Culture & Lifestyle
Vegetarian In Latvia: Heaven Or Hell?
Latvia has long been a meat-loving nation and many menus reflect this love of meat. I’ve had many disappointing experiences of being stuck with bland risotto, soggy eggplant and undercooked chunks of cheese. However, the last few years have brought positive change! Being vegetarian in Latvia is actually now a joy. And we’re not just […]
16 Amusing Uses of English in Latvia
No blog aimed at expats would be complete without a bit of tongue-in-cheek humour about the host country’s nationals and their grasp of foreign languages. So, here goes! We present a small collection of Baltic English pearls which we sure found amusing (plus a bonus gem from Alex’s recent trip to Poland). “Lens soup” – […]
Where Do Rigans Go At The Weekend?
Shopping centres would be a valid answer but we’re going to take a look at a very different place to escape to: lauki, the idyllic Latvian countryside. Come Friday afternoon from 3pm until about 7pm any road leading out of Riga sees heavy traffic as city dwellers pack into their cars to relocate to their […]
Local Markets In Latvia
Latvians love a market. I’m not talking the well-known Riga Central Market here (although that counts for something, and it is pretty special). I’m talking about smaller farmers or local product markets. It often feels like when a space frees up in Latvia, the authorities come along and have a discussion. “Do you think we […]
Speaking English In Latvia
Before moving to Latvia, one of the first questions I wanted to ask as a native English speaker was “Will I be able to get by in Latvia with English?” The answer so far has been yes, but with a few caveats and some useful phrases. First of all, I have a girlfriend who is […]
At The Supermarket In Latvia
Supermarkets can be challenging, hilarious and often quite fun in foreign countries, and luckily Latvia is no different. There’s the usual range of products you’ve probably never seen. The notable absence of products you’ve bought your entire life, and some fun things to discover along the way. Latvians are very fond of their own local […]
Workplace Communication In Latvia
“But why, why do you smile all the time?” a friend at work gets asked on an alarmingly regular basis. “Why are you so bubbly?” It seems there’s a time and place to be happy and indulge in meaningless but enjoyable chit chat. It’s limited to the corridors and kitchens of many workplaces in Latvia. […]