• From Helsinki to Tallinn by M/S Star Ship – Video

    Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is as near as 2 hours by ship from Helsinki, Finland. The fastest connection from Helsinki to Tallinn comes with Tallink Silja M/S Star ship.

    Here´s a video from a recent trip I made to Tallinn with the previously mentioned Star ship. The weather in July was sunny both in Helsinki and Tallinn as you can see from this video. In addition to many nice details from the harbors of Helsinki and Tallinn and the Star ship itself, you can also see some precautions which were taken to prevent the spread of the corona virus among the traveller.

    After watching this video read more about traveling in Helsinki.

    From Helsinki to Tallinn by Star ship

    M/S Star is a ferry operated by the Estonian shipping company Tallink, used primarily on their route connecting Helsinki, Finland, and Tallinn, Estonia. This vessel is notable for its role in facilitating transportation and trade between these two major Baltic Sea cities.

    Helsinki harbour
    Helsinki harbour

    Key Features of M/S Star:

    1. Launch and Construction: M/S Star was built by the Finnish shipyard Aker Finnyards in Rauma, Finland. She was launched in 2007, marking a significant addition to Tallink’s fleet.
    2. Specifications and Capabilities:
    • Size and Capacity: The ship is significant in size, capable of carrying a large number of passengers and vehicles. It has a high vehicle capacity, making it ideal for both passenger travel and freight transportation.
    • Speed: One of the distinctive features of M/S Star is her speed. She is designed to operate at higher speeds compared to traditional ferries, reducing travel time between Helsinki and Tallinn.
    Small boat sailing next to the big ship M/S Star
    Small boat sailing next to the big ship M/S Star
    1. Amenities and Services:
    • Passenger Facilities: M/S Star offers a range of facilities for passengers, including restaurants, cafes, and shops. There’s an emphasis on comfort and convenience to enhance the travel experience.
    • Accommodation: While the travel time on the route is relatively short (about 2 hours), the ship provides comfortable seating and lounge areas for passengers.
    1. Route and Schedule:
    • The ferry operates on the Helsinki-Tallinn route, a popular passage for both tourists and locals. This route is essential for connecting the Finnish and Estonian capitals, offering an alternative to air travel.
    • The schedule of M/S Star is typically frequent, with multiple departures daily, catering to the high demand on this route.
    Finland in the horizon
    Finland in the horizon
    1. Environmental Considerations:
    • In line with modern maritime standards, there is an ongoing effort to make operations more environmentally friendly. This includes measures to reduce emissions and improve the ship’s overall environmental footprint.
    1. Role in Regional Connectivity:
    • M/S Star plays a crucial role in the Baltic Sea region, not just in terms of transportation, but also in fostering economic and cultural ties between Finland and Estonia.
    • For tourists, the ferry is a convenient and scenic way to travel between these two destinations, offering a unique experience of the Baltic Sea.
    Supermarket in M/S Star
    Supermarket in M/S Star
    1. Future Developments:
    • Tallink continuously evaluates the performance and services of its fleet, including M/S Star, to ensure they meet modern standards and customer expectations. This may involve upgrades or modifications in the future.

    M/S Star represents a critical link in the Baltic Sea’s maritime infrastructure, offering a blend of speed, capacity, and passenger comfort. For travelers, especially those interested in experiencing the beauty and connectivity of the Baltic region, a journey on M/S Star provides a unique and practical way to explore this part of Europe.

    Tallinn harbour
    Tallinn harbour

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  • Good and pleasant hotel from Riga, Latvia

    I visited Riga in late February 2020 and chose my hotel within an easy reach of Riga Airport. I made the following video about my visit to Wellton Riga Hotel & SPA, and the video will tell, among other things, what the hotel suite room was like.

    The video will also show the magnificent views out of the large windows of the room, where there was a bus stop, trams, cinema and Stockmann department store, among others. More interesting details about this hotel are also mentioned in the video and you can watch it and listen to it here –

    Video of my stay in Wellton Riga Hotel & SPA

    Read more about my visit to Wellton Riga Hotel & SPA in Finnish.

    Booking a hotel in Riga, Latvia

    Booking a hotel in Riga, Latvia, and knowing what to expect can be quite straightforward, but understanding the local culture and being prepared for potential issues can enhance your experience.

    Booking Hotels

    1. Online Booking Platforms: Websites like Booking.com, Expedia, or Airbnb are commonly used to book hotels and accommodations in Riga. You can compare prices, read reviews, and see photos of the properties.
    2. Travel Agents: If you prefer personalized assistance, travel agents can help find and book the right accommodation based on your needs and budget.
    3. Direct Booking: Contacting the hotel directly (through their website, email, or phone) might provide more personalized service and sometimes special offers.

    What to Expect

    1. Variety of Options: Riga offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and apartments.
    2. Language: While Latvian is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and hotels, so communication should not be a problem.
    3. Payment Methods: Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have some local currency (Euros) on hand for small expenses.
    4. Amenities: Most hotels will offer standard amenities like Wi-Fi, but it’s wise to check in advance if you have specific requirements.
    5. Location: Consider your hotel’s proximity to attractions, public transportation, and safety, especially if you plan to walk around the city.

    How to Deal with Various Issues

    1. Complaints or Problems: If you encounter any issues, address them with the hotel staff as soon as possible. They are typically eager to rectify any problems.
    2. Understanding Terms: Be sure to understand the cancellation policies, check-in/check-out times, and any additional fees (like for parking or pets) before booking.
    3. Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover any unexpected cancellations or issues.

    Cultural Points

    1. Hospitality: Latvians are known for being hospitable, but they may seem reserved at first. Politeness and respect are appreciated.
    2. Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory in Latvia, but it’s common to leave small change or round up the bill in restaurants. This may vary in hotels, so it’s wise to ask if unsure.
    3. Local Customs: Observing local customs, such as greeting people and showing appreciation for the local culture and language, can enhance your experience.

    By doing some research ahead of time and being mindful of local customs, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay in Riga. Utilize online resources, travel blogs, guidebooks and local advice to tailor your accommodation to your needs and preferences.

    My visual travel guide INDIVUE – Trip to Europe, contains inspiring and guiding travel experiences from Latvia and different parts of Europe. You can read it for free in the link attached!

    Watch also more of my authentic hotel experiences around the world here and subscribe the channel for the upcoming new videos!