Latvia Quick Facts
Population: 2.3 million
Language: Latvian is the official language, but about a third of the population speak Russian as their native language.
Religion: Christian 36%, unspecified 64%
Currency: Lat (1 USD = 0.47 Lats)
Capital: Riga
Size: 64,589 sq km. slightly larger than West Virginia, or slightly smaller than Ireland.
Location: The Baltics, Northern Europe.
Neighbors: Belarus, Estonia, Lithuania, Russia.
Best Time to Visit: June through August
Today Latvia celebrates Independence Day. It became independent from Soviet Russia on November 18th, 1918. But Latvia suffered from a long Soviet occupation until August 21, 1991.
Despite a severe recession that Latvia is going through right now, its capital Riga is a spectacular place to visit. Riga offers history, architecture, great hotels, a cosmopolitan atmosphere and a vibrant nightlife. It is off the beaten path and many visitors are surprised when they stumble on this hidden gem. And last but not least, it still offers affordable prices.
Also check out our previous articles about Latvia:
• LATVIA OFFERS VALUE
• HOW TO SPEND A COUPLE OF DAYS IN RIGA, LATVIA