Beautiful and useful. Practical, but gives you a new perspective. Here you’ll find stories from Budapest and across Europe — reports from events, glimpses of everyday life, and reflections that place it all into cultural context. Melì Marvel brings together thoughtful storytelling and beautiful photography.

Melinda Mészáros Melinda Mészáros

Budapest: Love Affair by Candlelight Supper

What is it like to live in Budapest right now? A candlelight supper on the Pesti Rakpart shows the city’s resilience, community spirit, and evolving identity. A little story of a night of candlelight that Hyacinth Bucket herself might even approve of. :)

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perspeftive, culture, family, reflection Melinda Mészáros perspeftive, culture, family, reflection Melinda Mészáros

Dragons in the Swampy Castle - Rethinking Behaviour in Hungarian Schools

Gold stars, red dots, black points—tiny marks that once decided who we were in class. Many of us still remember that quiet pressure to be “good.” In Swampy, Castles, and Classrooms, we take a closer look at how to turn punitive behaviour systems into something constructive—by placing trust in our children and reframing the old, harmful stories we grew up with.

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Steam Rides, Castle Picnic, and Victorians on Smartphones – A Day Trip to Gödöllő, Hungary in Style

My intro to steam trains, a royal castle picnic, and Victorian characters with smartphones — all wrapped into one spring day near Budapest. Family-friendly, camera-ready, and full of unexpected contrasts.

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Forest Green, Brilliant White, and Rich Chestnut Brown: A Springtime Adventure in Hollókő, Hungary

Forest Green, Brilliant White, and Rich Chestnut Brown: A Springtime Adventure in Hollókő, Hungary
The palette of a relaxing and fun Easter weekend, well worth sharing!

Northern Hungary’s Nógrád County is home to the beautifully preserved Old Village of Hollókő, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and popular Easter destination where I recently spent a wonderful Easter weekend. Why is it such an ideal destination for travelers, families, and photographers alike — and why visit during Easter in Hungary? Let me take you on a journey through the vibes, memorable moments, and practical details like prices and must-see spots. For a quick summary, jump to the end — but for the full experience, read on! :)

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Don’t loose your MARVELs!