24 JAN 2019: The Hungarian Tourism Agency took over the Ritz Hotel in Toronto this week for a cocktail and dinner presentation on the virtues of the classically European destination. Guest of the Hungarian Tourism Agency were treated to a preview of Hungary’s new tourism attractions and priorities for 2019 in a special presentation by Zsuzsanna Sarmon. Joining the media and trade representatives in attendance was Valér Palkovits, Hungary’s Consul General.

The reception educated attendees on the wide variety of hotels, activities, events, attractions and restaurants on offer in Hungary in 2019. The presenters highlighted Hungary’s culinary legacy, underscoring its culture of hospitality and rich victual production through world-renowned dishes such as chicken papikrash.

Special attention was allotted to the Tokaj region—established by royal decree in 1757—where the confluence of a temperate climate and minerally rich soils produce some of the world’s most prestigious natural sweet wines.

Illustrating Hungary’s dynamic appeal as a destination for both adventure and relaxation, agency representatives went on to emphasize some of the country’s natural wonders. Hungary’s Lake Balaton is the largest lake in central Europe and a foremost tourist attraction, with warm waters conducive to bathing and sailing and a beautiful surrounding countryside renowned for producing excellent vintages.

Over the last decade or so, Hungary has become an increasingly popular destination in the growing sector of wellness travel. The Hungarian Tourism Agency noted that Hungary holds the fifth largest thermal water reserve in the world, boasting more than 1400 springs, 200 thermal baths, and over 40 modern health spa hotels.

The Hungarian Tourism Agency capped off the night of networking and revelry by revealing a reimagined brand and tourism focus for Hungary in 2019. The audience was inspired by the announcement of increased focus and investment in the country’s water-based attractions, with a special mention of the famous “cave bath” in tourist-favourite Miskolctapolca.