Spring in Riga can feel a bit elusive. Winter starts in November and by the time March rolls around, it can be hard to remember that there are in fact other seasons throughout the year. Life slowly returns in April, when people once again venture outside and buds appear on the trees. Then after a […]
Festivals and Holidays
Celebrating Christmas in Taipei, Taiwan
I have a little secret to share: While I continue to report on locales across Latvia and Europe, for the past few months those dispatches have been sent from the tropical island of Taiwan. Technology is amazing, no? Although I missed Riga terribly at first, Taipei has charmed me with its fascinating mix of cultures […]
Tips for Spending Christmas in Lisbon, Portugal
When looking for the best Christmas markets in Europe, Lisbon probably doesn’t register. Most people head further northeast to France, Germany, and Austria to have their Christmas market needs met. But what if you want to avoid the crowds and the cold? The Lisbon Christmas Market is a fun alternative! Elegant strings of lights showoff […]
Unique Things to Do in Riga in Autumn
Autumn is a glorious time to visit Riga, Latvia. Golden leaves bedazzle the old city, which by this time has shed some of the flag-wielding tour groups and stag parties that clog the narrow alleys in summer. Early in the season, the weather is still fine enough to sip cider on sidewalk patios, albeit with a […]
Celebrating Easter in Kaunas, Lithuania
As the Knights of the Teutonic Order spread Christianity across the European continent, Lithuania was the last pagan holdout. But in the mid-1300s, Kaunas Castle was besieged and eventually captured by the crusading knights. To celebrate their victory, they reportedly held a Mass at the castle on Easter Sunday. Lithuania was Christianized a few decades later, […]