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The Baltic States Capital: 1. Vilnius (Lithuania) 2. Riga (Latvia) 3. Tallinn (Estonia) Currency: Euros Official Languages: Lithuanian, Latvian and Estonian International code: +370 (LTU), +371 (LVA) and +372 (EST) GET THERE
is a mosque in each capital, but all three are in obscure, converted buildings in outer regions. Halal food is virtually non existent, barring exclusive spots in places like Kaunas, which also has the region›s only functioning purpose built mosque. Men and women dressing conservatively will stand out, especially in headscarves and burkas, as these are highly unusual here. However, barring the odd stare, you will not be bothered.
Useful Tips
All three nations speak their own language. English is spoken widely in the main cities and German and Russian is understood in many rural areas. The tourist office in Vilnius is extremely helpful in sourcing campervans locally and offering practical advice, as too the tourism office in Tallinn. For those who wish to meet the Baltic Muslim community, the organization Islamas Visiems is amazing and full of friendly, enthusiastic people. Kaunas Mosque
• The best airline are Turkish and Lufthansa which fly from Jeddah to Vilnius with one stopover in their respective capitals starting from approx SR 4,000. MUST HAVE •A Schengen visa is required for Saudi nationals. • A good travel guide and phrasebook. • A Satellite Navigation unit. •A back up paper map of the Baltic states. MUST DO •Stay in a magical wooded campsite. • Spend a night on the Curonian Spit. • Find a hidden beach along the Latvian coast. • Wander the old town of Tallinn. The Author: Tharik Hussain is a freelance journalist, travel writer and photographer regularly contributing to publications across the globe. Tharik specializes in the Muslim heritage of Europe and is an expert in Muslim (Halal) travel. He resides in London, UK. Email: tharik@tharikhussain.co.uk Web: tharikhussain.co.uk Blog: thewanderingmusulman.uk TharikHussainUK _TharikHussain DESTINATIONRYD.COM 81