Safety and Travel Secrets
While staying in Budapest, I have generally felt quite safe walking around the streets during the day, either alone or with a group. Even at night, I don’t feel much more unsafe than in Boston, just sometimes worried I’ll get lost! Our professor stressed to us the buddy system when we first arrived, which I think is one of the most important ways to stay safe when exploring a new place. You are much less likely to be taken advantage of in a group! Now we go out alone, but my apartment always makes sure that everyone is home safe at the end of the day. I also do not go out alone at night. Additionally, I think that it is important to know how to call the police or the US embassy in case of emergency–I ended up getting an international SIM card, which makes me feel a lot more secure. I know that I can contact someone at all times using my phone, and I also have access to GPS which helps me to not be lost!
I believe that people should definitely be extra cautious when visiting a new place, since you will not know how things work or what the customs are. This is especially important when going somewhere with a language barrier, as the language can cause miscommunication or missed signals. When I moved to Boston I was a little unsure about the urban environment, but at least I could count on being able to read the signs–here, not so much! I have to always be paying attention, which can be exhausting. Even so, I really enjoy getting to know Budapest, and it is interesting looking back on my first emotions upon arriving–I feel so much more comfortable and confident now.
On this trip I’ve learned a lot of things, and some of them would definitely help other travelers. They are completely random but all are very important in my opinion. Firstly, people should take advantage of downloading information, such as cities on Google Maps and entire languages on Translate, as well as some kind of currency converter, since these features allow you to use the apps without data. Most people on my trip rely on wifi for cell access, so downloading makes their lives a whole lot easier. I didn’t even know that you could do this before! Secondly, I have to stress the importance of exploring new opportunities, even if that makes you go off schedule. I personally like to have some kind of itinerary for the day, but on this trip I’ve realized that I need to be more flexible and do what my body/brain tells me is the right choice. Finally, I’ve learned that American customer service is amazing, and that I can’t expect everyone to be as nice here. That took a lot of getting used to, and I still appreciate when people are polite to me. Even so, I’ve realized that I need to embody more Hungarian values, by letting my mind be open to the local culture. This is one of the best, but more difficult ways to improve the travel experience. With time, I’ve learned more Hungarian culture, but I wish I’d done a bit more research before arriving so it wouldn’t take so long!
