Estonia Unexpected

Tallinn, originally uploaded by Tashi Delek.

Helsinki's neighbor across the gulf is on its way to become the celebrity nation of post-communism. When compared to other former Soviet states, Estonia rated at the top of the heap in terms of economic and individual freedom, corruption, and human development. Furthermore, Estonia ranked at the top globally in the composite index State of World Liberty.

While other former Soviet states have devolved into despotism and disorder, Estonia has nurtured the growth of a legitimate, representative government. Most of the nation's trade goes through Nordic states with historic and cultural similarities. Iceland was the first nation to recognize the independent Estonia after the final Soviet forces left.

Soviet withdrawal from the Baltic states was precipitated by the longest human chain ever created. Around 2 million people held hands across Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, it reached over 370 miles. The deteriorating remains of the Soviet military installations in Estonia are easy to find. So called, "ghost bases" that many native Estonians weren't aware of until the departure of the Soviet military are beginning to attract tourists interested in the history of nuclear warfare and communism.

Have a look at Tallinn's old city hall and an inviting street cafe.