Latvia: Newly independent and thriving

THE WOODLANDS, Texas -- Latvia is a small country on the Baltic coast neighboring the countries of Lithuania, Estonia and Russia. Having won its independence from the USSR in 1991 Latvia is a young country. Since winning independence Latvia has rebuilt and advanced in many ways. From reconstructing the buildings lost in the war to a new government, Latvia has been busy. Especially this year – with the culmination of many projects, one being the Song Festival (Dziesmu Svetki), a long standing cultural activity; the other Riga 2014 – when Riga becomes the European cultural capital.

For the song and dance festival, thousands of people gathered in this country, slightly larger than Rhode Island, to celebrate all things Latvian. The festivities take place throughout the city of Riga. Multiple venues were used for performance venues both free and ticketed. There were also various exhibits and vendor stands. These were all located among the attractions that always exist. Within Riga there are churches dating back to the thirteenth century, monuments commemorating the war and its effects, numerous museums, and ice cream stands everywhere. Not to mention the beautiful architecture and great food options sprinkled throughout.

Some famous attractions are: Vecriga (Old Town Riga), and St. Peter’s Church (the rebuilt tower boasts views from the top of the city two miles outward), the town square (Rats Laukums) the Freedom Monument, and Bastaj Parks, which runs through the city along the canal. During the occupation the canal had become polluted but now is a wonderful place to take a break in the city.

Places to go in the city:

Vecriga (Old Town- very safe, loads of things to do and see)

St. Peter’s Church (in Vecriga- going up to the tower allows you to see miles around the city)

Doma Laukums and nearby Rats Laukums (a great meeting place)

Klusais center (Quite centre- famous for the architecture and art nouveau museum)

Occupation Museum

Freedom Monument

Resturants parade the streets in front of the Doma Cathedral- that is still used for services today as is St. Peter’s Church. Boredom is practically impossible in Riga. However. if you do get a little tired of the city visit the lovely beaches of Jurmala. Although the town of Major is one of the most popular spots, there are many options outside of Riga. Starting at Lielupe and continuing down the coast for miles and miles stretch beautiful cream-colored beaches. There are also rolling countrysides dotted with bed and breakfasts complete with goats and gooseberries in the backyard.

Places to visit outside of Riga:

Jurmala’s beaches

Kolkasrags (where the tide from the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga come together)

Ventspils - a resort town with great family- friendly beaches (These beaches are right on the Baltic sea, unlike Jurmala’s beaches which are on the Gulf of Riga.)

Explore the countryside beauty

Latvia offers cultural experiences you won't quite find anywhere else. With a new independence and friendly atmosphere, Latvia should definitely be on your travel bucket list.