Comment on I have an opportunity to study abroad in Budapest, Hungary for a semester. Should I take it?
clmbmb@lemmy.dbzer0.com 2 hours ago
Go for it. Hungary is a beautiful country, even if in not a great economical condition right now. But thinking only about the cultural differences between the US and Europe, you should do it. It will open your eyes to something new.
Beneficialtexas@lemmy.world 1 hour ago
What’s the economic conditions, out of curiosity? I know little on Hungary
dzsimbo@sopuli.xyz 1 hour ago
Some expenses are on par with California (eating out and other such luxuries), but if you have a chance to cook, you can make the dollar (or forint) last.
But more to the point, the folk are just coming out of (hopefully) a 16 year period of hostile policy (craaaazy levels of corruption), and with high prices and low wages, our moodiness can be overwhelming.
Definitely take the chance, it will change your whole view on life, but prepare yourself emotionally. Be kind, but don’t expect the openness of US Americans. But whenever you do run into someone who shows openness, they are the genuine article.
I’m guessing you’ll be mostly mingling with other foreigners (good times, travellers are fun), but you might want to do yourself a favor and try to get a handle on some basic phrases of language. Hungarian is too far away on the language trees to be comprehensible, and half a year is only enough for the poliest of glots to learn our language. But some kind Hungarian words and phrases can make a world of difference.
Good luck, have fun!
Beneficialtexas@lemmy.world 56 minutes ago
I’d actually like to mingle and meet locals!
dzsimbo@sopuli.xyz 52 minutes ago
I’m pretty sure duolingo has Hungarian. Maybe that’s a good place to start.
I’ve heard the youth are coming off of alcohol (even in Hungary), but I’m pretty sure the bars are the most happening places still. The drinking age is 18, and they don’t really card in most spots. Ask the Hungarians for the cool spots, I only know about Gólya and Dürer.