One of the best places to buy Estonian handicrafts is at St.Martin's Fair. Each year the event runs for three days at Tallinn's Saku SuurHall. Many wonderful Estonian handmade goods can be found here as well as traditional Estonian food, folk music, demonstrations and workshops. I've been to the fair and I was really impressed. The event will take place from 9 - 11 November 2023. More information can be found on the Mardilaat website.
Ilus Eesti, beautiful Estonia. My family's homeland. Estonia's countryside and people have an endearing gentleness about them which you fall in love with slowly and imperceptibly. I have nothing but respect and admiration for Estonians' courage and determination to survive despite centuries of repression, tyranny and foreign occupation. This blog aims to promote Estonian news, history and culture and seeks to enlighten readers about everything this unique country has to offer.
Tuesday, 31 October 2023
Sunday, 29 October 2023
Five of the best historic hotels in Tallinn
In the 13th century Tallinn was a thriving Hanseatic trading centre where merchants and nobles from all across Europe came to do business. During those medieval times many stone building were constructed and still stand today, some 500 years later. Many of those buildings have been renovated and converted into hotels to enable us to step back in time and enjoy a bit of history.
Here are five of the best heritage hotels in Tallinn.
Schlössle Hotel
A former merchant's house located in the Old Town, the Schlössle Hotel has been beautifully restored retaining many of its orginal features. It has elegantly appointed bedrooms and public areas, all combined with the latest technology and comfort.
Telegraaf Hotel
The Telegraaf Hotel is considered the most luxurious five-star hotel in Tallinn. The historic building was constructed in 1878 and was formerly a post office. During World War II, the building served as the main hub for telegraph communications, so when it became a hotel, it was named the Telegraaf Hotel to commemorate its rich history.
The Three Sisters Hotel
The Three Sisters Hotel comprises three former merchant houses that were renovated and united in 2003 to create this luxury boutique hotel. The buildings date back to 1362 and are located on Pikk Street, which was Tallinn's main artery of commerce during the Middle Ages.
The Three Sisters Boutique Hotel is located at Pikk 71, Tallinn
Hotel Barons
A truly charming hotel located in the heart of Old Town, Hotel Barons is set within two buildings, the first dating back to the 15th century and the second a former bank building. This hotel has retained many of its classic art nouveau features which make for a very pleasant stay. All rooms are comfortable and stylish and within walking distance of Tallinn's main attractions.
Hotel Barons is located at Suur-Karja 7/ Väike-Karja 2, Tallinn
Thursday, 26 October 2023
Tuesday, 24 October 2023
Monday, 23 October 2023
I found a new Estonian relative - Uku Suviste
After reading the ERR news story about Uku Suviste discovering he has some cousins who are also singers, it prompted me to do a search on Geni.com and I found that I am related to Uku too. We are 6th cousins. My grandmother, whose family comes from Võru, is related to Uku's mother Heli. Now I realise why I liked his Eurovision entry so much, great lyrics, writing must be in the genes!
Sunday, 22 October 2023
This year's Gingerbread Mania theme is 'Film'
Each year the team at PiparkoogiMaania / Gingerbread Mania create a fantastic display of gingerbread art. Around 100 Estonian artists contribute to the exhibition that is one of the most popular events in Tallinn during the Christmas period. This year's theme is 'Film' and the exhibition will run from 1st December 2023 until 7th January 2024.
Gingerbread Mania is located at Pärnu mnt 6, Tallinn. More information can be found here.









