Experience in Riga, Latvia by Ernests

What is it like to live in Riga? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Easy living.
Not very formal.
Friendly.
Recommended for friendly and open minded students.

What is the student lifestyle like in Riga?

There are lot of student activities. Just take a part.

How much does it cost to live in Riga?

Not very cheap, but you can manage your expenses very well, if you have local friend in Riga.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Riga? Is there any advice you can give?

It is difficult to find cheap rooms, not dorms. Lot of expensive apartments in the very center.

Advice. Use www.zip.lv Latvian site, but most of latvians speak english, german or russian.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Food is both – healthy (mostly local) and international like hamburgers.

Latvians eat lot of local bread – rupjmaize (Lāču maize), cheese (sweet cheese Kārums is a favorite)

What places would you recommend visiting in Riga?

Old Riga!
There are Jugend style area with really nice architecture.
Bastejkalns – romantic park with channel close to the Freedom monument.
New supermodern bibliotheke building!

Is it good to eat out in Riga? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Lido brend is popular. Find restaurants to go at www.lido.lv

There are many small cafes in Riga. Sometimes with live music.

Is the nightlife good in Riga? Where is good to go?

Old Riga in summer time is crowded owernight. Nice place for students, but not cheap.

What advice would you give future students heading to Riga?

Riga is nice and green city to spend some months. Friendly to students.