Getting Medieval in Tallinn
The final destination on the Chinese New Year work holiday was in Tallinn, Estonia, which is just a 2 hour ferry ride across the Baltic Sea. Without a doubt, it’s not enjoyable if you have a weak stomach. The bulk of the ship’s course is truly a rollercoaster. Back and forth, back and forth. I was foolish to think a nap was an option!
The Charming Streets of Old Town Tallinn
All the while, most travelers try to keep their cool and make sure all of the stumbling isn’t too obvious. Good thing there’s a solid English Premier League game and free WiFi to distract from the choppy ride. It’s a rough experience, but the small financial commitment and practicality of the journey is just too good to pass up.
Small in Size, Colossal in Charm
Tallinn has many similarities to Helsinki. In general, it’s a small city with around 400,000 inhabitants, but it packs a punch. The Old Town has unbelievable charm, creating an experience like living in the medieval era. Cobblestone streets lined with old restaurants, churches, and a castle that’s held existence since the 9th Century. Upon arrival at the Merchant’s House Hotel, the service was incredible. Without request, an upgrade to a suite was granted and dinner reservations at the best restaurant in the city provided. The best part about that was the manager called himself, and fought to squeeze us in when the restaurant had no availability. I can’t recall too many times in my travels where this has happened, and I have so much respect for people that understand the value of customer service.
No Time to Waste in Tallinn
Seize the moment. I had only one night in this little country and I was going to make each minute count. I decided to get lost in the Old Town first, and it was quickly evident that the country values preserving its history. It was peaceful and enchanting.
Along the way I was approached by an older woman from a local church. She informed me that she spoke English, as well as a few other languages, and offered to help in any way that she could. I asked her to show me the way to the castle entrance because the sun would be setting soon, and with a smile she kindly led me on my way. Incredible! When we arrived she told me to be careful and waved goodbye. If that doesn’t make you feel good in an unfamiliar place, what will?
Medieval Castles in Estonia
Along the Toompea Castle walls is a great spot to view the entire city and adjoining coastline. I spent about an hour up there clearing my head, taking in the beauty of the transition from day to night. The exchange of lights is impressive from a place like that. As the light of the sun fades away, the lights of the city bring it back to life. I’m no poet, but it’s pretty spectacular. Afterwards I stopped in the beautiful St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral alongside the castle. I knew there was a service taking place and my curiosity wouldn’t let me just walk by. The atmosphere was much like those of the cathedrals in Moscow and St. Petersburg, and it comes as no surprise considering Russians make up over a third of the population here.
Dinner at Rataskaevu 16 was incredible, and I have a pretty good idea why the service was so good at one of Tallinn’s hottest restaurants. The hotel manager was only able to squeeze our reservation in because he explained who he was and claimed the reservation was actually for him. I only realized this towards the end, when the waitress called me by his name. We had a good laugh…well played by him.
Back to the meal…roasted elk with blackcurrant sauce and plenty of homemade bread…all washed down with a local IPA. Delicious Estonian cuisine at a reasonable price. I walked the streets a bit more and made the pleasant discovery that the people of Tallinn share my appreciation for a good Shisha. Is the fascination obvious yet? I challenge anyone to present a more relaxing activity to complete the day!
