Estonia🇪🇪
Estonia, located in Northern Europe, is a Baltic gem offering visitors the chance to see a tiny dynamic land on the shores of the Baltic Sea. It is bordered to the north by the Gulf of Finland, to the west by the Baltic Sea, to the south by Latvia, and to the east by Lake Peipsi and Russia. The country is known for its unique traditions, rich history, stunning nature, and impressive digital advancement. Top attractions include Tallinn’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, Tartu – the oldest city in the Baltic States and Lahemaa National Park. What makes this country exceptional is its successful implementation of digital solutions, so much so that residents can solve virtually all their administrative tasks online. Estonia is truly a must-visit, especially for those who appreciate a mix of medieval charm and modern comfort.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid making negative comments about Estonia's history as a Soviet Republic. Many Estonians consider this a dark period in their history.
- Avoid disrespectful behavior towards the local culture, traditions, and language. Remember, different doesn't imply inferior.
- Note that it's considered impolite to interrupt a person while they're speaking. Give them time to finish their thought before responding.
- Avoid taking photos of military sites, they could be construed as espionage.
- Avoid public intoxication as it's frowned upon and could result in legal trouble.
- Don't ignore pedestrian rules. Jaywalking is frowned upon, and crossing roads only at designated points is strictly enforced.
- Avoid visiting some areas of the border with Russia. Border disputes can occasionally cause issues. Always ensure you have proper identification while traveling these areas.
- Avoid disrespecting local environmental policies. Estonia is proud of its green spaces and environmental sustainability.
- Don't opt out of health insurance while visiting Estonia. Medical care costs can get high without it, even though the country's healthcare is good.
- Don't camp or make a fire outside designated areas. Estonia has rigid rules to protect its natural sites.
Overall
9
Crime 🔫
7
While crime rates in Estonia are relatively low when compared to other countries, petty crimes like pickpocketing and car theft exist. Tallinn, the capital city, sees higher rates of these petty crimes particularly in tourist hotspots. That said, major crimes are not common, making the country generally safe for residents and tourists alike.
Terrorism 💣
9
Estonia has remained largely immune to terrorism, with no notable incidents of domestic or international terrorism reported in recent years. Even so, the country cooperates actively with international partners in countering terrorism. Additionally, Estonia's Internal Security Service continually implements preventive measures to ensure public safety.
War ⚔️
10
Estonia has enjoyed peaceful relations with its neighbors since gaining full independence in 1991. There have been no recent incidents of war or military conflict involving the country. Estonia belongs to several international organizations like the EU and NATO, which further strengthens its political security.
Natural Disasters 🌊
10
Natural disasters are quite rare in Estonia, with the country facing minimal risk from catastrophic events like earthquakes, severe floods, and volcanic eruptions. However, the country does experience occasional storms and forest fires during hot, dry summers. Overall, the impact of natural disasters on everyday life in Estonia is minimal.
Medical Care 🏥
9
Estonia boasts an efficient healthcare system with modern facilities and competent professionals. Both emergency and non-emergency care usually meet European standards. The country also has a health insurance system that covers all residents. However, longer waiting times for certain procedures and treatments can be a downside.
Tap Water Quality 💧
10
The quality of tap water in Estonia is generally very high. The water undergoes rigorous purification procedures to ensure it's free from contamination. It's safe to drink directly from the tap across the entire country, providing significant convenience for both residents and tourists.
Disease Burden 🤒
9
Estonia has efficient public health measures that keep common infectious diseases like measles, tuberculosis, and influenza under control. Vaccinations are also widely available and administered. However, there is a relatively high prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases.
Corruption 💸
8
Corruption is not pervasive in Estonia. The country continually implements transparency initiatives and enforces strict laws to deter corrupt practices in public and private sectors. However, minor cases of bribery and fraud occasionally surface but are promptly investigated and dealt with.
Safety for Women ♀️
8
Estonia generally provides safe and supportive environments for women. Violent crime against women is rare, and equality between the sexes is heavily promoted. However, instances of domestic violence, while decreasing, still occur and are a concern.
Safety for Queer People 👬
8
Estonia shows a fairly high level of acceptance towards the queer community in comparison with other countries in the region. While homophobic incidents do occur, they're not common, and Estonian society on the whole tends to be tolerant and respectful of individual freedoms and rights.
Censorship 📺
9
Estonia has a high level of freedom of expression and press. Censorship is minimal, and the country actively promotes digital freedom. However, certain comments deemed as inciting violence or are excessively discriminatory can face legal consequences in the interest of maintaining public safety and harmony.
Public Transportation 🚌
9
Estonia's public transportation is excellent. Buses, trolleys, and trains run regularly throughout the country. In the capital city of Tallinn, public transportation is free for residents. Accidents involving public transport are rare, and overall, the system is considered safe, reliable, and efficient.
Other useful information
How safe is it?
Estonia is relatively safe for locals and tourists alike. With a low crime rate, minimal risk from natural disasters, and robust healthcare system, it is an appealing destination for travelers. Regardless, usual safety precautions such as safeguarding personal belongings, respecting local customs and laws, and staying updated with travel advisories should be kept in mind.
Embassies in this Country
Several embassies and consulates are located in Estonia, particularly in the capital, Tallinn. These include the embassies of the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, France, among others.
Recommended Vaccinations
Routine vaccinations like MMR, DTP, Chickenpox, Polio, and yearly flu shots are recommended for everyone. Additionally, Hepatitis A and B, and Tick-borne encephalitis vaccines are specifically recommended for most travelers to Estonia.
Dangerous Animals
Deer ticks (carrying Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis), venomous European adders, and wild boars are some dangerous animals in Estonia. It's advised to take appropriate precautions when exploring forested lands.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of the EU, EEA and several other countries can enter Estonia without a visa for stays up to 90 days. For other countries, a Schengen visa is required.
Currency
The currency of Estonia is the Euro. Money can be exchanged at banks, ATM machines, and currency exchange offices located mostly in larger cities and towns.
Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are widely accepted in Estonia, especially in cities and larger towns. However, it's always good to carry some cash for smaller service locations.
Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Estonia is suitable for work and travel. With its digital nomad visa, the country invites foreign professionals to work remotely while experiencing life in Estonia.
Cost of Travel and Living
Cost of living and travel in Estonia is affordable compared to most Western European countries. Accommodation, transportation, food, and entertainment tend to be reasonably priced.