Estonia

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Hello everybody,
It was the weekend before I left for Russia, so I took the ferry across the Gulf of Finland to Estonia. It is one of the countries under Soviet domination for so many years. They are proud of their independance.

I arrived on a Friday afternoon. In the other countries I found that booking a hotel in advance didn't work. Most of them lie about the distance from the train station--a ten minute walk is more like 25 and I would pass lots of places on the way that would have been just fine. So I thought that a room wouldn't be a problem. I found out right away that there was a big festival going on--"Old Town Days." It is like the waterfront festival, but with more drinking. That is the good news--lots of activities and so on. The bad news is that there was nothing in accommodation. I was starting to panic--I couldn't get a ferry back until the next day--so I had a choice between a five star hotel at $300. or a youth hotel. Those who know me already know the decision I made. Actually the hostel wasn't that bad, especially for $20. a night. They said the lower bunks were all taken leaving only upper bunks. One of the young guys saw the look of panic on face and offer to switch with me. I wore my money belt to bed and kept my fanny pack under the covers. I slept well considering all the snoring. Oh well, I wanted an adventure!
Bye for now,
Donna

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Photos

1
The faces of Estonia.

2
The faces of Estonia.

3
The faces of Estonia.

4
The faces of Estonia.

5
There was a dogshow in Estonia and many of the dogs travelled on the ferry.

6
A Blue Great Dane.

7
This Newfoundland won lots of ribbons.

8
Remember what I said about Finns' drinking habits? Booze is a lot cheaper in Estonia, so many Finns go for the weekend and then stock up before returning home.

Comments

[Selma]

A lesson I hope you learned
So you stayed in a youth hostel. Good for you. Next time though you might want to check the current events. Thw beer is an interesting shot but the dogs are beautiful. Selma

[Marg Hambly]

Plan Ahead...
I can't believe that you of all people - the one who covers every detail when planning anything - decided to 'wing it' on accommodations! Glad you had a thoughtful 'bunk partner' who let you have the bottom. I bet you enjoyed the dog show,eh. Take care and be sure to call ahead next time!!! Marg