In 2024 Tartu and Southern Estonia are the European Capital of Culture.  The year will be packed with events showcasing the historical and cultural heritage of the second-biggest city in Estonia and the rest of South Estonia. Alongside Tartu, the whole Southern Estonia will share its unique culture if you know where to look. The experience will be so much better with a guide who knows local habits and traditions.

Tartu2024 will bring over 1,000 events to individuals of all ages. The year-long programme in Tartu and Southern Estonia presents the story of the Arts of Survival – the knowledge, skills, and values that will help us lead a good life in the future. As a community, we want to share this information while also learning from others. Inspired by culture, we build a better tomorrow. See an overview of the programme here.

Among many other hidden treasures you might want to discover the secrets of Seto culture with its ancient polyphonic singing tradition and specific local cuisine. Or find a most well hidden white guide nominated restaurant in the middle of wilderness in Karula national park. There are plenty of opportunities to hike, swim and camp with local tour guides.

The Contemporary Art Museum of Estonia in Tallinn has an exhibition open until September 1: Down in the Bog – Sporulation, the Norwegian curator with Estonian roots Karolin Tampere together with artists, musicians and scientists will take a deep dive into the specific ecosystems of the peatlands. The exhibition that will open on 14 June is a chapter from Tampere’s three-part project Down in the Bog – Thinking with Peatlands that is framed around cultural, historical and contemporary changes in relation to peatlands in Northern Norway / Sápmi, Estonia and other selected locations. Along with the artworks on display, one can contemplate on the subject through workshops, concerts and field trips that are also part of the exhibition. These activities build a multisensory experience where sound, touch and smell become central vessels for inspiration and knowledge.

See more here.

… health services are ideal for clients who value peace and quiet, a high level of service and an individual approach.

Kubija Sauna and Spa Centre has pools in 5 different sizes, depths, and temperatures and 4 saunas (90 °C Finnish sauna, 70 °C aroma sauna, 45 °C steam sauna and 60 °C juniper sauna). The 60 °C sauna is especially suitable for those who cannot handle high temperatures.

Kubija suggests for conference participants a package called "Beauty from pure nature". The package includes:

• Accommodation for two nights in a twin room
• 2 buffet breakfasts
• Unlimited spa and sauna centre access during opening hours (Monday-Friday 8:00 – 11:00/14:00 – 22:00; Saturday & Sunday 8:00 – 22:00)
• Use of a bathrobe and spa slippers
• 2 dinners at the Kubija Hotel and Nature Spa restaurant 17:30 – 19:30
• Relaxing natural facial treatment (40 min)
• Relaxing natural body treatment (40 min)

… gives you the opportunity for a relaxing vacation or medical rehabilitation programme with treatment in private, with family or friends. The Sanatorium of Värska is surrounded by greenery and is far away from polluting industries and city noise. It towers next to the bay of Värska just like a bright cruise ship.

They recommend a package called "Vacation in SPA". The package includes:

• Accommodation for 1 night
• Dinner and breakfast in the sanatorium's dining hall
• Unlimited access to the water park and saunas during opening hours
• You can book different treatments and procedures

… with its cosy and comfortable atmosphere and a beautiful park offers you a pleasant time. The kind and friendly staff will give their best to ensure that your stay at the hotel is most enjoyable and unforgettable.

Pühajärve Spa & Holiday Center offers a package called "Pure relaxation" which suits best for conference participants. The package includes:

• Accommodation in a twin room
• Bathrobes in the room
• Breakfast and lunch
• Sauna and swimming
• 2 different relaxing treatments per day from the list:
  • Water massage bed (Hydro-Jet)
  • Massage bath with various extracts
  • Footbath with various extracts or with sea salt
  • Salt chamber (30 minutes)
  • Infrared sauna (20 minutes)
  • Partial massage (20 minutes)
  • Warm clay treatment (for back, shoulders, hips or knees)
  • Local peat treatment
  • Cold paraffin wrap
  • Paraffin treatment for hands or for feet