Differences in mentality

Differences in mentality between Hungarians and Germans

Like any other people, Hungarians have been shaped by their history. Foreign rule, revolutions and failed struggles for freedom created a mentality all their own, where paternalism, oppression and arrogance are disregarded. Those who hire car will inevitably come into contact with Hungarian peculiarities. In order not to be surprised by some of the customs, it is advisable to familiarize oneself with the culture before visiting Hungary.

Restrained and friendly
The service at the hire car agency is usually very good. High quality vehicles are available and attention is paid to good quality advice. Mostly the service personnel speaks English, whereby some persons are even powerful of the German language. The male employee is greeted with a firm handshake. For women, the handshake is correspondingly looser. Female customers should also not be surprised if a kiss on the hand is implied. Advice is given in a friendly manner and is characterised by politeness. The reticence of Hungarian staff can quickly be interpreted by travellers as arrogance. However, Hungarians prefer to express themselves with caution, as they do not like to argue. In addition, they often speak in a calm and quiet voice. If there is something to complain about, criticism should be expressed in a very friendly manner. Arguments are not appreciated and the other person will always try to avoid them. If a mistake has been made, an apology is made and a reason found for it. The reason does not have to correspond to reality, but it saves face for all involved and ensures a peaceful atmosphere. The customer should not rely on supposed promises if the request is answered with statements such as “Yes, maybe tomorrow …” or “Actually yes”. These are just polite phrases, as many Hungarians are much too polite to refuse a request directly.

Creatively solve problems and the flexible use of time
If problems arise when renting the vehicle, they are solved with a lot of creativity by the employees. They are masters of improvisation and very flexible. Unexpected situations will not scare the staff, which adds quality to the service. On the other hand, the rejection of structures and rules also holds something negative. For example, Hungarians are not particularly punctual, which can lead to constant delays. The hire car office occasionally opens later than announced and agreements are often not kept to the agreed date. As a German traveller, this quickly becomes tearing, but no one should let this stress them out. Instead, composure should be adapted, as it does not mean disregarding the other person. Probably just something else came up, which is why the Hungarian was late. In this respect, the Hungarian people resemble their southern friends Italy, Greece and Spain. If you adapt to this southern rhythm, you will have a stress-free time. Furthermore, this difference in mentality means that the German traveller does not have to stick strictly to the agreed times either. A longer goodwill period in case of a late return of the rental vehicle can be hoped for, but it should never be relied upon.

In a relaxed conversation with the service staff
Whoever has overcome the reluctance of a Hungarian can have an interesting conversation with him. This can come up quickly when renting a vehicle, when the traveler asks for tips on excursions or restaurants in the area. However, if the questions have turned into chit-chat, the traveler should avoid getting carried away with some conversations. Like many other countries, Hungary has some topics from its history that should not be addressed at all or only with the utmost sensitivity. Mostly already a wrong word about the communist past of Hungary or the criminality in East Germany is enough to trigger a heated as well as unpleasant discussion.