Experience in Riga, Latvia by Rihards

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

The city is famous for it's architecture, beautiful people and low prices for almost everything. If you have at least some knowledge in your field of study and if you have common sense you can find suitable job for yourself, of course, if you want to. There are many cultural events going on all year long including live concerts, theatre, opera, etc.

I would definitely recommend it to everyone who wants to find new adventures, meet new people and learn a bit of a foreign language.

The only bad side, as i think, is the living. You should probably find a flat to live in, because most of the dormitories are in bad shape, but the rent is not bad, even if you want to live in the heart of this gorgeous city.

What is the student lifestyle like in Riga?

It is one of the most active big small cities in the world. You can party all night long and in the morning go to lectures with a little smile on your face, because you are just a little bit ashamed what you did last night. Of course, when the session times come, everyone is quite serious about their studies.

How much does it cost to live in Riga?

It is not very expensive. It is definitely cheaper than in Tallinn. Much cheaper. I would recommend looking for a flat, or a room to rent. Everything you need you can find in our most popular advertising site www.ss.lv. Unfortunately it is in Latvian and Russian only, so you may consider using online translating servers such as translate. google.com.

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

Do not use brokers or other intermediates, because they tend to ask for a share while renting you a flat or a room. Look for private owners!

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

Food is great, and most of the time, healthy. Latvians are not tended to a fast food service. The most Latvian place to eat is "Lido". It is a bit more expensive, but great food every time you walk through those doors.

What places would you recommend visiting in Riga?

All the usual stuff - museums (to learn about Latvian history), concert halls like Great Guild, Small Guild, The Blackheads house. The most popular churches like Riga Dom Cathedral, St. Peters church, and the "quiet center" to see great buildings.

If you want a little bit of some "yourself" time, you can visit Open Air Museum and Mežaparks open air stage.

What advice would you give future students heading to Riga?

Beware of some bars and cafes as they tend to cheat out your money pricing you too much for your drinks. The same goes to taxis. If anything wrong happens, call the police.

Oh, and remember that you have encounter to nationalities in Riga. Both Latvian and Russian. The most important thing is that there are always "black sheep" in every society.