The Northern border of the Baltic States, Estonia is a beautiful country and home to a long history of occupation and invasion, all of which has left a proud, strong and fiercely independent people populating the nation. The relatively small country has a miniscule population, even for its size – around 1.3 million people in total – but it has more than enough to offer any tourist or budding off plan investor. A mainly flat country covered in more than 1400 lakes and many forests as well as having around 1500 off shore islands, Estonia is known to all who have visited as a land of outstanding natural beauty – certainly not the image that is usually conjured up when thinking about former Soviet states. Though towns and cities are littered with reminders of the Communist regime, the rich and varied history of the country shines thorough, with influences stretching back hundreds of years and some beautiful architecture for all to admire.

The history of Estonia stretches back thousands of years, but documented history is a tale of centuries of struggle for the nation, trapped between large, invasion-happy neighbours and trying to retain some semblance of independence. The Vikings passed through the country, the Swedes and Danes attempted to force Christianity on the people – and were successful – Poland and Russia squabbled over who ruled the country and the Swedes and Danes joined in again. At the end of these few hundred years of the country being passed around, the Russians ended up with Estonia as theirs – but only until the Bolshevik revolution, when the country was finally given independence in 1920. Just two decades passed before Estonia fell under joint Nazi/Soviet rule in 1939, then sole Soviet rule in 1944. The country remained a Soviet Socialist Republic until the days of Gorbachev and the fall of Communism – preparing themselves for total autonomy paid dividends, and Estonia achieved complete independence in 1991, emerging with one of the strongest economies of any of the former Soviet Bloc countries and with a forward-thinking, progressive government. Membership to the UN followed shortly after, and NATO and EU accession were gained in 2004 – the country has been on a constant front foot ever since. A nation that has seen only thirty years of independence out of around 700 has managed to produce some of the most proud, strong and resilient people around, and this attitude is one that commands respect and admiration.

Estonia is a prime example of a country that was ready for the fall of the Soviet Union. With people supporting the government and people in charge who have delivered all they have promised, it is a country in a strong position. Whilst Estonia is by no means a rich country, it is certainly stable – the economy was ready for independence and has seen no end of good fortune since. As this is the case, Estonia is maybe not as cheap as some would expect – though that isn’t really saying much, as prices are still a pittance compared to those of Western European countries. Markets are open to foreign investment and the real estate market in particular offers safe, easy trade. With beautiful landscapes and architecture, a proud nation of people and a very strong economy behind it all, Estonia is ideal for off plan investors. It is a country becoming ever more popular with British tourists – especially for short getaways and stag/hen parties in Tallinn. Now is the time to take advantage of this wonderful nation of opportunity.

Healthcare in Estonia is generally of a poor standard, with under equipped hospitals an all too common sight. Nevertheless, treatment is free and basic ailments can be dealt with. For more severe illness or accidents, however, treatment is best obtained elsewhere. As is always the case when visiting foreign countries, full health insurance is recommended.

Mobile phone coverage has increased massively in recent years, with Estonia being a country welcoming new technologies with open arms. Coverage is widespread and strong through the country, though signal strength cannot be guaranteed in rural areas. Landline coverage has been modernised and is widespread. Internet cafes are available in a number of towns and libraries also offer internet access.

General banking hours in most areas are from 0900 to 1600 Mondays to Fridays and from 0900 to 1500 on Saturdays.  Usual office hours are from 0800 to 1800, Mondays to Fridays. Shopping hours are normally from 0900 to 2100 Mondays to Fridays, and most larger shops open at weekends.

Formal attire and behaviour is expected of business meetings, and after a customary handshake and introduction business cards are usually exchanged. The Estonian people have a proud national identity and this should be respected at all times.

Tips are normally included in taxi and hotel bills, though if not it is up to the individual – there is no real customary amount.