Information for parents

What your child will experience—the exclusive events, access, quality offerings in programs—simply cannot be found in any tourist catalogue.

Program Background and Objectives

Reconnect Hungary - Hungarian Birthright Program is a public-private partnership supported by Hungarian American and Canadian organizations and the Government of Hungary. The special partnership also encompasses, of course, the exceptional young people selected to participate in the program, as well as the generous support of Hungarian-American individual and corporate sponsors who make this journey affordable for your child and your family. Your cooperation in this exciting partnership is vital and appreciated.

The program provides the gift of a peer-group heritage and cultural immersion trip to Hungary for Hungarian-American young adults between the ages of 18 and 28 aimed at fostering their self-discovery. The program is a result of the vision of Allison Pataki, daughter of former New York State Governor George E. Pataki, who grasped the growing need among young Hungarian-Americans, like herself, to be able to rediscover their Hungarian heritage with a view to the future as well. (If you haven't done it yet, read Allison's thoughtful message and her brother Theodore’s memories of Hungary!)

The experiences gathered in such a short time—the knowledge and new perspectives gained, the friendships and networks forged—will last your child a lifetime. They will meet the innovators and young leaders of a country at the intersection of a rich culture and colorful history. 

How you can help

Your active involvement and generous support are key to Reconnect Hungary's success. After all, the goal is to enrich the life of your child, deepen family traditions, and nurture community bonds.

Due to the generosity of supporters like you, we are able to offer this life-changing experience for your child for only $2,100 (click here to see what is included).

You can make your child's dream of visiting your ancestral homeland a reality by providing the Reconnect Hungary experience as the gift for that milestone in their lives: a special birthday, high school or college graduation present, or for getting that first job or promotion.

You can support any other qualified young adult in their journey of self-discovery as well. Please visit the Support the Journey section to learn more and make your contribution today.

Logistics and Safety

Reconnect Hungary is your young adult's personal experience, but relatives play a key role in the participants' journey. During the trip, parents, relatives and friends will be able to find updates on the program's Facebook page about the group's experiences as they are occurring. The participants will receive contact information for the program organizers in Hungary as well.

Your child's personal safety will be our top priority. Therefore, we require that s/he obtain travel insurance prior to departure. Also, it is mandatory that your child let us know of any allergies or medical conditions that require regular medication or special attention.

Hungary is no more dangerous than any other European country and Budapest is similarly as safe as any other capital city. [Hungary has not been the target of any terrorist activity and is a close ally of the United States and Canada through many channels, such as NATO and OSCE.] We advise common sense in hiding valuables (camera, smart phone, wallet, and so on) in crowded places and keeping belongings in sight. The bilingual program coordinator, who will accompany the group throughout the stay in Hungary, will always assess the safety of a situation and guide the participants appropriately. Please feel free to contact us directly with any questions before, during or after the trip.