Hungary is a country that revels in contrast-a land of lakes and forests, opulent architecture and

manicured vineyards, ancient folk traditions and a vibrant modern cultural scene. From townscapes

untouched since the days of Empress Maria Theresa to the ancestral way of life of the fishermen

on Lake Balaton, Hungary is one of Europe's most fascinating and inspiring countries. Living in Hungary takes

you to Budapest, where the inhabitants of the twin cities Buda and Pest, on facing banks of the Danube, relax

in cafés and bathhouses, and where the music of Liszt and Haydn is set against the colorful folk tunes of gypsy

musicians. Then explore the magic of the Hungarian provinces : wine-tasting in the Tokay region, boat trips

along the Danube, bathing in natural hot springs, and visiting castles tucked away in the country's baroque

heart. This enchanting country-where history blends into legend and the past rubs shoulders with modernity-is

a well-kept secret waiting to be discovered.

Hungary has always been at the crossroads of

history. At various times the country has

been an outpost of the Roman empire, overrun

by Mongolian Tartars, conquered by the

Ottomans, ruled by the Habsburg dynasty, and,

more recently, part of the Soviet bloc. Centuries

of adversity have forged a people who are

creative, independent, and, above all, proud of

their national heritage.

Hungary is a land of great diversity-from the

sparsely populated regions on the pusztas and

the immense plains in the center of the country,

to the bustling capital of Budapest-one of the

great cultural hubs of Central Europe, with a

thriving economy.

Living in Hungary

begins by taking you on a tour

of the capital, exploring both well-known attractions

and less familiar facets of the city that give a

taste of the real Hungary, such as the táncház or

open air folk dance venues. The magic of the

Hungarian countryside is then evoked in chapters

devoted to the provinces. From strolls through

the Tokay vineyards, to sailing on the unruffled

waters of Lake Balaton, and from hunting in the

Gemenc forest to exploring the perfectly-preserved

baroque architecture of Veszprém and

Sopron.

Living in Hungary

includes a comprehensive

"Useful Information" section, detailing the finest

hotels and restaurants for each region, as well as

a comprehensive list of museums, music venues,

and suggested visits.