The easiest way to get around is on my own two feet. Kesklinn (the center of town) is a medieval town square that is only accessible by walking and biking. Many of the delivery companies use bikers to deliver food and products, and it amazes me that locals still manage to bike through the streets of Tartu when there is a foot of snow on the ground!
Since Tartu is in southwestern Estonia, isolated from other parts of the country, most native Estonians here own at least one car. Cars are much smaller and more compact here in Estonia than in the United States, and this is also true in the rest of Europe. Although some of the brands and companies are similar, like Mercedes Benz, for example, it is very rare to see an SUV or a truck, and most cars are no bigger than a sedan. I think the narrow streets and highways may explain the size difference between vehicles here and in the United States.
In the more rural parts of Tartu county, inhabitants have to get creative! Often, paved roads will disappear and turn into dirt pathways or cobblestoned streets. I have been told that in the springtime Estonians use bogshoes (sort of like snowshoes) to cross the marshlands and swamps of the countryside. And in the winter, Estonians are not afraid to cross-country ski from one town to the next. The snow provides a constant blanket on the ground and a smooth ride!
This week I had the opportunity to try dog sledding for the first time, which was a truly Nordic experience! Dog sledding provides a convenient way to get through the National Parks of Estonia, especially when there are no trails and a bit of off-roading is required.
