When I moved to Budapest, I expected to experience a culture shock, yet due to the kindness and hospitality of the Hungarians I have experienced the exact opposite.
As a person who came from a country where smiling is a common gesture, I smile to people whose eyes meet mine. I did not understand why some of the people here don't smile back at me. But as days passed by, I have understood the reason why. Hungary was under a communist era and they have experienced being dominated. Thus, people here are expected to be serious and deep. They have the tendency to build a high wall before befriending you. But once you get in, you will see their sincerity and genuine care. They invest time and emotions in people who can potentially stay around for a lifetime.
Some of my Hungarian friends say that most of them are pessimistic. They are aware that we don't live in the best of all possible worlds. They have the tendency to avoid the world's ambiguity. Realism is more valued than optimism.
In any situation, a handshake is a polite way to approach when you first meet someone in Hungary. It is also common here to kiss cheek to cheek when greeting to friends or even to acquaintances. So don't get jealous if a hot girl kisses your partner on the cheeks. :p
 |
| Ernő Rubik - Invented the Rubik cubes |
 |
| Judit Polgár - Chess Grand Master. Source: Wikipedia |
 |
| Estée Lauder-founder of Estée Lauder make-up. Source: wikipedia |
 |
| Bíró László József: Inventor of the Modern Ball Point Pen |
No comments:
Post a Comment