 Budapest The Hungarians are justifiably proud of their capital, Budapest, the country's political, commercial and cultural centre, noted equally for its charm and bustling life. With a population of over two million, Budapest situated on both sides of the Danube River. Visitors will find colourful scenes on the Buda side: lovely sloping hills with the historic Buda Castle district and the old city of Aquincum with treasures from Roman times. Downtown Pest on the other side of the river hosts a multitude of the shopping and business centers of the capital. The city has something to offer for everyone: visits to famous museums or historic buildings, strolling in the city, along the Danube Corso or on Margaret Island, or relaxing in a pleasant coffee house, in a romantic small restaurant, or in one of the numerous wine cellars. Budapest is well deserving of its fame as a spa city as well. The baths add to the unique atmosphere of the city. Spending a few days in Budapest, the foreign visitor will certainly be interested in other regions of Hungary, too. Optional tours to Hungary's major tourist attractions will be organised for the congress participants. Millecentenarium 1996 is a special year for Hungary. We are celebrating the 1100th anniversary (Millecentenarium) of the Hungarian State in the Carpathian Basin. The capital and the whole country will offer you not only scientific value of the congress but, especially in these days, lots of opportunities to enjoy the rich cultural life, the unique folklore, traditional Hungarian hospitality and the friendly landscape during beautiful summertime. Holidays Public Holidays: 19th and 20th August. Please also note that all banks and shops will be closed. August 20th is Constitution Day and the day of St Stephen's coronation in 1000 A.D. This day has also been traditionally associated with the harvest and the bread baked from the first flour of the year. As a salute to the past and present, the red, white and green tricolour flies on the buildings. Apart from fun fair, sport events the most spectacular attraction in Budapest is the fireworks in the evening on the Gellért Hill. Weather Hungary has a continental climate. The weather in August is generally warm and dry. The temperature ranges from 20 to 34 °C. In the evening it rarely gets colder than 18 °C. There is about ten percent likelihood of rain in this month.  Transport connection between Budapest Airport and the city centre A minibus service of comfortable six seat-buses operates between the airports and the city. Minibuses will take you directly to your hotel, dormitory or the congress site. Buy your ticket in the baggage reclaim area or at the Passenger Service desk located in the main passenger hall, or call 157-8555. The Centrum bus service operates between Erzsébet square and Airports from 6 am to 10 pm. Buses leave every 30 minute. The congress site can be reached from De k square (a few minutes walk from Erzsébet square) by tram No. 47 or 49 to Móricz Zsigmond square. Local Transportation Tickets have to be purchased in advance at tobacco shops and kiosks or at Metro stations, railway stations, airport, etc. Tickets are valid for buses, trams, trolley buses, and the Metro. Tickets are valid for single journeys, and must be punched at the ticket puncher inside the vehicles or on entering the Metro stations. Passport and Visa All foreign visitors to Hungary must possess valid passports. Citizens of several countries, especially outside Europe also need entry visas, obtainable at any Hungarian Embassy or consulate. Insurance The organisers do not accept responsibility for individual medical, travel or personal insurance and delegates are strongly advised to take out their own personal insurance policies. Currency and Exchange The national currency in Hungary is the Forint (HUF). All foreign currencies, cheques, credit cards can freely be taken in and out of the country. Exchange offices operate in hotels, banks, at the airport. Several stores accept major international credit cards. Bankomats steadily grow in number. Shopping Many attractive shopping facilities are located in the city. Shops are usually open from 9-10 a.m. till 5-6 p.m. on week-days and from 9 a.m. till 1 p.m. on Saturdays. Most shops are open till 7-8 p.m. on Thursday. Because of the holidays all shops will be closed on Monday 19th and Tuesday 20th August. Electricity Supply In Hungary electricity is supplied at 220 V, 50 Hz AC. The connecting plug has two round pins as standard in most European countries. |