Latvia Vacations

Latvian culture is deeply rooted in ancient customs, modern influences, and respect for nature. When it comes to social etiquette, the locals are reserved and do not express their emotions freely. They do not like small talk and do not speak loudly in public. Latvians consider speaking loudly in public to be rude. When you visit Latvia, keep this in mind.

Latvians take pride in their folk traditions. They love their traditional dance, music, and storytelling, all of which celebrate Latvian heritage. The ancient folk songs are UNESCO-recognized, and showcase the nature and daily lives of Latvians. While in Latvia, make sure to attend folk festivals to experience the rich cultural heritage of the country.

You'll find most locals speaking the language Latvian. Having said that, Russian is also widely spoken because of the presence of a large Russian community in the country. So, make sure to learn the basics of both langua, which will help you get around places and make your travel much easier.

A trip isn't memorable if the host is not hospitable. Fortunately, that's not the case for Latvia. The Latvians are open and welcoming. The locals often welcome travellers with warmth and genuine kindness. When you interact with them, you'll learn one thing about them is that their willingness to share their traditions, culture, and stories.

The best time to visit Latvia is in the Summer (June to August). During this period, the weather is pleasantly warm, making it the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities. Plus, the days are longer, which give travellers more time to explore this charming country.

If your vacation means fewer tourists and exploring picturesque landscapes, visit Latvia during Spring (April to May) and Autumn (September to October). This period is when flowers bloom and nature awakens, making it the perfect time for hiking and exploring nature.

The Winter (November to March) is also a good time to visit Latvia. This period is when the snow settles, making it a wonderland for winter sports enthusiasts. You can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports activities, especially in regions like Sigulda and Valmiera. Remember, the temperature drops significantly during the winter so pack some warm clothes if you visit Latvia in the winter.

Every country has its dos and don'ts. The same thing applies to Latvia. Here are a few things you should keep in mind before you visit the country:

Latvians are friendly. If you need assistance, Latvians will gladly assist you. Hospitality is ingrained in their culture, and they will welcome you with open arms.

You don't require a visa to visit Latvia. Since Latvia falls in the Schengen area and Canadian citizens do not require a visa to travel to Schengen countries, you can travel there visa-free.

Carry cash. The official currency of Latvia is Euros (EUR). It is advisable to carry cash for payments in smaller establishments. Credit cards and debit cards are also accepted.

Be sensitive to their culture and traditions. Latvians have deep respect for their culture and traditions, so do not disrespect their culture, especially in rural areas.

Pack your clothes depending on the season you have chosen to visit. Latvia has different tourist seasons like summer, winter, and spring. Based on the season pack your clothes. For winter, bring warm clothes because it will be freezing cold.    

Latvians love to feast on their food and at the same time love to treat their guests with great food. Here are some notable foods and drinks you should try while in Latvia.

Rupjmaize is dark bread made from rye and is considered the staple food in Latvia. It has a unique taste that tastes both sour and sweet. It goes well with cheese, smoked fish, and cold cuts.  When you are in Latvia, start your morning with a breakfast consisting of Rupjmaize with cheese, jam, or other spreads. Enjoying Rupjmaize in the morning will get you a taste of Latvian culture.

If you are craving snacks, nothing can beat Speka Piragi, which are bacon pies. These are savoury pastries filled with bacon, onions, and potatoes. Get these and enjoy them with a beverage of your liking.

When speaking of beverages, Latvia offers a variety of beverages. Among all of these, the Kvass is a traditional Latvian drink similar to beer, which is made from black bread, yeast, and sugar. Since it is a refreshing drink, it is perfect for summer. Apart from this, there is an alcoholic drink called Riga Black Balsam, which is considered the national drink of Latvia. It is made from different roots and herbs like ginger, black pepper, and Valerian. It is often consumed as digestif or mixed with cocktails.

On the whole, Latvia offers a promising cuisine and beverages that every traveller must try. Remember, travel is incomplete without trying the local food.