Now this port was truly extraordinary for its oppressive communist history. We arrive at Tallinn Estonia around Noon. We joined an excursion entitled the “Soviet Flashback.” Our fabulous local guide (in green fatigues) whips us into shape as she lambastes capitalist pigs while searching our bags and pockets for listening devices, weapons, etc. We are taught how to march with your arms as well as your legs in Soviet style and she puts us in line to practice this wonder of the communist regime. We then board a Soviet era bus. She points out the air-conditioning is the hole in the roof on this extremely hot day. What would a ride on a noisy standard transmission bucket of bolts like this be without little vodka to start this sweltering day and, of course, some sweet pickles. So, she offers Anni a double shot of very cheap vodka as we enjoy our pickles and start off on our tour of Estonia. Shortly into our ride the bus chokes to a halt and our guide announces that we must now push the bus. We stopped for a quick bite to eat as she prepared a picnic by the sea, a "taste of Estonia". If we thought the vodka was bad you really need to try KALI. This is an indescribable non-alcoholic beverage that pretends to imitate Coca-Cola but tastes nothing like it.
This poor country finally gained its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. On our tour, we learn a great deal of the history of this country and city which showcases both the new and the old world. It is sobering to view the old Soviet prison which held so many political prisoners. This excursions was a blast and extremely informative. We are due to set sail at 10:30 p.m. tonight en route to Helsinki, Finland.
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