Did you know?
In each of the country's seven largest cities, Latvians are outnumbered by Russians.
Languages
Latvian and Russian but English is widely spoken in Riga.
Visas
UK passport-holders can travel visa-free for up to 90 days.
Getting there
Air Baltic and British Airways offer direct flights from
London. Getting around
A good network of suburban trains provides the best transport option for many places within 50km of Riga. On longer routes however, bus services are generally cheaper, more frequent and faster. Within the cities, buses, trolleybuses and trams operate, usually between 6am-midnight. Driving and cycling in Latvia are popular, as the main roads are good and distances aren't great. Most of the major car rental agencies have offices in Riga and at the airport. Driving is done on the right side, and there are 24-hour petrol stations along all the major roads.
Currency
Lats. But the best money to use in Latvia is probably US dollars. Euros will be introduced in 2008.
Costs
Prices vary but a cheap meal will cost from £2, while a dish in an upmarket restaurant is about £10. Cheap accommodation is around £8 a night, compared to from £50 a night for more upmarket hotels.
Weather
Spring and summer (April-Sept) is the best time of year to visit. July is hottest - temperatures can climb to 28C but there can also be persistent showers. Winter from Nov-Mar can be extreme, with temperatures rarely nudging above 4C and snow common in coastal regions.
Time difference
Three hours ahead of the
UK in the summer.
Voltage
220V. Sockets require a European plug with two round pins.
Opening hours
Most shops are open from 9am or 10am to 6pm Mon-Fri, and to 4pm or 5pm on Saturdays. Many open on Sundays too. Restaurants are usually open until 11pm. Museum hours vary.
Health - Before you go
In the summer, there is a risk of tick-borne encephalitis in the capital's parks and bordering Jurmala's beach areas. Consider obtaining a vaccine and always ask your GP for advice. No other immunisations are needed.
Health - When you are there
Drinking unboiled tap water in Riga is best avoided. Stick to bottled drinking water.
Warnings
Theft from hotel rooms is a risk, particularly at the budget end of the market. Street crime is also possible so avoid walking alone along darkened routes and beware of pick pockets.
Emergency
Fire 01; police 02; ambulance 03.
Customs
When making a payment in a shop or restaurant, place your money in a tray on the counter rather than give to the cashier.
Pets
Latvia is not part of the Pet Travel Scheme so pets will be quarantined when they re-enter the
UK. Tipping
It's not traditional in taxis ut if you're happy with restaurant service, add 10% to your bill.
Tourist Office
Latvian Embassy, 45 Nottingham Place,
London, W1M 3FE. Tel: 0207 3120040.