Rīga

Accommodations
Accommodations in Rīga range from camping in the center of the city, to hostels and five star hotels.

Camping is a unique urban option, starting at 3 LVL for a campsite and 2 LVL per person. More information can be found at http://www.rigacamping.lv/.

There are over 20 hostels in Rīga, prices start at $5, more information found here: http://www.hostelworld.com/findabed.php/ChosenCity.Riga/ChosenCountry.Latvia

Hotels in Rīga range from the glitzy Hotel Bergs, to the less glamorous (more affordable) options. A great site to begin your search for the right hotel room: http://www.booking.com/index.engb.html?aid=325895;sid=564920bdb0964a195281b301bd188284;dcid=1

Hotel ABC is an affordable option five minutes from the airport: http://www.hotelabc.lv/. The hotel also offers ‘Camping’ for a nominal fee if you are traveling with a caravan, motorhome, or camper trailer.

Getting Around
Public transportation in Rīga is very good and easy to learn. The most common form of public transport is the tram system which has three stations. There are also two trolley stations and two bus stations. You can usually buy a ticket when you get on the bus/tram/trolley, but have the right change ready because they can be crowded. All services have a flat rate of .60 LVL. In Old Town it is easy to walk around. Taxis are also available at all times of day and night. Red taxis are known to be the most trustworthy companies. Note that there is a standard 5 LVL fee for a taxi, there is also an entrance fee, usually on the door of the taxi.

Food
Food of all ethnicities exists in Rīga. Cafes often have cheap lunch specials. Most places expect a tip of 10%. For a list of restaurants (including American fast food):

http://www.inyourpocket.com/latvia/riga/restaurants
http://www.riga-life.com/eat/restaurants.php
http://www.bestriga.com/dining

Attractions
There is a lot to see and explore in Rīga. Rīga itself is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Rīga is also known for its art nouveau architecture (there’s even a museum dedicated to it!). To name just a few local attractions:

Dome Cathedral
House of Blackheads
Riga Castle
St. Peters Church
Freedom Monument
Powder Tower
Cat House
Ethnographic Open Air Museum –
Restaurant “Lido”

For more ideas about places to visit in Rīga or to explore the vibrant nightlife:

http://www.latvia.travel/en/riga
http://www.bestriga.com/
http://www.riga-life.com/

Just a short train/bus/car trip away is the city of Jurmala, the largest resort city on the Baltic Sea. More information on visiting Jurmala: http://www.latvia.travel/en/article/jurmala