Hungarian cuisine consists mostly of pork and other meats that are usually topped with a salty and spicy red sauce. Their national liquor is Pálinka, a fruit brandy. Making the popular drink has become an art form and it is often enjoyed as a way to begin or end a meal. Exercise caution if partaking because it quite strong. Hungary is also famous for its mulled wine and cinnamon twist pastries that are available around Christmas time.

Hungarian culture has a rich and distinctive history that is influenced by the many different people that have lived within its borders. It is influenced by Romanian, Austrian, Transylvanian, and Turkish cultures. Black pottery, intricate lacework, and bright embroidery are among Hungarian specialties.

While Hungarian is the official language, many people, especially in cities such as Budapest, are able to communicate in English. Visits to a doctor or pharmacy can be a little complicated so write down medications or take a Hungarian speaker with you. Otherwise, communication is usually easily established.

Hungarian is a Finno-Ugric language that is distantly related to Estonian and Finnish. It is not related to any other European languages and can be quite difficult to learn and understand. However, with determination, any language can be mastered. Empress Elisabeth of the Austro-Hungarian Empire learned Hungarian even though she was originally a Bavarian princess! The Hungarian currency is the forint.

Harry Houdini, perhaps the world’s most famous magician, was born in Budapest. Other treasured Hungarians include composers Franz Liszt and Béla Bartok, the actor Béla Lugosi, and inventor of the Rubik’s cube, Ernő Rubik.