Hungary’s official language is Hungarian, but German is also widely spoken. Most hotels and tourist areas have English speakers.
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The official currency is the Hungarian forint. Credit cards are often accepted, but traveller’s cheques are not. You can get forint from ATMs or currency exchange machines. Always keep your receipt, so you have proof of a legal exchange of money.
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Hungary’s international country code is 36. To call another country from Hungary, dial 00 followed by the appropriate country code. It can be expensive to call from your hotel, since many hotels have high surcharges. Use calling cards or public telephone boxes instead. The main towns usually have Internet cafes.
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Tip taxi drivers and waiters at a rate of 10 to 15 per cent. It’s customary to hand the waiters their tip, as opposed to leaving it on the table.
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Use common sense and watch out for pickpockets and purse-snatchers, especially when using public transport. Most tourists don’t have any trouble.
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You don’t need any vaccinations to visit Hungary, which has high standards of public health. The tap water is safe to drink and you don’t need to worry much about food poisoning. Most medications are Eastern European, so bring enough medication for your trip. It’s a good idea to have health insurance.
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Hungary’s electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz and uses two-pinned, European-style plugs.
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