Happy 88th Latvia

Riga is one of the most beautiful cities that I have visited yet. The old town has the feel of a small medieval village. It is easy to get lost just wandering the narrow streets, but just as easy to find your way back since it is relativly small. On my first night here, I was wandering the city when I heard what sounded like a marching band. I followed the sound and came across a huge military parade. I must confess that I am woefully ignorant on current events in Latvia, so I wasn't sure if this was a real invaison or just a pretend one. There were only a few people around and they didn't seem too concerned, but I asked anyways and found out that this was the practice run for the big parade the next day for Freedom Day, Latvia's independence day. I came within about 3 feet of the President of Latvia who gave me a wave. I felt so accepted already.

The city was buzzing the next day as there were many events for the big 88th birthday celebration. Fireworks at night, speeches and videos about Latvia. I spent part of the day taking in the museum of occupation, dedicated to the 3 different times Latvia has been occupied in the 20th century. It was fairly busy that day, but worth it to get a really good sense of the history of Latvia. The rest of the day I just wandered the city, enjoying the atmosphere.

My hostel has been a bit of a pain. There are some good things. It is located right in the heart of the old city, it has satalite TV which allowed me to watch the NFL and (a day late on tape delay) the Grey Cup! But the rooms are crammed and it is very noisy. I am kinda glad that the weekend partying is over so I can get some rest. There are sooo many Brits here. I tell ya, once Ryan Air flies into a place it just gets overrun! But tonight my 12 person room that had been full will only have 4 people in it, so that is kinda nice.

Yesterday I went on a day trip to a place called Sigulda. I went there in the hope that I would get to try bobsledding (or bobsleigh as the Brits call it). They have a track there and you can go down it for just 2L. Sadly when I made my way there (with some British guys I met who also wanted to go) they said it was closed because it wasn't cold enough yet. So sad. But I did get to explore the ruins of some cool castles, so that made the trip worth while. Also, there was a cable car ride involved. However, this place did make me aware of something I knew before: Loney Planet Guide Books are VERY VERY misleading. They called this place "The Switzerland of Latvia." Now that implies alot. First of all, mountains. These were hills, and barely even that. Secondly, you think of nice houses and smiling people. This appeared to be an impovrished part of country and the people looked at me like I had 5 eyes. But it was beautiful.

One thing I should tell you about Latvia is that prices make absolutely no sense here. They peg their currency, so 1 Lat= 1 GBP, but most things are still cheap. Still, here is a breakdown of what I have paid for some basic things:
Train ticket, 53 miles: 0.71L
Beer: 1.00L
Meal at a fancy restaurant: 9.00L
5 nights in a hostel: 36L

It is all very confusing. I could travel across the entire country for the same price as a beer? Like I said, it makes little sense.

So I have one more day in Latvia (another day trip I think) and then I am off to Estonia. Big fun!

Sorry about the lack of pictures. These computers are being disagreeable (that is not the word I used in my head). Take Care!