If traveling to Hungary is on your “To-Do” list this summer consider purchasing an international first class flight to Hungary. First class travel is the perfect choice for busy consumers looking to make the most of their limited vacation time. First class flights to Hungary offer travelers the ability to arrive in Hungary ready to hit the ground running and see all that this beautiful country has to offer. You can compare the cost of a business class, first class, economy, and coach fares on many travel websites. Travel agents will also review this information with you prior to purchasing. There are fares to fit almost every budget and cheap and inexpensive first class tickets can be found. Yes, it takes some planning, a lot of flexibility, and some ingenuity, but great deals on first class tickets to Hungary can be found. Last minute travelers can find incredible deals on unsold seats in first class. So, don’t count first class as something that is out of your budget.
The First Class Extras
Even if you find the most amazing deal in the history of first class travel, your ticket will cost more than coach, economy and business class, but you get a lot more extras, perks, and benefits for the extra money. First, everyone knows you get a much larger seat, lots more privacy, and your seat turns into a bed so you can lay down and sleep comfortably. What a lot of people don’t realize is that first class is always changing and the airlines are competing with each other as to who offers the most luxurious first class cabins. New planes are equipped with bars in the first class cabin and even upstairs loft areas where first-class passengers can talk, eat, and hang out. Some planes have small apartment type set up for each seat, other have partitions between the seats, and some offer a desk or work area for passengers. So, yes, the big seat and added privacy are great, but seriously that’s just the beginning. You can find out exactly what is offered on the plane you are traveling on before you book your flight. Cabin configuration and plane amenities for each class are clearly listed on air carrier websites. Educate your self before you buy to avoid any disappointment.
Meals, snacks, desserts, and drinks are included in the cost of your airfare. First class passengers do not need to purchase in-flight meals. Alcohol is included too, so feel free to imbibe. Meals are another area where airlines are competing with each other in an attempt to out-do the competition. Many airlines have partnered with well-known (think celebrity) chefs to create the in-flight meal offerings. The food is incredible and it keeps getting better.
The first class cabin is staffed by the best flight attendants in the business. Customer service is their top priority. They will store your belongings for you. The will get you an extra meal or snack. Order champagne, they will be happy to serve you. Beyond their hospitality though is the real benefit of these seasoned professionals. They are world travelers and they know the best things to see and do in every country. Flight attendants can give you travel tips to fit your budget and your interests. Ask them their thoughts on Hungary and what their favorite things to do are. They will be happy to share their knowledge with you!
Things to Do During Your Vacation to Hungary
- Great Market Hall- Located in Budapest, the Great Market Hall is the most popular market in Hungary. The market is spread out amongst multiple levels and is loaded on style with its neogothic elements. Sections of the market include local farmers selling fruits and vegetables, fresh meats, souvenirs, flowers, and fish. If you don’t feel like picking up ingredients for dinner you can always just stop at one of the many cafes located throughout the market.
- The Caves of Aggtelek Karst National Park- The only natural Unesco site in Hungary are the Caves of Aggtelek Karst National Park. When you enter the caves, it’s like entering a new world. The stalactites and stalagmites located here are some of the largest in Europe. Another unique feature of the caves are the patterned rocks that surround the caves due to the strong mineral deposits in this area.
- Godollo Palace- Godollo Palace was built by an aristocratic Hungarian family in the 1700’s. The palace was bought by Hungarian royalty after the last of the original family passed away. However, during the Communist era, the palace fell apart as no one cared for the property. Only the properties that were used by wealthy individuals as homes were the ones that survived. The palace was completed remodeled and restored to its original condition and is now open for tours.
- Mosque of Pasha Qasim, Pecs- Originally built in the late 1500’s during the Ottoman Empire is the Mosque of Pasha Qasim, Pecs. The Roman Catholic Church took over the mosque in the late 1700’s. Turkish architecture abounds in this former mosque. Although officially a Catholic church, you can still find inscriptions from the Koran in certain sections of the church.
- Esztergom Basilica- The largest building in Hungary outside of Budapest is the Esztergom Basilica. Inside the basilica is the largest painting on a single piece of canvas in the world. It portrays the Assumption of the Virgin. The crypt built in the 1800’s contains the remains of many high ranking clergy officials.
- Budapest Jewish Quarter Tours- One of the liveliest districts in Budapest is the Jewish Quarter. A maze of cobblestone streets and landmarks. During the Nazi occupation in World War II, this area was home to the Jewish Ghetto. Jews were forced to live in this section of town under horrible conditions and barely survived. It has undergone massive reconstruction and rejuvenation and has emerged as the new chic “it” neighborhood. Full of cafés, restaurants and live music spots. The area is also dotted with historical sites and monuments.
- Lake Balaton- The largest lake in Central Europe is Lake Balaton. Many Hungarian’s head to the lake during the hot summer days and enjoy some time on the shores of the lake. There is a promenade around a great portion of the lake which has numerous cafes and restaurants. There are also places to rent fishing gear or small boats to head out onto the water. Skating and ice fishing are available in the Winter months. The Lake is closed for the month of January.
- Pannonhalma Abbey- The Pannonhalma Abbey was founded in 996 as a monk monastery. There are anywhere from 50 to 75 monks living and training there now. The archives here contain some of Hungary’s oldest documents and some of Hungarian’s original text. Another interesting and fun experience is to do some wine tasting here. The monks have been making their own wine for over 1,000 years. During the Communist reign, production was halted but the tradition has continued and is in full production mode.
- Eger Wine Region-The Eger Wine regions is an up and coming wine region known for its dessert wines. Beautiful rolling hills and numerous wineries make this region a great place to do a day trip. Many of the wineries try to attract tourists with free wine tasting and food tastings of local cuisine.
- Castle Hill- The centerpiece of the Buda neighborhood is Castle Hill. A UNESCO World Heritage site which includes attractions such as the royal fortress of Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and the Fisherman’s Bastion. Cobblestone streets provide spectacular views of the Danube River and the neighboring Pest neighborhood.
It’s Time to Get Started
Now that you know what first class offers and you have an idea of a few things to do in Hungary, it’s time to set your budget and begin your planning. Try logging on to a travel website, FlightsLux is one website that specializes in first class and business class travel and see if your next trip to Hungary will begin in the first class cabin.
