Riga architects · 12. March 2023

Riga's elegant boulevard district was in large part designed by the brilliant architect Jānis Frīdrihs Baumanis. Rising from humble origins, he not only built a new city, he set the Latvian nation on the path to independence by starting the Song Festival tradition. Latvia's parliament, the music academy, the circus and dozens of other lovely structures created by him still grace Riga today.

Latvian Food · 05. March 2023

The intriguing history of Latvia's national drink Riga Black Balsam, and five top places in Riga to sip cocktails with the bitter black potion.

Riga History · 14. February 2023

A brief history of witch hunts in Riga, looking at Latvian magical beliefs, infamous trials and execution sites in the city.

Riga History · 02. February 2023

Latvia's Song Festivals are one of the world's great musical events. Here's the story of the first one ever back in 1873, which had a profound effect on the country and its tune-loving people.

Jurmala Sights · 24. January 2023

Richly endowed with therapeutic mud, sulphur springs and pine-scented fresh air, Jurmala has for centuries attracted visitors wanting to improve their health. The tradition continues today with wonderful spas pampering bodies and nurturing wellbeing. Find out more about these oases of goodness by the Baltic Sea!

Riga essentials · 22. January 2023

A list of public toilets in central Riga with a map of their locations. Where to go when you need to go in the Latvian capital!

Latvian Food · 12. January 2023

Ķiploku grauzdiņi, garlic rye bread, is Latvia's favourite beer snack. An ingenious response to Soviet shortages, today its on the table whenever pals meet in a pub to chug some brews. We look at five venerable Riga taverns and taste test their grauzdiņi.