There are many interesting tourist sights which will attract everyone. If you want to enjoy nature - there is not only the serene Gulf of Riga and the open Baltic Sea, but also nature parks, fast rivers and lakes with the beautiful forests on the shores. Those who are interested in history will be fascinated by the medieval castles and culture of the ancient Latvians. If you are interested not only in entertainment but also  gaining new knowledge and information you are welcome to visit Old Riga, where you will find not only fabulous architectural monuments but also various night clubs and pubs. There are many beautiful churches in Latvia - both ancient and modern. There is a wide range of health rehabilitation and active recreation possibilities. And of course, don’t forget to make the inquiries about the events that are going to take place during your stay in Latvia. There is the possibility for you to enjoy the traditional Latvian celebrations, different cultural events and entertaining programs throughout the year.

 

Location:

Latvia is a small country on the Baltic Sea with the ancient history and traditions.

It lies in Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, between Estonia and Lithuania.

 

Climate:

From early November until the April thaw, temperatures struggle to rise above 0°C (32°F) as the sun makes a brief appearance during the day and drops well below zero at night. June to August daytime highs are normally around 20 to 22°C (68-72°F) and are particularly pleasant. July and August are the warmest months, though prone to moderate but persistent showers.

 

Money:

Latvia’s official currency is the Lat, which has 100 santimes. The Lat is the only legally acceptable form of payment within the Republic of Latvia. Latvia is one of those countries in which cash is in wide circulation, that is approximately 30% of the active money.
The most commonly used credit cards for paying in Latvian hotels, restaurants, cafes and supermarkets are EuroCard/ MasterCard, Visa, JCB, Diners Club, American Express, Eurocheque, stored-value cards issued by Latvian banks, as well as you can use services of the national banks for withdrawing money from your account, or you can withdraw money from cash machines (ATMs).

 

Language:

The official language of the Republic of Latvia is Latvian, although Russian, English and German languages are widely spoken.

 

Cuisine:

Latvian cuisine typically consists of basic, farmhouse-style food. The cuisine is similar to the surrounding countries, and just like Poland, Russia, Lithuania, and Ukraine, common ingredients in Latvian recipes are found locally - such as potatoes, wheat, barley, cabbage, onions, eggs, and pork. Latvian food is generally quite fatty, and with few spices. A typical example would be boiled black peas with pieces of bacon.

Popular drinks are beer, vodka, and balzam.

 

Tipping:

Because the service charge is included in the prices of most the principal services including hotel and restaurant bills, tipping is entirely at your discretion. If the service you receive is particularly good, however, you can leave a small additional amount. Where a service charge is not included a tip of between 10 and 15% is sufficient. For taxi drivers, any loose change or a tip of between 5 and 10% is fine.

 

Electricity and plug converters in Latvia:

240V/50Hertz using 2 two pin European outlets and plugs.

 

Local Time:

Latvia is in the Eastern European Time Zone, GMT+2hours.

 

Opening hours:

Shops are generally open on weekdays between 10.00am and 7.00pm and from 10.00am and 4.00pm on Saturdays but the larger department stores and shopping centres usually open at 8.00am.

 

Public Holidays
January 1 – New Year’s Day
March 25 – Good Friday
March 27 – Easter Monday
March 28 – second Easter Day
May 1 – Convocation of the Constitutional Assembly of the Republic of Latvia
May 4 – Latvia proclaimed its independence from USSR, and restoration of the Republic of Latvia
May 8 – Mother’s Day
May 15 – Summerdays
June 23 – Midsummer Eve Ligo diena
June 24 – Midsummer Jani
November 18 – Proclamation of the Republic of Latvia
December 25 – Christmas Day

December 26 – second Christmas Day
December 31 – New Year’s Eve