17 & 18 07-2003 : Estonia Today our aim was to reach Parnu - for no more reason than this appeared to be the halfway point in Estonia. Parnu turned out to be quite a revelation after the relative 'hardship' of Russia. Bars, sports, large supermarkets and a long beach that ran along the outskirts of the city. After a quick stop at tourist information for camping advice we had pitched the tent only feet from the river and immediately alongside the nationally renowned rowing college. The next few days consisted of lying by the river, BBQ's and watching the extremely fit men and women rowing up and down the river in readiness for the national trials which were happening this weekend - just watching them made us feel tired and more than a little guilty. During our second day we were befriended by a Russian guy (who's name was unpronounceable) who was determined to share his bottle of wine with us in exchange for use of our bottle opener. His English was as bad as our Russian except for moments of conversational excitement when he would pronounce with great certainty and pride " Shit my life!" We think he meant 'oh my God' but to be honest 'shit my life' is an awful lot funnier! .   ok this part is over click here to go to the Latvia chapter         click on the pics for bigger images sorry none of estonia