My Erasmus Experience in Riga, Latvia.

Why did you choose Riga, Latvia?

I chose Riga for three main reasons: because I wanted to travel to somewhere far away and really different from Spain, because it is one of the cheapest countries of the European Union, and because the classes at my university are taught in English, something which I want to practice in order to improve.

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How long did your grant last? How much money did you receive as help?

Seriously, the grant amount is next to nothing. Less if you compare it to what other students in Europe received. I received 800 euros this month and the rest of it will come God knows when. I don't think the grant will be more than 1000 euros in total, for a placement of 8 months.

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What's the student lifestyle like in Riga?

Well, it's very good. In fact, the majority of people I meet in the street and the clubs are Erasmus students. The lifestyle depends on which university you go to, but in general it is quite good. ESN organises frequent activities for all Erasmus students to integrate into the community, and you don't ever have enough time to be bored.

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

Yes, I'd recommend it! My experience in general has been very good. Of course, I don't know what the experience in other cities would be like either. My university is the University of Turiba and I'd recommend that depending on what each person is looking for. I personally haven't studied almost anything, and I have got 8s in everything... So, I'd recommend it a lot!

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What's the food like in your country?

Well, to me, the food seems like it's quite good (except the cold pink soup, I hate that), but that also depends on each person's tastes. They really like Russian Salad (I guess because we are next to Russia) and meat with salsa and rice (something that seems to be rice, but it isn't). The food in the supermarket is quite cheap, for 30 euros I can eat for a week and a half. That being said, forget about finding beef - they only eat pork and chicken in this country!

Was it difficult to find accommodation in Riga?

Not very difficult, I found my accommodation one week before leaving because in the beginning I was supposed to be staying at the university hostel, but I changed my mind at the last minute. As soon as I started to look, I found something. That being said, I do recommend that you find accommodation through Facebook, it is a lot faster and effective than going through an agency. Furthermore, the apartments that Facebook offer are specially designed for students.

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How much does it cost to live in Riga?

Well, my room is 415 euros per month with water, heating and light included. But, taking into account that it is a huge individual room, and it is in the centre of the old town. If you wanted to find a room for a cheaper price, in the outskirts of Old Riga, if would be easy to find something worth 250 euros with everything included.

How is your language? Did you go to any university courses?

It's quite good. I didn't go to any courses (but neither did they offer any to us until two weeks ago). Between going to classes in English, speaking with my friends, reading and watching a TV series in English, it's enough. I took a Latvian course (which was optional) for two months, which allowed me to validate a subject. When you go, you have to take into account that the Latvian people (especially those above 40 years old) don't have any clue about speaking English, so if you want to ask a question like "where's the beef? " in the supermarket, don't bother.

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What is the most affordable way to get to Riga from your city?

I came by aeroplane with a stop-over. I think that that's the most economical way (in that it's not economical at all, but okay) and the fastest, too. I had to make a stop-over because there were no direct flights from Madrid to Riga (a bit frightening, yes) and so it didn't leave me with another solution. Another way is to come from Barcelona.

Which places would you recommend to go out in Riga?

Well... Frenchbar (a bar of 5m² that never has any French people in it, but you can choose the songs that you want for only 50 cent! ), Rockcafé (this one... Be careful with the doors), Puce bar, Titmints, and Paldies Latinam. These ones that I have mentioned are the most famous pubs in the centre of town, but if you like electro music better (or another sound), you can go to First Dacha (if you find a day where it is open) or OneOne. If you like to dance salsa, bachata or kizomba, then I'd recommend that you go to VILNIS, they give out free dance classes to the first people who arrive on Thursdays!

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And to eat? Can you tell us your favourite restaurants?

For me, I like SUBWAY a lot! But yes, you can find this one everywhere in the world. The most common type of food in Riga is the LIDOS RESTAURANT. Although, it is a bit more expensive in comparison to the general price of Riga. If what you're looking for is a take-away, or you don't fancy cooking, I'd recommend WOK to WALK, a little noodle place. Oh! I would also recommend a place that is called the Good Father (it's a little hidden and the man has no clients, but he's very nice and it makes me sad).

And what about somewhere cultural to visit?

As a cultural visit... The key places to visit in Riga are the Freedom monument, or the Statue of Liberty, the Saint Peters Church (or something like that), the Duomos Cathedral, various museums about the Russian occupation, the park by the river (very beautiful), and you can also take a trip down the river in a canoe to see the beavers (there are loads of beavers). The central market it also very cool, and there is loads of cheap food.

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Is there any advice you'd like to give any future students coming to Riga?

Yes. Don't worry if the people seem a little serious or grumpy in the beginning, because they are, but you will become accustomed to it - because you will become like they are! Just kidding, but don't worry, it's true they have a bit of a peculiar character. It is important that you let the elders sit down on the bus. Don't worry if, in the beginning, you get a bit down about the lack of sunlight, you will get used to it eventually (I hope). If you don't, you can always go and buy a good, bright lamp. That being said, don't buy it in IKEA, because there is no IKEA, or at least, I haven't found one.

But seriously, I don't want to worry you. Riga is very pretty and it has an enchanting character. The houses in the centre are gorgeous, and when it is all covered in snow, it is so much more beautiful! It's not as cold as you think it is going to be (or at least in August to December), it is actually totally manageable. It is a city that, despite it's small size, it always has something to offer.

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For me in general, I have loved the experience so much and I would recommend it to the whole world. I am here until next May, so if you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact me!

Good luck, and I hope you enjoy your new experience! See you in Riga!

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