gone....to Eastonia

Well, here we are in Estonia. Monday 17th of September, 2007.
First impressions...Easy to get to, pretty, uncrowded, so quiet.
The people wear quite serious expressions, but, given their recent history, it is not surprising!
Go to the Museum of Occupation! People speak very little English so conversations are limited, stilted and even abrupt. Persevere, there are some nice people out there!
The old town is a curious mixture of ornate and brightly painted Baroque merchant houses, quite large wooden houses, like those I saw in America but strange building materials for the cold and snow , and tall Soviet blocks with nothing to recommend them except serviceability. The tall spires and red roofs of the old town reminds me of Prague. It is difficult to distinguish the use of buildings as they tend to have no distinguishing features and are often behind tall iron gates. A cafe, a school and a museum can be indistinguishable at first glance.
There seems to be no accessibility for disability in the 3 inch threshholds, the 12 inch high steps
and the cobbles like boulders. It feels safe but there are opportunist thieves around so keep your bag across your shoulder and under your coat, for peace of mind.
Our hostel is clean and tidy. It is easy to relax and meander. There are many good cafes and beer cellars. It is a good start....