Welcome to The H2H Insider

Hungary is many things—stunningly beautiful, endlessly fascinating, occasionally infuriating. But above all, it’s a place that keeps you on your toes. Whether you’re planning to move, already here, or just curious, The H2H Insider is where you’ll find the real stories, insider insights, and practical tips to help you navigate it all.

You won’t find cookie-cutter expat advice here. No vague tips about ‘immersing yourself in the culture’ or ‘trying the local cuisine’ (though, let’s be honest, you should). Instead, this blog is a deep dive into the realities of life in Hungary—from immigration to cultural events, from special guest interviews to my own life navigating the quirks of this country.

What You’ll Find on The H2H Insider

Real Stories from Real People

I’ve been in Hungary for years, and while my experiences are plenty, they’re just one piece of the puzzle. That’s why I’ll be bringing in guest interviews—people who have built businesses here, who have survived the bureaucratic maze, who know the best place to get a haircut that won’t leave you looking like an Eastern European pop star circa 2003. Expect stories from long-term residents, cultural experts, and local voices that paint a richer picture of life here.

Woman relaxing in the outdoor pool of Széchenyi Thermal Baths in Budapest, Hungary, on a sunny morning.

Mornings at the SzĂ©chenyi Thermal Baths are pure magic—especially when you have the place almost to yourself. There’s something truly special about floating in the warm, mineral-rich water while the steam rises around you, all framed by those iconic yellow walls.

Cultural Deep Dives

Hungary is a country of contradictions. It’s deeply traditional but wildly progressive in pockets. Its history is cherished, yet the country is always evolving. I’ll be covering everything from folk traditions and modern cultural shifts to why the entire country grinds to a halt on August 20th. You’ll learn about Hungarian humour, when to clap at the opera, and why August turns the country into a ghost town.

The Bureaucracy Battle Plan

Let’s be honest, navigating Hungarian paperwork is an extreme sport. Residency, banking, taxes, setting up utilities—none of it is straightforward. But rather than you making the same mistakes I did, I’ll be sharing step-by-step guides, shortcuts, and real-world advice to help you get through it with minimal hair loss.

Events You Should Actually Go To

Hungary is packed with incredible events, but if you don’t know where to look, you might just end up at a questionable wine festival in a supermarket parking lot (yes, I’ve done it). The H2H Insider will highlight top events—what’s worth attending and what to avoid. A great place to start for Budapest events is We Love Budapest.

Daily Life: The Good, the Bad & the ‘Only in Hungary’ Moments

Hungary delights and frustrates in equal measure. At least the drinks are excellent and affordable. This blog will pull back the curtain on everyday life—what it’s really like to shop, commute, eat, socialise, and handle the weird and wonderful moments Hungary throws at you.

A scenic aerial view of a white church with a golden steeple, surrounded by lush vineyards and rolling hills in Hungary’s wine region.

One of the things you’ll learn on The H2H Insider is that Hungary’s beauty isn’t just in Budapest. Beyond the city, places like this vineyard-covered hill in the Balaton Highlands hold centuries of history, winemaking traditions, and quiet, everyday magic.

Who is The H2H Insider For?

Planning a move to Hungary, this is your pre-arrival survival guide. If you’re already here, it’s your go-to resource for making life smoother. If you’re just curious about this fascinating, sometimes baffling country, you’ll find stories that entertain, inform, and occasionally make you laugh in recognition.

I created this blog because I was once drowning in the same questions you probably have now. And because I’ve spent countless hours in forums and Facebook groups answering them, I figured—why not put it all in one place?

So, welcome to The H2H Insider. Stick around and let’s navigate Hungary together.

________________________________

Want even more in-depth insights? My ebook, HOW TO HUNGARY: Budapest & Beyond, is packed with practical advice, real experiences, and over 200 verified resources to make your life in Hungary easier. Check it out here and get the answers you need in one place.

Got a story, a tip, or a question? Email me  – I’d love to hear your experiences and feature them in future posts!