Erik Karlsen’s journey to Estonia is a story of adventure, love, and adaptation. Born and raised in the United States, Karlsen pursued a degree in mechanical engineering in New Jersey. However, his life has always had international flair. Being half Norwegian, Karlsen’s heritage played a role in shaping his career path, as he sought opportunities beyond the USA early on. “Because of that, I did an internship in Norway,” Karlsen explains. “My first job out of college was also in Norway, working in the oil industry.”
Over time, he moved between jobs in the United States but maintained a strong inclination toward global experiences. His passion for travel, nature, and outdoor activities – such as hiking and orienteering – has been a key part of his lifestyle, making him open to new environments and challenges.
From hiking trails to a career at Karl Storz
Karlsen’s move to Estonia was not just career-driven, but also a personal decision influenced by an unexpected encounter. While hiking the Mont Blanc trail – a trek spanning Italy, Switzerland, and France – he met his now-partner.
“I saw this little ad on Facebook about hiking in Italy, and I thought, why not?” Karlsen recalls. “I ended up meeting a girl from Estonia on the trail, and that girl is my partner now and the mother of my child.”
What began as a shared love for adventure blossomed into a serious relationship, prompting discussions about their future together. The couple realized that long-distance was not a sustainable option, leading them to explore other countries in each other’s countries, and finally a company in Estonia became the first choice. “Then I got a wonderful job offer from Karl Storz in 2023, and I came to Estonia,” says Karlsen.
The decision to relocate required significant changes – selling his house and car in the US – but it marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter. “Today, he and his partner have a 4-month-old son, and Estonia has become their home.”
Adjusting to life in Estonia
Moving to Estonia came with its fair share of adjustments – in particular, settling up personal identification, tax information, residency, and banking was quite complex.
“It was quite difficult and complex setting up in Estonia,” Karlsen admits. “Later I heard that the government-funded initiative Work in Estonia actually walks foreigners through the entire process, but I learned that after I had already done everything myself.”
However, once these formalities were completed, life in Estonia became remarkably smooth. “For instance, I was pleasantly surprised at how efficient the Estonian tax system is. “I did my taxes the other night in like 3 minutes on my phone,” he says, laughing. “It was amazing.”
Public transportation has been another positive aspect of his experience. Living in Kalamaja, Karlsen enjoys walking to the tram station every morning and taking the tram directly to work in the office in Laagri, just outside Tallinn. “I love taking the tram to work. It’s peaceful, it’s quiet, it’s always on time,” he says. “And that little bit of walking to and from the station makes a big difference in my daily routine.”
Language, culture, and social integration
Adapting to Estonian culture has been both intriguing and challenging. Estonians, much like Norwegians, are known for their reserved nature. “Estonians seem very cold at first. They don’t really want to talk to you unless you know them or have something specific to talk about,” Karlsen observes. “But once you get to know them and build trust, it’s a different story.”
Determined to integrate, he enrolled in an Estonian language course, funded by his company. “I couldn’t get into the state-provided language course because the website crashed due to huge number of applicants when enrollment opened,” he explains. “Luckily, my company stepped in and paid for another course, which was awesome.”
While he has acquired a foundational understanding of the language, fluency remains a work in progress. Weekly language exchange sessions with colleagues have helped him improve, while also assisting them in learning English. The language barrier is most noticeable in everyday situations like when he forgets to buy the tram ticket or similar. His family life has also motivated him to embrace the Estonian language. His son holds dual citizenship – American and Estonian – and Karlsen wants to be able to communicate effortlessly with his Estonian in-laws, who speak limited English.
Finding a community and embracing the outdoors
Beyond work and family, Karlsen has sought to build a sense of community in Estonia. While his partner has been instrumental in connecting him to Estonian culture, he has taken independent steps to engage with local activities. An avid outdoor enthusiast, he has taken up kitesurfing and frequently hikes in Estonia’s forests and bogs – unique landscapes he had never experienced before moving here. “I’d never experienced bogs before Estonia,” he says. “They’re really cool.”
He and his partner also enjoy Tallinn’s vibrant coffee culture. Living in Kalamaja, they often visit the coffee shops in Telliskivi and the Old Town, even participating in a coffee cupping class at Paper Mill Roastery.
Estonia as home
At 34, Karlsen has found a comfortable balance between work, family, and his personal interests in Estonia. While he still dreams of travelling to the Alps and other mountainous regions, he appreciates the unique experiences Estonia offers.
Would he recommend this life to others? Without hesitation. “I really enjoy Estonia. I appreciate being here,” he says. “Part of that is the smalltown feel of the entire country, and also how well Tallinn merges old and new architecture. It’s something really special.”
With a fulfilling career at Karl Storz, a loving family, and a growing appreciation for Estonian culture, Erik Karlsen has found his place in this northern European gem.
