50 Tips and Hacks for Travellers Going to Latvia from India - Before You Travel

Planning a trip from India to Latvia? Here are 50 tips and hacks to help you prepare for a smooth and enjoyable journey:

Visas and Documentation:

1. Apply for a Schengen Visa: Latvia is part of the Schengen Area. You'll need a Schengen Visa to enter the country. Apply at the Latvian embassy or consulate in India well in advance (at least 3 months before your trip).
2. Double Check Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in Latvia and has at least two blank pages for visa stamps.
3. Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and baggage loss.
4. Photocopies: Make photocopies of your passport, visa, travel insurance, and other important documents. Keep them separate from the originals in case of theft or loss.

Currency and Money Matters:

5. Currency Exchange: The official currency in Latvia is the Euro (EUR). Exchange some Indian Rupee (INR) to EUR before your departure. You can also use ATMs in Latvia to withdraw cash.
6. Inform Your Bank: Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid issues using your debit or credit cards abroad.
7. Consider a Travel Card: Consider getting a prepaid travel card to avoid currency exchange hassles and potentially better rates.

Booking Flights and Accommodation:

8. Compare Flight Prices: Look for flight deals on aggregator websites and directly with airlines. Consider flying into nearby cities like Vilnius (Lithuania) or Tallinn (Estonia) if you find cheaper options.
9. Book Accommodation in Advance: Especially during peak season (summer), book your hotels, hostels, or apartments well in advance to secure the best deals and availability. 1
10. Research Different Areas: Riga, the capital, is the most popular tourist destination. Consider exploring other charming towns like Liepāja, Jūrmala, or Cēsis for a unique Latvian experience.

Language and Communication:

11. Learn Basic Latvian Phrases: While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning a few Latvian phrases like "Sveiki" (Hello), "Paldies" (Thank You), and "Lūdzu" (Please) goes a long way. There are many language learning apps that can help.
12. Download Offline Translation Apps: Download a reliable translation app that works offline in case you encounter situations where Latvian is the primary language.

Essential Packing:

13. Check the Weather: Latvia has four distinct seasons. Pack accordingly. Summers are pleasant, with occasional rain. Winters are cold and snowy. Pack layers for spring and fall.
14. Comfortable Walking Shoes: Plan to do a lot of walking, so bring comfortable shoes with good grip. Latvia has cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces in some areas.
15. Universal Adapter: India uses a different plug type than Latvia. Pack a universal adapter to charge your devices.
16. Converter for Electronics: If your electronic devices don't support dual voltage, pack a voltage converter to avoid damaging them.

Health and Safety:

17. Vaccinations: Check with your doctor about recommended vaccinations for travel to Latvia.
18. Mosquito Repellent: During summer, pack mosquito repellent, especially if you plan on spending time outdoors.
19. Basic First-Aid Kit: Pack a small first-aid kit with essential medications like pain relievers, indigestion relief, and bandaids.
20. Travel-Sized Toiletries: Pack travel-sized toiletries to comply with airline carry-on restrictions.

Culture and Etiquette:

21. Respect Local Customs: Latvians are generally reserved and polite. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Be mindful of personal space and avoid loud talking in public places.
22. Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Latvia, but it's becoming more common in tourist areas. A small tip (around 10%) is appreciated for good service at restaurants.
23. Public Transport: Public transport in Latvia, especially in Riga, is efficient and affordable. Purchase a prepaid travel card for convenience.

Food and Drinks:

24. Try Local Cuisine: Latvia offers a delicious and hearty cuisine. Sample dishes like Rupjmaize (dark rye bread), Pelmeni (dumplings), Sklandrausis (cabbage rolls), and Pīrāgi (savory hand pies).
25. Explore Local Markets: Visit local markets to experience Latvian culture and find fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs.

Exploring and Activities:

26. Purchase a Riga Card: Consider purchasing a Riga Card for free public transport, discounts on museums and attractions, and other benefits.
27. Explore Beyond Riga: Day trips from Riga are a great way to experience Latvian countryside. Visit historical towns like Sigulda, the Rundāle Palace, or the Gauja National Park.
28. Embrace the Outdoors: Latvia offers many outdoor activities - hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, and even hot air ballooning.

Money Saving Hacks:

29. Free Walking Tours: Join a free walking tour in Riga for a budget-friendly introduction to the city's history and landmarks.
30. Student Discounts: If you're a student, carry your student ID to avail discounts on museums, public transport, and other attractions.
31. Consider Shoulder Seasons: Traveling during shoulder seasons (spring and fall) can offer pleasant weather and lower travel costs compared to peak summer.

Staying Connected:

32. Purchase a Local SIM Card: Consider purchasing a local SIM card for affordable data and calls during your stay.
33. Free Wi-Fi: Many cafes, restaurants, and hotels offer free Wi-Fi. Utilize it to stay connected and avoid roaming charges.

Unique Latvian Experiences:

34. Visit the Jāņi Festival: If you're in Latvia in June, experience the Jāņi festival, a vibrant celebration of the summer solstice with traditional music, bonfires, and folk dances.
35. Explore the Art Nouveau Architecture: Riga boasts stunning Art Nouveau architecture. Take a walk or join a guided tour to admire the unique buildings.
36. Amber Hunting: Jūrmala beach is a popular spot for searching for amber, Latvia's "gold of the Baltic Sea."

Understanding Latvia:

37. Learn about Latvian History: Understanding a bit of Latvian history, especially the Soviet era, will enhance your appreciation for the country's culture and resilience.
38. Currency and Prices: Be aware that Latvia is generally more expensive than India. Budget accordingly for meals, transportation, and attractions.
39. Respect the Environment: Latvia is known for its natural beauty. Be a responsible traveler and respect the environment by following local guidelines and practicing sustainable habits.

Additional Tips:

40. Download Offline Maps: Download offline maps of Riga and other areas you plan to visit to navigate easily without an internet connection.
41. Carry a Reusable Water Bottle: Tap water in Latvia is safe to drink. Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money on bottled water.
42. Learn Some Latvian Songs: Learn a few popular Latvian songs to add a fun element to your trip and connect with locals.

Packing Hacks:

43. Pack Light: Avoid overpacking, especially if you plan on moving around different locations. Opt for versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched.
44. Laundry Facilities: Many accommodations offer laundry facilities, so you don't need to pack too many clothes.
45. Download Entertainment: Download movies, music, or audiobooks for long journeys or downtime during your trip.

Safety and Security:

46. Be Aware of Surroundings: As with any travel destination, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Keep valuables safe and avoid carrying large sums of cash.
47. Register with MEA: Register with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) before your departure for travel advisories and emergency assistance.
48. Emergency Numbers: Familiarize yourself with emergency contact numbers in Latvia, such as police (112), ambulance (113), and fire (118).

Final Touches:

49. Learn about Latvian Customs Regulations: Check Latvian customs regulations on what you can and cannot bring into the country.
50. Embrace the Experience: Relax, be open to new experiences, and enjoy your Latvian adventure!

By following these tips and hacks, you'll be well-prepared for a memorable and enjoyable trip to Latvia from India.