2024 Summer
UEFA European Championship
The Hungarian national football team is participating for the fifth time in the history of the European Championships, which have been held since 1960. Their current appearance in the German tournament is met with great interest at home. In the month-long competition, our team will face the host German team, as well as the best teams from Switzerland and Scotland. In our preview, we mention that fans expect Dominik Szoboszlai and his teammates to advance from their group to the top 16 in this 24-team tournament, and head coach Marco Rossi shares this expectation. International analysts consider Germany one of the top contenders to win the entire championship, but the main favorites are regarded to be England and France. The hosts are also paying special attention to security due to the risk of terrorist attacks during the tournament.
Olympic Venues
Following Paris’s hosting of the Summer Olympics in 1900 and 1924, the city will host the event for the third time in 2024. The XXXIII Olympiad will take place in the French capital from July 24 to August 11, amidst a challenging period. The hosts are also preparing to fend off unwanted but unfortunately existing threats with unprecedented security measures. Despite the ongoing threat, the opening ceremony will still take place along the Seine River and its banks in the heart of Paris. Alongside nearly fifty thousand soldiers and police officers, at least twenty thousand private agents will be deployed as part of the security contingent. Most of the Olympic facilities were already available at the time of the games’ allocation, with little new construction taking place. There will be a total of 329 medal events across 32 sports. Hungarians have collected 511 medals at previous Summer Olympics, including 181 gold, 154 silver, and 176 bronze.
Montenegro Marvels
Our great traveler, Dr. István Tóth, who has already visited a hundred and fifty countries, now invites you to explore this small Balkan country with his travelogue of Montenegro. From Podgorica Airport, they journeyed to the city of Budva, where their accommodation awaited, followed by a walking tour of the city. On the second day, they explored the old town of Bar. Later, they visited the mouth of the Bojana River and the castle of Ulcinj. On the third day, they visited Cetinje, the ancient capital, then proceeded to the Bay of Kotor, and took a boat to the island of Our Lady of the Rocks. On the fourth day, they ventured to Lake Skadar, the largest lake on the Balkan Peninsula, where they saw its wildlife and the local prison island from a boat. Following their journey, they returned enriched with new knowledge and experiences about this small Balkan country, its Easter traditions, as they happened to witness Orthodox Easter celebrations, experiencing two Easters in one year.
Opinion Leaders
Who are influencers? If we were to look for a definition, perhaps the most appropriate would be that an influencer is someone who is so credible in what they do that many people see them as a role model and value their opinion. We explored the characteristics of this now popular industry in Hungary as well.
Often, the successful influencers are teenage video creators themselves, boasting a significant fan base. But there are those who play on a larger scale. Last year, Forbes magazine published a list of the twenty most valuable Hungarian influencers. The top spot was taken by TheVR, started by János Komzsik and István Fábián in 2013. Since then, the duo has been running eight channels with three million subscribers.
Another favorite among young people is Pamkutya, ranked second by Forbes, operated by brothers Norbi Osbáth and Márk Osbáth – along with their team. The brothers began with hit song parodies, which garnered tens of millions of views.
SZIGET 2024
One of the undeniable highlights of Sziget is that during the six festival days, it brings to Budapest a long lineup of performers from around sixty countries this year, showcasing a diverse range of musical genres and much more beyond music, including dance, theater, circus, and other art forms. We can see headlining stars, fan favorites, exciting musical and cultural delights, as well as emerging talents who may be less known at home, across dozens of venues. “Sziget is also the largest player in the domestic music and cultural scene, where hundreds of Hungarian performers complete the program every year, getting the opportunity to introduce themselves not only to their own audience but also to visitors from all over the world,” highlighted Tamás Kádár, the main organizer of Sziget. This time, let’s review the Hungarian lineup, from unique concerts “composed” for the Main Stage to the other major venues.
Hotel Helikon Keszthely
When summer arrives, most of us want one thing: to relax and enjoy the pleasant weather. Hotel Helikon in Keszthely helps with that. Located on the shores of Lake Balaton, the hotel, with its own peninsula and numerous amenities, welcomes those seeking relaxation and leisure. András Csere, the hotel’s director, presents one of Lake Balaton’s treasures, which he believes is the best choice in the present and future for the western basin: Hotel Helikon Keszthely. The wellness section spans over 1500 square meters, equipped with saunas, infrared saunas, and steam cabins, each offering panoramic views of Lake Balaton. In terms of sports and leisure opportunities, Hotel Helikon Keszthely offers an exceptional selection. In addition to sailing and boating options, six high-quality clay courts await guests, suitable for hosting accredited ATP tournaments.
Push the beer over here!
Beer has been present in our daily lives since the beginnings of human history. The first archaeological findings confirming its presence date back seven thousand years, and nowadays, 200 million cubic meters of beer are poured into barrels, bottles, and cans all around the world. Leading in consumption are the Czechs, who consume nearly 200 liters per capita annually. But the journey from the ancient Egyptians’ barley-based beverage to today’s colorful and diverse selection has been long. Beer’s presence in hospitality has also brought about the cult of beer snacks, with unmistakable national characteristics. However, in recent decades, beer has become an important part of recipes, appearing in increasingly diverse forms and quantities in cookbooks. Yet, there are fundamental rules for their use that cannot be ignored, inseparable from gastronomy.
Pasta
When we think of pasta as a dish, Italy immediately comes to mind, or perhaps the iconic pasta dishes of some Asian countries, but we mustn’t forget grandma’s paprika chicken either, served with dumplings. Every country has its own characteristic pasta dish and type. The true celebration of pasta is found in Italy because nowhere else can we find as many variations of pasta shapes as with them, and of course, it also matters what kind of sauce they are served with. Spaghetti, tagliatelle, rigatoni – each one should be enjoyed with a different sauce and ragu because it’s important to them how much sauce the pasta can absorb. In summary, if we want to make really good pasta, it’s worth making fresh pasta, using fresh herbs, and preparing the dish with authentic ingredients, of course, on the grill.
Pink dreams
Rosé offers a pleasant refreshment and freshness, which is why it has become an indispensable companion for summer parties, vacations, and garden barbecues. In recent years, consumer interest in these wines has significantly increased. Rosés are made from blue grapes and owe their distinctive color to the fact that the skins are soaked with the juice for only a few hours, allowing less time for the color compounds to dissolve. Fermentation usually occurs at low temperatures, and the wine is stored in airtight steel tanks until bottling to preserve its primary, fruity aroma. The timing of the harvest is also important, as it helps regulate the amount of acids and alcohol in the wine. The Streit-Zagonyi Winery in Villány makes rosé from Kékfrankos. The grapes, harvested in early September, produce a rich and flavorful wine. The taste reveals red berry fruits accompanied by a pleasant acidity.
HOT DOG TO GO
We have opened a hot dog bistro on the ground floor of our Istria 94 travel agency. While our customers come in, wait, and choose their trips, they can enjoy coffee, hot dogs, pastries, and ice cream.
The specialty of our hot dogs is that everything is freshly made. We use artisanal sausages with sheep casings, containing 78% meat. Additionally, we offer Hungarian, Bavarian, and Italian sausages. Currently, we have three types of hot dogs: the simple French, which includes only our own sauces with the sausage; the American, where guests can choose from a variety of additional toppings besides the sauces. We particularly recommend our organic sprouts, which are not only delicious but also healthy. Furthermore, we have a baguette hot dog made from special dough, which is larger and not the usual hot dog bun.
Our motto is that we prepare our hot dogs as if we were making them at home for ourselves. – as we learned from the owner, Anikó Straub.
Soft Serve Ice Cream
Norbert Ercse, owner and managing director of E-mese Ice Cream Parlor, shares his story.
“We have been at Pünkösfürdő Street, on the corner of Királyok Road, with our E-mese hospitality unit for nearly 20 years. Additionally, we have been present at the Leányfalu beach for 10 years with ice cream, slushies, and drinks. I have focused on ice cream making and its refinement. What sets us apart from most is that we truly make our ice creams from scratch, using our own recipe from the very first phase—every single batch is handcrafted by us. Our basic flavors include the classic chocolate and vanilla, with additional vanilla variations like wild berry, kiwi, or caramel. We also offer lemon-blue grape and strawberry-cantaloupe pairings. Using an Italian machine and our family’s ‘secret’ recipe, we consistently produce the same high quality and quantity. The combination of good portions, good prices, and good quality is what defines our success.”
Hotel Abacus
The Abacus Business & Wellness Hotel**** Superior is located 25 km from Budapest, in Herceghalom. The hotel’s inspiring atmosphere, innovative environment and uncompromising gastronomical philosophy makes it the ideal place for family vacations, wellness weekends, conferences, business meetings and even weddings. The chef, Ferenc Toth, whose resume boasts with extensive foreign experience, uses simple, local and seasonal ingredients from Zsambek’s basin in his dishes. The majority of the spices he uses are grown in the kitchen’s own garden. Their dishes draw on both international sensibilities as well as the traditional Hungarian sense of taste; all while using modern culinary technology. The combination of gastronomical pleasures with a peaceful, familiar atmosphere and modern environment translate into more than half the guests being regulars. Their success was further confirmed when Abacus Business & Wellness Hotel won the title of Best Rural Business and Conference Hotel in Hungary.
Divas and Icons
Pop music superstars, film stars, opera divas – the stories of divas come to life through the original stage costumes, outfits, props, posters, images, and sound recordings of more than a hundred international and Hungarian performing artists in the new exhibition at the House of Hungarian Music. The Divas & Icons exhibition features the likes of Rihanna, Björk, Billie Eilish, Tina Turner, Cher, Marilyn Monroe, Beyoncé, Sade, Janelle Monáe, Whitney Houston, Maria Callas, Edith Piaf, as well as Hungarian stars such as Lujza Blaha, Katalin Karády, Zsuzsa Cserháti, and many others. The exhibition, originating from the world’s largest museum of decorative arts and design, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, is making its debut in Budapest before embarking on a world tour. With its stunning visuals and thoughtfully exciting dramaturgy, the exhibition dazzles the local audience while providing a sociocultural snapshot of the world of female performers from the 19th century to the present day.
Met Gala
Since 1948, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York has been hosting a fundraising gala in the museum every year, which is also the most important event in the fashion world. The 2024 Met Gala was titled “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” and its official dress code was named “The Garden of Time.” The 2024 Met Gala almost enchanted the eyes with fairytale splendor. Behind the magical creations stood none other than the unmatched taste and creativity of a count and countess who lived their days in unity with beauty, art, and nature. From thematic dresses to hoop-skirted creations to pieces enveloped in flowers, everything was present.
Fashion Awards
Twenty years ago, in 2004, the Fashion Awards Hungary Gala was held for the first time. It is considered the “Oscar” of fashion not only in Hungary but also throughout Europe and the United States. Simply being nominated for this professional recognition is an honor. Participating in the award ceremony is a prestigious event for key figures in the fashion industry and business world.
At the gala, the best in the fashion industry were awarded in 12 categories. The evening was opened by host Zoltán Somogyi, who welcomed the gala’s chief patron, Ági Pataki. The Lifetime Achievement Award for Hungarian Fashion was given to fashion designer Emília Anda, whose work has received numerous international accolades. Barbara Palvin was chosen as the Female Model of the Year, and Zsolt Dán, known as Dan (Wammodels), was named the Male Model of the Year.
Masculine elegance
Elegance is not only evident in appearances, as a true gentleman is polite, attentive, and respectful towards others. Additionally, there are identifiable style elements that never go out of fashion.
Classic, refined appearance begins with good grooming. Alongside conventional pieces such as suits or suit separates, a stylish man’s attire is complemented by accessories like a tie, pocket square, cufflinks, or even suspenders, as well as a well-chosen watch.
Sophisticated, stylish appearance is not primarily dependent on one’s wallet; rather, it is characterized by restraint and a preference for understated wearing of various brands.
ZEMA CAFE & SALON
ZEMA and the operetta genre have previously been connected at last November’s porcelain jewelry fashion show. Now, in a Salon atmosphere, the two genres—porcelain fine arts and operetta—have come together again.
Art also intersects with sports, as both are achievements preceded by significant effort. Whether it’s preparing for an operetta performance, designing and converting a specific style pattern into a porcelain collection, or an athlete training and preparing for a competition, they all require serious work.
In recent weeks, the presentation of the Hungarian team’s uniforms for the Paris Olympics took place, with ZEMA providing the porcelain jewelry accessories for the elegant attire.
In the Empire-style collection, in addition to the colors of the uniforms, the laurel leaf motif is featured. This motif, associating with sports achievements, has been a symbol of glory and victory for thousands of years.
Paddington
At his own residence, the British Ambassador’s Residence, Ambassador Paul Fox introduced the latest charity initiative of UNICEF, thanks to which Hungarian children can now receive personalized letter packages from Britain’s favorite bear, Paddington.
In UNICEF Hungary’s latest charity campaign, the world-famous Paddington bear takes center stage, sending children new letters every month, introducing them to exotic countries and even helping their less fortunate peers. From now on, there’s a reason to wait for the postman, who brings personalized packages from the famous bear to those children whose families join the organization’s regular supporters’ community. The monthly fee for the Paddington adventure also doubles as a regular donation, the amount of which automatically arrives at UNICEF every month.
La Estancia Polo Cup
The summer kick-off event was held once again at the Etyek La Estancia Polo Club, featuring polo as a social occasion where quality, hospitality, excellent atmosphere, and unforgettable sporting experience were guaranteed. Four teams competed in front of several hundred guests. Throughout the day, attendees enjoyed a presentation by the riding school of Princess Eilika von Habsburg of Oldenburg and a Tango Show. As the event’s grand finale, prior to the awards ceremony, the much-anticipated hat competition took place to the delight of the lady guests.
In the Heart of the Enchanted Forest
Alexandra and Gábor Rónai, owners of the Royal Diamonds Jewelry House, celebrated their 15th wedding anniversary. Gábor, a well-known figure in Budapest’s social scene, also invited friends to his 51st birthday party. On this beautiful May afternoon, the guests enjoyed delicious food and drinks while watching performances by prominent artists. Johann János and his gypsy band started off the entertainment by playing music during lunch. They were followed by Tamás Masa and Anita Masa, soloists of the SabbathSong Klezmer Band, who gave a special musical greeting to the celebrants. Then the ever-young György Korda and Klári Balázs enticed the audience to sing and dance, their mere presence enhancing the afternoon’s atmosphere.
Double Fives
Attila Sasvári, who has been working in the hospitality industry for over thirty years, undoubtedly deserves an excellent rating both for his professional knowledge and for his attitude towards guests and the flavors he creates for them. Now he has doubled his fives. He celebrated his 55th birthday surrounded by loved ones, friends, and colleagues at the Mexican restaurant Hugo’s, where the celebrant maintained his usual high standards in terms of food, drinks, and atmosphere. We also send him our message here: Happy Birthday!
Summer Extravaganza
The Ford Mustang Mach-E is an icon of a new era, conquering driving enthusiasts with its electrifying performance and unparalleled range. The new Ford Kuga self-charging hybrid SUV model offers a bold new style. The DS 3 will be our elegant and stylish companion on every journey, representing cutting-edge technology and efficiency. The MG ZS EV is an excellent choice for those who do not want to compromise on performance, design, and safety. The combination of futuristic design, dynamic appearance, and spacious interior is embodied in the brand-new KONA SUV. The new Nissan Juke brings significant interior improvements aimed at more precise fits, refined finishes, as well as ergonomics and comfort. The e offers a unique combination of intelligence, style, and functionality. The design of the BMW M2 Coupé merges compact proportions and clean contours, creating a form that is not only aesthetically appealing but also functionally perfect.
Film Mania
On vacation, at the beach, or on a plane – For film enthusiasts, streaming is paradise. It might seem odd that our magazine is launching a movie section right in the middle of summer, during vacation season, but in the 21st century, it’s safe to say that watching movies without borders is possible anytime, anywhere.
Not to mention that both in our country and abroad, there are more and more open-air and drive-in cinemas, and it’s no longer uncommon to see modern films and classics projected on huge screens at beaches and resorts. With streaming, even the most dedicated movie and series fans won’t miss out on anything: Netflix, Amazon Prime, SkyShowtime, Disney+, and Max practically cater to every need, whether it’s for a big-screen production or a series. Thus, film lovers can indulge in their favorite pastime anytime, anywhere.
Cannes
What happens when the child of a Russian oligarch and a young stripper party their way from New York to Las Vegas, causing chaos and eventually getting spontaneously married? It’s an unusual choice for a party film and action comedy to win the Cannes Film Festival’s top prize, the Palme d’Or, this year. The film, titled Anora, is directed by American New Wave filmmaker Sean Baker.
This year’s Cannes Film Festival was marked by twelve days, twenty-two competition films, female dominance in the jury and on the red carpet, emotional tears, and major disappointments. A fiercely feminist French director, Coralie Fargeat, managed to shake up the Croisette with her body horror film The Matter, featuring Demi Moore’s major comeback to cinema. The musical melodrama Emilia Perez, about a gender-transitioning drug lord and their family, walked away with both the jury prize and the award for Best Actress.
The Price of Success
Celebrities who collapse under the weight of fame. There are plenty of Hungarian and international examples of this. But what is it that they cannot cope with? Is it really necessary to break down under the burden that comes with stardom? We explored these questions.
In these circles where artists operate, substance abuse is much more intense. It’s much more accessible. And the reasons are the same: they have to release a lot of emotions in order to influence others. Additionally, for musicians and performers in general, there’s the constant pressure to perform at their best, even when they’re not at their peak. They always have to meet the expectations of the masses.
In any case, let’s not have illusions, the problems affecting big stars have always been the same in every era. Regardless of health consciousness and the spirit of the times, there will always be a majority among them who ultimately cannot overcome their demons.
Celebrity Offspring
It’s not necessarily a jackpot to be a celebrity child, especially if you were born as an unexpected consequence of a fling or a fleeting affair. Famous dads often want nothing to do with the babies conceived as accidental byproducts, although in fortunate cases, they may acknowledge paternity after a positive DNS test. Alain Delon’s first-born son wasn’t so lucky: he passed away a year ago without ever being embraced by his world-renowned father. On the other hand, Patrick Swayze never knew about the existence of a child until his death. However, there are also cases where a celebrity only learned about becoming a parent decades later, such as Chuck Norris. Arnold Schwarzenegger tried to avoid it for a long time, but today, he supports his left-handed son as a dedicated father. Conversely, Tom Jones refuses to acknowledge his own offspring. In our article, we’ve gathered some interesting cases of celebrity love children.
