Latvia is the central country of the Baltic states (Estonia,
Latvia and Lithuania) and is situated on the Baltic Sea coast
in the north-east of Europe.
Formerly a part of the USSR, Latvia gained its
independence in 1990 and since then has experienced
rapid development.
The capital of Latvia is Riga with a population over 850
thousand (mainly Latvians and Russians).
It takes just over two hours to get to Riga on a regular Air
Baltic or Ryanair flight from London or any other major
European city. The airport is conveniently situated just 15
minutes drive from the centre of town.
Latvia is situated in the temperate climate zone with distinct four seasons.
The sky is generally blue all year round.
The summers are bright and sunny with the temperatures reaching +35°C.
The water in the Baltic Sea usually warms up to +20°C.
In June there is over 17 hours of sunlight on the average day.
The winters are snowy with temperatures ranging from -5° to -10°C.
Capital: Riga
Total population: 2 349 768
Currency: LVL (1 LVL=100 santims)
Languages: Latvian and Russian
Time: GMT + 2
TV Standard: PAL
Voltage: 220V, 50Hz
Weights and measures: The metric system
Type of government: democratic, parliamentary republic
Independence first proclaimed: 18 November, 1918
Largest religious confessions: Evangelic Lutheran, Roman Catholic and Russian Orthodox
Hours of sunlight: winter 5-6 hours, summer up to 17 hours a day
Latvia is a member of the EU.
No visas required for travellers from the EU area or US.