Unlike they usually do, most baths will not open on May 1st, but gradually, typically over the long Pentecost weekend. The reason for this is the rise in energy prices, said Zoltán Balogh, Secretary General of the Hungarian Bath Association, in response to an inquiry from MTI.
The baths will operate at full capacity from mid-June, in line with the start of the summer school holidays. Until then, operators must carry out numerous maintenance tasks. In spring, they repair tiling and grout, clean the pools, and refurbish mechanical equipment. After that, the pools are filled with fresh water, the Secretary General explained.
He emphasized that a condition for opening is an on-site inspection by the National Center for Public Health and Pharmacy, during which
the water quality of public pools and natural bathing sites is checked according to a strict, legally prescribed plan.
Pools may only be opened once fresh water sample results are available, Zoltán Balogh added.
Photo: Pexels
Regarding expected ticket prices, he said that member baths of the association have indicated an average increase of 10–15% nationwide for the season, although there is significant variation between individual baths, ranging from 5 to 20%.
The price increase is caused by the high labor demand and rising energy costs, as powerful electric motors are used to operate the pumps. As of January 1, 2024, water and sewage fees have also risen significantly for non-private users, he noted.
Hungary has over 220 baths of tourism significance.
This season sees the reopening of the Galerius Bath in Siófok and the renovation of the sauna area at the Nyíregyháza bath,
the Secretary General noted.
Via MTI, Featured image: Pixabay
