Experience in Riga, Latvia by Pavithran

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

Riga is one of the beautiful place to live for students with lot of events happening throughout the year. Pretty much affordable compared to other European cities but the prices are going up rather rapidly.

What is the student lifestyle like in Riga?

For students the city has limited to less opportunities on job prospective (professionally) as there are only handful of companies. On the other hand they can find lot of other part time jobs that are available in various fields. For the fun part, the city has lot to offer on entertainment.

How much does it cost to live in Riga?

On an average, a student can survive on a budget of 300 euros per month easily in the city. But it mostly depends on the individual and their lifestyle the cost can go lower or higher.

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

If the student can find an accommodation in college dormitory they should go for it without a second choice. It is the best option at least for first few months to learn about the city also an opportunity to get invaluable tips from their fellow students who walked the same path. If the students wishes to go for an rental apartment they should be aware of all the terms and conditions in the agreement also double check the utilities fee which is the most common rental scam in the city.

Source

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

One of the most common food you may see in the city are the Kebabs. Numerous kebab shops have occupied the city in recent years and are increasing at a staggering rate. Apart from the you will find well known fast food chains such as McDonald's, Hes-burger etc.,

My favorite dish would be the BBQ burger from a local burger shop known as Street Burgers. The reason why they stand out is because of the use of fresh ingredients they get from local farmers (no frozen patties, no frozen fries).

What places would you recommend visiting in Riga?

Sigulda: Best place to visit in Winter. Castles, Caves, National park, Trekking, Skiing you name it, the place has lot to offer.

Jurmala: If you arrive in Summer and want to chill out in a beach, this is the spot for you within an hour ride from the city center.

Within the city there are lot of museums (Aviation, Art, Motor, Chocolate) you can checkout without any hassle in a ride or two, thanks to the excellent public transportation of Riga.

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

You do not have many options for food apart from the various kebab shops around every corner selling same kind of dishes. If you are a fan of dry chicken and oily fries it may prove good to you.

If you are a burger lover Street Burgers is the place you must visit as I mentioned earlier.

Stockpot restaurant is my personal recommendation if you are looking for an affordable and most delicious South-Asian cuisine.

Tokyo city restaurant is a touch expensive but has the best Japanese food.

As far as fast food is concerned, Wok to walk is your best shot where you can customize every part of the menu.

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

Riga is well known for its nightlife, a happening place especially in Summer with a whole lot of events going on. Good things apart always beware of your surroundings and never go alone in the places which may feel odd to you.

Now for the best part I will recommend two of my favorite bars you must visit:

Black Magic Bar- A classy bar with medieval atmosphere which makes you fall in love with the designs at first sight. You can try the unique chocolates here and best part of this place is the Black Currant Balsam (National drink). This place has a history that the drink was first made by the owner in the basement and it was used to cure all type of illness.

The Armoury Bar- If you are an action lover this is a great place to grab some beers with your friends. Prices are cheap and place is calm to the contrast of its interior filled with Knives, guns, grenades, bullets etc., they will even let you touch them unless if you are too drunk.

What advice would you give future students heading to Riga?

First things first, as soon as you arrive here get your Student public transportation card with the help of Study agreement and passport documents at any e-Talon center. It may cost you 16 euros per month with unlimited travel across all the public transportation (Bus, Troll Bus, Tram). It will cost you 2 euro per trip if you buy a ticket in the vehicle.

Get your accommodation procedures done, well before you arrive here. Dorms are the best option for the initial couple of months and can move to any shared apartment as per your convenience.

Don't trouble yourself by packing lot of clothes, as they are pretty cheap here. In case if you are arriving in winter, pack few warm clothes as it gets crazy cold here.

Medical facilities are great here but are not cheap. Make sure to carry all the basic medicines that you may require which will prove very handy later.

Central market is the best place to shop your groceries. Apart from that you have Rimi and Maxima, two most common supermarkets which you will find within a couple of mile radius from wherever you reside.

All the very best!