What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Estonia?
We asked people in Estonia if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"I went into Sauna with a towel. Everyone is supposed to go completely naked together. It's normal here. I was laughed at because I felt weird hanging out naked with a bunch of guys. Now it doesn't even phase me since it is part of the culture," said a member in Tallinn, Estonia.
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"It is important to be aware of cultural differences when visiting Estonia. It is considered rude to be late for appointments, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as Estonians tend to dress more formally than in other countries. It is also important to be aware of the local customs and traditions, and to respect them. It is also important to be aware of the local language, and to try to use it when possible. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local customs regarding alcohol consumption, and to drink responsibly," remarked another expat who made the move to Estonia.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Estonia?
- How do I meet people in Estonia?
- What is life like in Estonia?
- Is there a lot of crime in Estonia?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Estonia accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Estonia like?
- Is the cost of living in Estonia high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Estonia?
- What are healthcare services like in Estonia?
- Is the cost of living in Estonia high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Estonia?
- What is the weather like in Estonia?
- Are there good restaurants in Estonia?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Estonia?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Estonia?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Estonia?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Estonia?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Estonia?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Estonia?
If you live in Estonia, newcomers to Estonia would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.