Estonia: Where the Weather is Crap, and the People are Even Crapier
TL;DR: Estonia is the armpit of Europe, a place where people go to die of boredom and eat sauerkraut for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
You'll Love Estonia if:
- You're a fan of cold, wet, and windy weather
- You think that vodka is a perfectly acceptable breakfast beverage
- You're interested in learning the Estonian language, which is spoken by about 1.1 million people worldwide (mostly Estonians)
- You love the outdoors (but only in the summer, when you can get out of the house without freezing to death)
You'll Hate Estonia if:
- You're looking for a lively and vibrant culture
- You're not a fan of meat and potatoes
- You're allergic to mosquitoes
- You're looking for a place to go on a romantic getaway (unless you enjoy cold showers and endless vodka shots)
Here's What You Need to Know Before You Go to Estonia:
- The weather is awful. Like, really awful. Be prepared for rain, wind, and cold temperatures all year round.
- The food is bland. Really bland. Estonia is famous for its sauerkraut (pickled cabbage), but that's about it. Don't expect any Michelin-starred restaurants here.
- The people are unfriendly. Estonians are known for their cold and distant demeanor. Don't expect any warm smiles or friendly greetings.
- The nightlife is nonexistent. There is nothing to do in Estonia after dark. Seriously, nothing.
- The language is impossible to learn. It is among the toughest languages to grasp, so don't bother trying unless you have a lot of time on your hands.
- The country is boring. Estonia is a very flat country with little to see or do. Unless you're a fan of hiking, biking, or fishing, you'll probably be bored to tears.
- The politicians are corrupt. Estonia is notoriously corrupt. Don't be surprised if you see politicians driving around in fancy cars or living in lavish mansions.
What to Do in Estonia
If you're planning a trip to Estonia, be sure to check out these must-see attractions:
- The Estonian National Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of Estonia. It's a great place to learn about the country's past and present.
- The Tallinn Old Town: Tallinn Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a beautiful medieval town with cobblestone streets, old churches, and charming shops.
- The Lahemaa National Park: This national park is home to a variety of forests, lakes, and rivers. It's a great place to go hiking, biking, or fishing.
- The Soomaa National Park: This national park is known for its bogs and mires. It's a great place to go birdwatching or take a boat tour.
- The Estonian Maritime Museum: This museum is dedicated to the maritime history of Estonia. It's a great place to learn about the country's seafaring traditions.
Where to Stay in Estonia
There are a variety of hotels and guesthouses in Estonia. Here are a few of the most popular options:
- The Hotel Telegraaf: This 5-star hotel is located in the heart of Tallinn Old Town. It's a luxurious hotel with a variety of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and a rooftop bar.
- Hotel St. Peter: This 4-star hotel is located in the center of Tallinn. It's a historic hotel with a charming atmosphere.
- The Park Inn by Radisson Meriton Conference & Spa Hotel Tallinn: This 4-star hotel is located in the business district of Tallinn. It's a modern hotel with a variety of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and a restaurant.
- The Hestia Hotel Europa: This 3-star hotel is located in the center of Tallinn. It's a budget-friendly hotel with a variety of amenities, including a restaurant and a bar.
Where to Eat in Estonia
There are a variety of restaurants in Estonia. Here are a few of the most popular options:
- Olde Hansa: This restaurant is located in Tallinn Old Town. It's a medieval-themed restaurant that serves traditional Estonian food.
- Kompressor: This restaurant is located in Tallinn. It's a modern restaurant that serves Estonian and international cuisine.
- Noa: This restaurant is located in Tallinn. It's a fine-dining restaurant that serves modern Estonian cuisine.
- Põhjaka Manor Restaurant: This restaurant is located in Põhjaka. It's a historic restaurant that serves traditional Estonian food.
How to Get Around Estonia
Estonia is a small country that is easy to get around. There are a variety of transportation options available, including buses, trains, and ferries.
- Buses: Buses are the most common way to get around Estonia. They are affordable and reliable.
- Trains: Trains are a good option for longer distances. They are comfortable and scenic.
- Ferries: Ferries are a great way to get to the islands of Estonia. They are affordable and reliable.
Estonia: The Perfect Place for a Drab and Depressing Vacation
If you're looking for a fun and exciting vacation, Estonia is not the place for you. But if you're looking for a place to go to die of boredom, then Estonia is the perfect destination. Enjoy the cold, wet, and windy weather and the bland food. And don't forget to try the national beverage, vodka. Prost!
If you know, you know…
What do you call an Estonian who is always getting lost?
A lost Estonian.
Expansive Summary
Estonia is a country that is often overlooked by tourists. But for those who are looking for a truly unique and unforgettable experience, Estonia is the perfect destination.
Estonia is a land of contrasts. It is a country with a rich history and culture, but it is also a country that is rapidly modernizing. Estonia is a country of natural beauty, but it is also a country that is home to some of the most polluted cities in Europe.
Estonia is a country that is full of surprises. It is a country that is both charming and frustrating, both beautiful and ugly. But it is a country that is always worth visiting.
So if you're looking for a vacation that is anything but ordinary, then Estonia is the place for you. Just be sure to pack your rain gear and your sense of humor.