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^ Interesting, detailed and as objective as possible. I like it.
I heard strange things from Estonia; people of Russian descent weren't automatically granted citizenship when the country became independent, and so to this day they aren't actually Estonians of Russian descent, but Russians living in Estonia - even if they were born there. At least that's what I heard, and I'm aware it might be a simplified version. Do you have an equally detailed & objective take on that?
to this day Russian is the accepted language "of business" in the baltic countries
Granted, this was exaggerated.
It is however my experience from traveling, and communicating in shops, public transport, markets etc.
The first go-to language when Baltic fails is usually not English but Russian.
Even when not talking with me, I heard people speaking Russian all the time - I guess mostly in international meeting points, like the bus terminal in Riga and the neighbouring market stalls/hall. (*)
even young people's english usually isn't good at all (and apparently they still learn russian)
Obviously this does not apply to all young people in the Baltic states - I think "usually" was inappropriate here.
But again, I speak from personal experience.
(*) a very unique place btw, well worth a visit.
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Don't worry @lowrider. If the kids are any indication, the world is moving to emojis. In a decade, you'll be configuring shit with obnoxious faces and heart signs.
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God, please no. I do not need to see posts like "systemd ]:D 8) {) 8o :8 8.( O:)
". I mean, I'm pretty sure those cartoons sexually harassed me just now and then were proud of it.
No, he can't sleep on the floor. What do you think I'm yelling for?!!!
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For example, in Tallinn (400,000 people), the ratio of Estonians and Russians is 50%/50%, so, strangers usually ask which language is spoken.
Was just there few months ago, beautiful city, especially the old-viking-looking part. Took full day off the official events just for hiking, got lost and mostly got help in Russian (which I don't speak), fun.
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beautiful city, especially the old-viking-looking part.
I guess you are referring to Tallinn's old town?
It used to be part of the Hanseatic League; most of the old buildings are probably from that era.
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