Forint, not euro, and the lake the country loves

Hungary uses the forint, and euro prices in tourist spots are a poor rate; withdraw from bank ATMs and decline the ATM's own conversion. Most Hungarians under 40 speak some English, but a "jó napot" greeting is appreciated. In summer, the country goes to Lake Balaton, Central Europe's largest lake: Tihany's lavender and abbey, Balatonfüred's promenade, and the wine terraces of Badacsony are two hours from Budapest by train. The north shore is quieter; the south shore has the shallow family beaches.