Uploaded on 2015-10-12 by BlankaBorbely

After long consideration, I have decided that at the moment, my top livability criteria are the following: 1. Political stability - I think it helps to provide the necessary basis for development in different areas (be that education or masterplanning) 2. Education - enhancing creativity and knowledge adds to the character and atmosphere of the city 3. Environment - I personally feel that environmental factors, such as engaging public spaces, greenery, air quality, and architecture are one of the biggest influence on the well-being of a city’s inhabitants. 4. Job opportunities - a necessity for financial stability 5. Culture - In my opinion, a dynamic cultural life is foremost what makes a city interesting, entertaining and attractive. It engages its inhabitants in a diverse range of activities. **2. Why do we live where we live?** I currently live in Budapest. This, for me is a very interesting exercise, because I have decided long ago, that Budapest does not quite fulfil my livability criteria. As a result, I have moved to Aberdeen in Scotland three years ago, where I study. However, at the moment I am back in Budapest for a year of professional experience, before I start my Masters program back in the UK. There are some attributes, that make Budapest very enjoyable for me though, and for this reason I always encourage my friends to visit here. Budapest has a very lively cultural scene: there is a big range of exhibitions, concerts, theatre plays and festivals throughout the year. It also has a uniquely pleasant geographical setting, with amazing architectural and natural sights. The city is divided by the river Danube: Buda has more greenery, parks, and as a consequence, fresh air. Pest is more urbanised, with busy streets and a vibrant night life. They are contrasting, yet they make a great combination. My top five reasons for currently living here are the following: 1. Family connections 2. Lively cultural scene 3. Interesting architectural atmosphere 4. Natural sights, greenery and good air quality (mainly in Buda) 5. Recreational possibilities (e.g. Turkish baths, hiking) ![Pest to the left, Buda to the right][1] ![A Turkish bath (Rudas) at the foot of 'Gellert Hill'][2] ![A typical street in the city][3] **3. To what extend does your own place of residence fulfill your ideal livability criteria?** - Political stability: 30/100 - Personally, I find the current political situation hardly stable. This heavily effects everyday life in the city, and on a bigger scale, in the country as well. - Education: 50/100 - Budapest has the biggest amount of universities compared to other Hungarian cities. However, as the funding of education is not at all a priority, the quality of education has been descending steadily for many years now. As a result, more and more people (like myself) choose to study abroad. - Environment: 80/100 - Personally, I think that this might be the city's biggest strongpoint. It is definitely a pleasant and unique city, and is full of potential. - Job opportunities: 30/100 - Compared to other parts of the country, Budapest has the most job opportunities. (https://www.ksh.hu/docs/eng/xstadat/xstadat_annual/i_qlf030.html) Sadly, this still means that finding employment is incredibly difficult, and the city lacks good, well-payed jobs. Many go and find work abroad. - Culture: 80/100 - Budapest always has a wide range of cultural activities (e.g. exhibitions, theatre, festivals). General livability score: 54/100 **4. What would you change?** I have been working in architectural offices in Budapest for almost half a year now. From what I have seen, planning authorities change the planning law far more often than they need to. Procedures are often a lot more complex than they should be. By simplifying and rationalising planning laws and procedures, I believe that developments in architecture and urban planning could become far more effective. **5. Why do we move?** 1. **Edinburgh** is one of the friendliest cities I have ever been to. The top five reasons for me to move there in order are: better political stability, good education, friendly and tolerant residents, pleasant environment and great cultural life. 2. The top five reasons for me to move to **London** in order are: better political stability, great education, job opportunities, its international nature (ethnical and cultural diversity), and incredible cultural scene. 3. **Rome** would be my third choice. My top five reasons for it in order are: its architecture, cultural events, vibrant street life, recreation possibilities, and its climate. [1]: https://edxuploads.s3.amazonaws.com/14446734618707809.jpg [2]: https://edxuploads.s3.amazonaws.com/14446734882045277.jpg [3]: https://edxuploads.s3.amazonaws.com/14446735374399331.jpg