Travel guide – estonia
estonia
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Overview
Estonia, the northern Baltic land of primeval forests, rivers, bogs, lakes and sea islands, has one of the smallest populations of any country in the world, and most of the people have opted for city life, leaving the countryside rather wild and filled with rare birds, plants and roaming deer, elk, wild boar, bears and wolves. The low, largely flat landscape is also dotted with relics of Estonia's medieval glory, when the Teutonic knights reigned supreme and built castles which are now left as decaying hulks, testifying to the wealth of the traders who made use of the country's ports. The main port, Tallinn, today still the capital city, was part of the mighty Hanseatic League in the 13th century. Its medieval prosperity has given the romantic city a wealth of attractions for modern-day tourists to explore. Historical and natural attractions are only one reason why Estonia is experiencing an upsurge in tourism. The country is sandwiched between east and west Europe, also easily accessible from the south, offering fresh and unspoilt opportunities for those who enjoy the Nordic experience. The country lies along the Baltic Sea, just below Finland, with Russia to the east and Latvia to the south. Estonia has only recently (in 1991) thrown off the shackles of Soviet domination, and a vibrant spirit of freedom and rebirth pervades the air not only in the capital but also the lively university town of Tartu, the busy industrial centre of Narva and the idyllic summer vacation capital of Pärnu on the south-western coast.
Regions and cities within Estonia...
Tallinn
Climate
Estonia has a temperate climate, with warm summers and severe winters. Temperatures range from a summer average of 70°F (30°C) to an average in winter of 18°F (-8°C). Being on the Baltic Sea the country is subjected to sea breezes and humidity, and its northern latitude means long summer daylight hours (the longest summer day stretches to 19 hours), and dark winters when daylight lasts sometimes only six hours. The cold winter does not necessarily mean constant snow; in fact snowfalls are few and far between. When it falls it stays though, and there tends to be a layer of snow on the ground constantly between December and March. Summertime brings unexpected rain showers, so an umbrella and light raincoat are recommended.
Health
No vaccinations are required for entry to Estonia, but it is highly recommended that adults be immunised for tetanus and diphtheria if they have not been vaccinated for these diseases during the preceding 10 years. Medical insurance is vital. Estonia's medical professionals are highly trained but resources and equipment are sadly lacking. Immediate cash payment is expected from visitors requiring health care. There is a reciprocal health agreement with the UK and most EU countries, whose citizens are entitled to free medical and dental treatment on presentation of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Medical insurance is advised for other nationalities.
The basics
Time
Local time is GMT +2 (GMT +3 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October.
Electricity
The electricity supply in Estonia is 220 volts AC, 50 Hz. European-style 2-pin plugs are in use.
Language
Locals speak Estonian, which is part of the Finno-Ugric family of languages. English is widely used and understood, however, particularly among the younger generation and those involved in the tourist industry.
Tipping
Tipping is not a common practice, but there is a growing trend to leave tips in restaurants; generally 5-10% of the bill. Taxi drivers appreciate the spare change.
Safety
Visits to Estonia are usually trouble free, but with an increase in tourism there has also been an increase in tourist-related crime. There is a risk of pick-pocketing and mugging around Tallinn's Old Town, at ferry ports and major hotels. Be vigilant and take precautions like avoiding unlit side streets and parks after dark. Following the death of former President, Lennart Meri, there will be two national days of mourning on 25-26 March 2006; visitors should be careful not to offend local sensitivities during this period.
Communications
The International dialling code for Estonia is +372 and the outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). The country has area codes, except for the capital, Tallinn. Pay phones using cards are freely available from hotel reception desks, tourist information offices, post offices, news stands and some shops. There is a GSM mobile network available. There are several Internet cafes in Tallinn, and public Internet access is also available at the Central Library, National Library and Central Post Office.
Duty Free
Travellers to Estonia do not have to pay duty on tobacco and alcohol purchased within the EU provided they are for personal consumption. Travellers over 18 years arriving from non-EU countries do not have to pay duty on goods to the value of €175. The following items are duty-free: 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco; 1 litre spirits higher than 22% alcohol volume or 2 litres spirits or aperitifs with alcohol content lower than 22% (includes sparkling wines, liquer wines, still wine and beer). Goods for personal consumption include 50g perfume, 250ml eau de toilette; and medical products for personal use.
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