Budget Guide to the Baltic

Author: Amanda Diaz
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The three ex-Soviet Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have become fashionable tourist hostspots in recent years. This is mainly because, with their well-preserved architecture, friendly locals and cheap prices, the nations' three capital cities provide a uniquely attractive environment for the hostel booker.

Tallinn

Estonia's capital, Tallinn, lies on the country's north coast - directly on the Baltic Sea. Established in 1219, the city developed as a seaport over the centuries - and was famed for its beauty. However, along with its Baltic neighbours, all foreign travel was shut off with the coming of the Soviet era - a ban which was only lifted after the fall of the USSR in 1991.

Home to around 400,000 people, Tallinn's main tourist areas are its two old towns - Lower Town and Toompea. City chiefs have placed a priority on welcoming visitors - and have developed the 'Tallinn card' as a result. Sold by the local tourist offices, the card gives visitors the right to free public transport and free entry to some attractions - excellent news for people on a budget.

View pictures of Riga hostels can also go to the zoo and Forest Park - where they can take a ride on the ferris wheel - or visit the acclaimed Riga circus.

Vilnius

Not to be outdone, the city of Vilnius also offers a host of attractions for the tourist. Lithuania's medieval capital, with a population of just over half a million, contains over 40 churches lining its characteristically narrow, courtyard-studded streets. The two major tourist attractions of the city are Gediminas Castle and the neighbouring Cathedral Square.

More incongruously, a statue of Frank Zappa adorns a historic street near the centre of town - which, the government proudly boasts, is the first bronze cast of the rock star anywhere in the world.

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Original Article URL: Budget Guide to the Baltic

Amanda Diaz is a freelance travel writer with more than a touch of the vagabond in her blood. Budget travel's her specialty, and on a recent backpacking she stayed in Tallinn hostel, writing up her experiences as she went along

Keywords: Tallinn hostel, Riga hostel, Budget guide, travel guide, travel, guide, accommodation, cheap
View Count: 65
Date Submitted: 5/19/2008

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