Estonia

My travels to Estonia went better than I ever hoped for, the journey took me on a ferry across the Baltic Sea, past the stone watchtowers at the Viru Gate, into the lively medieval Old Town, and then overland through scenic forests with every shade of green.

GETTING THERE

Estonia is one of the Baltic Countries, across the water from Scandinavia and it borders Russia on the eastern side. Many travelers arrive in Estonia at the international airport in Tallinn TLL. Others come by bus, train or by sea.

The Tallink ferry to Estonia from Finland was exceptionally good, better than any ferry I’ve ever seen. It had many lounges, high end restaurants, fast eateries, two levels of duty free shopping and bars with great views!

AMAZING EXCURSIONS

Estonia’s capital city of Tallinn was famous for its well preserved medieval Old Town. The whole area was a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it was a charming living reminder of days gone by. I entered through the remains of the Viru Gate watchtowers, and discovered all the historic buildings were very well cared for. In the main square, there was an impressive Gothic Town Hall, the stunning tall spire of St. Olaf’s Church, many outdoor cafes, busy pubs, and lots of shops.

Tallinn itself was a modern port city, with a mix of new buildings and old brick ones, small stores and big name brands, even casinos! The city had many little narrow alleys with stone pathways and an extensive luxury coach system connecting it with other countries.

I explored the Estonian countryside not far from the coast. It was mostly flat, with small grain fields, family farms, and lots of beautiful forests, filled with Pines, Spruces, and Birch Trees with their distinctive tall white trunks.

I really liked the food in Estonia! In Old Town, I ate a delicious meal of Elk Meat Soup, no utensils, just crockery bowls like people would have in the past! In addition, there was flavorful Alder Smoked Cheese, sweet Cloudberry Jam which is like a raspberry but orange-pink-yellow with a adelicate taste , many unusual Honeys mixed with herbs or spices, plus there were different fresh flaky pastry snacks with various fillings inside. All of it inexpensive and very tasty!

My trip to Estonia exceeded my expectations! From the vibrant Old Town with its well-kept historic buildings, to the tranquil countryside, and the fabulous food, it was a trip to remember and a country I hope to return to some day!