Erasmus Experience in Tallinn, Estonia by Maria

Why did you choose to go to Tallinn, Estonia?

Because I had very few options and the idea of going far away, to somewhere very different to Spain, was very appealing to me.

The city of Tallinn

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How long did you stay there? How much was your grant?

Four months, I didn't receive a grant as I am a 'Freemover'.

The more modern part of Tallinn

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What is the student life like in Tallinn?

Very good, the Technology University of Tallinn has been completely newly renovated and the teachers are very approachable.

The University of Technology in Tallinn has been completely renovated

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Would you recommend the University of Tallinn to other students?

Yes, I would recommend it to everyone, without a doubt.

Students in Tallinn

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What is the country's food like?

There's not a lot of variation but you are able to find almost everything there.

Restaurants in Tallinn

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Was it hard to find accommodation in Tallinn?

Not really, because I started to look for accommodation very early on, although I suggest you go for one of the University residences, it's the best option as long as you don't have a problem sharing a room.

A residence at the University of Tallin

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What is the cost of living like in Tallinn?

It depends a lot on how much you spend when you go to parties, how many times a week you go out and how many beers you buy haha!

A bar in Tallinn

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What is the language learning like? Did you take a course offered by the University

Estonian is impossible to learn, and not very useful; if you speak English you will have no problem as everyone speaks very good English. At the University I took Estonian language and culture as a class, not because it was necessary, but because it seemed interesting to learn a bit of about the culture and language of the country which I was living in.

What is the cheapest way of getting to Tallinn from your city?

I think that the most expensive way is by plane, from Madrid there is no direct flight and it is quite expensive; you have to plan it in advance, and I flew with Finnair.

What places would you recommend for a night out in Tallinn?

Any of the parties organised by ESN Tallinn are great.

A party organised by ESN Tallinn

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On Wednesdays, there is a pub where you can have any drink for 1 euro, called Club Münt, and at the weekends my favourite club is Privé (search on Facebook to keep up to date with events).

Club Privé

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What about eating out in Tallinn? What are your favourite places?

The gastronomy is somewhat lacking but in Tallinn city you can find really good places to eat for little money. The best recommendation that I can give you is the brocolli soup at Dubliner's and any of the hamburgers at Living Room.

Living Room has excellent hamburgers.

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In the University cafeterias you can also eat a good meal.

What about for a cultural visit?

The old medieval castle of Tallinn has the most beautiful views that I have ever seen.

Tallinn Castle

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Estonian culture is very different from that of Spain, and it's very rewarding to get to know the locals and exchange opinions with one another.

Do you have any advice for students coming to Tallinn in the future?

Keep an open mind, this goes for every person going abroad, if you are tolerant and open to new experiences, you will have no problems. Enjoy it as much as you can and travel a lot, do not leave all the travelling to the last month as you will find you won't have the time!

There are lots of international students in Tallin

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