The Seaside Charm of Pärnu

• HelloTere
  [teh-reh]
• GoodbyeHead aega
  [heh-d ah-eh-gah]
• YesJah
  [yah]
• NoEi
  [ay]
• Please/You're welcomePalun
  [pah-loon]
• Thank youAitäh
  [ah-ee-taah]
• Excuse me/SorryVabandust
  [vah-bahn-doost]
• How are you?Kuidas sul läheb?
  [kwee-dahs sool laa-heb]
• Fine. And you?Hästi. Aga sina?
  [haa-stee. ah-gah see-nah]
• Do you speak English?Kas te räägite inglise keelt?
  [kahs teh raah-gi-teh eeng-lee-seh kehlt]
• I don't understandMa ei saa aru
  [ma ay saa ah-roo]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMa sooviksin menüüd näha, palun
  [ma soh-veeks-een meh-nuuud naa-ha, pah-loon]
• I don't eat meatMa ei söö liha
  [ma ay suu lee-hah]
• Cheers!Terviseks!
  [tehr-vee-sehks]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMa sooviksin maksta, palun
  [ma soh-veeks-een mahk-stah, pah-loon]

• Help!Appi!
  [ahp-pee]
• Go away!Mine ära!
  [mee-neh ah-rah]
• Call the Police!Helistage politseile!
  [heh-lee-stah-geh poh-leet-sei-leh]
• Call a doctor!Helistage arstile!
  [heh-lee-stah-geh ahr-stee-leh]
• I'm lostMa olen eksinud
  [ma oh-lehn ehk-see-noo-d]
• I'm illMa olen haige
  [ma oh-lehn hai-geh]

• I'd like to buy...Ma tahaksin osta...
  [ma tah-hahk-seen oh-stah]
• I'm just lookingMa lihtsalt vaatan
  [ma leekh-tsalt vah-tahn]
• How much is it?Kui palju see maksab?
  [kwee pahl-yoo seh mahk-sahb]
• That's too expensiveSee on liiga kallis
  [seh ohn lee-gah kah-lees]
• Can you lower the price?Kas saate hinda alandada?
  [kahs sah-teh hin-dah ahl-ahn-dah-dah]

• What time is it?Mis kell on?
  [mees kehl ohn]
• It's one o'clockOn üks
  [ohn yks]
• Half past (10)Pool (10)
  [pohl 10]
• MorningHommik
  [hohm-meek]
• AfternoonPärastlõuna
  [pah-rahst-loh-oo-nah]
• EveningÕhtu
  [ohkh-too]
• YesterdayEile
  [ay-leh]
• TodayTäna
  [tah-nah]
• TomorrowHomme
  [hohm-meh]
• 1Üks
  [yks]
• 2Kaks
  [kahks]
• 3Kolm
  [kohlm]
• 4Neli
  [neh-lee]
• 5Viis
  [vees]
• 6Kuus
  [koos]
• 7Seitse
  [sayt-seh]
• 8Kaheksa
  [kah-hehk-sah]
• 9Üheksa
  [y-hehk-sah]
• 10Kümme
  [koom-meh]

• Where's a/the...?Kus on...
  [koos ohn]
• What's the address?Mis on aadress?
  [mees ohn ah-ah-dres]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kas saate mulle näidata (kaardil)?
  [kahs sah-teh mool-leh nah-ee-tah-dah kaahr-deel]
• When's the next (bus)?Millal on järgmine (buss)?
  [meel-lahl ohn yairg-mee-neh boos]
• A ticket (to ....)Pilet (....)
  [pee-leht]

Pärnu, situated along the coast of the Baltic Sea, was founded in 1251 by the Teutonic Knights. Originally named Perona, it quickly became a significant trading post due to its strategic location. The knights built a fortress to protect the burgeoning settlement, which became a focal point for commerce and defense.

During the 14th and 15th centuries, Pärnu became a member of the Hanseatic League, an influential commercial and defensive confederation of merchant guilds and market towns in Northwestern and Central Europe. This period marked significant economic growth for Pärnu, as it became a bustling hub of trade connecting various parts of Europe.

In the 17th century, Pärnu came under Swedish control, which brought about a period of relative stability and prosperity. However, the Great Northern War (1700-1721) saw Pärnu fall into Russian hands. Under Tsarist rule, the town's fortifications were strengthened, and Pärnu continued to thrive as a commercial port.

In the 19th century, Pärnu began to evolve into a popular spa destination. The first mud baths were established in 1838, attracting visitors from across the Russian Empire and beyond. Pärnu's reputation as a health resort flourished, contributing significantly to its cultural and economic development.

After the First World War, Pärnu became part of the newly independent Republic of Estonia in 1918. The city enjoyed a brief period of freedom before being occupied by Soviet forces in 1940, followed by Nazi occupation during World War II, and then re-occupation by the Soviets in 1944. Under Soviet rule, Pärnu's spa facilities were expanded, but the city also faced political repression and economic challenges.

Since Estonia regained its independence in 1991, Pärnu has revitalized its cultural and tourist attractions. Known as Estonia's 'Summer Capital,' Pärnu hosts numerous festivals, concerts, and events, drawing visitors from around the world. The city's historic architecture, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural scene make it a must-visit destination in Estonia.

Pärnu is located in southwestern Estonia and is easily accessible from major cities. The nearest international airport is Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport, approximately 130 kilometers away. From Tallinn, you can take a bus directly to Pärnu, which takes around 2 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car for a more flexible travel experience. There are also direct buses from Tartu and other Estonian cities.

Pärnu is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot or by bicycle. Local buses are available for longer distances within the city. Taxis are also readily available, and ride-sharing apps like Bolt operate in Pärnu. Renting a car can be a convenient option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas.

The official currency in Estonia is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in Pärnu, including in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, so withdrawing cash is convenient if needed. Contactless payment methods, such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, are also commonly used.

Pärnu is generally a very safe city for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it's advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended and be cautious in crowded areas. There are no significant high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always wise to stay vigilant.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Pärnu has a well-equipped hospital and several medical clinics. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably but neatly. Casual wear is generally acceptable, but avoid overly revealing clothing in public spaces. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Tere!' (Hello) and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and beverages. Don't refuse food or drink if offered, as it can be considered impolite.

To experience Pärnu like a local, visit the central market (Pärnu Turg) for fresh produce and local delicacies. Spend time at the beach, especially during summer when it's a hub of activity. Explore the city's parks and the beautiful Pärnu River Promenade. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share insights about their city.