Latvia

Geographical position

Latvia is a Baltic European country. It is bordered with Estonia in the north, Russia in the east, Lithuania and Belorussia in the south and in the north the Baltic Sea separates it from Sweden.
It has a very favourable position on the crossroads between the south and north and the Baltic towards the east. The Latvian economy is greatly influenced by the Baltic Sea. Latvia is primarily a lowland country with Riga as its capital.

Historical influence

The territory of Latvia has been inhabited since 9000 BC. The Latvian coast was well-known throughout Europe for its amber. In the 12^th century the first states were established, which came under the German rule in the 13^th century. In the 15^th century Poland took over the majority of the territory and in the 17^th century Sweden claimed a part of Latvia as it is known today.

The most traditional beverage still popular today is a milk beverage called rūgušpiens.

In 1918 Latvia becomes an independent state, but not for long. At the beginning of World War II, Latvia falls under the occupation of the Soviet Union until 21^st August 1991 when it again gains independence. Latvia has been a member of the European Union since 1^st May 2004.

Cuisine

Latvian cuisine has been influenced by the neighbouring countries, primarily Germany, Sweden and Russia. The harsh climate and modest soil made Latvians work hard to supply food. Therefore, they preferred a strong and heavy diet.

The national Latvian table offers mainly agricultural products and meat, and owing to its position on the east coast of the Baltic, fish products.

The Latvian cuisine relies on local ingredients: wheat, barley, potato, onion, cabbage and eggs. It is also specific for its minimal use of spices, and bread has an important place at the Latvian table.

Traditional meals

The classic Latvian breakfast consists of a sandwich with cheese, sausages, pickles and other fillings. Fried and boiled eggs are also served, and many Latvians take milk, coffee or tea for breakfast.

Latvian cuisine has been influenced by the neighbouring countries, primarily Germany, Sweden and Russia.

Lunch time is the central part of the day and lunch has to be cooked, warm and refreshing. Typical dishes are:

• Meat and fish soups
• Fried meat – steak, chicken, pork and other
• Fish (salmon, trout, cod)
• Potato (boiled, fried, mashed)
• Rice
• Salads (e.g. potato)
• Piragi.

Dishes are served with sour cream. Desserts are an inseparable part of a meal: dairy products and fruit, cakes with jelly and other. Lunch is also the time for a favourite beverage: milk, tea, coffee or fruit juice.

Dinner is usually prepared after the family returns from work. Just like lunch, traditional dinner is cooked and warm or quick and modern. Many people due to the lack of time reach for frozen meals, pizza, sandwiches or bakery products.

Beverages
During the day coffee, tea, fruit juice and spring water are the most frequent beverages in Latvia. The most traditional beverage still popular today is the dairy drink called rugušpiens. kefir and kvass. The Latvians also love beer, and the most popular domestic breweries are: Užvas, Aldaris, Bauskas, Cesu, Tervetes and Lačpleša. Beer is followed by vodka.

Interesting details

• Visit Riga Central market – one of the oldest and largest markets in Europe.
• 80% of the world reserves of amber lay in the area of the Baltic Sea. Therefore, if you wish amber, buy it in Riga.

• Kuldiga, the widest waterfall in Europe – 240 m, is situated in Latvia

• Thousands of lakes and rivers offer various possibilities of recreation on water from comfortable sailing to rafting. Boat trips last from 1 to 7 days, and even more.

• Latvia offers accommodation in rural households, camps, rental houses, and in pure and preserved nature with the highest certificates for environment protection. Guests have the chance to enjoy organic food, trips in nature, watching animals and other activities.