By: Claudia Sampson, Royal Roads University, winner of the Winter 2026 BC Study Abroad: Stories from Abroad Scholarship
Study Abroad Destination: Hungary
A boat cruise on the Danube was a memorable way to begin my time in Budapest. Seeing the Parliament, Buda Castle, and the city’s bridges from the water made an incredible first impression. Two weeks later, I still find myself looking up as I walk to class. The architecture is beautiful, and history seems to be part of everyday life. It isn’t something you visit. It’s simply part of the city.
While Budapest is known for its landmarks, some of my favourite moments have been much simpler. I’ve been exploring the city with one of my Royal Roads cohorts, who is also a close friend. Between classes, we’ve wandered through different neighbourhoods, discovered cafés, and spent hours walking without much of a plan. Those moments have helped me get to know the city beyond the places everyone recommends.
Being in class has been just as interesting. Most of my classmates are from different parts of Asia, while our professor is the only European in the room. I noticed right away that classroom participation is different from what I’m used to. Many students wait until they’re invited to contribute instead of volunteering their thoughts. It has been interesting to experience how different educational and cultural backgrounds shape the way people communicate and participate, especially in a course that explores the relationship between Europe and Asia.
One of my favourite parts of the day has become stopping at the same little café near my apartment for coffee. I think the man behind the counter is the owner, and every time I go in, I seem to have a new Hungarian word or phrase to try. He always smiles, patiently corrects my pronunciation, and teaches me something new before I leave. Those conversations only last a minute or two, but they have reminded me that making an effort to learn even a little of the local language can completely change an interaction.
One thing that felt familiar was the traffic. Drivers move fast, which reminds me much more of Mexico City than of Victoria. At the same time, Budapest feels very safe. Even late in the evening, people are still walking, meeting friends, and enjoying cafés and public spaces. I love that the city feels alive throughout the week, not just on weekends.
Halfway through my time here, I find myself remembering the everyday moments as much as the famous sights. A conversation after class, a walk through a neighbourhood I hadn’t seen before, or a coffee with a new Hungarian phrase have become some of the best parts of this experience. I came here for the academic experience, but I’ve realized that some of the most memorable lessons don’t come from a lecture or a landmark. They come from paying attention to the people you meet and the small routines that gradually make an unfamiliar place feel familiar.