Estonia
Capital: Tallinn
Location:
Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Finland, between Latvia and Russia (slightlys maller than New Hampshire and Vermont combined).
Registration Embassy and Consulate:
U.S. citizens living in or visiting Estonia are encouraged to register at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy and obtain updated information on travel and security within Estonia. The U.S. Embassy in Tallinn is located at Kentmanni 20, telephone (372) 668-8100; fax (372) 668-8267; emergency cell phone (011)(372)509-2129, if dialed from the U.S., and 0-509-2129 if dialed from within Estonia. The Embassy's home page on the Internet is at http://www.usemb.ee.
Background:
After centuries of Swedish and Russian rule, Estonia attained independence in 1918. Forcibly incorporated into the USSR in 1940, it regained its freedom in 1991 with the collapse of the Soviet Union. Since the last Russian troops left in 1994, Estonia has been free to promote economic and political ties with Western Europe.
Ethnic Groups:
Estonian 65.1%, Russian 28.1%, Ukrainian 2.5%, Byelorussian 1.5%, Finn 1%, other 1.8% (1998)
Language:
Estonian (official), Russian, Ukrainian, English, Finnish, other
Currency:
EEK
Estonian kroon (EEK)
krooni per US dollar - 11.7542 (March 2007), 16.663 (January 2001), 16.969 (2000), 14.678 (1999), 14.075 (1998), 13.882 (1997), 12.034 (1996); note - krooni are tied to the German deutsche mark at a fixed rate of 8 to 1
Climate:
Maritime, wet, moderate winters, cool summers
Population:
1,423,316 (July 2001 est.)
Religion:
Evangelical Lutheran, Russian Orthodox, Estonian Orthodox, Baptist, Methodist, Seventh-Day Adventist, Roman Catholic, Pentecostal, Word of Life, Jewish
Medical:
The quality of medical care in Estonia is improving, but it still falls short of Western standards. Estonia has many highly trained medical professionals, but hospitals and clinics still suffer from a lack of equipment and resources. Elderly travelers and those with health problems may be at increased risk.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas may face extreme difficulties.
Traffic Safety:
While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Estonia is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.
Safety of Public Transportation:
Poor
Urban Road Conditions/Maintenance:
Fair
Rural Road Conditions/Maintenance:
Fair
Availability of Roadside Assistance:
Poor
Driving in Estonia is more dangerous than in the United States. Aggressive driving is the norm, and many roads are not up to Western standards. Wild animals, such as moose, and icy road conditions can create unexpected hazards. Driving at night, especially in the countryside, can be particularly risky. Local law requires that headlights be turned on while driving during the day as well as at night. Use of seatbelts by all pssengers is required, and children too small to be secure in seatbelts must use child car seats. The speed limit is 50 km/h in town and 90 km/h out of town unless otherwise indicated. A right turn on a red light is prohibited unless otherwise indicated by a green arrow. Laws against driving under the influence of alcohol are strict and follow a policy of zero tolerance. It is not uncommon for the police to set up checkpoints on major streets, and drivers should pull over when asked. Americans planning to drive in Estonia must obtain an international driver's license prior to arrival.
