In March 2024, I made my second visit to Tallinn, the capital city of Estonia. My first visit was a brief one in November 2019, lasting only a day, but this time, I spent four days – having more time for the exploration of the city.
Back in 2019, I was surprised to find that Estonia felt more “Nordic” than I had anticipated. I had mistakenly believed its people would be more “Slavic” like those in the other Baltic nations. Despite the remnants of the Soviet era, this small nation is swiftly modernizing, a significant effort to move beyond the decades of Soviet occupation.
Sadly, in 2024, Estonia once again feels the heavy breath and looming presence of Russia.
What struck me most was my experience with airBaltic, the airline I used for my round trip from Amsterdam. In contrast to some of the “older” carriers like Lufthansa or Air France, airBaltic could teach them a thing or two. Lufthansa, in comparison, seemed more like a budget airline next to airBaltic’s clean, spacious, and modern planes, all offered at reasonable prices.
Tallinn is witnessing significant development, including the construction of a new tram line.
However, what I appreciate the most is the ability to explore the city without the overwhelming presence of tourists that one finds in places like Amsterdam. Even though I was a tourist myself, the experience underscored the importance of maintaining a balance between tourists and local residents. Excessive tourism, in my opinion, detracts from the travel experience and can be a nuisance to locals. Tallinn serves as an excellent example of how to maintain this balance effectively.
What stroke me the most was the airBaltic airline, I was flying with from (and to) Amsterdam. Many of the “old” airlines like Lufthansa or Air France could learn a lot from this little Baltic airline. Particularly Lufthansa looks like a low cost airline compared to airBatlic. The planes were clean, spacious modern and with excellent service with reasonable price.
Tallinn is currently undergoing major contstruction projects with a new tram line.
But maybe the most important – it is so great to do some sightseeing without millions of tourists every day like it is Amsterdam. While myself I was a tourist as well … but it shows that it is important to balance – tourists and native inhabitants. Mass tourisms, in my view, destroys travelling experience and irritates locals. Â Tallinn is a good example where this balance is well kept.Â