Famously known as “Pancake Tuesday,” Shrove Tuesday is widely celebrated in Christian countries with tons of delicious treats. Much like most Nordic countries, Estonia also has a tradition of people consuming tons of mouthwatering buns with whipped cream on that day. Although the tradition may have its roots in religion, today, it’s seen more of a national custom rather than a Christian celebration.

Weird Old Shrove Tuesday Traditions

Since Estonia has never been particularly religious, the so-called Vastlapäev (Shrove Tuesday) has always been associated with entertainment and the anticipation of spring. Some of the old traditions on this day include sledding and dancing. According to custom, the longer the flax stem used as a sleigh, the more fertile the year ahead will be. People weren’t allowed to start a fire or to spin lamb’s wool on Shrove Tuesday. There were competitions for the best humming top made of pig feet and a number of other odd customs.

There were many dated traditions involving flax as it used to be grown all over the country. For example, aside from sledding, flax was also the main participant in other customs like drinking straight from the bottle to ensure long flax fibers. Since flax is rarely grown in Estonia these days, these were customs gradually left in the past.

Celebrate Vastlapäev Like They Do In Estonia

Back in the day, the cuisine for Vastlapäev was pretty rustic: boiled pigs’ trotter and a soup of peas and beans. Nowadays, the tradition has evolved to add delicious whipped cream buns that are also known as semla in Northern Europe. Baking this delicious treat isn’t going to trouble more experienced chefs, but if you’re feeling insecure in your baking skills, you can find semla virtually anywhere on Shrove Tuesday. Add caster sugar and feel free to add extra flavors with your favorite jam, and viola! Enjoy it like they do in Estonia.

The fall is here and the thoughts of vacation are looming over everyone’s mind. It is only natural. The last two years have been difficult due to the pandemic. However, things seem a little better than before thanks to vaccination drives being implemented by countries all over the world. In fact, many European countries have also opened up and are welcoming Americans who are vaccinated. So, if you are looking for ideas on which destination to visit this fall, we have created a list for you.

Italy

It was a relief when Italy opened its tourism doors to Americans and reconfirmed that they would remain open for citizens of the United States. Besides, Italy is just as magical in the fall as it is in the summers. The weather is idyllic for sightseeing and it is also the harvest season, which means wine festivals in different regions of the country. You can visit Milan, Dolomites, Venice, Puglia or Sicily. Every place in this country is just gorgeous.

New England

The sight of stately farmhouses and quaint towns is heavenly. This coupled with the breath-taking views of the maple trees, with their leaves turning yellow from green and then to crimson, is just what you should experience during your fall vacation. From late September to mid-October is when you will find the peak leaf season. Get ready for this rural getaway.

Rwanda

In the light of the pandemic, Rwanda is taking Covid quite seriously and has continued gorilla-trekking but at a reduced capacity. The mission was to keep the primates protected from the virus while also ensuring the funding for gorilla conservation did not stop. Furthermore, the brief downpours only add to the landscape’s charm with its vibrant greenery and flowers.

Maldives

It rains in the Maldives through October. However, that is no reason for stopping you from going to this beautiful island at the southern end of India. The weather creates favorable conditions for you to surf. In addition, the temperature is at a pleasant 80 degrees.