A story by Nina Begesh, a communications and administration professional and a holder of the Hungarian Diaspora Scholarship. Nina is of Hungarian origin on her father’s side and she has been living in Hungary since 2023. She strongly identifies with Hungarian culture, traditions, and values, and supports the mission of Hungarian communities across borders to preserve cultural identity and build meaningful connections within the global Hungarian network.

Living in Hungary has become for me not just a decision, but a continuous discovery. Every city is different, yet each of them has something in common — a special atmosphere that is hard to describe, but easy to feel.

Recently, we visited my husband’s mother in Kecskemét. We go there from time to time, and it was my husband who truly opened this city to me — he was born, raised, and studied there. Through his stories, Kecskemét became not just a beautiful place, but a warm and personal one. The colorful buildings of the main square, the calm streets, the slower rhythm — everything creates a sense of harmony.

Walking there, I started thinking about how different, yet how beautiful Hungarian cities are.

I was lucky to live in Budapest during my university years. I stayed in a historic building near the Hungarian National Museum, in the beautiful Palace District. I truly enjoyed that atmosphere. Old architecture, elegant streets, cozy cafés — and at the same time, the city was full of life. Students, tourists, conversations, movement. That balance between history and modern life felt very inspiring.

Now we live with our family in Etyek, and it is a completely different, but equally beautiful experience. This is a well-known wine region, with vineyards and charming wineries. Life here is quieter. Nature is close, the air feels fresh, and there is a special sense of calm. It is a place where you can truly slow down and enjoy everyday life.

I have also had the chance to visit other Hungarian towns, such as Tihany, Szentendre, and Vác. Each of them has its own character. Tihany with its peaceful views of Lake Balaton, Szentendre with its artistic atmosphere and small streets, and Vác with its calm riverside walks along the Danube.

And maybe this is what makes Hungary so special — every place has its own face.

I feel truly grateful to live here, and I am inspired by how many more places there are still to discover.

by Begesh Nina