Erasmus Experience in Riga, Latvia by Karthika

Why did you choose to go to Riga, Latvia?

Cost of living and University fees is affordable.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

There is no scholarship for Indians. You may want to check the university page for more information.

What is the student lifestyle like in Riga?

STudents either completely indulge in studies or do part time / full time work. Some may get jobs according to their fields, some may not. Mostly you need reference to get a job, as per my experience. It is not a great party place, not much for entertainment.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Riga to other students?

Yes, people who cannot afford education in big countries like US, UK, Canada can always come here. Latvian Univeristy, Riga Technical University is two good universities.

What is the food like?

Food is ok, not great. Mostly potatoes, Latvians use less salt and spices, infact they don't eat anything spicy at all.

PS: Once I went to cafeteria and asked do you have anything spicy. The person asked me in return what is meant by spicy.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Riga?

There are different types of accommodation. University dormitories are cheapest, but if you would like privacy you can get one single room in shared apartments. I live in one shared apartment now and it costs me around 250 with utilities. Also I share the room with another girl, so it would cost not more than 150 in such cases.

How much does it cost to live in Riga?

If you cook at home and don't spend much eating or for entertainment, 400 Euros is more than enough. Sometimes it could be even lesser if you share you accommodation.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

Latvian can be learnt but Russian is difficult. Having said that, in RTU you wouldn't get enough time to concentrate on Language as there are already n number of things to study. Also assignments are plenty, which have to be completed on time for a good score.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Riga from your city?

I have no idea, which city I have mentioned because I have lived in many. If it is from India, then Delhi Sweden Riga.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Riga?

Old Riga, has some good places to hang out.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Riga?

Wok n walk, stockpot, Vegetari, Lido, Singh's, Tokyo City are some of the good restaurants.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

There are many but you can complete all in a day or two. I have not been to many though.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Riga in the future?

Yes, please make sure that you get all the information before leaving the country. Especially the bank documents which should contain your passport number, name and date of birth.

It would be really easy and better if you know someone here otherwise as everyone else you will also end spending money on unnecessary things without knowledge.