If there is one thing I have learnt on this trip, I need to work out the word for milk before we head into a supermarket . Drinking yogurt does not go well in your coffee. Riga old town is very pretty but very touristy. Riding in the bus from the airport , buildings looked very dilapidated and uncared for . After visiting the occupation museum you realise the horrendous time the Latvians have had in the last 70 years and it isn't surprising the surrounding city look s fairly poor. The centre is a world heritage sight with lots of beautiful art nouveau buildings and expensive shops ( oh well where's your credit card Harley ) and night clubs ( we are saving that one. ) The history of the city is very checkered. It has been part of many countries including Sweden ,Germany , Russia . One of the streets in old town has had its name changed over its turbulent history from Alexander street (during Russian empire) to Brivibus ( freedom street) to Hitler street to Lenin road back to freedom street again when they finally gained independence in 1991. Latvia has joined European Union now and as our tour guide said yesterday inspite of the euro being worth nothing ( according to him anyway) it is well worth belonging to be part of NATO ,etc because of instability of surrounding regions. We found the markets yesterday ( been in operation on banks of river since 1571) and turned out to be best way to advoid the expensive chain cafés.
Took a bike ride around the " real" Riga this afternoon ( outside old town) . There is lots of evidence of 19th century wooden buildings ( wood preferred because they could be burnt down if you want to defend the old town from invaders ). As well as 1950s to 1970s communist buildings and various ethnic influences in the city . Tonight we are going to try "genuine " ( atleast according to spruikers out front ) Latvian cuisine so I can compare to Harley attempts last night .
Got to do some quick shopping before we leave ( linen, amber and any type of knitting are all essential Latvian souvenirs ) Harley is not sure about the " essential " part but he is very grateful for our small carry on baggage ( ha ha I haven't told him I have already found a great little shop where you can purchase a new ( and much bigger) bag !!!
1 comment:
I need an atlas so I can follow your trip. Riga sounds so interesting and sad too. I felt the same way in South America ... You could see the glory days but the cities were so neglected. I will use your example of changing street names with my year 6 class.... This is fascinating.
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