Holiday Guide Latvia
Hidden away from the world for over 50 years during Soviet occupation, Latvia is the largest of three Baltic republics, the other two being Estonia and Lithuania. Before occupation, Latvia was an exciting European nation, and today is struggling to regain some of its former greatness.
From architectural wonders to natural scenic beauty, Latvia has a wide range of attractions that will suit most tastes. Many of its buildings date back to the days of the Hanseatic League, while remnants of the Soviet grip on Latvia can also be found throughout the country. There are also plenty of castles, historic buildings and museums where you can learn more about Latvian history.
Outdoor lovers will find themselves spoilt for choice with endless opportunities to partake in a variety of activities. Over 40 per cent of Latvia is covered by forests, and the country has nearly 2,500 lakes, 12,000 rivers and hundreds of miles of unspoilt beaches.
The capital of Latvia is Riga, a city that will take you back in time through Latvian history. Popular attractions include Riga Cathedral, Freedom Monument and the Occupation Museum of Latvia, which is housed in a dreary looking communist-era building.
Riga's old town is the most prominent area of the city, sitting near the banks of the Daugava river with its lovely cobbled streets and awe-inspiring squares. Riga is also home to Europe's most impressive collection of Germanic Art Nouveau architecture, which appears on UNESCO's World Heritage list.
There are several ways to get to Latvia. Riga has an international airport which serves many European cities. There is also the Berlin-St Petersburg train service which passes through Daugavpils in southeastern Latvia. Trains also connect Riga with Minsk, Moscow and St Petersburg. Direct buses travel to Riga from numerous European and Scandinavian countries as well as from Russia.
Having travel insurance when you visit Latvia is a must. Medical emergencies can result in a hefty hospital bill, while tourists have been known to be targeted by petty thieves. With travel insurance, you can rest easy and enjoy your holiday knowing you will be covered in the event of any mishaps.
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