Latvia has always been a little confusing to the traveler who does not know that much about that part of Europe, so finding out it is everything you could ask for, (think ski slopes, clear seas and historical sites) and comes within an acceptable budget is a good feeling! It is like the Scandinavia you have always dreamed about going to but without the 6 Euro beer. Accommodation is not a problem either. Latvia offers countless bed and breakfast places to stay, in the mountains, by the beach or directly in the town centres. The Latvians share a lot of their culture with their Lithanian neighbours and folklore is rife throughout the country.

Since the country’s independence, theatre, choir music and classical music have become the most notable aspects of Latvian culture. That, and the cuisine that is reminiscent of a German kitchen with its cheese, potatoes and meat dishes. for sports, ice hockey is the most popular and the team can often be seen competing in the Winter Olympics.

About a quarter of Latvia’s population is Russian-speaking and the rights of this section of society have been an awkward issue since their independence. There were government reforms introduced in 2004 to stop the use of the Russian language in schools and these continue to be controversial.

Legislation on citizenship was tightened in 2006. Candidates who do not pass a Latvian language test three times are refused citizenship. People that don’t have citizenship are entitled neither to vote nor to get an EU passport. The best way to see Latvia and its capital is by staying in the heart of the city in an apartments building. This way, you can see the city on a budget and through the eyes of a local.