Latvia : The Astonishing Riga

Out of curiosity and the urge to be adventurous, we decided to venture into the Baltic region. Although the mysteriously dangerous Russia and Ukraine were very appealing and fit into the "adventurous venture" very well, we decided to settle with their neighbouring countries due to the hassle of getting visa.

We thought spring would be pleasant. Boy, we didn't expect it was still snowing! We spent a snowy Easter of 2012 in the equally mysterious Baltic soil.

The astonishing truth about Latvia or Estonia (couldn't recall which is the one)is that it has one of the strongest currency in Europe. Its value was stronger than the Euro, at least in 2012. Couldn't be sure about now.

As ambitious as we always were when come to travelling, we had a difficult time deciding which of the 3 Baltic countries we shall have to skip due to time constraint. Eventually, we decided to leave Lithuania out of our plan, which according to a friend, was charming. Damn....well, that always happens, doesn't it? It just gives a reason for another vacation :p

Riga is a quaint city that is rather quiet, peaceful and calm. Like most European countries, Riga has a developed transportation system. The blue bus-like object in the picture is the local tram.

Above are some pictures taken when we were discovering the city. I couldn't remember when I started to have such a habit but it has sunk into me right now to take pictures of day and night on some good touristic spots.

The locals do speak English. However, limited to the younger generation or those who are servicing in touristic spots.

Another thing that fascinates hubby and I is the fact that we could find sushi places easily. Almost every corner of a street has one. And to top that up, they are surprisingly good. So, hubby was pretty pleased with that new discovery although he doesn't eat sashimi.

What about the local food? Personally, I do not find it very different from the Scandinavian food. But I must add, it is tastier.
Not everybody takes Rye bread very well due to its density and the sour taste that lingers in your mouth after each bite. However, I would recommend to try the fried rye bread if you happen to see that in the menu. It is sweet and the sour taste is not overpowering.

Judging from the number of churches and cathedrals in the city and town, it reflects how strongly the locals embrace the religion. As we walked, we could hear masses going on and church goers dutifully attending them.

Despite it was Easter, we were glad that the place was not completely dead. Shops, cafes, restaurants and touristic spots were opened and welcomed visitors warmly. Will we be back to Riga? Mmm,....once is satisfying. I would rather venture Russia and Ukraine.