Hungarian Oddities

Because I just arrived in Budapest, I am still adjusting to all of the things that are different and unique to Hungary. This is just the beginning of a list of things that are unique and strange to Hungary. I am sure this list will grow and change as the year continues. Also try to imagine me in all of these situations... I have already been doing some silly and klutzy things! Somehow the MESPOM group already knows that I am not the most graceful of characters. :)

Toliets: In Japan the toilets were on the ground and hard to use. I am happy to report that toilets in Budapest are familiar and easy to use! However, the flushing mechanisms are pretty noteworthy. I search for nearly 5 minutes for the flush in our apartment's bathroom before asking help from Galya. I couldn't find the flush because the water tank is on the celling and you have to pull a chain. Aghh! Around town this cord and tank system isn't common but check out the HUGE flush button in the picture below. Wowza! You don't need to put your glasses on to see that flusher!

Electronics/Outlets: I knew before I left for Hungary that I needed power adaptors in order to use my electronics in Europe, but I didn't realize how confusing and dangerous this voltage switch could be! Of course I didn't look at the voltage of my hairdryer on the first day and almost caught the hostel on fire because it started to spit sparks!!! I know better than to just plug in the hairdryer, but I think I was jet lagged and didn't have the energy to think about voltage.

I am happy to report that my Mac is doing well and charging well. The battery pack is suitable for the voltage here, and with a power adaptor it is working really well. I do notice that the battery pack gets really hot, but hopefully that isn't a problem!

Showers: Ah, the joy of showering in another country. It seems that bathing is always different, based on the shower head height, the water temperature, or the fixtures. You all remember when my shower lit on fire in Ecuador and I was running around my host family's house in my towel? Yeah, apparently I don't have very good luck with fires when traveling! The most recent shower "saga" involves showering with a hand held hose. This is actually quite easy, but it is definitely a change from home! It is virtually impossible to take a warm 30 minute shower.... your arm would get too tired!

"Coffee:" If you have interacted with me in the past year you know it was because I had my morning coffee. Ever since graduation I have been drinking coffee left and right to stay awake. Now that I am in Europe I am without a coffee pot or a local coffee shop. To make up for this, Galya and I have been drinking lots of cappuccinos at cafes and restaurants. BUT currently the only coffee we have in our apartment is instant coffee. This stuff is disgusting. I am buying a coffee pot this weekend. :)