Today, we would like to introduce the newest column of Hungary Starts Here blog. The Newcomers Gab brought to you by Zannnie. In this column, you will find short interviews with travellers and expats coming to Hungary.
Since Zannnie is an expat herself, this first interview was made with her by Zsolt:
-Where are you from?
I am from Singapore.
I was here since November 2006 however towards the end of Winter I was back to Singapore, then I came back again in early Spring.
- What do you do here?
I work as a teacher in the educational field.
-Where did you enter Hungary for the first time?
From Singapore, I flew to Vienna via London. Then from Vienna to Hungary.
- What was your very first impression on Hungary?
My first impression of Hungary was the nature and the freshness of the
air. The vivid colours from the sky to the trees to the beautiful
architectures.
- Which parts/cities of Hungary have you visited?
I live in Budapest, I've visited Hollókő, Esztergom, Lake Balaton,
Visegrád and Kékes (to name a few).
Of course, for example eating lard :) It is very sinful to eat the pork lard and in Singapore, we are very concious about the high cholestrol stuff. Next to mention is basking in the sunshine on the grass in a park with swimming gear instead of at the beach/pool in the Summer. Also, swimming in a lake (Balaton) with water that tastes clear instead of salty or chlorinated. Finally, observing precipitation followed by fogginess in the city which gives it a mystified atmosphere and experiencing the freezing cold of -2 degree Celsius during winter season and snow. The 1000 'live' concerts by musicians on the Sziget island for one entire week. Of course, here in Hungary I am able to chew gums, a simple pleasure but forbidden in Singapore.:)
- How do you find Hungarians?
Generally, the adult Hungarians are polite, warm and helpful but usually very busy into their work. While the younger ones are not very disciplined.
- As a foreigner have you had any difficulties to settle down in Hungary? What are the main challenges?
I did not feel much difficulties until I started working in Hungary. The main challenge is the language.
Food choice. The wide varieties of food choices at anytime of the day from Indian Mutton Curry Bryani to Japanese sushi.I miss the fresh sliced fish soup with the chili padi in soya sauce! The local laksa, Lor Mee and Hainanese chicken rice.
The positive aspect is the freedom. The negative aspect is the 'red tape' plus the lack of efficiency and service quality.
I have wrote a review about my first clubbing experience in Budapest which was on a ship called A38 on the Danube. A38 is a venue where lots of quality concerts and events are held. You may want to check it out ;) That night when I was there, a french band called 'Mango Gadzi' performed a truly ecstatic 'live' concert performance!
www.hungary.com is quite an informational website by the tourism department. The newspaper I read is Budapest sun online.
