• Norway!

    Norway: Sunnylvsfjord. Go Now!

    Norway
    Known for its natural beauty, Norway is home to isolated villages, fjords, and mountains that create a culture and landscape without compare. Begin Your Journey!

  • Vatican City!

    Vatican City: Vatican Museums. Go Now!

    Vatican City
    The smallest country in the world offers the heart of Catholicism and among the world's finest art collections, including the Sistine Chapel and the Raphael Rooms (ceiling pictured). Go to Vatican City!

  • Macedonia!

    Macedonia: Traditional architecture. Go Now!

    Macedonia
    Macedonia is a country still finding its unique identity, but its architecture is already one of a kind. Explore Macedonia!

  • Austria!

    Austria: Belvedere Palace. Go Now!

    Austria
    Belvedere Palace (pictured) is just one of many palaces found in Vienna. The capital is a good start to Austria, which also features the Alps, the Lakes District, and incredible history & food. Go Now!

  • Spain!

    Spain: Guell Park and Gaudi architecture. Go Now!

    Spain
    Fusion foods, lively music, historic ruins, and cultural events like the Running of the Bulls and La Tomatina make Spain and Barcelona (pictured) a favorite tourist destination. Explore Spain!

  • Ukraine!

    Ukraine: Traditional Village. Go Now!

    Ukraine
    Ukrainian culture is based on village life, particularly that found in the Carpathian Mountains (pictured). Begin Your Journey!

Social Life in Estonia

Behavior

The Estonians are very well aware of the world around them as well as the differences in opinions and behaviors. Because of this they are quite understanding of various cultures and foreigners so odd behaviors are generally accepted (but not encouraged).

Your behavior should begin with modesty as being loud, rude, showing off wealth, or dressing provocatively will get you stares. Likewise, placing yourself above others or boasting is viewed negatively.

As a visitor to Estonia, just try to follow the lead of the locals by dressing in like manner (see below for details), dining in the local etiquette (see our Estonia Dining & Food Page), and avoid sensitive conversation topics, such as politics, finances, and business unless initiated by your local counterpart.

Dress

Traditional dress in Estonia has taken on many meanings over time and there were numerous distinctions from region to region as well. However, in the mid-1800s the traditional dress for many people has been clung to a significant degree. For women this was generally a loose-fitting dress with a long-sleeved white shirt, a belt, and socks. The degree of decoration varied greatly, but jewelry was a popular piece to liven up these outfits; hats were also commonly worn by women at the time. Men's dress also varied by region and over time, but one of the more common forms of clothing for men were breeches, which are pants and a short coat, generally in blue.

Today this traditional clothing is rarely worn as it has been replaced with modern western-styled clothing. Only on special cultural events can this historic dress be seen. As a visitor to Estonia you are free to wear nearly any western-styled clothing, just try to dress for the weather and the occasion. If in doubt, try to dress on the more conservative side as the Estonians are somewhat liberal, but quite modest. Lastly, sunbathing naked or women sunbathing topless is only permitted in certain places so always be sure to know where this is allowed before doing so.

This page was last updated: November, 2013