Kimberly C.
Google
I had the good fortune to discover this hotel through American Express Travel, and stayed for eight nights in early September. I've been traveling a lot this year, as a form of respite care, because my elderly Father has dementia and moved in with us last year. I had to resign from my job to help him. To escape occasionally, I've traveled overseas and stayed at various high-priced hotels in Stockholm, Kraków, Copenhagen, and Hawaii, where even the Four Seasons felt impersonal and overcrowded. The Burman was my favorite experience yet, because it is genuinely a small luxury hotel, where everyone knows you by name.
From my initial correspondence with Roman from reception to my unexpected arrival in a taxi, because someone else had taken my reserved car, everyone at The Burman was warm, welcoming, and engaging. Marje and Andres, who served breakfast at Écrin, were so nice and friendly, and made my mornings extra special by remembering my preferences and being genuinely good-natured. They have definitely hired the right people to work there and represent The Burman brand.
I had so many other great experiences as a guest at The Burman. Even though I was often the only person in the Écrin bar for happy hour, I never felt unwelcome. I was surprised when people would smile at me in passing, because after living in Sweden for two years in my early-twenties, I guess I don't expect warm smiles in Baltic countries.
I had a great massage at the spa one day and spent my last full day relaxing in the Japanese bath and enjoying a bubble bath. The spa was quiet and peaceful, and offered the perfect escape before a long and tiresome journey home.
The hotel is fantastic on its own, offering spacious and thoughtful rooms and decor, but the food and beverages available at their various in-house establishments are also equally incredible. At Écrin, I ordered the tasting menu one night and the afternoon tea over the weekend. Apart from Rebecca, I don't remember a lot of names, but everyone at Écrin was also very nice. I even got a tour of the kitchen! I dined at Shang Shi as well, and had always meant to go back, but I didn't make it a second time. On another occasion, I enjoyed a 16-course selection at Koyo Omakase, where I had the opportunity to chat with Chef Kazuto Hokari, who was very kind and hospitable to me.
I have asked my husband to take me back to Tallinn, and specifically, The Burman, as a combined birthday and Christmas gift. I'd love to see the old town decorated for the holidays, and this hotel is in a prime location for that. Thank you to everyone who made my vacation memorable. We look forward to seeing you again one day soon.