Day 59, (July 1) Riga, Latvia to Tallinn, Estonia

Fortunately this morning we did not have to get up early as we couldn't leave before 9:15am because the bus driver was required to have a 9 hour rest break.  With the bus loaded we headed off north towards Tallinn.  The countryside was filled with lots of farms and agriculture.  At the border we took a rest break in a former border checkpoint station.  Continuing on for a short distance we took another break at the ocean.  There was a large swan there, and several members took the opportunity to wade in the water.

Continuing on, there was suddenly a swerve and a thump, thump.  Looking out the back window, we had hit a very large bird and its lifeless remains were now splattered on the highway.  But we motored on and subsequent inspection revealed no damage to the bus.

After arriving in Tallinn, we had the opportunity to check in to our hotel, the Nordic Hotel Forum, which is located within easy walking distance from the old city before quickly heading off to the first church (Kaarli Kirka)  for the choir practice.  After the practice we went as a group to a restaurant in the Freedom Square.  Initially there was not enough food there. And many of us had to wait a long time for the buffet table to be replenished.  After dinner we walked back to our hotel for a welcomed night's rest.