Abstract
This article addresses methodological challenges during preparation and data collection that the researcher faced while conducting a research project in Hungary and Russia. The article discusses methodological decisions on the basis of the comparative study that had to incorporate not only the researcher's aim but also the agenda of the research participants. It argues that in a qualitative study that explores and describes a new area of research, flexibility, cultural sensitivity and the accommodation of local ideas are essential. First, the article briefly describes the content of the research project and offers a short summary of the contextual understanding of Hungary and Russia. The main part of the article relates to the qualitative research method with its country-specific approach.