Message on the topic of Latvia in geography. Briefly about Latvia

Since ancient times, Latvia has been a kind of intersection between East and West, North and South. At various times, Latvia won German knights, Poles, Swedes, and Russians. However, despite this, Latvians managed to form as a nation and preserve their distinctive culture. Now in Latvia, numerous tourists come to admire the medieval Riga, see the old crusader fortresses, as well as relax on the beautiful Latvian balneological and beach resorts Baltic Sea.

Geography of Latvia

Latvia is located in the Baltic States, in Northern Europe. In the south, Latvia borders with Lithuania, in the south-east - with Belarus, in the East - with Russia, and in the north - with Estonia. In the West, the Baltic Sea separates Latvia from Sweden. The total area of \u200b\u200bthis country is 64,589 square meters. km, and the total length of the border is 1 150 km.

Landscape in Latvia is plain with small elevations in the east and lowlands. SAMI high Point Countries - Gayzinkalns, whose height reaches 312 meters.

Capital

The capital of Latvia - Riga, in which more than 710 thousand people now live. Riga was founded in 1201 by Bishop of Livonia Alberton Background Buksghevden.

Official language of Latvia

The official language in Latvia is Latvian, belonging to the Baltic Group of Languages.

Religion

The majority of the Latvian population belongs to the Latvian Evangelical Lutheran Church, to the Roman Catholic Church and to the Greek Catholic Church.

State Device of Latvia

According to the Constitution, Latvia is the parliamentary republic, the head of which is the president elected by the country's parliament.

The One-Paraded Parliament of Latvia (Sejm) consists of 100 deputies, which are elected for a 4-year-term direct national election. The president appoints the Prime Minister. The executive authority belongs to the president, the Prime Minister and the Cabinet of Ministers, and the legislature is the Seimas.

Climate and weather

The climate in Latvia is moderate, wet, with elements of the continental climate, to which the proximity of the Baltic Sea has a noticeable effect. The average temperature of the air in winter - -6c, and in the summer - + 19 s. The hottest month in Latvia is July, when the air temperature can rise to + 35s.

The average air temperature in Riga:

• january - -5s
• february - -5s
• march - -1s
• april - + 5c
• may - + 10c
• june - + 14C
• july - + 17c
• august - + 16c
• september - + 12c
• october - + 7c
• november - + 1c
• december - -2s

Sea in Latvia

In the west, Latvia is washed by the waters of the Baltic Sea ( The Gulf of Finland). The length of the Latvian coast of the Baltic Sea is 531 km. Beaches are sandy. The temperature of the Baltic Sea near the Latvian coast in the summer reaches + 17c.

In Latvia, there are two non-freezing ports - Ventspils and Liepaja. On the coast of the Gulf of Riga, there are picturesque fishing villages.

Rivers and Lakes Latvia

About 12 thousand rivers flow through Latvia, the longest of them - Daugava and Gauja. In addition, there are about 3 thousand lakes in this Baltic country, some of which are very small.

Many tourists come to Latvia in order to go fishing on local lakes and rivers (and, of course, in the coastal waters of the Baltic Sea). Salmon fishing in Latvia is allowed only in two rivers - in Venta and Salace.

History of Latvia

The ancestors of modern Latvians settled on eastern coast The Baltic Sea at about the beginning of the 3rd millennium BC. Historians believe that the ancestors of modern Latvians were the Baltic tribes of the villages, Kurys, as well as Slavs and representatives of the Finno-Ugric tribes.

Only in the XII century Latvians are included in the pan-European history (but not by their will). Livonian Order, encouraged by the Vatican, is trying to turn the pagan Latvians into Christians. At the beginning of the XIII century, most of the territory of modern Latvia was under the rule of German knights and bishops. Thus, Lithuania, together with South Estonia, formed the state of the German knights - Livonia. It was the German knights in 1201 to be founded by Riga.

From 1560 to 1815, Latvia was part of Sweden, and Riga was the capital of Swedish Livonia. It was at this time that the tribes of the smoke, landfills, villages, liv and northern Latgalls are assimilated, and thus the Latvian nationality is formed. At the end of the XVIII century, most of the territory of Latvia joins the Russian Empire.

In 1817, slavery was canceled in Kurland. In Liflandia, slavery was canceled in 1819.

The independence of Latvia was proclaimed in November 1918, however, in August 1940, this Baltic republic was included in the USSR.

On May 4, 1990, the Supreme Council of the Latvian SSR adopted a declaration on the restoration of the independence of the Republic of Latvia. Thus, the Republic of Latvia was formed. The USSR recognized the independence of Latvia only in September 1991.

In 2004, Latvia was taken to the NATO military unit, and in the same year she became a member of the European Union.

Culture of Latvia

Latvia boasts rich folklore traditions that have survived to this day. Latvia is a Christian country, however, the old pagan holidays reached our days, albeit in a transformed form, and the Latvians still celebrate them.

The largest old folk holiday in Latvia - Ligo (Yanov Day), celebrated during the summer solstice on June 23-24.

In addition, among the most popular holidays, Latvians should be called Carnival (METEņI), Easter and Christmas.

In recent years, at the beginning of each summer, Go Blonde ("Parade Blondes") is regularly held in Riga. We can assume that the "Parade of Blondes" has become a traditional folk walk in Latvia.

Many tourists in Latvia come annually in order to visit the New Wave Music Festival, which is held in Jurmala.

Kitchen

Latvian cuisine was formed under the influence of Russian, German and Swedish culinary traditions. Typical products in Latvia - meat, fish, potatoes, cabbage, beets, peas, dairy products.

As for alcoholic beverages in Latvia, then in this country there are popular beer, vodka, as well as various liqueurs and balms. Tourists often bring with them from Latvia the famous "Riga Balsam".

Sights of Latvia

Inquisitive travelers will be interested in visiting Latvia, because in this country there are many monuments of history and architecture. The top ten of the best Latvian attractions in our opinion includes the following:

Cities and resorts

The biggest Latvian cities are Daugavpils, Jelgava, Jurmala, Liepaja, and, of course, Riga.

In Latvia, there are several good beach resorts in the Baltic Sea. The beach season in Latvia usually begins in mid-May and continues until mid-September. The most popular Latvian beach resorts - Ventspils, Daugavpils, Liepaja, Riga, Cesis and Jurmala.

Every year, more than 10 beaches in Latvia receive an ecological certificate "Blue Flag" (for example, Vacarbull Beach in Riga and Majori Beaches and Joutheter in Jurmala). This means that Latvian beach resorts comply with world environmental standards.

Latvian republic

Latvia - State in northeastern Europe. In the north, it borders with Estonia, in the East - with Russia, in the south - with Belarus and Lithuania. In the West is washed by the Baltic Sea.

The country was named by the ethnonym of the people - Latviashi.

Capital

Area

Population

2386 thousand people

Administrative division

Latvia divided into 26 districts (counties) and 7 municipalities.

Form of government

Parliamentary republic

Head of State

President elected by Parliament for 3 years.

Supreme legislative authority

One-Paraded Seimas, the term of office of which is 4 years.

Supreme executive body

Government.

Big cities

Daugavpils, Liepaja.

Official language

Latvian.

Religion

Gospel Lutherans, Orthodox.

Ethnic composition

51.8% - Latvians, 33.8% - Russians, 4.5% - Belarusians, 3.4% - Ukrainians, 2.3% - Poles.

Currency

Lat \u003d 100 centimam.

Climate

Latvia climate transition from marine to continental. The average temperature of July 4-16-18 ° C. In January, on the Baltic Sea coast - 2 ° C, in the eastern regions - 7 ° C. The solar and dry month is May. In Latvia 150-170 cloudy days a year. The precipitation falls 550-800 mm per year.

Flora

In the forests of Latvia, deciduous and coniferous species of trees are widely represented: pine, birch, aspen, alder, oak. The meadows occupy 7.5% of the country's territory.

Fauna

Fauna Latvia is not very diverse, but in the forests there are a large number of deer, hares, roe deer, foxes, protein, wild boars. Pretty spread black crane. In coastal waters, commercial types of fish are found: Salaka, spray, eel, etc.
Rivers and lakes. Latvia has a developed river network, all rivers belong to the Baltic Sea basin and differ in spring flood. The largest of them are Daugava, Lielupe, Venta, Gauja. Many lakes, most of them - glacial origin. Most deep lake - Drizzard. 4.8% of the territory occupy the swamps.

sights

Dome Cathedral of the XIII century, Church of St. Yana, St. Peter Cathedral, old city - in Riga. There are 21 museum, including the history of the city and the seaworthy, the history of medicine, foreign art. In Cēsis - Castle of the XIV century, in Liepaja - Cathedral of the XVIII century, in Jelgava - Cathedral of the XVII century, in Jurmala - Climate Balneogryazhevaya Resort Center.

Useful information for tourists

Latvians are very careful about guests - and they do not take away. For a foreigner, medical care is expensive. Although medical certificates are not required to enter the country, meanwhile it is recommended to have insurance. In Latvia, there are also no problems with the presence of drugs in pharmacies, but it is wiser to purchase them before the journey.

Latvia is a beautiful Baltic country, on environmental safety in the first ten countries of the world. This is a country of competent, neat people. The capital of Latvia, Riga is the largest city of the Baltic countries. The old Riga is listed as UNESCO cultural attractions.

In Old Riga, everything breathes history. You will look like, and it seems that the knight drove the knight on horseback or influential person in his own carriage. Vintage buildings, narrow streets, medieval motifs ...

On the century, the Dome Cathedral is located in Riga, the construction of which was launched in 1211, the Church of St. Peter, Riga Castle, the House of Chernogolov, Latvian National Opera. All of these and other sights of Riga are pleased to view thousands of tourists.

There are in Riga and buildings built in the original style of art nouveau. The gray-haired older is harmoniously combined with relatively new architectural solutions.

Once in the old days, the economy of Latvia was represented only by agriculture, forest industry and fishing. In small cities, dispersed throughout the country, people engaged in trade and handicrafts. The Baltic Sea provided communication with other countries of the world.

Today Latvia is economically developed countryShe is part of the overall world market. Hydropower, woodworking, pharmaceuticals, transport, trade, agriculture, cosmetics production - the main sectors of the Latvian economy.

Latvia is not poor minerals. It is mostly amber, limestone, peat, dolomite.

Latvia's famous people are scientists-chemists Wilhelm Ostvald, Janis Robins, Ethnographer George August Schweinfurt, Inventor Konstantin Cicklie, artist Gustav Kloths, conqueror of chess vertices Mikhail Tal, brilliant dancer of the world ballet scene, choreographer, actor, Mikhail Baryshnikov.

- Kuldiga waterfall - the widest waterfall in Europe,

- The main stone of Latvia is amber,

- Legend Bird Latvia - White Wagtail,

- One of the main symbols of Latvia - the Latvian flag - the oldest in the world,

- The two most famous cat Latvia are two sculptures on the roof of a beautiful house, the owner of which was once denied membership of the Great Guild of Riga,

- the body located in the Dome Cathedral was created in 1884,

- Turaid castle (once named trade) laid in 1214. The castle is located in the territory of the Gauja National Park,

- Jurmala Museum, which stores things related to fishing affairs, successfully placed under open sky,

- The lantern with a burning candle will be presented with the inspection of the Venensky castle.

Latvian republic

Area: 64.5 thousand km2.

Population: 2 million 479 thousand people (1998).

State language: Latvian.

Capital: Riga (826 thousand inhabitants, 1996).

Monetary unit: euro.

UN member since 1991 enters the Council of Europe since 1995 to the European Union since 2004

Located in the north of Europe, in the Baltic States. It borders in the north with Estonia, in the East - with Russia, in the south-east - with Belarus and in the south - with Lithuania. From the west and north-west Latvia washed the water of the Baltic Sea and its Riga Bay.

Most of the population are Latvians (55.1%), whose language belongs to the Baltic group of the Indo-European family. In addition, Russians live here (32.6%), Belarusians (4%), Ukrainians (2.9%), Poles (2.2%), etc. On the territory of the country there are several historical and cultural regions (Latgal, Kurzeme , Vidzeme, Zemgalia, etc.), the specific features of which are manifested primarily in traditional culture. Many elements of life, such as craft, dwelling, food, customs and rites, have retained the features that are formed by centuries.

Like in past centresses, one-bedroom settlements are typical of modern Latvia - Wiensetas, and only in the east of Latvians live by villages. The farm consists everywhere from a residential building (most often it is a log house on the foundation from wild stone) and household buildings. But their location in the estate, as well as the dwelling layout, varies in the regions. In Western areas, residential premises were on both sides of the Seine, in which the hearth was arranged, and open. This went here the mouth of the furnace heating the room. Only baked bread in it, they prepared food on the open focus. The eastern type of dwelling is Latgale Istab, close to Russian and Belarusian sinks, has the form of two independent log cabins connected by cold hay. The furnace, similar to the Russian, is put in the room. If the traditional housing in someone else in the villages is still found, it cannot be said about folk clothes. Nevertheless, it completely did not disappear. Latvians usually wear it for the holidays of the song, used in artistic amateur activities. In addition, folk traditions are trained in ornaments adorning modern clothing, in its color scheme. A traditional female costume is a long tunic-shaped shirt, a striped or a checkered skirt, a shoulder cape. Willine. Local differences are manifested in the kitchen, coloring and ways of decoration. For example, in Vidzeme, the shirts are decorated with mere race, capes - white, headdress of girls - red wreaths embroidered with beads, married - white embroidered cape. In Zembalia, the shirt is decorated with white embroidery, skirt - special floral, and cape - woven pattern; A silk handkerchief serves as a hat. The municipal suit is characterized by metal belts, bright blue capes with decorations. Latgale suit consists of a shirt with a red pattern, a checkered skirt, a white cape with a blue-green embroidery, linen shoe covered. Girls headdress - red wreath, red wreath, in married women - a towel.

Men's folk clothes are less diverse. It consists of a shirt, linseed or woolen pants, Kaftan, Kushak. A hat with fields or a card is put on his head.

National traditions of Latvians are preserved in food. Its foundation make up flour, cereal products, dishes from beans and peas. Love here to chow from croup (praath) and vegetables (peeps), porridge, dumplings from peas and beans. On holidays prepare pies with spies, cookies, meat dishes. For example, for Christmas and New Year Bake a pork head with a sour cabbage, on Easter paint eggs and a jelly is prepared, on Ivanov the day (it is called in Latvia Ligo) - Yanov Cheese from cottage cheese. Traditional drinks - rusty flour shot, beer, birch and maple juices.

Wooden products are widespread. Threads decorate the backs of chairs and sleds, spindles, rods, crocks, frontones and platbands. The works of folk craftsmen are constantly demonstrated at exhibitions and fairs.

A variety of oral folk creativity of Latvians, including fairy tales, legends, jokes, riddles, proverbs, short quatrays - Dainas. Rich song folklore. From 1873. Song holidays are held regularly. Major musical instruments - Cocon (Type of Husley), Smuyogas (Village), Violin, Swirl.

The capital of Latvia Riga is located on both shores of Daugava, in the sign of it in the Riga Bay. This is the largest industrial and cultural Center countries. Here are all the main government agencies, enterprises, as well as 9 theaters (including the National Opera), 7 universities, the University, 21 Museum (Museum of the History of Latvia, Museum of History of the City and Northworthy, Art Museum, Museums of Nature, Foreign Art, etc. ).

The first written mention of the city refers to 1201 in the Middle Ages, being at the junction of land and waterways, it developed as a center for trade and crafts. This is evidenced by the names of the streets of Old Riga: Kaleya (blacksmith), Audeu (Weavka), Muzinieku (Bondar), Aldar (brewers), etc.

Here are the outstanding monuments of architecture of different eras. The unique architectural and historical values \u200b\u200binclude the Dome Cathedral (laid in 1211), in which there is a world-famous organ that is distinguished by a rich sound gamut (6768 pipes), Peter's church with the original 120-meter tower - the central element of Riga Silhouette, Riga Castle, Powder, or sandy, tower, Yana Church, etc.

Daugavpils - the second city in population, the largest industrial node. This is the center of Latgale, located in the eastern part of the country. Aged in 1275 as a fortress city. A significant role in his prosperity plays a favorable transport and geographical position.

Liepaja is located in the west of Latvia, in the Kurzeme region, and occupies a narrow Liepaja Latviapolos of the seaside lowland, stretching from north to south between the Baltic Sea and the coastal lakes of Lieparas and Tosmares. Here in this major center sea fishing and the fishing industry, 4 is the base of the ocean fish fleet, there is a fishing port. Along the western feature of the city stretched gently sand beach. Ventspils is located on both shores of Venta, to sign it in the Baltic Sea. The first mention of him as a fishing village belongs to the X century. Until the end of the XVIII century. It was the main port of Kurzeme. His role as a shopping port is great and now. One of the attractions of the city is a unique Museum of Marine Fisheries.

The territory as a whole is flat and harsh natural contrasts has no. Picturesque sea ridges destroyed by small lakes alternate with sandy plains and wetlands. This is the Primorskaya, East Latvian, the Middle Lowland, Luban Plain and the sandy-Usmenskaya Vadina, which from the West, the North and East bends the Kurzeme elevation. Latgale and Augstecred hills occupy eastern part countries. Numerous rivers (main - Daugava) and Lakes give a special charm of the landscape. Climate - transition from marine to continental.

From the XIII to the middle of the XVI century. The territory of Latvia was part of Livonia, which was under German domination. In the middle of the XVI century. Included in compolatory speech, and in 1795 - to Russia. In December 1918, the Government of the RSFSR recognized the independence of Latvia. In early 1920, an independent Latvian Republic was formed. In 1934, a coup was committed. In 1940, the Latvian SSR was formed, which entered the USSR. In May 1990, the decision was made to the new title - the Republic of Latvia, as well as the Declaration of its independence. In September 1991, the USSR recognized the independence of Latvia.

Believers are mostly Protestants (Lutherans). According to official data, there are 491 thousand people. Latgale's population is predominantly Catholics.

IN pine Bor. On the shore of Lake Yugla in Riga, there is an open-air museum, founded in 1924. Traditional rural estates, reflecting the life and material culture of various historical and ethnographic regions of Latvia. Building I. interior decoration Reproduced in accordance with the household decor of the XVII - XIX centuries. Concerts of ethnographic ensembles, theatrical performances, folk masters fairs are organized on the territory of the museum. This is one of those places in the country where the historical past is trying to save. The natural wealth of Latvia is protected in a number of reserves. Among them, Moritz-Sala, Greeni, Sliter - in Western Latvia, Krustkalna and Teici - on the East Latvian lowland. Reservations of the most different nature are also included in the system of state protection of Nature: Botanical, marsh, cranberry, ornithological, geological (including the largest boulders), natural parks, protected landscapes, ponds, as well as centuries, rare and foreign trees.

Latvia - Democratic Parliamentary Republic. In 1993, the Constitution adopted in 1922 was resumed and suspended in 1934 by the head of state. Legislative authority - Saeim (one-stage parliament). The executive power is carried out by the Cabinet of Ministers led by the President. Government formed in 1997, coalition. It includes representatives of the following political associations: "Fatherland and Freedom" (Movement for the National Independence of Latvia), "Latvian Path", the Peasant Union of Latvia / Union of Christian Democrats, the Latvian Party of Green, the Party of National Reforms. The country is administratively divided by 26 districts.

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Latvia

Description of the country

Latvia is located between Lithuania and Estonia on the Baltic Sea coast. West Coast Countries B. summer time It becomes the main place of rest of Latvians, as well as numerous tourists from Europe and other parts of the world. Here are some wellness centers, where with water procedures and therapeutic microclimate, you can strengthen your body. Other seasons, Latvia offers resting to inspect the historical attractions of the country, among which are castles and palaces, churches and cathedrals, as well as one of the most beautiful cities Europe - Riga. Here are available tourist objectswho will interest anyone. If you want to enjoy nature - there is a calm Riga Bay, and the open Baltic Sea, and natural parks, and quick rivers, and lakes, on the shores of which are preserved extensive forests. For a tourist who is fond of history, are of interest. medieval castles and Oldelylaysk culture. If you want to combine entertainment with obtaining new knowledge, you can visit the old Riga, where you will find not only wonderful monuments of architecture, but also a variety of clubs and kabaks. In Latvia, there are beautiful churches - and ancient, and modern. We offer extensive health capabilities and active rest. And, of course, going to Latvia, do not forget to ask for events that are scheduled for this time! You can enjoy both traditional Latvian holidays and the most diverse cultural and entertainment events that continue all year round.

Geography

The Republic of Latvia is located on the Baltic Sea and Riga Bay. Nearness Atlantic Ocean It has a great influence on the climate of the republic. Latvia compared to other Baltic republics has a more advantageous position in relation to the sea, it is the "maritime republic." It borders with Estonia in the north, with Russia in the East, with Belarus and Lithuania in the south. The territory takes 64,500 square meters. km. The capital of Latvia - Riga. Others big cities: Daugavpils, Liepaja, Ventspils. In administrative terms, Latvia is divided into 26 districts (counties). The main rivers of Daugava, Gauj, Lielupe.

Time

Loading from Moscow for 1 hour.

Climate

The climate of Latvia is very similar to the climate of other Baltic States, i.e. The country is divided into several climatic zones. In seaside areas, the weather is very connected with the sea. There is no cold winter and not very hot summer. In wooded areas remote from the sea in winter, the air temperature differs in the negative side of the temperature on the coast for several degrees. In a word, the climate can be characterized as soft, transition from marine to continental, with an obvious predominance of sea air masses and a large repeatability of cyclones. In winter, there is a large number of clouds, frequent precipitation, wind enhancement. Winter in Latvia is established in early December in Eastern Latvia and in mid-December in Western and middle. The average temperature of January -3 degrees on the coast and -7 in East Latvia. Armored period lasts approximately 212 days. The average temperature of the warmest month (July) is 17 degrees. Summer is often rainy. Monthly rainfall on average 80 mm. The average annual precipitation is 649 mm.

Language

The national and state language, of course, is Latvian, but almost everywhere Russian is widespread. In any corner of Latvia, people are hospitable and welcoming. Major religions Lutheranism, Orthodoxy and Catholicism.

Religion

There is no state religion in Latvia, but the predominant number of believers make up Lutherans, although Catholicism is spread in the east. There are also large communities of Orthodox and Old Believers. In general, society tolerantly to different religious movements, and the church does not have a significant impact on social life.

Population

For 2009, the population of Latvia is 2,61,300 people, of which about 70% live in cities, and the remaining 30% in rural areas. At the national composition, the population is divided into Latvians - about 60%, Russians - about 30%, Belarusians - a little less than 4%, Ukrainians are about 2.5% and other nationalities.

Electricity

Voltage on the network - 220V, 50 Hz. Two contact plugs of European type are used.

Emergency phones

International Code of Latvia - 371
With fire - 01
Police - 02.
Ambulance - 03
Reference service In Russian - 118 or 777-07-77

Communication

The communication system is quite modern and rapidly developing. Street telephones "Lattelecom" use phone cards (as well as cellular services prepayment cards, sold in coffee kiosks, cost - 2, 3 and 5 Ls), as well as credit cards. The phone numbers in the capital are clearly divided according to the cost, depending on the first number of the number - the usual urban numbers begin (payment is added, 1-2 centima per minute), on 8 - free phones (the conversation pays the receiving call side - taxi firms, services rescue, etc.), at 9 and 6 - cell phones (a call from a regular phone to mobile is significantly more expensive than citywide - 0.15-0.25 lats per minute), as well as various service and charitable organizations that automatically deduct a certain amount from the calling account (numbers begin with 909, the cost of calling about 1 Lata for A minute or a specific tariff of the organization owning the number). To call to Latvia, you should dial 8 - beep - 10 - 371 - the city code is the number of the called subscriber.

Currency exchange

Banks are usually open from Monday to Friday from 9.00 to 16.00-16.30, some large banks work until 17.00-19.00, as well as on Saturdays from 9.00 to 12.30. Ltoval exchange for other currencies and back free and ubiquitous - currency can be exchanged in banks or exchange offices ("Valutas Maina") in hotels, post offices and train stations. The amount of currency exchange is not limited and is made without the presentation of any documents. Travel checks accepted only in banks of large tourist areas. Outside their use is almost impossible. Almost all hotels, restaurants and large stores of Latvia can pay credit cards. ATMs are also distributed quite wide.

Visa

Citizens of Russia and the CIS for entering Latvia required visa. Latvia is part of the countries participating in the Schengen Agreement. Persons who have in their passport existing Schengen visas may freely enter into the territory of the country by any transport.
Dates of valve
The validity period of a single or double visa can be up to 90 days, multiple - 180 days (the stay in the country can not exceed 90 days in half). The period of stay in the country is determined in accordance with the terms specified in the invitation or confirmation of the hotel's hotel.
Dates of registration of Visa
Tourist visa is drawn up within 7 - 10 days. Urgently, it is urgent to obtain extreme visas, visas of an international road transport and visa issued on international treaties. The deadline for the transit visa usually does not exceed 24 hours, however, if necessary additional check Or other approvals from the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Latvia, this period may be increased, so it is recommended to make visas at least a week before departure.

Customs regulations

A duty-free importation is allowed: 200 pcs cigarettes. or tobacco 250 g, strong beverages 1 l, wine 2 l, beer 5 l, personal items within reasonable limits. When exporting mandatory control, weapons and ammunition, drugs and drugs, poisons, animals and animal husbandry, plants and crop products, hunting trophies are subject to export. Import and export of national and foreign currency is not limited. At the entrance, the certificate of vaccinations is not required. When importing domestic animals, you must present a veterinary certificate with a marking about the vaccination against rabies.

Festive and non-working days

January 1 - New Year
March 25 - the day of memory of the victims of the Communist Terror
May 1 - Spring holiday, the day of convening the Constitutional Assembly of Latvia
May 4 - Independence Day of Latvia
May 8 - the day of memory of the victims of World War II
June 14 - the day of memory of the victims of the Communist Terror
June 23-24 - Yanov Day (summer solstice day)
July 4 - the day of memory of the Jewish genocide
August 11 - the Day of Memorial Fighters for Freedom Latvia
September 22 - the day of the unity of the Balt
November 11 - Day of Lachplesis (the day of memory of the fallen heroes)
November 18 - the day of the proclamation of the Republic of Latvia
December 25 - Christmas

Transport

In Riga, trams walk, trolley buses, buses, route taxis. There is no metro. The fare in all types of transport (including "minibuses") is the same - 20 centimes (sometimes 25). Payment at the entrance from the conductor. After 23:00, transport goes extremely rarely, on some routes, duty buses are walking all night, or trams (once a hour). Fare of B. route taxi After 22:00 twice as high than the day. Trip cost B. public transport Riga - LS20 (about 9-10 rubles), in a taxi - LS30 per 1 km. A trip to 3-4 km will cost 60-80 rubles. The tariff for all taxi companies is the same, taxis is everywhere, waiting for you with open arms and work on the meter, may even write a check (if you ask). Taxis can also be called by phone, while the call is not charged separately, and the machine comes within 5-10 minutes. In Riga, it is not customary to catch "private owners." They are, but not so common, and it will be increasingly cheaper than a taxi. Stopping a taxi, it is not customary to ask "go - you will not go" and immediately negotiate about the price (if only we are talking about some exactly famous to both). You sit down, call the place, the taxi driver includes a counter. Day rate (06: 00-24: 00) - 0.40 Ls for landing and 30 Ls per kilometer (from the center to the outskirts can be reached for 4-10 Ls). Night - about one and a half times more expensive - 0.60 Ls for landing and 0.40 per kilometer.

Tip

Usually, tips are already included in the account.

The shops

Stores are open from 10.00 to 19.00 on weekdays, on Saturdays - from 10.00 to 16.00, grocery stores and supermarkets are usually open from 8.00 to 19.00, in Riga there are many grocery stores that work around the clock. In Latvia there is a wide range of accommodation opportunities - from five-star hotels to campgrounds and youth hostels. The interest rate in restaurants is usually already incorporated into account, in any case the waiter can leave 5-10% "for tea", tips for taxi drivers and employees of the hotel are also a sign of good tone.

National cuisine

The dishes of Latvian cuisine with simplicity distinguishes the saturation and good taste. The culinary traditions of Latvia are based on the recipes of the Baltic peoples using elements of German, Polish, Belarusian and Scandinavian cuisines. Numerous dishes, including potatoes and fish, first of all, the Baltic salmon and the media, as well as the liver of cod and sniffing, eel and Salads, there is a smoked cambala, eggs, stuffed with fish, "Siltepudins" - Casserole from herring, served with boiled potatoes, caviar Pikes and potatoes baked with cheese. Bean and all kinds of vegetables, from which many salads are preparing are also widely used. Various soups are known - from spinach and sorrel, out of cabbage, vegetables, there are even soup from berries and fruits. Courts can also be attributed to Auksht Zup, cold beet. From meat dishes It should be noted "CLOSPS", the bipfstex, cooked under the onion sauce and the "peasant breakfast", cooked from roasted meat products baked in the egg, the so-called original "cheese", which are prepared from pork head, lamb cooked in a cumin sauce and Much. The explicit preference of Latvians give natural meat relatively to chopped. Many dishes are formed by an incredible combination of different products, such as "Bobert", a semolina porridge with whipped proteins, beer soup with dried fruit, or for example, a cook made from black bread. Famous Alexander cake with raspberry or cranberry filling. And there is still sweet soup with dumplings from cherry, puffs, baked from rye bread and many other original bakery and confectionery.

Attractions and resorts

Riga - The main attraction of this country. The capital was founded in 1201 by the Knights of the Livonian Order, although people in these parts lived from early Neolithic. City rich history and culture, a real monument of open-air architecture, a center of popular musical creativity and a platform for hundreds of fairs and festivals, Riga is rightfully included in the list of one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. The main landmark of Riga is the small area of \u200b\u200bVerniga ("Old Riga") with dozens of old buildings, among which the most interesting buildings of the Small and Big Guild (XIX century) with a luxurious painting, "Koshkin House" (1910) with the figures of two cats on Spiers of the towers, Palace of Peter the first, the last bastion of the old city fortress wall - Poulvernis (powder tower, XIII century), the buildings of the Yakovlevsky barracks (XVIII century), Zviedra Varti (Swedish gates, 1689) in the Ramer Tower, Church of St. Yakova (XIII century), the residence of the President of the Republic of Latvia - Rigas Pils (Riga Castle, 1330), the famous Tris buildings took (three brothers, the XV-XVIII centuries)
Near Lielupe Interesting Summer Residence of the Russian Ambassador in Latvia and the ultra-modern house of the background of Gerkana. In Buldry - Dendrological Park and many old houses. IN Dzintari - Wooden Kupalnya Maximovich (1906), residential buildings of the original architecture on Dzintar Avenue and the famous concert hall Dzintari (1936). In Mayori - the estate von Fricers and the picturesque street of Yuras with old houses. Dubulta should be familiar with the Marienbad sanatorium, the Lutheran Church, Gymnasia (1909) and the Bank's building (1911) of the original architecture. Yaoundubults are known as the place of work of the poet and playwright Janis Rainis, now there is a Museum-cottage dedicated to his work. In Melluzhi - a residential building in the style of romanticism on the avenue of Magnirlie, a modern house on the street Bunch and a one-story "Family House" on Meluju Prospect. Asari is famous for its strawberries, as well as colorful old houses on the streets of Aria and Meluju. The pictorial park (XIX century), the "White House" (Kemeri Hotel ", 1936) and Lutheran Church (1897) are interesting to Kemeri. And, of course, amber, beaches, rehabilitation centers, excursions, etc. Jurmala borders with Kemeri National Park, so environmental tourism gets more and more distribution here.
Jurmala. The city is located on the banks of the Baltic Sea Bay. The length along the coast is 30 km. The coast of the Gulf of Riga is a wonderful climatic area with therapeutic properties. Climate seaside with moderately warm summer ( average temperature July +16) and soft winter (January -4 temperature). Major Medical Factors: Favorable climatic conditions (sea, magnificent beaches, dunes, rich vegetation); Sodium chloride mineral waterused for drinking and baths; Peat and sapropel dirt. All this creates excellent conditions for recreation. Jurmala seemed to be clamped between southwestern coast Riga Bay and the left shore of the River Lieleup. From the seaside dunes there is an extensive panorama on the horseshoe coast. Here is one of the best beaches in Latvia. Its width - 50-100 meters, length - several tens of kilometers. The beach of the hollow goes down under the water. The temperature of the water in the summer is 18-20 s. On sunny pile days, it can rise to 24 s, and in windy enough to drop to 16 C. In addition, the proximity of the resort to Riga (the first station of the Resort "Priedyne" is 14 km away From Riga, closing - Kermeri -in 44 km) creates excellent opportunities for excursions with a visit to the Dome Cathedral, the Order of the Castle and other attractions. Excursions are organized in Sigulda ("Latvian Switzerland") with a visit to the Gauja National Park and Turaida Castle, Cesis and Yelgava.
Kosta - The Northern Suburb of Liepaja, in itself being a landmark. The path to the city passes through two bridges: the first - through the channel connecting the nearby Liepaja Lake and Baltic, the second - through the Karosta channel, cutting into a slightly kilometers deep by sushi. Previously, docks of the Soviet Baltic Fleet acted in the depths of the canal, and the path to these places was ordered. Today, Rosios attracts tourists an impressive Cathedral of St. Nicholas (1901), Northern Forts and other historical monuments.
Just north of the area of \u200b\u200bKosta is another interesting object - Northern Forts.. After its construction in the early 20th century, this chain of coastal fortifications performed its functions for only a few years. In 1908, on the instructions of the Russian king, they were blown up on the occasion of a peace treaty with Germany. And what a strange era suffered Russia in this very 20 century? Only after 6 years, Russia with Germany has again become fatal enemies, the destruction of forts only weakened the position of the country, and after a few years it ceased to exist and actually the Tsarist Russia.
Sigulda - One of the most picturesque cities of Latvia, located just an hour from Riga to national Park Gauja. This area of \u200b\u200bLatvia is often referred to as Latvian Switzerland - for the exceptional beauty of the local landscape. You will see the romantic fortress of the XII century Turaida (Garden of the Gods), Hill Din, Pop Folk Songs. In the church mountain, the guide will tell the most beautiful and tragic Latvian legend of love - about Turaid Rose. Gutman's cave, where he hits a healing spring. At the request of the Sanno - Bobslena Sanya, with an artificial ice-coated in Sigulda. The Sigulda route on the recognition of the Masters of the World Bobsley is one of the fastest and most reliable in the world. At the end of the excursion, in a rustic cafe you can taste national dishes.