Rapla: The Hidden Gem of Estonia

• HelloTere
  [teh-reh]
• GoodbyeHead aega
  [heh-d ah-eh-gah]
• YesJah
  [yah]
• NoEi
  [ay]
• Please/You're welcomePalun
  [pah-loon]
• Thank youAitäh
  [eye-teh]
• Excuse me/SorryVabandust
  [vah-bahn-doost]
• How are you?Kuidas sul läheb?
  [kwee-dahs sool leh-heb]
• Fine. And you?Hästi. Ja sina?
  [hah-stee yah see-nah]
• Do you speak English?Kas sa räägid inglise keelt?
  [kahs sah raah-gid een-glee-seh kehlt]
• I don't understandMa ei saa aru
  [mah ay sah ah-roo]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMa sooviksin menüüd näha, palun
  [mah soh-veek-seen meh-nooood nah-hah pah-loon]
• I don't eat meatMa ei söö liha
  [mah ay soh lee-hah]
• Cheers!Terviseks!
  [tehr-vee-sehks]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMa sooviksin maksta, palun
  [mah soh-veek-seen mahk-stah pah-loon]

• Help!Appi!
  [ah-pee]
• Go away!Mine minema!
  [mee-neh mee-neh-mah]
• Call the Police!Kutsu politsei!
  [koot-soo poh-lee-tseh]
• Call a doctor!Kutsu arst!
  [koot-soo ah-rst]
• I'm lostMa olen eksinud
  [mah oh-lehn ehk-see-noo-d]
• I'm illMa olen haige
  [mah oh-lehn hah-ee-geh]

• I'd like to buy...Ma tahaksin osta...
  [mah tah-hahk-seen oh-stah]
• I'm just lookingMa lihtsalt vaatan
  [mah 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 kahl-lees]
• Can you lower the price?Kas sa saaksid hinda alandada?
  [kahs sah sah-ahk-seed heen-dah ah-lahn-dah-dah]

• What time is it?Mis kell on?
  [mees kell ohn]
• It's one o'clockOn üks tund
  [ohn uks toond]
• Half past (10)Pool (10)-ni
  [pohl (10)-nee]
• MorningHommik
  [hohm-meek]
• AfternoonPäev
  [piehv]
• EveningÕhtu
  [ohth-oo]
• YesterdayEile
  [eh-leh]
• TodayTäna
  [tah-nah]
• TomorrowHomme
  [hohm-meh]
• 1Üks
  [ooks]
• 2Kaks
  [kahks]
• 3Kolm
  [kohlm]
• 4Neli
  [neh-lee]
• 5Viis
  [vees]
• 6Kuus
  [koos]
• 7Seitse
  [site-seh]
• 8Kaheksa
  [kah-heh-ksah]
• 9Üheksa
  [ueh-heh-ksah]
• 10Kümme
  [koom-meh]

• Where's a/the...?Kus on ...?
  [koos ohn]
• What's the address?Mis on aadress?
  [mees ohn ah-ah-dress]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kas sa saaksid mulle näidata (kaardil)?
  [kahs sah sah-ahk-seed 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 (....-ni)
  [pee-leht (...-nee)]

Rapla, located in central Estonia, has roots tracing back to ancient times. Archaeological findings suggest that the area was inhabited as early as the Stone Age. These early settlers were likely attracted to the region due to its fertile lands and abundant natural resources.

The medieval period marked significant growth for Rapla. The town became strategically important due to its position along trade routes connecting different parts of Estonia. During this time, the construction of the first church in Rapla began, which later evolved into the impressive Rapla Maarja-Magdaleena Church, a landmark that still stands today.

In the 13th century, Rapla came under the influence of the Livonian Order, a crusading military order. This period saw the integration of Rapla into the network of the Hanseatic League, which facilitated trade and economic development. The town thrived as a commercial hub, dealing in goods like grain, timber, and textiles.

The 16th and 17th centuries saw Rapla changing hands between Swedish and Russian control during numerous conflicts, including the Livonian War and the Great Northern War. Swedish rule brought administrative reforms and improved infrastructure, while Russian dominance introduced a new layer of cultural and political influence.

The 19th century was a transformative period for Rapla, marked by industrialization and modernization. The introduction of the railway in 1901 connected Rapla to larger Estonian cities like Tallinn and Tartu, significantly boosting local commerce and industry. This period also saw the rise of national consciousness and cultural movements among Estonians.

Following Estonia's declaration of independence in 1918, Rapla experienced a brief period of national growth and development. The interwar years were marked by efforts to build a strong Estonian state, with investments in infrastructure, education, and culture in towns like Rapla.

The tumultuous period of World War II and subsequent Soviet occupation brought significant changes to Rapla. The town, like much of Estonia, faced political repression and economic hardship under Soviet rule. However, this era also saw the construction of new buildings and industrial facilities that shaped the modern landscape of Rapla.

With the restoration of Estonian independence in 1991, Rapla began a new chapter. The town has since focused on revitalizing its historical sites, promoting cultural heritage, and modernizing its infrastructure. Today, Rapla is known for its vibrant community life, historical significance, and scenic landscapes, making it a fascinating destination for visitors.

Rapla is located in the central part of Estonia, about 50 kilometers southwest of Tallinn. The nearest international airport is Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport. From Tallinn, you can reach Rapla by train, bus, or car. Trains run frequently from Tallinn to Rapla and the journey takes approximately 1 hour. Buses are also available and take around the same time. If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car and take the E67 highway directly to Rapla.

Rapla is a small town, and its main attractions are within walking distance from each other. For longer distances, local buses and taxis are readily available. Biking is also a popular way to get around, and there are bike rental services in town. If you plan to explore the surrounding countryside, renting a car can be a convenient option.

The official currency in Estonia is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in Rapla. ATMs are available throughout the town for cash withdrawals. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller shops and rural areas where card payments might not be accepted.

Rapla is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas and keep your belongings secure in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always recommended.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number can be used for police, fire, and medical emergencies. Rapla has a local police station and a medical clinic that can handle emergencies. It is also recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in town for over-the-counter medications and minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. In religious sites, modest clothing is recommended. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, it is considerate to cover your head and wear modest attire. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t make loud noises or eat on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. Estonians appreciate politeness, so a friendly 'Tere' (hello) is always welcomed. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and beverages. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Rapla like a local, visit the local markets and small cafes where you can enjoy traditional Estonian food. Engage with the locals; they are usually friendly and willing to share stories about their town. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the surrounding nature trails and the nearby Keava bog, which offers beautiful scenery and a peaceful atmosphere. Attending local events and festivals can also provide a deeper understanding of the culture and lifestyle in Rapla.