Explore a cultural time capsule

Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia – 10 days of wonder [View in browser]( [facebook]( [instagram]( [TikTok]( PICTURE YOURSELF IN… The Baltics [The Baltics] Tallinn, Estonia is the jewel of this ten day itinerary This week, I’m writing from a place of ignorance. Edvinas Pundys, Elsewhere by Lonely Planet’s local expert for the Baltic countries of Lithuania, Estonia and Latvia, pointed out there are 200 countries in the world – and though it's painful to admit, I can’t be expected to know about all of them. However, after a couple of hours on the phone with Edvinas, I’m quietly searching flights and wondering if I should fly into Riga or Helsinki. (Helsinki is only two hours by boat from Estonia, and it's a beautiful boat ride. I learned that from Edvinas.) Christianity reached these places later than other European nations. They were oppressed for centuries by feudalism, and later by Soviet rule before forming an unlikely alliance and using song and dance festivals to fuel their peaceful revolution. I can’t help imagining what it must feel like to travel among people who achieved freedom through celebration. The Baltics have incredibly old and complicated histories, yet they are less visited than other nations: an appealing combination for travelers. There is a rawness and authenticity that comes from a place that has yet to be spit-shined for the masses. Gorgeous medieval castles dot bucolic countrysides, spas and saunas promise the best clean you’ll ever feel and quaint wooden villages abut prominent, forward-thinking art nouveau cities. It is Europe at its romantic best. Let Edvinas show you how to visit. [AnneMarie McCarthy]   Sarah Stocking   Destination Editor       [Mardi Gras]   Feature Story A road trip through the Baltic States Want a road trip that will knock your fantasy-loving socks off? Try this multi-stop drive through the Baltics. [Read more](   Imagine your Baltic itinerary Edvinas gave me so many great ideas. Here are a few for your own Baltic tour. Soar over Vilnius in a hot air balloon. See incredible baroque architecture from above as you soar over this beautiful city nestled among verdant green fields. Take a potato tour in the Lithuanian countryside. Potatoes are a staple in the region, and the creativity of local chefs shines when you learn to cook and sample the myriad ways to make this simple food absolutely delicious. Partake in a traditional sauna ritual in Latvia. Stay in a Latvian home and detox in a traditional sauna where you’ll indulge in a honey scrub and birch-branch cleansing ritual. Go underground in a secret Soviet-era bunker. Hidden beneath beautiful Gauja National Park lies a Soviet-built bunker, once ready to welcome elite officers from nuclear disaster and today frozen in cold war–era paranoia. Relax, island-style in Estonia. Head to Muhu for a resort-like experience while visiting medieval stone churches and taking scenic walks along stunning coastlines.     Book a trip with Elsewhere to the Baltics Let Edvinas help you craft the perfect trip through the fabled Baltics, taking in gorgeous views, fairy-tale castles and this small region's incredible charm. [BOOK NOW](   Ask an Insider Edvinas Parys is a travel expert from Lithuania whose knowledge and passion fuel his thoughtful Baltic itineraries. What’s something that’s overrated but you get asked about a lot? The Hill of Crosses is underwhelming at best. It’s a hill of thousands and thousands of crosses that have been put there to commemorate someone who has passed. It’s very touristy and not as impressive as it sounds The Balkans are filled with castles. Do you have a favorite? I often add RÅ«ndale Palace to itineraries. It was the summer palace of the Duchy of Courland, and it’s incredible. But my favorite is Trakai. It’s one of the most visited castles and just outside Vilnius. The views are just absolutely stunning. [Bio image] “Our therapy is walking through the forest. Our yoga is mushroom and berry picking. The people here are literally tree huggers.” Festivals are a big deal in the Baltics. Should people travel for them? Yes! Each country hosts the Song and Dance Festival every five years. It was during these festivals that alliances were forged and plans made to protest Soviet rule. They remain important cultural touch points in the Baltics. What is one word you would use to describe the Baltics? Fierce. The people are not complete renegades, but they withstand and go forward with stamina. They are dynamic and fierce. What can people watch or read or listen to that will give them a better understanding of the region? My favorite is The Other Dream Team. It is a 2012 documentary about the Lithuanian basketball team who won second place at the Olympics in 1992.   Love travel inspiration in your inbox? Share with a fellow travel-lover by forwarding to a friend. Did someone share this email with you? Subscribe by clicking [here.](   This email was sent to you by: Lonely Planet Publications Ltd. | 1101 Red Ventures Drive, Fort Mill, SC 29707 © 2022 Lonely Planet [Unsubscribe]( | [Privacy Policy](