Now that summer is here, it is time to enjoy nature. Just make sure that you do not trash it. As we discover in one of our feature stories, there is too much of this going on. Camping may seem old fashioned but it is moving with the times. Nowadays people would rather camp in their vehicles than live in a tent. They come with all modern conveniences. Therefore, if you do decide to head for the great outdoors don't forget your laptop. This week's Industry Insider is all about camping.
TALLINN - Camping nowadays includes more than just setting up a tent somewhere in the woods. With the advent of Recreational Vehicles (RVs,) it doesn't even necessarily include a tent.
Each camper has his or her own style and reason for camping. For some, it can be a lifestyle, but for most, it's a chance to get away from everyday life and spend some time with family and friends. At summer events where there are more participants than beds, camping can be a fun way to provide sleeping arrangements for everybody: Many people use "regulated" camping sites that offer toilets, a chance to wash, and a safe place to build a good campfire.
"I like camping," says Indrek Mets. "It's good to be in nature 's good air, great noises."
He goes camping often, simply taking his tent and sleeping bag and heading out in his car. He doesn't like the regulated camping sites, preferring to be all on his own, where it's quieter and he feels closer to nature.
But it's relatively easy to make a campsite in Estonia. "There is only one regulation 's on the camping site there must be one toilet and a possibility to wash for every twelve tourists," says Ants Eigi, owner of Oobikuoru Kamping.
It's good to remember that when you go camping in the wild, leave no trace of your presence behind. It really is as simple as it sounds 's pick up your trash, don't dump food, and don't create any new trails.
In the West camping became popular in the early 20th century after Henry Ford began mass producing the Model T. Suddenly cars were available to the middle class as well.
Away from the light pollution of the city, stars become brighter and more of them are visible. Before you go, find out what the heavens are up to. Will there be a lunar eclipse or a meteor shower? Is that bright spot on the horizon a star or a planet?
Not only a romantic trip, camping can also be linked to a variety of activities, such as fishing, boating and hiking. Why not take a family trip where you can learn about the local flora and fauna and pick up some orienteering skills? Or you could tie the trip in to a historical event or a birthday or anniversary. The possibilities are endless.
However, when it comes to safety, there are still a few important things to bear in mind. In Estonia, for example, you can get a quite unfriendly welcome while camping on (or even passing through) private property. With bigger groups, it's better if people move around at least in twos after dark. That way no one gets lost 's or if they do, they're not alone. Everyone should have his or her own flashlight as well.
"I do not like camping. It's so uncomfortable," says Marika Sass. But even she has some good memories of camping, recalling the fire and the simple food, the stars and the quiet night, and the waves softly washing in to shore beneath a full moon. She doesn't think it would have been possible to experience all that, had she chosen any other way to spend her time.
In Estonia it's quite easy to find the regulated campsites. They're usually offered for small money not far from more rustic campgrounds.
"Small houses are the most popular," said Eigi. He offers family houses with two rooms, a bathroom and a kitchen, as well as smaller and simpler cabins and also places to pitch a tent.
According to Eigi, people prefer regulated camping sites to wild ones. One attraction, he says, is a greater sense of security. There is only one road to the Oobikuoru campsite. And usually there are more people, which also helps to make it feel safer.
So, if you want to plan an affordable family trip 's or if you just love the great outdoors 's camping offers a wide range of choices.
