Honest thoughts on Hungary after my first visit

First time in Hungary and I tried to approach it with open eyes rather than preconceptions. Eger was the base and a good one — central, manageable, and with strong food options including the best pálinka I've ever had. Eger Castle was the big set piece and fully justified the trip.

Two things worth knowing: language is completely impenetrable, which is more of a factor than some guides acknowledge. But also: remarkably affordable, which I'd never read about and turned out to be a genuine pleasure. Solid first impression — I'd return.