Yesterday, Valerie took the kids to the Budapest Zoo. It is a good zoo and the kids always have a great time. In the case, a good way to celebrate the end of summer.
The Zoo is located in the City Park (Varosliget) and parking is pretty scarce. In the US, that would be a major problem, but here in Europe there are plenty of parking spaces (sidewalks, curbs, and any other open spaces near the road). In fact, it is totally legal and expected for you to park on the curb/sidewalk.
So, Valerie, in true European form, parked on the sidewalk. When she returned to her car, she found a $50 parking ticket. There were no signs saying no parking, no parking meters,etc . . . Also, we have parked there many times before.
When I had a Hungarian translate the ticket for me, I found out that it is illegal to put All 4 tires on the sidewalk. Two tires is fine, just not all four. Sounds like a parking policeman with a quota.
This is another one we can add to what we call, “Stupid American Tax” There is a cost to being a dumb foreigner and the bill today was $50. I think I need a new budget category.
It sounds cool that you went to the Zoo. At least there weren’t any electronics for Tom to work with… ! ) And as far as parking goes, I think American’s are just as crazy but it’s fun that you guys get to participate in that lovely tax!