Tere, Tallinn!

Estonia – Winterfell in the Baltic Kingdom 

History of the country

Estonia is located on the East Coast near the Baltic Sea. Together with Latvia and Lithuania these three countries are often referred to as Baltic countries due to its location and shared past history. As I was born in Lithuania, where a mix of Polish, Lithuanian and Russian language is a common ‘ thing’, seeing a variety of cultures, people and languages in the same country wasn’t a surprise for me.  What’s more, I felt I am in a place so similar to my hometown, like Old Town, narrow streets, Town Hall and way of being is so similar. Also,  the architecture reminded me that the soviet union was present here as well. According to ethnic groups (2019), almost 69% of the population in this country are Estonian, while 25% - Russians, and other minorities include Ukrainians and Belarusians with less than 1% of Finns. At that moment I realized what is the power of languages, as I could freely communicate in the Russian language in many places in the Old Town or in the shops, where the English language was a challenge for older people.

Interestingly, Estonia is one of the fastest-growing countries in the EU with a high-income economy, free education, longest paid maternity leave and the first country which allowed e-residency. Despite the fact Estonia is a small country with the 153rd place on the list of countries according to population (more than 1 mln), I noticed many independent shops, cafes, small-businesses offering high-quality products and services. During the last 6 years, Estonia was developing quickly as it joined the European Union and use the Euro as the currency.   

Personal development conference ‘’Better You’’

During two days in Estonia, I had a chance to visit Tallinn – a beautiful city on the northern coast of Estonia. This largest city  (more than 400 000 population), as well as the capital, caught my eye with its artistic atmosphere, many places for Bohemia and individuals who create music, art or provide education. This time the aim of our trip was the personal development conference ‘’Better You’’, which took place in the city center. One of the most welcomed coaches and motivational speakers was Robin Sharma, who came to Estonia as a part of his Baltic tour. I was so shocked when I realized the size of this conference – 5 000 people from more than 100 countries including Australia, Madagascar, Mauritius or America! The conference was organized by Edu Akadeemia at Saku Suurhall at the Paldiski mnt 104B with the excellent speakers sharing their insights, stories and inspiring others. After the conference I decided I would like to experience the life of the locals, go for a walk in the Old Town and try Estonian food. 

People

I noticed that Estonian people are very calm, mindfulness and prefer to stay neutral both in their opinions as well as outfits. Grey, dark, black colors are common, which correlates with the introverted soul with a minimum of emotional expressions. I noticed that family virtues are very important and the biggest happiness is when the child-student is coming back home for holidays. I saw the warmest and welcoming family, who treated me as part of their family after entering their house. Thus, I had fully experienced Estonian lifestyle and cuisine during these 2 days. 

Delicious Pancakes and traditional dumplings at ‘’Boheem’’ 

My friend suggested going to one of the ‘’bohemian’’ places for lunch, where we could feel Estonian style and design. I liked this place as there were so many little decorations, paintings, pottery and cupboards back from the soviet times which made me feel if I went back to through time. Also, we could have traditional dumplings and crepes, which were very delicious. Also, the size of the crepes made us very happy. You can find this place at Kopli 18 in the city center. For those who would like to be impressed with authenticity this place is the best starting point.

Variety of food, clothes, and chocolates at the Central Market in Tallinn

After the conference, we went to the town to explore more of Estonian culture. Close to the bus station at Keldrimäe 9, I saw a huge market called Keskturg, full of local people buying Christmas presents, handcraft socks, artistic journals, Estonian style clothes and these little chocolates we could not pass by without giving a try. Faust, Amadeus or Carmina Burana? These fascinating names of different flavor chocolates were one more proof that Estonian people are highly creative, intelligent and extremely talented.  

A cold wind from the North and -2 °C was a challenge for two tourists from the UK

Best souvenirs 

• Kalev Chocolate (dark, white with the blueberries, milk, fruity and others – everyone can be satisfied) 

  

• Vana Tallinn liqueur which a dark brown and rum-based liqueur. The original one has 40% alcohol. You can buy it for 9 Eur at the airport (1 L). For those who like sweet flavors and not so strong drinks, Vana Tallinn with Ice Cream or Chocolate may be the option.  

  

• Estonian design jewelry from the local artists (Les Petites, Nu Nordic, Krunnipea Butiik)

 PS. Don't repeat my mistake and accidentally spend more than 5 Euro on Chai latte at the airport in Tallinn...

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