ESTONIA IS THE WORLD LEADER IN E-SERVICES
ESTONIA IS THE WORLD LEADER IN E-SERVICES
The Republic of Estonia is a small, developed Baltic country in Northern Europe, and its capital is Tallinn. Estonia is closest to Finland and was previously part of the Soviet Union. The country is famous for its many castles, museums, lush forests, strong family values, e-technology, and its medieval, historic capital, Tallinn. Estonia has over 1,500 islands, 1,000 lakes, and 7,000 rivers. It is a developed, high-income, clean, and safe country. It is closer to being a rich country than a poor one and cheaper than many other European countries. However, what is most prominent is Estonia is the world leader in e-services, plus other digital advancements. Keep reading to see what else Estonia offers.
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Why Estonia is the world Leader in E-services?!
Estonia is the world leader in e-services because they have gone full speed ahead to digitalize the country by shifting almost everything to paperless and online. They were the first worldwide to introduce online voting, and online provision of public services is now the norm. In Estonia, they also view free internet accessibility as a right than a privilege. Consequently, all Estonians can access services as long as they have access to a phone or computer.
E-stonia has a system called eID which offers all citizens a state-issued digital identity called E-ID. They use this ID to pay bills, access health care, shop online, vote, etc. Additionally, they offer this same ID to citizens outside of Estonia who signed up for E-residency. E-residents can use it on their smartphones on the App Smart-ID to run their business and access business services only online. However, Estonian residents can access services such as shopping, e-tax, e-banking, e-business registration, e-school, e-ambulance, e-prescription, etc.One should note that 99% of Government services are online 24/7. With the availability of these- services, one can see why Estonia is the world leader in e-services.
What is E-residency, and is it free?
They launched the E-residency service in 2014. It costs 100 Euros, and it is for five years. The e-residency helps non-Estonian e-entrepreneurs to start and manage a business in Estonia from anywhere in the world. They can access Estonian services such as applying for a bank account, conducting e-banking, taxation, payment processing, declaring taxes, and digitally signing documents, etc., all done online.
ENTRY INTO TALLINN/ESTONIA
Entry into the Lennart Meri Tallinn International Airport was a breeze. It is a small, clean, and user-friendly airport. For those overnighting at an airport, you will love this one. It is warm and cozy and has simple sleeping areas. Tallinn airport has the comfort of your living room, and they designed and decorated some areas likewise.
It is one of the nicest, small airports I have used. Additionally, it has a library where you can read and return the book at a later time (based on trust). There is also a gym (at terminal 6), near gate 8 you can play chess or table tennis, and at gate 5 there is a children’s play area. Wi-Fi is available throughout, and also lots of charging ports. It is an impressive and beautifully decorated airport which surprised me because, in most cases, most small airports are simple and drab, but this doesn’t apply in Estonia.
The Immigration/T.S.A section was small, and the officers were neither here nor there on the friendliness scale. I received no questions such as; length of stay, proof of accommodation, etc.. nothing! The luggage section was well-organised and easy to maneuver. After luggage pickup, it was a quick and easy exit.
TRANSPORT OPTIONS FROM THE AIRPORT TO THE CITY
Getting to the city from the airport is quick and easy. It takes less than 20 minutes, which is quite convenient and cheap. There are six transport options to the city; Buses (the most economical, and take an average of 20 minutes). The train (the same price as the bus and takes an average of 20 minutes). Trams (line 4 takes under 20 minutes and is the same price as the bus and train).
Taxis (takes 15 minutes), and ride-share apps such as Bolt and Uber (cheaper than a taxi and only 8 Euros). Even though a taxi is the most expensive option, it is still a very affordable option around 10 Euros). In comparison with Luxembourg, the same distance in a taxi cost me 40 Euros.
ABOUT THE CITY TALLINN
Tallinn is the capital and the largest city in Estonia. It is also its main financial, cultural, political, and educational center. Yes, it is medieval, but also a modern city. In Old Town, it still maintains the walls surrounding it, the towers, and gothic buildings that date back to the 13th and 15th centuries.
Old Town is a tourist hub. It is full of many cafes and restaurants. Be sure to wear the correct shoes because it is all cobblestone paths to navigate it. The roofs of the buildings are mainly red terracotta, which gives life to the city. Old Town in Tallinn is one of the two UNESCO cities in Estonia and one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe.
What is most prominent is it is one of the top digital and smart cities in
the world because of the many online services it provides. Moreover, they will soon introduce free self-driving (unmanned ) pods/buses (capable of transporting eight passengers) and delivery robots by the summer. In Tallinn, and by extension all of Estonia, public transport is free for residents (not visitors), unlike Luxembourg, where it is free for both locals and visitors.
One thing that left me somewhat disappointed was the lack of or no free public Wi-Fi, because their mantra is free internet access is a human right and not a luxury. I was expecting free Wi-Fi throughout the city, but unfortunately, this was not so. I was disappointed because, in Tirana, Albania (an impoverished country), free Wi-Fi was available in all public places.
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The city is clean, walkable, and has a relaxing and chill vibe. I certainly love the cleanliness of the streets and the air as well. From my observation, I saw no garbage pile-ups, homeless people, or beggars, and no stray animals. Maybe because of the time of year when it was snowing, and every day, temperatures were between -5 and -9°C.
It is a beautiful city and reminds me of Riga, Latvia, in some aspects. It was during the holidays, so there was a lovely atmosphere at the Christmas Market in Old Town. There were live bands, hot wines, and just an all-round beautiful atmosphere. What spoiled it for me was an entire week of grey skies and bone-chilling temperatures. However, it is the norm during the time of year I choose to travel. Therefore, I recommend visiting Tallinn during the summer, when it is warmer and more radiant, and not when it is snow-covered.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE VISITING ESTONIA
- The languages spoken – Estonian (official), Finnish and Russian, and English.
- Official currency – Euro.
- Estonia is the first country to implement a Digital Nomad Visa (for those who want to stay longer than the stipulated time).
- In 2011, Tallinn shared the title European Capital of Culture with the Finnish town of Turku.
- Estonia is a member of the European Union and NATO.
- Forest covers over 50% of Estonia.
- 99% of all government services are online, 99% of the population has an electronic ID, and they issue 98% of medical prescriptions digitally.
- Estonia is the first country in the world to implement an E-residency program.
- The World Health Organisation (WHO) ranks Estonia’s air among the cleanest worldwide.
- In February 2000, Estonia was the first country worldwide to declare internet access a human right.
- Estonia has the longest paid maternity leave in the world. There is an entitlement of 140 days of paid leave for expectant mothers. In addition, an entitlement of 435 days of paid parental leave for parents. One parent can take it all at once, or both parents share it until the child turns three years old.
- Smoke Saunas is a big deal in Estonia. They are famous for having the most spas per capita.
- Estonia has more women than men.
- Paganism is high in Estonia. It is one of the, if not the least-religious country in Europe (maybe tied with the Czech Republic). Due to only an average of 15% of the population believing in God. Half the population believes in some form of spirit or life force, and the rest do not believe in God, life force, or any related religions.
- Estonia is truly an e-tech electronic country because it was the first to introduce voting online (aka e-voting) in 2005. In addition, they complete 95% of taxes and services like business registration, etc., online in minutes using digital ID cards/authenticators.
Estonia is the world Leader in E-services Cont...
- There are 1,500 islands, 1,000 lakes, and 7,000 rivers in Estonia
- Estonia holds the largest collection of folk songs worldwide, at a whopping 133,000 plus songs.
- It takes 18 minutes to start a company online and 3 minutes to file taxes.
- Estonia is a linguistic country. Many Estonians speak multiple languages, and many schools teach English as a second language.
- Estonia has the lowest debt-to-GDP ratio in the European Union, free trade, a flat income tax rate, and a balanced budget.
- Estonia celebrates two Independence days, one on February 24th and the other on August 20th.
- Sasremaa (one of their smaller islands) has a prize-winning oak tree.
- Estonia has two UNESCO World Heritage sites, (Old Town) Tallinn, the capital, and Struve Geodetic Arc.
- Suur Munamap (Big Egg Hill), at 318 meters high, is the tallest in the Baltic region.
- From Estonia, you can visit neighboring countries like Finland, Lithuania, and Latvia.
- In Europe, students in Estonia rank no.1 in mathematics (4th worldwide), reading (8th worldwide), and science (4th worldwide). They also have a 100% literacy rate..
- Residents of the city of Tallinn can use all public transportation for free.
- Estonia was the first country in the world to publicly display a Christmas tree in 1441.
MY FIRST DAY IN ESTONIA
Before visiting Estonia, I knew what to expect of the people. Because I had heard and also read that Estonians are unfriendly and distant people and are not too fond of outsiders. Also, from my interaction with the hotel via emails, they were always “cut and dry,” never any pleasantries such as have a good day etc., just information and nothing else. So before visiting, I prepared mentally for cold people. My mindset was to get in, sightsee, and get out. However, because of my astonishing first-day interactions with different people, I am sharing a rundown of my first day in Estonia. Because at the mention of Estonia or its people, the response was always the same.
MY FIRST-DAY INTERACTIONS WITH ESTONIANS
After collecting my luggage, I spent the first few hours at the airport Arrival Hall because it was an early-morning flight, so I waited at the airport for sunrise before taking a taxi to my hotel. While waiting, I sat not too far away from an Estonian traveller who had also just landed and was awaiting transportation to his home. Eventually, we started talking, and I told him what I had heard about Estonians. Oddly enough, he confirmed it was all true. Hmmm.
However, throughout our discourse, he never smiled. He just had one blank facial expression, even until he left for his home (I later learned it is a typical facial expression in Estonia). Before he left the airport, he asked for an excuse and left, and upon return, I realised he had gone to the Duty-Free shop and got me Estonian Chocolates (blueberries covered in chocolate). He presented the chocolates to me and said, “Welcome to Estonia and enjoy”. His kind gesture surprised me...and no, he was not trying to “pick me up”, neither did he ask to meet up during my trip.
In my second interaction, I arrived at the address on the printed reservation, I could not decipher which was the correct building because the snow was ankle-deep, and I did not want to walk around looking. So I went to the door of the first building in sight to ask someone for proper directions. As I approached the door of what looked like an office, a lady came to the door and opened it. As soon as she saw me with my luggage, she looked at me very concerned and said, “what are you doing in Estonia dressed like this?” (sorry mommy… ha-ha) and looked at my skirt.
I must mention I am in the habit of wearing skirts to/from airports when I travel, winter or not, but of course with layers, a scarf, boots, and a coat. Anyhow, I digressed. So the lady this lady looked at me and spoke to me as if we had previously met. Once again, she said (without asking what I wanted), “it is horrible weather today, you need to put on some trousers, or you will get sick”. I then told her I knew Estonia was cold but did not expect this amount of snow or -5°C temperature. Anyhow, I showed her the hotel reservation, and she showed me exactly which building to go. She then advised me to sit and warm up before heading back out.
Estonia is the world Leader in E-services Cont...
I left and dragged my two suitcases through the snow because there was no clear walkway because everything was snow-covered. As soon as I left, an elderly lady walking in my direction stopped, looked at me, then walked toward me. It seemed she did not speak English, so she made hand gestures as if to help me with one suitcase; I told her and gesticulated that it was ok, but she insisted, so I allowed her to assist with the carry-on suitcase. When I got to my hotel, I said thanks, and she gave me a signal to indicate that I should wear something warmer below…ha-ha..I loved it all.
I got to the hotel, but because it was too early to check in; I left my luggage, pulled a pair of leggings under the skirt, and left the building to find the nearest coffee shop for a warm breakfast. Before leaving the location, I took a photo of the street and the building, as I usually do, in case I have problems finding it later. Anyhow, I had breakfast, then familiarised myself with the neighbourhood while I awaited to check into my room.
After sightseeing, I headed to the hotel but could not find it. I guess I had wandered off a bit too far, and to make matters worst, my phone battery died. That meant I did not have a photo of the building for myself or to show others. Luckily, I had my printed hotel reservation, which I used to seek help.
Once again, I asked a lady walking in the opposite direction, and she was happy to help. She searched google maps and even walked back with me for about five minutes, then pointed down a street and said to turn left. However, when I got to the street, I was still unable to find it. The persons I asked next were a couple who were passing by. They looked at the information, turned back, and walked with me for another five minutes. The gentleman called the hotel and asked for directions, then an additional five minutes walk with me (in ankle-high snow), I was in front of the door, and they both wished me a pleasant trip and left.
Talk about helpful people! First impressions last. I mentioned all these examples of Estonian kindness, plus others during my time in Tallinn, only to say, “do not judge the book by the cover”. Yes, Estonians are serious-faced people, but they were always helpful throughout my stay. I have even met some friendly and chatty ladies at one of the coffee shops I frequented. As a solo traveller, someone has got to take your photos. Estonians did not disappoint, even though they had to remove their gloves in sub-zero weather. I was truly appreciative.
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ABOUT THE ESTONIAN PEOPLE AND SECURITY
Estonians are very tall and have a signature “:poker face”, so nobody knows if they are happy, sad, or in between. These are the first two noticeable things one will visibly see with Estonians. They are also very superstitious because of many weird beliefs I have heard or noticed. Estonia does not have a prominent religion (except for a small grouping of Methodists, Roman Catholics, and Baptists). Furthermore, many of the people are nonreligious or atheists, even though the country has many churches. Estonians seem to love and are big on celebrating Christmas and went all out to beautify the city for the holidays.
They are reserved, and most people find that 90% of Estonians are unfriendly. They do not smile or talk much, hardly ever make eye contact, and often are never the first to strike up a conversation. In their defense, I can say I had a similar experience with Lithuanians, but I think the issue was that they shy away from unfamiliarity. However, once they familiarise themselves with you, they open up and are more pleasant, helpful, and receptive. I have made a couple of friends in Estonia, and I can tell you that even in our chats, the smiley-face emoji is rare.
Estonia is the world Leader in E-services Cont...
Regarding safety, Estonia is safe because the crime level is low. I did not experience or hear of any pick-pocketing, petty crimes, murders, robberies, or any gun violence in Tallinn. My stay was incident-free. Both day and night, I walked and took public transport without any issues, and neither did I feel unsafe. I saw the police only a few times as they passed by in their patrol cars but never on foot patrolling the streets. However, I was still vigilant because nowhere is 100% crime-free.
HOW EXPENSIVE ARE THE ACCOMMODATIONS, MEALS, AND TRANSPORTATION
I was in Estonia during the low travel period, so accommodation prices in Tallinn were quite reasonable (see booking.com for cheap hotels in Tallinn). Meals in smaller restaurants were also good quality and affordable, especially compared to many other European cities. For example, use McDonald’s (the popular fast-food restaurant) as a gauge. In other European cities such as Luxembourg and Zurich, a meal comprising a burger, fries, and a drink was no less than 12 euros. However, the exact meal in Tallinn started as low as 4.60 euros.
I previously mentioned that transport in Tallinn is free for residents but not visitors. The public service transport available in Tallinn comprises buses, trolleybuses, trams, trains, and ferries, and prices are affordable. However, except for the ferry, they sell all E-tickets as 1-hour tickets (under 2 Euros), 1-day tickets (under 5 Euros), and 30 days tickets (30 Euros).
ABOUT ESTONIAN FOOD
Estonia’s cuisines have some influence from nearby countries such as Latvia, Lithuania, Russia, and others.. I have previously enjoyed some of their dishes in said countries. Estonian cuisines are delicious and flavourful. They cook with taste. It is one of the few countries I really enjoyed the food because they are not the “salt and pepper as seasoning” type of cooks. Estonian favourite and traditional foods are typically rye bread, pork, fish, potatoes, barley, grains, and dairy products. Below are some traditional Estonian dishes you must try when visiting the country.
ESTONIAN FOODS YOU MUST TRY
1. Marzipan (famous sweet, nutty candy made from almonds and powdered sugar).
2. Mulgipuder (a porridge of mashed potatoes and groats/barley), they mix it with bacon and onions as a main dish. Some consider this Estonia’s national dish.
3. Pirukad (they fry or bake them and are both vegetarian and meat) is like empanadas but with a Baltic flavour.
4. Dark Rye Bread or Black Bread (served with Estonian cheese or jam).
5. Buckwheat (they enjoy it by adding it to porridge, making a sweet buckwheat and fruit crumble or risotto-like main course with vegetables).
6. Smoked fish (Sprats, herrings salon, and others), served in sandwiches or main course.
7. Kiluvoileib – Sprat Sandwich (Rye bread with sprat fish).
8. Kohuke (Estonian snack made with sweet curd cheese, they glaze it with chocolate, and sometimes they add fruits, caramel, and nuts).
9. Pea soup with smoked Pork Hock (they serve this mainly on New year’s Eve).
10. Blood dumplings – Verikakk (seasoned blood, mixed with flour and spices, shaped like a sausage, and then boiled. When cooled, they slice, fry and serve with pickles or sour cream). This one I will never try.
Estonia is the world Leader in E-services Cont...
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MUST DO/VISIT SITES OF INTEREST IN TALLINN/ESTONIA
1. St. Catherine Passage (in Old Town).
2. Freedom Square and Town Hall Square (the most important historical places in Tallinn).
3. Peapiiskopi Kirik (on Cathedral Hill, this 15th-century church is one of the most important churches in Tallinn, and it costs 2 euros to enter).
4. City Wall ( located in Old Town and erected in the 13th century).
5. Viru Gate & Square (beautiful 14th-century twin towers built in the 14th century) at night).
6. Seaplane Harbor (appealing, especially at night).
7. Toompea Hill and Castle (one of the best vantage points for the best view of the city).
8. Aleksander Nevski Katedraali, (the church is super beautiful and unique inside and out), the Bastion Passage and Stone Museum, the Danish King’s Garden, and the Parliament of Estonia are all in the same area and are definite must-visit.
9. Kadriorg Park & Palace (on the outskirts of the city, and simply breathtaking). The best time to visit is spring or summer.
10. Toompea Hill & Castle (rises 20 or 30 meters above the city, a vantage point to see the entire city).
11. Olaf Church (named after King Olaf of Norway, it is the largest remaining medieval building in Tallinn).
SUMMARY
Over the past few years, Estonia has taken on an image of an e-tech country. Estonia is the world leader in e-services, so it is great for its citizens, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads. If you desire to travel and work simultaneously, Estonia is an excellent option. However, Estonia has more to offer than e-services. For those not so inclined, Estonia is a budget-friendly country, perfect for those who want to find history and beauty in Europe with limited funds. I hope you have found this information about Estonia fascinating and helpful.
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