SEE COMPILATION ON page 16
THE ADVENT FEAST AT THE ST. STEPHEN BASILICA IN DOWNTOWN BUDAPEST HAS BEEN NAMED THE 'BEST OF ALL TIME' IN THIS CATEGORY. FIND OUT WHAT THIS MARKET – AND SOME OF BUDAPEST'S TOP HOTELS – HAVE TO OFFER FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON!
The Korean Cultural Center (KCC) was opened in early 2012 with the aim of presenting and bringing closer to the Hungarian public the diverse Korean culture that combines traditional and modern values. The Center was also among the supporters of a major Korean event in Budapest this year, the MOKKOJI KOREA festival that featured K-pop stars among other attractions.
see article on page 14
The 2024 edition of the Michelin Guide Hungary has been published, featuring the best restaurants in this country and announcing one more Michelin-starred venue in this country. To mark the occasion, an awards gala was held in the Opera House in Budapest in early December. This award ceremony of one of the most important honors in the world of gastronomy was once again highly attended.
see article on page 10
Wishing you a healthy and prosperous New Year!
The Hungarian capital has long established itself as a festive-season destination, and this December, it has another reason to shine. The beloved Advent Feast at the Basilica, already recognized as Europe’s best Christmas market for an unprecedented fourth time in 2023, has now earned the title of Best European Christmas Market of All Time. Adding to the holiday spirit, Budapest’s top hotels are doing their utmost to infuse timeless glamour into the season.
Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, the results of the U.S. presidential and congressional elections have left the world speculating about the direction of the second Trump administration. As our international analyst highlights, President Trump faces a fragile majority in Congress, where internal divisions among House Republicans could lead to unexpected challenges for the White House.
Closer to home, there is no uncertainty about which Hungarian restaurants have earned Michelin stars. The 2024 Michelin Guide has announced that a remarkable 78 culinary establishments across Hungary are now recognized in its prestigious awards. Hungarian officials view this as a boost to cultural tourism, with gastronomy playing a central role in attracting visitors.
Tourism remains vital for Hungary’s neighbors as well. In this issue, we feature a personal account of the winter charm in Lienz, the cultural and economic heart of East Tirol in Southern Austria. Beyond its breathtaking alpine scenery, the region offers rich gastronomic experiences. Similarly, the Tatra Mountains in Slovakia and the festive atmosphere of Bratislava captivate visitors with local delicacies, unique gifts, and warm holiday cheer. Our WittyLeaks column this month is penned by the Mongolian ambassador who reflects on the historic ties and growing cooperation between Hungary and Mongolia. Although geographically distant, the two nations share intertwined histories and a promising future of collaboration.
On the cultural front, we explore Hungary’s connection with South Korea, another Asian partner. Surprisingly, Budapest is home to the world’s second-largest Korean cultural center. The immense interest of Hungarians in Korean movies, K-pop, and cuisine recently culminated in a festival that brought these vibrant cultural elements even closer to local audiences.
Finally, we would like to extend our warmest season’s greetings to our readers. May your holidays be filled with joy, reflection, and inspiration.
Enjoy the issue!
Peter Freed PUBLISHER
PUBLISHER: Peter Freed PHOTO EDITOR: Dávid Harangozó
SALES & MARKETING DIRECTOR: Tamás Varga ADMINISTRATION: Blanka Szalontai
CONTRIBUTORS: Sándor Laczkó, Tamás Magyarics, Sainyambuu Baatarjav, Anna Szabó
PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS: Advent Bazilika (cover), Dávid Harangozó (cover), Imre Diósi (cover), Courtesy of André Erdős/Móra Ferenc Museum, depositphotos.com, Z. László Nagy, György Darabos, Törley, cerbona.com, Jysk, Wizz Air, Richter Gedeon Plc., Official White House Photo by Adam Schultz, Imre Diósi, Embassy of Mongolia, MOKKOJI KOREA, DREAMCATCHER COMPANY, Csaba Schumy, Theo Cottle, Dániel Dömölky, Gregor Hohenberg/Sony Music, Grandhotel Lienz, TVB Osttirol, Zlöbl Armin/ TVB Osttirol, Bratislava Tourist Board, Advent Bazilika, Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest, Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest, Matild Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Budapest
15 WHAT’S ON Concerts, festivals, events and exhibitions in and out of Budapest 16 FESTIVE SEASON
What can the U.S. and the world expect from the Trump administration? 10 GASTRONOMY
Michelin Guide Hungary 2024 awards gala 12 WITTYLEAKS by the Ambassador of Mongolia 14 CULTURE
Growing Hungarian interest in Korean culture
Top offerings for the festive season in Budapest 17-19 TOURISM
Winter in and around Lienz, Austria; Festive season in Slovakia
Diplomacy&Trade is to present a special focus on Italy, which is the second most important target of Hungarian exports after Germany. Bilateral trade was record high last year, exceeding EUR 8 billion. Italy is among the ten largest investors in Hungary. Cooperation has also been increasing lately in the defense industry with a growing number of joint investment projects. The development of energy cooperation could be widened with a possible natural gas supply corridor via Slovenia.
Those will be some of the topics discussed – in addition to various aspects of bilateral relations – in an extensive interview with the Italian ambassador to Hungary, Manuel Jacoangeli. We also present the activities of the Italian trade agency ICE and the Italian cultural institute here. Of course, the compilation will feature a number of companies of Italian origin present in Hungary.
An exhibition of photographs by André Erdős, former UN ambassador of Hungary, opened in the Black House at the Móra Ferenc Museum in Szeged, SE Hungary, this November. The public is able to see photographs from the 1960s until 2004 of the ambassador's assignments and the most important moments of his professional life. The photos include locations like Moscow, Geneva, New Delhi and Paris, featuring personalities like UN Secretary General Kofi Annan and Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, among others. Most of the photos were taken in New York City, where the diplomat worked for more than a decade and a half.
André Erdős was born in 1941 in Algiers and began his career in 1965 in the Arab Department of the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. From 1978 to 1983, he was a member of the Hungarian Mission to the United Nations in New York, and in 1990, he was appointed Ambassador to the UN, representing Hungary on the Security Council in 1992-93. He returned to Hungary in 1994 and served as Deputy State Secretary for Foreign Affairs. He later became a member and then Chairman of the UN Secretary General's Advisory Committee on Disarmament.
In 1997, he returned to New York as UN Ambassador and in 2002, he served as Hungarian Ambassador to Paris. After his retirement, he became Vice-President of the Hungarian UN Society and Professor Emeritus at the Corvinus University of Budapest.
The National Bank of Hungary (MNB) has re-launched its financial awareness campaign "Small things go a long way,” which encourages retail customers to achieve greater financial security by rethinking their everyday financial habits and training their savings.
According to a statement by MNB, "money-sucking" items can be hidden in people's everyday spending, which can eat up significant amounts of money in the long run. The "Small things go a long way" savings campaign aims to highlight these costs and give advice on how to reduce them. They suggest planning a year ahead, paying attention to fixed major expenses (e.g. school starts, holidays) and preparing for possible unexpected situations.
Developing conscious financial habits and making small, regular savings can also generate significant returns in the long term. Even by switching to a cheaper internet or mobile phone package from an unused expensive one, or by checking annually whether there are wallet-friendly bank account, home or compulsory/ voluntary motor vehicle insurance offers on the market that provide the same service instead of the existing ones, families can build up financial reserves, they wrote.
They also stressed the need to be informed in advance when taking out a loan and suggested using the MNB's free loan and lease selection tool to help find the most suitable options. When making a choice, it is worth looking for qualified consumer-friendly products that offer favorable terms, as well as transparency, predictability and a customer-friendly approach, they added. They also pointed out that when investing savings, it is important to avoid overly tempting offers.
One of the most urgent sustainability challenges today is the dramatic rise in social inequalities and polarization, which also impact companies economically. Inequality is a consequence of our systems, and the solution lies in systemic transformation. Companies play an important role in this, primarily through their impact on employees and value chains. This was the theme of the Business Council for Sustainable Development in Hungary (BCSDH) business lunch in October, focusing on reducing social inequalities and recognizing people as economic assets. At the event, the Sustainable Future Awards were presented in four categories, recognizing outstanding leaders, leading women, and business solutions in the field of sustainability.
A BCSDH statement issued about the business lunch says that inequality is increasing both globally and in Hungary. The wealthiest 1% of the world’s population owns 45.6% of global wealth, while the poorest half owns less than 1%. In Hungary, the top 10% of earners take home 40% of all income and 90% of capital income. Inequality hinders social and economic development, and without immediate action, it may worsen further. Moreover, this process could weaken the results and impact of measures taken so far to address poverty, climate change, and economic transformation.
Systemic changes are needed to address social issues as well, as income, wealth, and welfare inequalities threaten the political and economic conditions on which business operations, innovation, and growth are based.
Carolien De Bruin, Senior Director of Equity Action at the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD) and a member of the Business Commission to Tackle Inequality (BCTI), spoke about the steps that can lead companies to make these systemic changes in her presentation.
A large number of exceptional applications were submitted for the 2024 Sustainable Future Awards. The recognitions of outstanding corporate and leadership achievements aimed at achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and driving systemic change were presented, based on the decision of the professional jury, for the eighth time in the categories of Change Leader, Leading Woman, Business Solution, and Corporate Transformation. Tesco, K&H Bank, SolServices, Saint-Gobain, and Continental Automotive were the winners of the various corporate categories. Károly Nyári (Grundfos) received the Change Leader Award, while Anikó Körmendi (Arriva Hungary) and Zsuzsa Nagy (E.ON Group) were honored with the Leading Woman Award.
The Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest has been recognized at two award ceremonies recently (the World Culinary Awards and the World Spa Awards), along with other Hungarian recipients (Felix Kitchen & Bar and Lua Resorts). At the World Culinary Awards (the sister event to World Travel
UPCOMING NATIONAL DAYS
December
1Romania National day
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5Thailand National day
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January
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Awards), which is celebrating its 31st anniversary this year, the Hungary's Best Hotel Restaurant 2024 title went to ÉS Bistro at the Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest, while the Hungary's Best Restaurant 2024 title was received by Felix Kitchen & Bar, which is also located the Hungarian capital. The awards celebrating culinary excellence were handed over at the annual ceremony in Dubai.
World Spa Awards serves to celebrate and reward excellence in spa and wellness tourism through its annual awards program. The aim to inspire exceptional standards and connect spa consumers with the best in spa and wellness tourism.
There were also two Hungarians winners announced at the ceremony presented online. Hungary's Best Hotel Spa 2024 title went to 'Kempinski The Spa' at Kempinski Hotel Corvinus, Budapest, while the Hungary's Best Resort Spa 2024 award was given to LUA Spa at LUA Resort Balatonfüred at Lake Balaton in western Hungary.
More than three million foreign visitors came to Hungary in the summer months of 2024, 14% more than in the same period last year, Visit Hungary Plc., a subsidiary of the Hungarian Tourism Agency (MTÜ), announced.
Foreign guests spent almost eight million nights in Hungary in June-August, an increase of almost 6% year-on-year. After the Germans, citizens of the Visegrád countries and the British recorded the highest percentage in the record summer results. The number of nights spent by British and Slovak tourists rose by 9-9%.
The largest increase in the number of visitors was recorded from China, from where twice as many visitors arrived as a year ago. The number of visitors from Spain increased by 63% and from Japan by 42%.
Te majority of foreigners continued to choose Budapest, but rural destinations are not much behind in terms of total nights spent, with around half of these, 49%, outside the capital, according to the National Tourist Information Center (NTAK). Outside the capital, 1.4 million visitors came from other countries, an increase of 5% compared to last year.
Foreign guests contributed HUF 67 billion to the revenues of rural accommodation providers, an increase of 13% year-on-year. More than 30% of the total revenue of rural accommodation came from foreigners.
Budapest received 1.7 million visitors from other countries, 23% more than in the previous year, accounting for almost 90% of the capital's total accommodation revenue, or HUF 103 billion.
After British and German tourists, travelers from the United States of America spent the most nights in Budapest.
Hungary’s Törley winery plans to use half of its energy from renewable sources, halve its CO2 emissions by 2030 and reduce them to zero by 2040. Innovative developments in growing and production will also promote efficiency and sustainability, as well as mutually beneficial cooperation with nature, the company’s Managing Director Kornél Müller said in a podcast.
In the Voices of Industry podcast, he elaborated about product developments to appeal to younger consumers and why their mission is to create premium quality non-alcoholic alternatives. The domestic market for sparkling wine consumption is still slow, with sales down 10% last year, suggesting that there are fewer occasions when Hungarians have had happy moments that they are happy to crown with a bottle of sparkling wine. Törley is also seeing a polarization in the declining market, with sales of higher-priced sparkling wines (HUF 6-8,000) and lower-priced sparkling wines increasing, but the mid-range shrinking. It is interesting to note that the recently debuted HUF 1 million bottles have enjoyed unexpected popularity over the summer, while the majority of people have opted for a cheaper product than usual.
Törley Winery is also at the forefront of technological innovation in agriculture. The shortage of manpower, such as tractor drivers, is
SAP Hungary has recently renewed its office lease agreement for over 18,000 square meters at Graphisoft Park, further demonstrating its commitment to its Hungarian operation, which has been hosted by the business park for 18 years.
Graphisoft Park, covering more than 80,000 square meters, is one of Budapest’s most innovative office complexes. Located in North-Buda submarket, directly along the Danube River, it spans approximately 18 hectares of green space. The park’s design places significant emphasis on preserving a nature-friendly environment and establishing a campus-like atmosphere. Thanks to this unique ambiance, many international and local companies, primarily in the technology sector, have chosen the office park as their headquarters.
SAP SE, one of Europe’s leading software companies, decided in 2006 to establish its Hungarian commercial and development center in Graphisoft Park, becoming one of the park’s first tenants.
A new production line, which cost over HUF 1 billion, has been added at the Hungarian muesli production firm Cerbona, which now has four production lines, while the investment will double the company's production capacity for muesli bars.
CEO Tamás Mészáros said at a press conference that the investment was financed from own resources and loans, while new jobs were created. He added that ten national and international companies had worked on the custom-developed production line, which consists of Hungarian, Slovak and Italian machinery units. He noted that the development would allow them to expand their deliveries abroad, reaching not only the Central and Eastern European market but also Western European regions.
Tamás Mészáros pointed out that after the capacity expansion, Cerbona will be able to produce 4,000 tons of muesli bars per year with four production lines, which means more than 150 million pieces. This is a significant capacity even at regional level, he added. The owner of the company, Attila Pókecz stated that they had acquired the chocolate brand ‘Boci’ from Nestlé, which is a completely different area for Cerbona. It is a new challenge for them and it could be a significant value for their portfolio in the long term. According to public company data, Cerbona Plc., which employs just over 140 people, achieved net sales of HUF 7.125 billion and a profit after tax of HUF 762 million in the 2023 financial year. A year earlier, it had achieved sales of HUF 1.696 billion and a profit of HUF 184 million.
partly remedied by autonomous tractors or robots that can even steer the old MTZ tractors around the vineyard. Vineyard workers are assisted by weather stations in the field, but there have also been experiments with drone crop protection, which has proved useful in cases where it was not possible to get on to the heavily waterlogged soil, but other applications, such as in times of infestation, seem premature.
In addition to technological improvements, the company is also increasingly focusing on restoring biodiversity in vineyards, with the installation of bird boxes and, in the near future, tree lines and even woodland to help vines grow in harmony with nature.
Since then, the company has remained a loyal partner of the office complex. Recently, SAP reached another milestone by extending its lease agreement for nearly 18,000 square meters.
"For many years, we have considered Graphisoft Park as our second home, and we have achieved our remarkable growth from the offices we rent here. This business park provides us with a long-term solution without compromise, which not only meets the needs of our rapidly developing company but also aligns with our highest standards of innovation and sustainability. Sustainability, for us, is not just a business solution that we offer to our clients in the market; it is a long-term commitment to our environment that is reflected in our operations and decisions," according to Szabolcs Pintér, Managing Director of SAP Hungary.
"When we began developing the Park in 1996, we chose research and development companies as our target tenants, offering them this quiet, nature-adjacent riverside location because, from the own experience of the founding software company Graphisoft, we understood the specific needs of such businesses. The almost 30-year commitment of Europe’s largest software company, SAP, now proves that we made the right decision," Gábor Bojár, Chairman of the Board of Graphisoft Park SE added.
After 11 years, the National Association of Facility Management, Building Operation and Maintenance Service Providers (LEO) has undergone a complete makeover, the organization has announced. The rebranding is aimed at strengthening the brand position, increasing professional credibility, being more active in member recruitment and presenting a professional image on the international scene. The logo facelift has given the LEO brand a new meaning by merging the LEO brand with the building symbol.
With the new logo and visuals, LEO's image has become fresher, more modern and professional, according to the organization’s statement. The new branding creative presents LEO as a credible professional organization that helps to improve the image of the industry, provides professional advocacy and plays a role in strengthening lobbying activities.
"It has been 11 years since our foundation, so we felt it was time to rebrand the association to emphasize its professionalism and active role in the facility management market with a new professional image," LEO President László Vágó stated.
LEO was founded in 2013 with the aim of promoting a unified communication of the profession, creating professional standards and transparency in the facility management (FM) market, and thus raising the overall level of the industry. It will play a central role in creating a knowledge hub based on cooperation between market players, supporting professional training and education, working with professional organizations in the real estate and sustainability sectors, and developing state-of-the-art solutions jointly developed in response to current needs.
The 62 members of the organization employ more than 15,000 direct staff, with a turnover of more than HUF 340 billion in 2023 and a total area under management of more than 15 million square meters. The founders are determined that all quality service providers in the FM market should become members of LEO. Its membership has increased sixfold since its creation in 2013.
The Danish home furnishing chain JYSK Group's opened its 100th store in Hungary in the eastern Hungarian city, Debrecen this October. At the opening ceremony, JYSK CEO Rami Jensen recalled that their first Hungarian store was opened in Fót, just outside Budapest, in 2005. From their regional distribution center in Ecser, opened two years ago, they now serve 300 stores in five countries, he added.
JYSK's country manager for Hungary, Austria and Greece, Sándor Szimeiszter spoke of the chain's continuous development, saying that new or renovated stores are opened in the region almost every week or two. Hungary was the seventh country to open a JYSK store, apart from Denmark, and the chain is now present in thirty countries. The turnover of its Hungarian stores in the financial year ending in September was HUF 76.4 billion, an
The two millionth car was completed at the Mercedes-Benz factory in Kecskemét this October, a blue, five-seater EQB with pure electric drive, Mercedes-Benz Manufacturing Hungary Ltd. announced.
According to the information, the plant is currently producing Mercedes-Benz A-Class models, the CLA Coupé and Shooting Brake models, as well as Mercedes-Benz EQBs. Last year, more than 174,000 vehicles rolled off the Kecskemét production lines. The company has been named the Most Attractive Automotive Employer of 2024 in the Randstad Awards, and has also been ranked as a podium
winner in the Most Attractive Employer of the Year ten times in the last eleven years, according to a press release.
Production of Mercedes-Benz compact models started in Kecskemét in 2012, in a joint production network with the vehicle plant in Rastatt in southern Germany. The first ones manufactured here were the B-Class models, followed a year later by the four-door CLA Coupé – the first MercedesBenz model to be built exclusively in Kecskemét and delivered worldwide. In 2021, the production of the first series-produced electric vehicle in Hungary began with the all-electric EQB.
The Kecskemét site has the same production line for both high-tech combustion engine electric vehicles and all-electric vehicles.
The pace of the transition to electric vehicles will be determined by market conditions and customer preferences, the statement said.
increase of 14% compared to the previous financial year. Next year, they plan to increase sales by 6%, he said. Sándor Szimeiszter also stated that the company employs around 1,000 people in Hungary. With the opening of their 100th store in Hungary and their third in Debrecen, they created nine new jobs.
Denmark's ambassador in Budapest, Christian Thorning said at the opening ceremony that Danish-Hungarian trade relations are constantly expanding. Danish companies employ more than 16,000 people in Hungary, he added.
Low-cost airliner Wizz Air announced trial operations using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in collaboration with Airbus. This positions Wizz Air at the forefront of compliance with the EU’s forthcoming RefuelEU aviation regulations, which are set to take effect in 2025. The joint initiative underscores Wizz Air’s proactive approach to decarbonizing air travel in alignment with the EU’s Destination 2050.
As part of the EU’s ‘Fit for 55’ package, the RefuelEU aviation regulation requires aviation fuel suppliers to ensure that all fuel made available at select EU airports contain a minimum share of SAF with increasing blends over time. It will also require airlines operating in the EU to refuel with 90% of fuel needs from those airports. With this project, Wizz Air is taking steps to incorporate SAF into its operations, on top of leveraging the fuel efficiency of the Airbus A321neo aircraft, testing the alignment with regulatory frameworks ahead of schedule and working to understand passengers’ awareness of SAF and surrounding policies.
Pharma companies AbbVie (headquartered in North Chicago, Illinois in the United States) and Gedeon Richter Plc. (headquartered in Budapest, Hungary) announced a new discovery, co-development and license agreement to advance novel targets for the potential treatment of neuropsychiatric conditions.
This collaboration expands upon the success of nearly two decades of partnership on central nervous system (CNS) projects, including globally launched products such as cariprazine (VRAYLAR/ REAGILA) and the discovery of investigational drug candidate ABBV-932 for the treatment of bipolar depression and generalized anxiety disorder.
“There remains a large unmet need for people living with neuropsychiatric disorders, making it imperative that we continue to innovate and pursue novel targets and approaches to discover and develop new therapies,” Jonathon Sedgwick, Ph.D., senior vice president and global head of discovery research at AbbVie said.
The trial will involve flights across two major routes, Barcelona to Budapest (BCN-BUD) and Brussels Charleroi to Budapest (CRL-BUD), with SAF supplied by Cepsa and distributed by World Fuel Services, a World Kinect Company for each departure airport respectively and to be completed by the end of the year. The project will be conducted using the mass balancing method. Wizz Air will purchase up to 16 metric tons pure SAF through an up to 5% SAF blend in the Barcelona’s El Prat Airport and up to 18 metric tons pure SAF through an up to 10% SAF blend in the Brussels Charleroi Airport.
The chief executive officer of Gedeon Richter, Gábor Orbán, stated that “this new agreement builds on years of successful partnership allowing Richter to further support AbbVie’s global ambition in neuropsychiatry and validates the quality of science behind our unique discovery platform.” Under the terms of the agreement, the
collaboration includes both preclinical and clinical R&D activities with shared financing by the parties. Richter will receive an upfront cash payment of USD 25 million, along with potential future development, regulatory and commercialization milestones. In addition, Richter may also receive sales-based royalties. AbbVie will have worldwide commercialization rights except for traditional markets of Richter, such as geographic Europe, Russia, other CIS countries and Vietnam.
DIFFICULT TO PREDICT WHAT THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION WILL ACTUALLY DO AND BE ABLE TO ACHIEVE
BY TAMÁS MAGYARICS
Hillary Clinton’s post-mortem book about her loss of the 2016 presidential election was titled What Happened. Donald Trump, who is not particularly known for witty remarks, this time hit it home when he replied on a social media platform: ’I happened.’ Now, after this year’s presidential election, Kamala Harris may as well borrow Hillary Clinton’s title if she cares about writing an account of what happened from her point of view. The similarities are there, though the polls showed Hillary Clinton ahead by more than six points, while Kamala Harris by only about two points ahead. The majority of the pollsters and the mainstream media were wrong both times.
A fragile majority
The Republicans were able to achieve a so-called trifecta, that is, to win the White House and a majority in both the House and the Senate, however slim they may be. This provides an opportunity for Donald Trump to make true of a relatively large portion of his election promises with two caveats. One, the narrow majority means that one or two senators or representatives may be in a position to torpedo certain bills; for instance, Lisa Murkowski (AK) or Susan Collins (ME) are far from being fans of Trump’s policies or the MAGA wing of the Republican Party, while infights between the various factions within the House Republicans can also result in unpleasant surprises for the White House. Two, the Republican majority, fragile as it is, may break in the congressional election in 2026. The mid-term elections usually
favor the opposition, especially if the incumbent president has not been able to deliver. If the Democrats retake the Senate or win the House back, Donald Trump will be a lame duck to some extent, especially given the fact that he won’t be able to run in 2028, and the likely struggle for the Republican Party’s presidential candidate is bound to create fissures within the GOP.
The Democrats lost because…
On the other hand, it is time for the Democrats to carry out a serious self-reflection. The predominantly progressive agenda has unequivocally been rejected by the majority of the voters: Donald Trump is the first Republican presidential candidate who has won more the 76 million votes, and the first GOP candidate who has received an outright majority of the popular votes too. The Democrats lost ground among the young, the Latinos/Hispanics, and even among the Blacks as well. Their woke agenda has not attracted a number of people whose major concerns were, among other things, the 20% increase in grocery prices, the rise of gas price, the increasingly unattainable own homes, the loss of jobs; in short, the so-called kitchen issues. Moreover, the immigration policies of the Biden administration were also met with strong disapproval even among the Latinos, so has the overly liberal approach to public safety, especially in large cities run by the Democrats. It seems more than logical that the party should move back towards the center.
A new show needs new actors: the San Francisco liberal Kamala Harris is not likely to be the savior, instead, a Josh Shapiro or Gretchen Whitmer type politician might be the solution to the inner problems of the Democratic Party in the future.
Difficult predictions
”It is difficult to make predictions, especially about the future.” The maxim is attributed to several people from the Nobel-prize winner Niels Bohr to baseball legend Yogi Berra. To predict what one can expect from the second Trump presidency is especially hazardous, given the president-elect’s notoriously erratic behavior – though he turned out to be more disciplined during the election campaign in 2024, as least compared to his earlier self. Of course, not all his promises should be taken at face value; in fact, no politician’s election campaign policies should be taken too seriously. The perspective from the Oval Office is different from a campaign podium in Oklahoma or elsewhere. Moreover, Mr Trump has to count with the constitutional (legislative and judiciary), as well as extra-constitutional (bureaucracy, media, pressure groups) checks on his power – like every president has to. Having said that, his domestic policies can more readily be predicted than his foreign and security ones. Border control will be enhanced; deportations will be implemented (it is only its scale that is uncertain); the excesses of woke culture will be curtailed wherever the federal government has authority; patriotic/protectionist economic policies introduced, including higher tariffs, tax incentives for companies which employ American labor, deregulation in general, stepping up fossil fuel production and boosting its exports, and the like. Of course, the big question is whether the foreign partners, especially the Chinese and the Europeans will respond in kind or not. In case of the former scenario, a trade war of sorts will be bound to complicate international trade – and politics on the side.
What the world can expect
People all over the world eagerly and apprehensively scrutinize the incoming U.S. administration’s foreign and security policy pronouncements. Donald Trump is more likely than not to resume its transactional approach to international affairs. It may bring ’tough love’ with the allies, especially with the Europeans. The 47th President is likely to shift the financial support of Ukraine on the Europeans, to demand that they increase their defense spending to 3% of their GDP, and – as part of his global tariff policy – to impose 10% or 20% tariffs on goods from Europe. He, and Secretary of State designate, Marco Rubio, seem bent on putting pressure on both the Russians and the Ukrainians to agree on, at least, a ceasefire and to start talking to each directly or indirectly through mediators. No quick success is expected here; even a long Korean-type ceasefire cannot be counted out either. As for the Near East, Israel is likely to get even more leeway in her dealings with the Palestinians and their terrorist organizations. Donald Trump may resume his ’maximum pressure’ policy regarding Iran, and may even go beyond economic sanctions. Of course, the main rival for the U.S. is China. Here, again, a resumption of higher import duties is among the options, which may go hand in hand with strengthening the military cooperation with China’s neighbors. Overall, one may expect the representation of U.S. interests in a more naked form, without the ideological polish of the outgoing Biden administration.
Tamás Magyarics is a foreign policy analyst
MICHELIN GUIDE RECOMMENDS 78 RESTAURANTS IN HUNGARY
The 2024 edition of the Michelin Guide Hungary has been published, featuring the best restaurants in this country. To mark the occasion, an awards gala was held in the Opera House in Budapest in early December. This award ceremony of one of the most important honors in the world of gastronomy was once again highly attended.
The 2024 edition of the Guide recommends a total of 78 restaurants in Hungary: 34 in Budapest and 44 outside the capital. The selection includes 2 two-star and 8 one-star restaurants – one of which has just won the award. In addition, 11 restaurants have been awarded Bib Gourmand status – four of them featured in the publication for the first time and one of them was awarded the accolade for the first time this year – and 57 selected restaurants are presented, ten of which are also featured for the first time. A total of five restaurants have been awarded a Green Star, one of them for the first time.
The two-star Platán and the Stand Restaurant in Tata were able to keep both stars, and all seven restaurants that were awarded a star last year were able to keep their star: Babel, Borkonyha, Costes, Salt, Rumour, Essência in Budapest and the 42 Restaurant in Esztergom. The new Michelin-starred restaurant to congratulate is Pajta in Őriszentpéter.
The Guide and the awards
The award is given by Michelin, founded in 1889, which originally created the guide to promote car tires, a guide to special restaurants and hotels. The Michelin Guide, which has been around since 1900,
has become a veritable institution over the past 120 years. The publication became so successful in the 20th century that today, it is still the most prestigious gastronomic rating in the restaurant and hotel world. Since its inception, some 30,000 establishments in 40 countries have been tested by the publication's staff, who have always rewarded excellence. The Michelin star system has remained unchanged since its introduction in 1936, but the guide now also rates restaurants in several other categories.
The BIB Gourmand is awarded to restaurants that offer good value for money and offer high quality food at moderate prices. The Michelin Plate is awarded to places that offer well-prepared, good food, including all the restaurants featured in the guide. Since 2020, a Green Star has been awarded to restaurants for their efforts to be sustainable, with more than 400 places having achieved this in 2024.
The Michelin recommendations are decided by inspectors – who visit an average of 250 restaurants each year – and the winners are selected on the basis of their experiences.
The ratings are based on a comprehensive, universal methodology based on five main criteria, which makes the recognition valid worldwide. The quality of
ingredients, the technology used to prepare the food, the harmony of flavors, the chef's personality and the same quality as seen in recurring inspections are among the factors taken into account.
Michelin gives one star to restaurants that are "a pleasant stopover with excellent food," two stars to excellent restaurants that make longer trips worthwhile, and three stars to places that are worth a trip.
High quality of professionalism
In his speech at the Michelin Guide Ceremony 2024, the CEO of Visit Hungary, Olivér Csendes, said that the Michelin Guide is a globally recognized restaurant guide that can bring the best restaurants to the top and help young talent to succeed in their careers. He added that "cultural trips are becoming increasingly popular in tourism, with gastronomy being a key element. This is particularly important for Hungarian tourism, as research shows that our cuisine is one of the main attractions for visitors. This is why it is a huge success that a total of 78 culinary workshops across the country boast one of the globally recognized award categories. This is a clear indication of the high quality of professionalism that characterizes the entire Hungarian hospitality sector and the closely cooperating Hungarian producer-supplier network. The first Hungarian restaurant awarded a Michelin star was Costes in 2010, and last year, the number of restaurants awarded this accolade, two of them with two stars, increased to nine. This achievement makes Hungarian gastronomy stand out at regional level.”
RESTAURANTS FEATURED IN THE 2024 HUNGARIAN EDITION
MICHELIN-STARRED RESTAURANTS AND BISTROS
• Platan Gourmet, Tata**
• Stand Restaurant, Budapest**
• Pajta, Őriszentpéter (new)*
• 42 Restaurant, Esztergom*
• Salt, Budapest*
• Borkonyha, Budapest*
• Babel, Budapest*
• Costes Restaurant, Budapest*
• Rumour, Budapest*
• Essência Restaurant, Budapest*
BIB GOURMAND
• Újváros Bistro, Szarvas (new)
• Iszkor, Mályinka (new)
• N28 Wine and Kitchen, Budapest (new)
• Goli, Budapest (new)
• Platán Bisztró, Tata (new)
• Macok Bistro, Eger
• Morzsa, Pécs
• Casa Christa Restaurant, Balatonszőlős
• Bistro Sparhelt, Balatonfüred
• Kistücsök Food & Room, Balatonszemes
• Anyukám Mondta, Encs
NEW PLACES AMONG THE MICHELINRECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS AND BISTROS
• KOLLÁZS Brasserie & Bar, Budapest
• Szaletly, Budapest
• Zazie Bistro, Budapest
• Teyföl, Szentendre
• Füge Restaurant, Biatorbágy
• SHO Tihany, Tihany
• Cut&Barrel Salumeria and Vineria, Budapest
• Bilanx Restaurant, Budapest
• VIRTU Restaurant, Budapest
• Alelí, Budapest
GREEN STAR CERTIFICATION
• Natura Hill, Zebegény
SPECIAL AWARDS GIVEN TO
• Service Award
Ivett Lisztes, N28 Wine and Kitchen, Budapest
• Sommelier Award
Mátyás Székely, 42 Restaurant, Esztergom
• Young Chef Award
Levente Lendvai, Virtu, Budapest
• Opening of the Year Award
Iszkor, Mályinka
IN THIS SERIES, DIPLOMATS SHARE PERSONAL ACCOUNTS OF THEIR EXPERIENCES ON “EXCURSIONS” into Hungarian culture, art, gastronomy & scenery.
I first came to the beautiful city of Budapest, the pearl of the Danube, in 2015 for work. At that time, I did not expect that my fate would be connected with this city and this beautiful country of Hungary. When I was first appointed as Ambassador of Mongolia to Hungary and received my Letter of Credence from the President of Mongolia, I began to study Hungary extensively. The more I learned about its history and culture, the more I became captivated by the country's rich heritage and traditions.
In 1956, Mongolia’s renowned scholar, writer, and linguist Byambyn Rinchen visited Hungary and earned the first doctoral degree in linguistics in Mongolia with his work “Comparative Historical Grammar of Mongolic Languages.” The great scholar expressed his admiration for Budapest in his writings, noting that “every morning at six, I would rise and gaze out the window at the Danube River flowing to the west and the city of Buda on the far bank – it was breathtakingly beautiful.” His words perfectly capture the extraordinary charm of the city.
Although Mongolia and Hungary are geographically distant, their histories have been intertwined for centuries. The Magyars, ancestors of modern Hungarians, were nomadic people who migrated from Central Asia to the Carpathian Basin in the 9th century. During this migration, they interacted with various nomadic tribes and communities, including those of Central Asia. Some scholars even hypothesize a shared ancestry between Mongols and Hungarians. This theory resonates deeply within Hungarian national consciousness, evident in the popularity of names such as Attila, inspired by the renowned Hun ruler. The earliest confirmed historical connection between the two nations,
however, dates back to the 13th century, during the Mongol invasion of Europe. While this period marks a somber chapter in Hungarian history, it also laid the groundwork for Hungary’s eventual resurgence and prosperity. Following the Mongol campaigns, the Kingdom of Hungary maintained trade and diplomatic relations with the Golden Horde, establishing enduring ties between the two regions.
Strengthening bonds through diplomatic relations
Modern diplomatic relations between Mongolia and Hungary were formally established on April 28, 1950. This era marked a turning point in bilateral cooperation, particularly in
science, infrastructure and cultural exchange. Hungarian scientists launched expeditions to Mongolia, making significant contributions in fields such as geology, hydrology, archaeology, botany, and zoology. One notable Hungarian contribution was drilling over 400 wells in Mongolia’s arid Gobi region, providing clean drinking water to an area spanning 1.3 million hectares. Hungary also supported Mongolia’s industrial development by constructing key facilities, including a clothing factory in Ulaanbaatar, a meat processing plant in Darkhan, a flour mill in Kharkhorin, and concrete factories in Arkhangai and Bayankhongor provinces. One of the most significant milestones in bilateral cooperation came in
1973, when Hungary helped renovate and modernize Mongolia's first national biotechnology plant, the "Biocombinat." This facility has since become crucial for improving livestock health, reducing the risk of infectious diseases, and ensuring food safety in Mongolia. Additionally, since the 1950s, Hungary has welcomed thousands of Mongolian students into its worldclass educational institutions. These students have returned to Mongolia with valuable expertise, contributing significantly to the country’s development across various sectors. These efforts reflect the spirit of cooperation and mutual support that has characterized MongolianHungarian relations for decades.
Brotherly countries connected by democratic values
As Mongolia and Hungary transitioned to democratic systems, the cooperation between the two nations entered a new and dynamic phase. Mongolia has remained steadfast in its commitment to nurturing its long-standing friendship with Hungary, ensuring the continuity of high-level visits and dialogues. Today, the two countries closely collaborate across a wide range of fields, including politics, economy, agriculture, tourism, culture, education and science. People-to-people exchanges have also flourished, with the Mongolian community in Hungary growing steadily. Over 5,400 Mongolians now live, work, and study in Hungary, further enriching the bond between the two nations. A vital aspect of this collaboration is the Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Program, which has provided opportunities for many Mongolian students to pursue higher education in Hungary. In 2023, the Ministries of Education and Science of Mongolia and Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation under the program for 2024-2026, further solidifying educational ties. In recent years, numerous highlevel visits and events have been organized, resulting in the signing of important agreements that strengthen bilateral relations. For example, with the establishment of an agreement on cooperation in the field of agriculture, the two countries have the opportunity to exchange best practices in the field and improve the possibility of ensuring food safety. Also, by signing an agreement on air traffic, cooperation in the economic, business and tourism sectors of the two countries will be expanded, and citizens of both countries will be able to get to know the natural beauty and unique culture of Mongolia and Hungary. Looking ahead, 2025 will mark the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. To celebrate this milestone, a series of events in culture, art and science are planned, aimed at further strengthening the historical and friendly ties. These celebrations will serve as a platform to honor the centuries-old connection between Mongolia and Hungary while paving the way for even closer collaboration in the future.
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The Korean Cultural Center (KCC) was opened in early 2012 with the aim of presenting and bringing closer to the Hungarian public the diverse Korean culture that combines traditional and modern values. The Center was also among the supporters of a major Korean event in Budapest this year, the MOKKOJI KOREA festival.
KCC director Yu Hye Ryong believes they have achieved a lot over the past 12 years. She tells Diplomacy&Trade that, Hungary has the biggest number – estimated to be over 200 – of Korea-related fan-based groups enjoying K-pop, or K-drama or movies, but groups around the world. As for the institute, this one in Budapest is the biggest Korean cultural center in Europe. “We have nearly 40 cultural centers around the world, and this is the second biggest – behind the one in Tokyo. I would say there are a lot of Hungarians who are fond of Korean culture. However, while in other countries, people who like Korean culture are mostly teenagers or in their 20s, the picture in Hungary is much wider age-wise. Teenagers and those in their 20s like K-pop and K-dramas but if we look over the other age groups like those in their 30s or 40s, they like movies and Korean food.”
The Korean Cultural Center organizes more than 50 cultural classes and quite a number of events throughout the year. The director proudly mentions that “when we open the registration to attend these, there are so many applicants that the registration process must finish on the very first day in almost in over 90% of the cases. So, it means that there is a lot of demand and they want us to hold a lot of programs, so, there is growing demand and not just for culture in the strict sense but also gastronomy. I believe there are more than 30 Korean restaurants or pubs in Budapest and it's a lot.”
As for how much the activities are Budapest centered, Yu Hye Ryong points out that “since the
center is located in the capital, most of our events are in Budapest, but we are trying to reach out to the other parts of the country as well and invite people from those areas. This fall, for example, students from the University of Miskolc in northeastern Hungary came to the cultural center to experience Korean culture, get to know things like Korean calligraphy and taste the creations of Korean gastronomy. At the same time, we also organize events in other cities and collaborate with the locals there. So, for example, in Szeged and Pécs and Debrecen, there are groups of fans of Korean movies, so we collaborate with them and try to support them by providing Korean movies for free so that they could present those to their audience.”
Hungarians involved
When it comes to the most important programs of this year at – or by – the Korean Cultural Center, she highlights the KoreaON cultural festival, which was held in May at the Hungexpo fairgrounds here in Budapest. “We collaborated with Comic Con which is a huge pop festival. We had more than 15,000 people in the audience and our event was reported in the press more than 67 times. So, I think it was a huge success because most of the people putting up a performance and most of those attending were Hungarians. It was interesting because in most of the K-pop festivals, the performers are Koreans. We were glad to experience this way of promoting our culture with lots of Hungarian people getting involved in the events. I think they mingled in Korean culture really well.”
She also mentions successful collaborations with the organizers of major festivals in Hungary like the Budapest Jazz Festival, the Gourmet Festival and the Sziget Festival. These all serve the purpose of involving more and more people whom “we are stimulating the people to get interested in Korean culture. They just come to enjoy the festival and they just find that, oh, there's a K-pop event and in that way, they can develop a little bit of interest in Korean culture and I think that will become a seed to drag more interest,” she concludes.
K-pop stars arrived in Hungary in a Korean wave
South Korea moved to Budapest Park in early October. The 2024 MOKKOJI KOREA festival's varied program offered a glimpse into the cultural values of the Far Eastern country. A wide range of stage performances and a variety of experience zones showcasing all aspects of culture awaited visitors. Korean pop music is one of the most important and well-known pillars of Hallyu, or Korean culture's global awareness. K-pop has conquered the world with its impulsive melodies, spectacular choreography and stunning stage sets. SUNMI, AB6IX and DREAMCATCHER have reached Hungarian fans of the "Korean wave" with YouTube videos with millions of views, and now, thanks to MOKKIJI, the dream of many came true.
Since 2020, MOKKOJI KOREA has grown into a prominent global festival showcasing different aspects of Korean lifestyle and entertainment. The organizers have also prepared experience zones with themes such as cuisine, fashion, beauty care, drama, exhibitors and stage shows. There was no shortage of traditional games, and fans of Korean culture could test their knowledge of the subject in Korean cultural quizzes.
In the K-Content Zone, for example, chefs teamed up to show the world the magic of Korean food. Their task is to produce a Korean recipe book for fans of MOKKOJI KOREA, which showcased the appeal, emblematic dishes and great flavors of K-Food.
The MOKKOJI WITH U Experience and Exhibition Zone offered programs that promote the cultural relationship between Hungary and Korea. Visitors could also stroll through a MOKKOJI marketplace where products and services of Korean companies based in Hungary or planning to expand to Europe were promoted.
The event was also supported by a number of Korean institutions, including the Korean Cultural Center in Hungary, which has prepared authentic
programs. Chef Kim Tae-yeon, founder and director of the Kimchi Institute, invited the audience to a joint kimchi cooking event. The K-pop Academy offered a dance workshop and the ONETEAM idol team took people on a journey into the world of K-pop with a stage performance. The Mugunghwa formation presented their emotional, traditional dance to the local audience.
Enhancing the Korea brand
Visiting Hungary on the occasion of the MOKKOJI festival, Ahn Hee, Team Director at the Korea Foundation for International Culture Exchange in Seoul explained to Diplomacy&Trade that in order to enhance the image of Korea as a national brand, they organize a lot of programs lie this festival abroad as well as cultural exchanges to strengthen bilateral relations between peoples.
“Our main aim to bring together people from Korea and Hungary and harmonize the two cultures. I believe it is important that Hungarian fans are able to meet the Korean K-pop stars personally and participate in quizzes about Korea, for example. It is just another element for us to promote Korean culture worldwide and I am happy that we could host this great festival here in Budapest as well,” she pointed out.
TILL APRIL 13, 2025, HUNGARIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM, BUDAPEST
By its transperiodic character, curators aim to highlight more profound interpretations lurking behind aesthetic values of the articles.
The Hungarian National Museum promises that anyone visiting this exhibition by the museum's Public Collections Center can connect easily with the essence of jewels there. From time immemorial, jewelry has been carrying the most complex message about people, in life and in death. It is not only the precious material and careful design, but also the spiritual value, the underlying meaning and the personal attachments that make jewelry timeless, yet unique and unrepeatable in a million ways. Whether they are jewels of the body or of the garment, jewelry never exists in itself, but within a social context, and only through that context can it be understood in its entirety. mnm.hu
FONTAINES D.C.
NEW ALBUM IN BUDAPEST
JUNE 21, 2025, BARBA NEGRA, BUDAPEST
The Irish post-punk band gave one of the most impressive concerts at this year's Sziget Festival. The band has since released their new album Romance, and now they're bringing the songs from the album to Budapest for their first headline show in Hungary on June 21, 2025 at Barba Negra. Fontaines D.C.’s fourth album ROMANCE interrogates amorphous concepts of love and relationships, alienation and identity, fantasy and reality – all building to a central statement that Chatten sings of hauntingly, invitingly, on the opening track: “Maybe romance is a place”. The album represents a provocative sonic and aesthetic era for the Dublinmade, now London-based band. Released via XL Recordings on 23 August, the James Ford-produced record has been met with an incredible response from fans and critics alike. Selling more than twice as much as their acclaimed 2022 release Skinty Fia in the first week, ROMANCE received a host of five-star plaudits from the likes of NME, The Guardian, and Rolling Stone UK meanwhile songwriting legend Elton John recently declared that they’re “the best band out there at the moment.” livenation.hu
THE GREAT GATSBY DECEMBER 18, 2024 & JANUARY 29, 2025, VÍGSZÍNHÁZ THEATER, BUDAPEST
The characters of the cult novel come to life on the stage of the Vígszínház theater in the Hungarian premiere of the musical performed in two acts with English surtitles.. Gatsby, a dandy boy with a mysterious past, creates a luxurious world around himself to win back the great love of his life, Daisy. The theater invites the audience to this world full of luxury, turbulence and despair, which is driven by a single, endless question: "where are you?" The attention of the members of the audience is drawn to the fact that occasionally, smoke and strong sound effects are used in the performance. vigszinhaz.hu
HUNGARIAN AND INTERNATIONAL STARS AT THE 5TH BARTÓK SPRING
APRIL 04-13, 2025, PALACE OF ARTS, BUDAPEST
Although the Liszt Festival has come to an end, Müpa Budapest audiences will not be without festivals in the future. From April 4 to 13, Bartók Spring will once again offer unmissable events throughout Budapest: Diana Damrau and Jonas Kaufmann will perform together, while Barnabás Kelemen will be a guest of the Münchner Philharmoniker and Júlia Pusker will be a guest of the Kammerorchester Basel, Jan Garbarek and Wynton Marsalis will be among the other guests, and Budapest Ritmo will celebrate its anniversary. And there will be no shortage of world stars in 2025: Two favorites of Hungarian audiences, Diana Damrau and Jonas Kaufmann, will perform a joint recital of Bach's grand oratorio, the St Matthew Passion, which the ensemble, who know the period so well, have chosen to perform, the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, and one of the most influential figures in European jazz, Norwegian jazz saxophonist Jan Garbarek, will perform with one of his favorite musicians, Indian percussionist Trilok Gurtu. bartoktavasz.hu
For over two decades, certain Christmas markets have consistently been recognized as the best in Europe, garnering accolades from millions of travelers. The most awarded among those is the Advent Feast at the St. Stephen's Basilica in the Hungarian capital. Thus, the web portal 'European Best Destinations' has elected this event in downtown Budapest the Best European Christmas Market of All Time. As the professional portal explains, "awarded four times in competitions that attract millions of travelers, this enchanting market is the brainchild of renowned Hungarian entrepreneur Tibor Krskó, whose childlike spirit infuses the event with magic. Not only does the market create a festive atmosphere, but it also supports charitable initiatives and champions sustainable development."
For this occasion, the area in front of St. Stephen's Basilica is transformed into a winter wonderland until New Year’s Day to the delight of the visitors. This stunning location, one of the most picturesque squares in the Hungarian capital, provides the perfect backdrop for this beloved event that features around 100 local craft exhibitors and an array of traditional Hungarian culinary delights as well as a charming ice-skating rink, heartwarming musical performances and various charity programs.
CORVINUS BUDAPEST
Located less than ten minutes of walk away from the Basilica, the Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest encourages its guests and visitors to embrace the positive end-of-year energy that is almost tangible in the city and be active participants of the festivities in the pulsating heart of Budapest. In its downtown gastronomic hub, the hotel offers the flavors of Advent and a joyful farewell to the New Year in every restaurant, café and bar.
To brighten up the festive season, the hotel has erected a monumental, 7.5-meter Norman pine as Christmas tree. The pine tree had been personally selected in Zala County in southwestern Hungary by Katja Schläfli, the head of Arioso Budapest, which has been known as one of the leading florists in Budapest, specializing in high-end floral design and decoration. The tree, which this year is decorated in red and gold, is adorned with 15,000 bulbs and hundreds of globes. The decorating process took more than four hours, initially involving ten people and then five towards the end.
Looking over the River Danube on the Pest side of the historic Chain Bridge, the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest also enjoys collaboration with the florist firm Arioso in presenting pompous festive decorations as well as with Edina's Paper, a Hungarian brand based in Budapest, specialized in cutting edge paper installations. Edina's Paper has also designed exquisite paper ornaments for the Christmas tree. Inspired by the motifs of the palace's interior and iron gate, these ornaments showcase peacock colors with a touch of gold and reflective surfaces, harmonizing seamlessly with the baubles of Arioso.
The hotel proudly highlights that the intricate paper façades and ornaments are a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication of Edina Németh, the CEO of Edina’s Paper, and her team’s, with more than 300 hours spent designing and more than 1,000 hours assembling every delicate detail. Each iconic façade has been skillfully translated into layers, laser-cut in Edina's Paper studio and meticulously hand-assembled into three-dimensional buildings. This is the ambience where the hotel invites everyone to experience the magic of this festive season through this extraordinary celebration of art, architecture and creativity.
Another ten minutes of walk to the south in downtown Budapest is the Matild Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel. This year, it is bringing a touch of timeless glamour to the holiday season with its exquisite Christmas decorations, blending luxury, elegance, and a dash of winter magic. Inspired by two visionary women – Coco Chanel, the iconic fashion legend, and Maria Klotild, the forward-thinking Archduchess who commissioned the palace – this year’s theme, Ice Glamour, is a celebration of refined beauty and bold creativity.
At the heart of the décor stands a majestic Christmas tree, nearly five meters tall, proudly displayed in the Passage. Adorned with oversized, transparent crystal baubles, it exudes a sense of grandeur and sophistication, reflecting the crystal-clear clarity of Chanel’s vision for women’s fashion. These shimmering ornaments are not just decorations, but symbols of luxury – both timeless and modern.
Over 6,000 pearls grace the grand tree, a nod to Chanel’s celebration of femininity and grace. Each pearl tells a story of beauty, strength, and resilience, qualities that both Chanel and Maria Klotild embodied.
ENJOY THE UNSPOILT NATURE SURROUNDING WHILE SPOILED BY
Many of us need a map to look up where Lienz, the cultural, economic and social center of East Tirol, is located in Southern Austria. But you'll never need that map again once you get there.
BY ANNA SZABÓ
I was telling a colleague about my visit to Lienz and he immediately listed off the top of his head: the Isel, the glacier river, the Dolomites, the beautiful jagged mountains and the road out of town to Italy, perhaps called Route 100. Yet, I had to get out the map and it is indeed road No. 100. Gyuszi was here two years ago. When we arrived in town, it was clear that we were in the right place. Nestled in the middle of the surrounding giant mountains, in a valley carved out by the Isel glacier river, the town has a population of 12,000. Charming, well-tended houses, well-kept parkland and the sight of the rushing Isel greet the visitor. The glacier river is always changing: grey, turbid and fast-flowing on the first day, but always a different color on later days. The locals are proud of it, because the Isel is an uncontrolled, natural glacier river, with no dams or man-made regulation. A tributary of the Drava, into which it flows at Lienz, passes through the Hohe Tauern National Park on its way.
Staying with agent 007
Our accommodation – the Grandhotel Lienz – is the only 5-star wellness hotel in East Tirol, situated on the banks of the glacier river and close to the estuary of the Drava. Most rooms have windows overlooking the river, the first thing you do is open the terrace door and step out onto the terrace. In the distance, the high, snow-capped peaks of the Dolomites make the view perfect.
In the evening, before dinner, the hotel owner greeted us, and we later discovered that this was a regular occurrence and that the same was done with others. But at breakfast, and during the day, he never fails to step up, say a few words, ask if we are having a good time. A few days later, he was clearly interested in my praise of the turbot dinner and thanked me proudly. It is a rarity that the owner is there every day. There were other oddities here. Pierce Brosnan stayed here at the same time as us, during a film shoot nearby. Other 007 agents have also been here before as Daniel Craig stayed in a second-floor suite of this hotel. It's not often we have salmon for breakfast with an agent. But let's not get ahead of ourselves.
We spent the first day getting to know the town. The town of Lienz is dominated by its ancient castle, Schloss Bruck. It was built by the Counts of Görtsch between 1252 and 1277. From the old tower, you have a beautiful view of the surrounding countryside, including the Isel, which sounds quieter from here. Weddings are regularly held in its beautiful little chapel.
The town museum in the castle has a Hungarian connection with the huge – 8.4 meters long and 2.6 meters high – painting by the artist Albin Egger Lienz: the entry of Attila, King of the Huns, into Vienna. After tea in the small terrace café, we looked out over the Zettersfeld mountain range on the left bank of the river and set off. By car, of course, but the more sporty can hop on a bike, as there are plenty of cycle paths of varying difficulty offering recreation on the incredibly beautiful mountain roads. Once we reached the higher ground, we had a toll mountain road. Here already, you could tell something special was coming, so we grabbed a ticket. And sure enough, deep green and heavy air forest, fast flowing stream, clearing with cows, waterfall, sharp bend with breathtaking views followed. Of course, where we thought no one was walking, there was a bench, with the castle below from which we started looking like a tiny dot. A walk on the crunchy gravel, thick oxygen in the nose and the city bum doesn't even notice the passage of time. We arrive back at our relaxing hotel with a pleasant fatigue in our legs.
Gastronomic journey
If you like divine food, you've come to the right place. Veal steaks cooked to perfect medium, turbot on a bed of salad, fruity desserts served at their best. We were served by a smiling Hungarian waitress, on the first night she took note of our food sensitivities and from then on, our meals were prepared with this in mind. The experience included a gastronomic journey. We learned that most of the ingredients were sourced from local farmers, helping each other out this way. A selection of 150 wines in the hotel's wine cellar matched the cuisine. James Bond gets a table in the next room, subtly detached from the undeniable interest of the ladies.
Jewel-box downtown
It's not too late for a stroll, so we've put on our coats. The road to the town center leads across the distinctive, curved-lined Spitalsbrücke bridge of green riveted steel trusses. The locals walk across it, but it is only them who don't stop in the middle of the bridge, watching the glacial river for minutes, listening to the wild roar. Once in the old town, we search the empty tables of small cafés, restaurants and wine bars, and it's not easy to find a table. You immediately feel the Italian influence. In the corner shop, huge diameter mortadella is sliced thinly on a stainless-steel machine. In the brasserie, we ask for a grappa. With a knowing smile, the bartender tells us who is shooting a film in the mountains, because, of course, the New York cameraman, Frank, comes here for a drink every evening. We keep quiet about the fact that the main character lives where we stay, a top secret at the moment. We wander the small streets of the jewel-box downtown – let's face it, under scenic mountain peaks and palm trees, we can't complain. Of course, we'll be crossing the bridge again on our way back.
A small café at the foot of the bridge, with a tiny terrace overlooking the river, tells us all at once: tomorrow we'll have a coffee here!
We had to set the alarm clock so as not to fall asleep with the window open and the river rushing by and miss breakfast the next morning. We couldn't help ourselves, being the only ones left there, we had breakfast on the terrace, in sweaters and small coats, but by the river. The only thing you have to watch out for is that the tea and coffee will get cold faster. For our buffet breakfast, we had a choice of three kinds of butter on toast and that particular salmon with cream horseradish, breakfast rosé champagne...
Waking up, we headed to the nearby Vitalpinum herbal distillery theme park. For 136 years, over several generations, essential oils and creams
have been made here from Alpine plants and even cannabis seeds. The park, which makes use of nature's treasures, offers interesting sights and experiences for the curious. In the well-being garden, you can walk barefoot through dried plants. In the herb field, you can walk among 150 different herbs, now in shoes, and, of course, you can touch and smell them all. From this little shop hidden in the hills, people also went up to Chicago for the World's Fair, where they deservedly won a few prizes.
A winding mountain road led to the Assling Wildlife Park, where our next attraction was in the Dolomites of Lienz, 1300 meters above sea level. 40 species of animals live in its nine hectares of natural environment. I watched with boundless envy what a beautiful view the deer had. The way to view the local wildlife is to walk along a long path past waterfalls and small streams among other free-roaming animals. On the way back to the hotel, we try to take the longest trail, along small mountain paths. Even the coverage is respectful, regularly disappearing, this is not his terrain. We stop at a cascade, impossible to resist the view. We take our usual seats for dinner in the restaurant of the Hotel Egger Lienz, already knowing we are in for something special again.
All good things must come to an end. Of course, we had breakfast again on the terrace in a drizzle. True, the tea cooled faster, but we didn't mind. If we had time, we could take the nearby panoramic road through Austria's highest mountain peak, the Grossglockner, which is one of the most beautiful high mountain roads in the world, blending into the mountain nature, leading from bend to bend up to the Pasterze Glacier. Along the way, we decided that we would have to come back here. According to our inventory, we missed the Iseltrail hiking trail, which starts from the town, follows the river through unspoilt nature, along valleys, peaks, waterfalls and rapids, and at the very end, we reach the glacier. The lower three sections are easy, even with children.
Rafting on the Isel River, mountain biking until exhaustion or visiting the nearby lakes could be a relaxing activity. It would be worth coming here in winter, when everything is covered in snow, we agreed. Or should we come back in the summer? For skiing enthusiasts, there are two nearby ski slopes. The hiking trails certainly show a different face in winter than in summer. We'd also love to spend time in the luxurious spa and wellness area of the Grandhotel Lienz when the snow is crunching outside. We couldn't decide what we'd most like to do, but we've already vowed to return here one day.
The author is editor-in-chief, economist
Wander through the charming historic streets, indulge in festive punch and Christmas delights and soak in the enchanting holiday atmosphere of Bratislava, illuminated by twinkling lights. Experience the magic of Advent concerts, vibrant Christmas markets, and a fun-filled program for children. Christmas in Bratislava is an experience you don’t want to miss! Visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere of the Bratislava Christmas Fair, with its rich program, delicious food and the magic of Christmas. Those fond of nature will not miss Christmas atmosphere, either, with the Tatra Mountains awaiting them.
VISITORS HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO ENJOY THE FESTIVE ATMOSPHERE, DINE AND ALSO BUY GIFTS
Locals and visitors alike can feel the presence of Advent throughout the city. Throughout December, they can soak in the Christmas spirit in Bratislava to their heart’s content this year. Explore historic streets, wander through unique winter markets and warm yourself with a cup of punch or indulge in Christmas specialties, relishing the radiant ambiance of Christmas in Bratislava. For those still searching for the perfect gifts, the Slovak capital has plenty to offer. They can discover a wide range of unique gifts crafted by local artists and creators, including stylish clothing, accessories, handmade cosmetics, ceramics, art, and delectable treats. All that while getting into the holiday spirit with unforgettable experiences at Bratislava’s festive pre-Christmas events.
A world-renowned Christmas Fair
The Bratislava Christmas Fair has become popular not only among locals but also among visitors from abroad. Last year, the British magazine The Times ranked it among the top 10 Christmas fairs in Europe. The fair is famous for its hospitality, authenticity and unique atmosphere, combining tradition with modern elements. Every visitor can take a little piece of Bratislava home with them, either in the form of a small souvenir or an unforgettable experience.
The center of Slovakia's capital is filled with a festive atmosphere as Christmas stalls lining the streets offer a wide range of local
delicacies, Christmas decorations and handcrafted gifts. Bratislava's main Christmas market takes place in the heart of the Old Town, on the famous Main Square and Hviezdoslav Square. Visitors do not only find stalls full of colorful decorations and fragrant food, but also soft music to add to the festive atmosphere. The smell of hot punch and Christmas cakes are sure to tempt all lovers of festive flavors and aromas.
A stage is set up in Franciscan Square with a rich program of entertainment to make all visitors feel at home. A variety of musical ensembles will perform, from choirs and folk bands to modern arrangements of traditional songs. Visitors can enjoy a variety of concerts, performances and children's choirs, which add to the intimate and joyful atmosphere.
Delicacies to sample
The fair offers a wide range of local specialties that are not to be missed. Some of the most popular are traditional Slovak dishes such as lokša (potato cake) filled with poppy seeds, goose meat, cabbage or cottage cheese. Spit-roasted pork cutlets, crispy tochnik and apple and cinnamon homemade strudel are dishes guaranteed to brighten your day. Don't miss the mulled wine, mead and sweetsmelling, warming punch.
For those looking for new flavors, exotic dishes will be available to delight all the senses. They can try Asian specialties such as bao with various fillings and Japanese gyoza, whose unique flavor
combinations add an unusual dimension to the festive experience. Vegans and vegetarians will find a range of healthy alternatives, from grilled vegetables to innovative desserts free of animal ingredients.
One of the most magical venues – opens from late November – of the Christmas Fair is the Christmas Forest in Prímás Square. Dozens of Christmas trees, each one a unique creation by students from 36 primary, art and special schools in Bratislava, are lit up in this area – each tree decorated with handmade ornaments. The decorations are made mainly of natural materials, showing respect for nature and evoking the authentic atmosphere of traditional Slovak Christmases.
Each tree tells its own story and gives a unique and special atmosphere to the Christmas Forest. This special concept attracts young and old alike and happens to be the perfect place to capture the Christmas spirit.
The Christmas market stalls at Hlavné (Main) and Hviezdoslavovo Square are brimming with festive cheer. A diverse array of refreshments and Christmas-themed products are featured at numerous stalls. Emphasizing sustainability, the markets reintroduce returnable glasses, compostable dishes, all while maintaining a consistent waste sorting system. Find also out about the pleasant concerts and more.
DATE AND TIME: until January 6, 2025. Everyday, from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. with the exception of the holiday December 24 to 26. No admission fee.
Explore the Medieval Craft Market at Bratislava Castle, located in the castle palace courtyard. Explore what life was like in Medieval times and enjoy various medieval crafts. Additionally, enjoy program in the museum.
DATE AND TIME: from Fridays to Sundays until December 22, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. No admission fee.
Save the date also for the Christmas Market Hall (Vianočná tržnica). It promises a mix of quality literature, design, and a variety of specialties. Dive into a parade of independent fashion, design, and artistic creations, showcasing unique items from both small and large publishing houses. Savor delectable food, goodies from local producers, and a lineup of artistic programs, all set in the charming historic market hall.
DATE AND TIME: until December 22, 2024.
No admission fee.
Do not leave out the Christmas SAShe Market at Tržnica Nivy. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit, brimming with beauty and creative inspiration. The ten-day celebration of artisanal creativity promises a wealth of gift ideas and ways to make your home more inviting. Local vendors will showcase top-notch fashion for both children and adults, unique jewelry, natural cosmetics, stylish home decor, engaging toys, and irresistible treats. Come warm your rosy cheeks and bask in the Christmas ambiance! Entrance free.
DATE AND TIME: until December 22, 2024, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Bratislava Christmas traditions
The Christmas tram, a cherished tradition in Bratislava for years, commences its operations. Whether you choose to enjoy a full circuit ride or
Traditional Christmas fair in the town of Poprad
The 21st edition of the traditional Christmas fair will take place in the Svätý Egid [St. Gilles] Square in Poprad until December 21. This year, the Christmas Fair are extended to eight days and visitors from home and abroad are able to enjoy craft stalls, traditional gastronomy and a display of Christmas traditions in the form of a real traditional pig slaughter. A rich accompanying program is also ready with more than 15 performances by interesting performers and folklore bands, attractions for young and old – all with extraordinary Christmas decorations that create a unique atmosphere of one of the most beautiful Christmas events in the town below the High Tatras. The Christmas decoration in the town of Poprad is one of the most beautiful ones in Slovakia, with a 13-meter-high glittering angel as its dominant feature, which – together with other light elements such as the Poprad Town sign, Christmas trees, twinkling stars, garlands or skating rinks – complete the unique Christmas atmosphere.
Christmas market in front of the Hotel Lomnica
This year again, in front of the Hotel Lomnica in Tatranská Lomnica, there will be a magical Christmas atmosphere. There aree the popular Hey You cars present with Christmas punch, mulled wine every weekend until December 22 and then, every day from December 27 to January 6th – this time, the Hey You cars will be joined by chimney cake and wafer sales as well as blacksmith workshops.
hop off at the embankment or Kapucínska Street, you’re in for a delightful experience with a splendid view of Bratislava Castle.
FREQUENCY:
every 30 minutes from Jesenského Street.
Why not opt for an Advent cruise aboard a sightseeing boat? This exceptional three-hour program offers a delightful three-course menu, live music, and panoramic views of Bratislava from a unique perspective. Revel in the romantic vistas of the Old Town embankment, Janko Kráľ Garden, and Bratislava Castle, all aglow with festive lights. Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere as the city winds down, its lights shimmering on the water, complemented by the soothing melodies of live music, creating an enchanting Advent evening.
As you explore the city, be sure to indulge in the warmth of roasted chestnuts. Stands offering this delightful treat can be found at locations such as Hviezdoslav Square and SNP Square. Additionally, during this season, numerous places provide delicious options like cabbage soup, bean soup, goulash, loksha (potato pancake), Christmas opekance (baked dough balls) with poppy seeds or nuts, and other tempting seasonal specialties. On the lookout for a place to enjoy punch? You’ll find some establishments offering punch or mulled wine along your way. Explore different spots, each with its own special recipe. In addition to traditional punches, mead, or mulled wine, consider trying a comforting hot whiskey to warm up.
During the winter season, the racetrack in Petržalka is transformed into a magical light park called Winter Wonderland. The park features millions of lights, along with attractions like an underwater kingdom, a magical garden, and fairy-tale castles, creating a magical atmosphere for all ages. Visitors can meet familiar fairy-tale characters like Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, and Pinocchio. There are also fun activities like walking through an underwater maze, playing a colorful piano, and enjoying various carousels, all adding to the festive spirit.
DATE AND TIME: until March 2, 2025, from 3 p.m. – 9 p.m.
(This article is published with support from Slovakia Travel)
