5 Reasons to Spend a Month in Budapest
Spending a month in Budapest as a software developer can be an incredibly rewarding experience. The city is renowned for its vibrant tech and startup scene, making it the perfect place to get inspired by new ideas and connect with like-minded people. Additionally, Hungary is home to many well-respected universities that offer excellent, affordable courses in computer science and programming. Furthermore, Budapest offers unbeatable affordability compared to other European cities, meaning it's easier to make the most of your time without breaking the bank. Finally, there are plenty of opportunities to explore cultural sights and sample delicious Hungarian cuisine while you're there! All in all, spending a month in Budapest makes for an unforgettable adventure that will surely leave any software developer feeling enriched and energized.
The best way not to live in a bubble
There are far too many places in the world where bonding with the locals can take months, for one reason or another. In other places people overwhelm you with questions about your country and do not leave you the time to ask back.
Although this country's president may not give you the idea of a particularly cheerful folk, Hungarians are actually some quite friendly and relaxed people, in a polite and discreet way. You can attend meetups or get to know the expats living here, and you will be surprised how helpful everyone is. Should you decide to stay longer, the Budapesters will help you find a nice apartment for a decent price or tell you where to go to spend your free time in the best way.
Another factor is, not everyone in Hungary speaks English, but no one wants to make you feel uncomfortable. The lady at the bakery counter fully realises that her language is not the easiest to learn or speak (in fact, it is a mess), and will still serve you with courtesy. This is a kind of experience you do not get in all Eastern European countries.
Moderate taxes and cost for the digital freelancer
Let's face the ever-present elephant in the room: what will it cost me? How about taxes? What if I wanted to stay/have my homebase here?
One of the great things about Budapest is that it is relatively inexpensive to live there without compromising too much on the quality of living. A perfect example is the dentist: plenty of western Europeans travel to Hungary or Romania because it's much cheaper to fly all the way here, sleep in a hotel and get their teeth fixed than if they did it in their own countries. Ready to get your teeth checked?
Another example is the price of the apartments. Asking around, no Hungarian nor local person seems to complain about the subject, be it to rent or buy. A completely different story, for example, than Cluj-Napoca, the second-biggest, pretty city in Romania which has been overwhelmed by techies, making the house prices skyrocket.
When it comes to taxes, Hungary has a moderate tax regime. Countries in that corner of Europe tend to start out with advantageous programs and then change the rules almost every year. Hungary does not give you so many temporary discounts, but has a more stable set of tax rules.
Out there you have countries that offer you the chance to pay very few, if no taxes at all. These countries, however, do not really shine in what they give you in return in terms of service and assistance if you were actually planning to have a stable home base there. Besides, not every one of your potential customer feels comfortable dealing with a company based in a different country than your home base. And then the prime country of doing business at low taxes, Switzerland or Liechtenstein, is not ideal for every freelancer.
Hungary and Budapest might be an easier entry point, especially if you want to combine it with an actual home base and living there.
Pleasant for the belly and for the eyes
For those who do not know it yet, Budapest is a stunning city. It rises on the rivers of the Danube, which is alone worth the travel, and there are few things as beautiful as lying in the jacuzzi on the rooftop of the Rudas Baths, watching the sunset on the city. Besides, Budapest is so big that a week will never suffice to get a feeling for it. So yes, you will have to spend a month here.
If this is not enough to persuade you, how about a nice Sacher cake (Sacher-Torte) with whipped cream? If you spend a month here, you can fill your belly with yummy gulasch, beers from Hungary and neighbouring countries, and an impressive variety of fine wines.
Gluten intolerant? Vegan? Do not fret: Budapest has a restaurant for every need and will never let you down. All for very decent prices.
Bonus tip: try out the sulfur baths, your joints and skin will be thankful.
Reach it from anywhere, go anywhere
Budapest has always been a beloved city for Europeans, no matter the season. That is why it is reachable from airports of every shape and size, and Wizzair has its headquarters here. Get surprised by the destinations you can reach: spend a weekend in beautiful Târgu Mureș, and if you miss the sea, you can always fly to Bari for a low price.
Get overwhelmed by its history
Most of Budapest is built to impress, that is certain. Even the presidential palace was restored so everyone could witness the magnificence of Hungary.
But what would have happened if the Hungarians had not chosen the regents of Austria as their king and queen? How could they keep the Ottomans at bay for so long? The truth is, we Europeans would not be where we are today if Budapest had never existed. Take some time, as much as possible, and come and learn what this city has to tell you.
This article is not financial, tax or legal advice by any means.
I am only sharing my own personal experiences here.
Always seek professional financial, tax or legal advice before making decisions.
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