Latvia may not be as popular a summer destination as, say, Spain or Italy, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a great place to visit. The season here is short and oh so sweet – especially if you know how to take full advantage of the region’s fleeting summer sunshine! Don your sunglasses and SPF and get […]
Latvia
16 of the Best Restaurants in Riga, Latvia
Riga might not have any restaurants in the Michelin Guide yet, but I suspect that will soon change. (I was right – the Michelin inspectors came to Riga in 2023!) The city’s chefs continually impress me with their meticulous attention to detail and masterful plating. Latvians take great pride in their work, and it shows. If […]
Searching for Beauty in Jelgava, Latvia
The story of Jelgava, Latvia is heartbreaking. Founded in 1265 by the Livonians, the city grew prosperous and by the 16th century was the seat of the Duchy of Courland. The nobility built fine mansions and churches, and the city’s beauty was said to rival that of Riga. But in 1944 tragedy struck. Jelgava had the misfortune […]
Discovering Kuldiga: The Cutest Town in Latvia
My latest effort to see as much of Latvia as possible took me to charming little Kuldiga, a perfectly preserved medieval town in the western part of the country. Kuldiga’s castle might be long gone, but the rest of the city is virtually unchanged, from its street layout to its centuries-old wooden buildings with red clay […]
The Best Cafes in Riga
One thing that continually impresses me about Riga is its exceptional café scene. First-time visitors to the city might be surprised to find craft coffee, delectable pastries, and free WIFI at nearly every turn. But with so many outstanding options, how can you choose? After sipping and eating my way across the city, these are […]