Estonia

A small, heavily wooded and lightly-populated country, Estonia is home to just 1.3 million people. It is the most northerly of the trio of Baltic states that joined the EU and NATO in 2004 and is situated to the north of Latvia and Lithuania. Estonia shares borders with Russia and Latvia and is close to Finland; albeit separated by the Gulf of Finland.

Despite its moderate size, Estonia has modernised heavily since it gained independence from the USSR in 1991 and has gained a reputation for widespread adoption of modern technology such as cable television and the internet. In 2007, Estonia became the first country in the world to hold online parliamentary elections.

Estonia's capital Tallinn is a beautiful, medieval city. Its old buildings, cobbled streets and tucked-away coffee shops, restaurants and museums provide an ideal opportunity to unwind and enjoy relaxed city living. Attractions include the Kadriorg Palace, the Baltic shoreline and the old city walls - not to mention the Tallinn's many well-kept parks.

Moving outside the city, 20th century history enthusiasts will want to visit the old Soviet submarine base at Paldiski while nature and outdoor activity lovers should make a beeline for Laheema National Park or perhaps one of the resort islands off the Estonian coast - such as Muhu and Saaremaa.

Other important towns in Estonia include Narva, Tartu, Parnu and Johvi and the country has two major airports - Tallinn Airport in the north and Kuressaare Airport, which is located on the south-western island of Saaremaa.