ella

So I might be slightly crazy: I decided to go to budapest (I've always wanted to go!) but I've runI'll be very short of $, plus I'll be going alone, not speaking the language or knowing anyone who lives there.


It will be a great gypsy adventure but I'd be a lot happier if I knew someone who lived there or had good advice from someone who's been there before (recently?) I'll be bringing my bike(the ruby slipper likes to travel) and can bring things to trade if I know in advance what somebody would want. I've got lots of skillz (like finding my way to beer) and I'm a nice girl to have around.

I'm planning on doing a ride from Budapest to the major lake resorts on the other side of the (small) country. Has anyone on this forum done this?

thanks!!

Plainsman

Never done the gypsy adventure thing, but I have been there a couple of times in conjunction with mission work since 2000. Was a great city to visit, and the parts I experienced were quite metropolitan. Neither time did I speak any Hungarian, but we all seemed to get along fine. That being said, do be wary of the "literal" gypsy lifestyle. In eastern europe I met some nice folk who were characterized by the locals as "gypsies." I also experienced personally, as did a friend - the not so "friendly" side of gypsy culture. In other words, keep your eyes on your things. Have fun, and be smart and safe!

2thamaxx

The few times I was in Hungary I once got a gun on my head!

Especially be careful with riding on the road!!!!!
The majority have got their license while taking their exam in a Trabant.
Which is slowest car ever produced.
These days they drive in a Mercedes or BMW with the same driving skills inherent from the trabbi period.

Also the majority has not much money to spend so do not attract o much attention with your shiny bike!

I have to say my last visit was more then 10 years ago so I assume things got better.....

Lameness

As Borat has warned us all, please be aware of the gypsies.