Introduction

The small nation of Estonia, with its rich history and quaint towns, often attracts international attention for its beautiful scenery and vibrant culture. However, for some, certain cities and towns within this Baltic nation might be less appealing. This article explores the viewpoints of a retiree who relocated to Sillamae, a small town with a fascinating Soviet-era history, and delves into the factors that might make certain cities in Estonia undesirable.

Why Sillamae Is a Desirable Retirement Town

Sillamae's Unique History and Current State

Sillamae, a charming Soviet-era suburb east of Tallinn, holds a special place in the heart of a retiree who lived there for three years. Despite the town's interesting past, which includes rumors of Elvis Presley's possible presence, Sillamae offers an authentic Estonian experience. The town, situated just 16 miles (25 kilometers) from the Russian border, is a far cry from the bustling metropolis of Tallinn, which is 116 miles (187 kilometers) away. Despite Tallinn's charm, the retiree finds it undesirable for full-time residency. Tallinn's frequent traffic frustrations make it a less ideal choice for daily living.

Living in Sillamae

Sillamae, being a former 'secret city' during the Soviet era, boasts a rich history and interesting sights. As of now, it features no traffic lights or roundabouts, but the addition of both signals its transformation into a more modern town. Although the retiree is a native American from Philadelphia, a city with a populace larger than the entire country of Estonia, Sillamae's retirement-friendly atmosphere is a perfect match for them. The town is less crowded and offers a simpler way of life, making it the ideal retirement spot.

The Undesirable Cities in Estonia

Ranked by Population

According to Wikipedia, Estonia has 47 cities, but the retiree has not visited all of them. Among the cities they have visited, two stand out as less desirable: Maardu and Kohtla-J?rve. Despite being among the largest cities in Estonia, with Maardu at the 7th position and Kohtla-J?rve at the 5th, these towns lack tourist attractions. The main draw for visitors is Maxima XXX, a large supermarket, a place that even Estonians themselves do not particularly enjoy. Moreover, Sillamae's smaller population and more diverse community make it a more attractive option for an American retiree looking for a sense of familiar culture.

Maardu and Kohtla-J?rve

Maardu

Located in Harju county, Maardu is the 7th largest city in Estonia. The city lacks cultural and historical landmarks, making it an uninteresting place for visitors. The town is predominantly Russian-speaking, which can be a barrier for Estonian residents who prefer to use their native language. The absence of engaging destinations and the presence of only Russians make Maardu a less desirable option.

Kohtla-J?rve

Kohtla-J?rve, the 5th largest city in Estonia, similarly lacks significant attractions. Despite its size, the area offers little more than Maxima XXX and thus fails to provide the depth and diversity needed for a fulfilling visit or residency.

The Controversial Narva

Contradictory Views on Narva

The article mentions that some people consider Narva to be the worst city in Estonia, but the retiree disagrees. Located in P?rnu county, Narva, with its third-largest population, offers more than just a monoculture. Despite the significant Russian population, Narva still has historical and cultural significance, including remnants of its Old Town that date back to before World War II. Visitors can explore the Estonia-Russia border, where the Russian flag can be seen floating across the river between Narva and Ivangorod. This unique geographical feature adds to the city's intrigue and historical value.

Conclusion

The article concludes that, as of now, there are no cities in Estonia that the retiree deems the worst. While Maardu and Kohtla-J?rve have their drawbacks, these issues do not overshadow the historical and cultural richness present in other towns. Visitors and residents find delight in the smaller towns and cities that offer more diverse experiences and a glimpse into Estonia's complex history.