ABOUT RIGA

Riga is a metropolis on the Baltic crossroads where several historical cultures (Latvian, German, Russian and Scandinavian) met to shape the capital of Latvia as we see it today. Many Estonians and Lithuanians lived here for centuries and several of them became famous poets and politicians in their native countries.

Restoring of independent Latvia dramatically changed geopolitical situation of Riga and transformed it into one of the most rapidly growing economical and cultural centres of Europe. Even if you have visited Riga just five years ago, you will be deeply surprised just by walk in the lively city streets.

Riga is a magnificent destination, an architectural jewel; last year almost 4 million tourists from all over the world have already visited Riga, and this number is continuing to grow rapidly. In the year 2006 Riga was a host city for many notable events, let us mention the most important - World Ice Hockey championship in May or NATO Summit in November, 2006.
Find out more:
www.rigathisweek.lv
www.latviatourism.lv
www.latinst.lv
www.virtualriga.lv
www.rigaregion.lv

CURRENCY
Latvian monetary units are Lats ( LVL or Ls) and Santims. Banknotes of Lats: 5,10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000.
Coins: 1, 2 Lats and 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 Santims. Money can be changed in the banks or in the numerous exchange offices.

CASH MACHINES
Cash dispensers for main credit cards can be found practically on every street in Old Riga.

AIRPORT
Riga Airport is only 8 km from the city.
Taxi (15-20 min., 10-15 EUR).
Public bus Nr. 22 (appr. 30 min., interval appr. 20 min., 0.3 EUR).

TIME
Latvia is in the Eastern European Time Zone: GMT+2 hours.

CLIMATE
The weather in Riga is enough changeable and unpredictable. An umbrella and raincoat are reccommended.
Winters (Dec-Feb) are relatively mild with average temperatures around –5 C - +5 C. Snow melts around mid March.
The peak of summer is July when temperatures are on average between +17 C - +25 C. Autumns are warm, but rainy.
Although September is still mild, the temperature drops down to +5 C by the end of October.
The average temperature on 14-16 September used to be +16-+20 C, umbrellas are strongly recommended.

EMERGENCY CALLS
112.

SHOPPING
Amber jewellery and applied arts in leather, flax, wood, and metal make excellent keepsakes.
In addition, traditional pottery and linen napery are useful and decorative gifts.
Consider a bottle of Riga Black Balsam in the authentic ceramic bottle or an original print or painting from one of Riga’s numerous art galleries.
Main credit cards are accepted by the majority of shops.

TIPPING
Tipping is a matter of choice. If the service has been outstanding, five or ten per cent are appreciated.