Tallinn as a destination for your business trip!
Estonia has put itself well on the (European) map in recent years. Among other things because of its geographical location, bustling port and extensive digital knowledge. There is also considerable investment in infrastructure and ICT, making it an interesting market for many European companies. In this blog I take you to the capital of Estonia: Tallinn. Are you going on a business trip to Tallinn soon, then I would like to give you some suggestions for your travel and stay and tips about doing business in Estonia below. Are you going to Estonia with your colleagues or relations for a group, inspiration or incentive trip? Then below you'll also find some tips for special group experiences in this undiscovered city!
Tallinn, a step back in time....
The medieval city center of Tallinn (Vanalinn) has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1997, and for good reason: it is beautiful! The entire old center consists of cobblestone streets and breathes the atmosphere of the Middle Ages. Inside the city walls you will be enchanted by the fortifications with its authentic towers, the imposing cathedrals and the beautifully colored houses. In the higher district of Toompea you will also find Estonia's most important Russian Orthodox cathedral, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. From here you have a beautiful panorama of the city wall and the red roofs of the city. Tallinn is also a special destination for a unique incentive, the city is surprising and offers many fun activities. Tallinn has almost 450,000 inhabitants, one-third of all the inhabitants of Estonia. A lot has happened in Tallinn since Estonia's independence in 1991, unlike in other Eastern Bloc countries, you see very little of the Soviet era here.
On a business trip to Tallinn
Tallinn is only 4 kilometers from the city center, travel time by car or cab is about 10 minutes. Flying directly from Amsterdam to Tallinn is possible with Air Baltic. Finnair and SAS also offer flights but with 1 transfer.
The undersea Talsinki tunnel
The city lies on Tallinn Bay, part of the Gulf of Finland. On the other side of the Gulf of Finland lies the much younger city of Helsinki. Currently, transportation between these 2 cities is mainly by ferry or plane. But work is underway to build a 100-kilometer-long undersea tunnel to connect the cities of Tallinn and Helsinki. This longest undersea tunnel in the world is expected to be completed in 2026. Through the Talsinki Tunnel, as it is called, high-speed trains are to run. The tunnel should also serve as a shuttle service for transporting cars, similar to the Euroshuttle trains. In just half an hour by train, commuters should flash from one capital city to another. The Talsinki Tunnel connects Finland by rail to the rest of the Baltic states and vice versa to Poland and Germany.
Doing business in Estonia: do's and don'ts
- Use address titles. Addressing is done with (härra), Mrs. (proua) or Miss (preili) and then followed by the last name. Switching to first names is done on the initiative of a business partner. In business, English is mostly spoken. Some of the mostly older entrepreneurs speak only Russian in addition to Estonian. Many entrepreneurs also speak German or Finnish.
- Have eye contact. A meeting usually begins with a word of welcome from the oldest person present. Then a response from the oldest person present in your company is desired. Eye contact is also very important in business. Estonians show little or no emotion in meetings, but at the same time observe facial expressions carefully.
- Respect the hierarchy. Decision-making takes place at a high level. Without the decision maker, a business meeting takes on more the character of an exchange of ideas. Afterwards, the proposal is then presented to management. For the older generation of Estonians, lunches and dinners are part of getting to know each other. Younger people like to do business over lunch, while dinner is a social affair.
- Don't be too direct. Estonians often speak in a soft tone and prefer not to communicate in a direct way. In doing so, they want to avoid hurting the other person in awkward situations. For example, when rejecting a business proposal.
- Don't use sales pitch. Estonians like to be clear and focused. Maintain a businesslike tone in presentations. Also, don't use sales talk; keep it factual and not too effusive. Avoid open-ended questions. Ask clear and focused questions for better results.
- Don't buy expensive corporate gifts. Small business gifts and typical Dutch presents are appreciated, as are invitations to lunches and dinners. Do not give expensive business gifts; Estonians appreciate the gesture more than the value of the gift.
Tips for a group or incentive trip to Tallinn
Tallinn is a surprising destination for a multi-day group or incentive trip with colleagues or relations. Because not very many people have been to this city, which is sure to positively surprise and stay with you. Below I like to share my experiences and suggestions for group activities in the city.
- A "Medieval" sightseeing tour; In The Old Town Hall we were welcomed by "Old Thomas," Tallinn's city guard. With the highlight being a visit to the Dominica Monastry where we were met by Sister Helena. Playfully, she told us all the ins and outs about the history of this picturesque town. While enjoying Estonian liqueur we listened to the singing of 2 monks. Afterwards we made a wish at the monks' wishing wall.
- A tour to Kadriorg Park, the most regal and urban park in Estonia. The official presidential palace of the president of Estonia is located next to the Kadriorg Palace in the park. Kadriorg Palace is a Baroque palace built by Peter the Great. Currently the palace serves as a museum and a visit is well worthwhile.
- As a team-building activity, visit the horse racing track at "Hippodrome". Upon arrival, the group will be enthusiastically welcomed with your own logo. While enjoying a snack and a drink, an employee of the Hippodrome will tell you about the history, horses and the activities planned on this competition day. With your own group you observe gracefully running horses and of course you hope that your horse will win the race.
- Visit the studio of the famous Estonian artist Taura Kangro. Here you get the opportunity to be creative yourself in a bohemian atmosphere. With a little help from the master, you get the chance to sculpt a sculpture yourself.
Eating out during your business trip in Tallinn
A few suggestions for diverse dining experiences in Tallinn with a business associate or just a group:
Dine in the medieval restaurant Olde Hansa. Located in the middle of the city's historic center, the restaurant seats 300 people spread over three floors, making it suitable for larger groups. It serves medieval dishes such as dried reindeer meat and elk. While enjoying a pint of special beer (e.g. cinnamon and honey beer), you imagine yourself in the Middle Ages for a moment. A touristy but admittedly funny experience!
Lunch or dinner in restaurant Balthasar. Excellent food in this garlic restaurant with fine ambiance where hospitality is paramount. Located in a beautiful medieval building, the restaurant offers a magnificent view of Tallinn's market from the second floor.
The food district Depoo, in the former fishing district of Kalamaja, with all kinds of hip restaurants in an urban industrial setting. Highly recommended here is the restaurant OneSixty, opened by a Michelin star restaurateur.
Comfortable accommodation in Tallinn
- Radisson Blu Sky Hotel*****: Located in the business district of the city. Very good hotel with excellent facilities. Notable are the Sky Lobby Bar and the Lounge24, a rooftop bar with panoramic views of Tallinn and the sea.
- Boutique Hotel The Three Sisters*****: This characteristic property is located in the heart of Tallinn. The hotel's rooms are old-style with a modern twist.
- Hilton Tallinn Park****: Located 15 min walk from the old town. Pleasant hotel and equipped with all amenities including spa and good restaurant.
Are you curious about the possibilities for a business trip or a incentive trip to Tallinn? Then don't hesitate to contact with us.
Travel Well!
Linda van Kleef - Versteeg
Business Travel Consultant
Source reference:
- Rvo.co.uk
- Flandersinvestmentandtrade.com
