Otherwise, people set up shop in regular apartments and there is something left to be desired in the experience.
4. If you move here, you can leave behind your:
expectations of good customer service and your yoga mat (there is one studio in the sense we are used to -- and it's on the Buda side. Otherwise, people set up shop in regular apartments and there is something left to be desired in the experience.
5. But don't forget your:
winter clothes and boots!
6. But don't forget your:
winter clothes and boots!
7. Do you recommend any books or movies about this city/country for those who are interested in learning more?
8. Recommended movies/DVDs related to this city:
Sunshine
9. Do you recommend any books or movies about this city/country for those who are interested in learning more?
10. Recommended movies/DVDs related to this city:
Sunshine
