How to Behave in Hungary
Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, learning how to behave in Hungary is an important part of assimilating yourself into the culture and society of this ancient and beautiful land. As one of the most popular countries in the world for tourists, Hungary has become somewhat accustomed to mingling with international cultures, but visitors who go the extra step in learning the culture and etiquette of the country will be rewarded with a better appreciation for Hungary's people and history.
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Instructions
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Consult some of the excellent resources available online to help visitors assimilate into Hungarian culture and behave when interacting with Hungarians. FiloLog.com is the best, with sections on people, culture, habits, customs and business travel (see Resources below).
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Reserve your instinct to touch people during conversation, if that comes naturally to you. Hungarians are private about their personal space, so touching someone, even lightly and in a friendly manner, is considered offensive if you don't know the person very well.
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Do not ask personal questions before you get to know someone well. In America, personal questions are often a way to create a more intimate relationship. In Hungary, however, personal questions asked too soon can be offensive.
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Speak in low, respectful tones. Hungarians do not appreciate having to listen in on other people's conversations. A good way to behave while in Hungary is to tone down the animation and volume of your conversation, which are both elements of typical exchanges in the U.S.
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Perform the cheek-kiss. Hungarians, like many other Europeans, greet each other with a kiss on each cheek, starting with the left cheek. Contact between the lips and the cheek is optional--the gesture itself is what matters.
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Tips & Warnings
Successful interaction with the people of Hungary--as is the case for any foreign culture--depends upon open-mindedness and adaptability. The various American cultural idiosyncrasies might not be suited to the Hungarian way of life (like excessive smiling when meeting and conversing with new people), so don't be offended if your gestures of friendliness are not reciprocated. Having an open mind and adapting to the circumstances will take you far in Hungarian society.
Hungarians, for the most part, are formal people who enjoy the protocols of social interaction. It takes time to develop relationships in Hungarian culture, so don't be too friendly and intimate with new acquaintances. Adopting an air of respect and warm formality is the best way to fit in with the locals.
