Jurmala
by Lilasel
Throughout this century, Jurmala has been Riga's playground, from the elegant days of the 1930s to the years of occupation. Jurmala was also the ultimate destination for the Soviet Union's elite retirees.
It might cheer you up to know that the beaches at Majori and Bulduri have been awarded the coveted mark of any self respecting beach community worth its weight in tourist dollars, the prestigious Blue Flag.
If travelling in winter!
by morgenhund
Take a thick coat, and a hat - it can be quite windy when there is a snowstorm and the windchill factor will play a considerable role, especailly if you head out to Jurmala. Whilst your hotel might be gloriously warm it won't be outside! Gloves are an essential and insulated (GoreTex lined) boots are adviseable. Take moisturising cream to prevent your lips from becoming dry and chapped. Be sure to take plenty of batteries with you and be careful about your camera - in February when the temperatures are low you might find that your camera's performance is affected. I found that batteries didn't hold their charge as well in winter.
Chocolate heaven!
by keen88 about Emihla Gustava Shokoladhe
A delightful chocolate shop / cafe. There are a few other locations around Riga, but this is the one we visited.
Once inside, you can see a lady through a window making the chocolates in a room within the shop. The counter has a wide array of chocolate to eat inside, or take away. There are plenty of seats to relax and have a coffee, chocolate, hot chocolate or dessert.
Really scrumptious! Definitely try the 'hot chocolate'. It is presented in an espresso style cup, with an accompanying glass of water - believe me, you will need the water!
The hot chocolate is the most chocolatie thing I have ever tasted. A must try.
The chocolate pie dessert, with chocolate ice cream, is also worth a try. Yum yum. Quite upmarket, but not particularly expensive.
'Out There' in Riga
by ozzyn about All the best bars and clubs!!!!
If you are interested in experiencing the cutting edge of Riga's nightlife then you must gain the inside information from an Out-There.eu guide in a Bar & Club briefing. With the help of a Riga nightlife information pack, they will tell you where is hot and where is not!
They will give you your Bar & Club Briefing on arrival during your airport transfer or meet you at your hotel reception before embarking on an Out-There.eu activity. Therefore, you can begin to gain knowledge of the many fantastic night spots as soon as you arrive in Riga. The Riga map clearly indicates where the nightclubs and bars are located in Riga. So, all you have to do is concentrate on partying hard and sampling the best of Latvia's vibrant club scene.
To be entitled to Bar & Club Briefing you need to have booked an Out-There.eu activitiy or service.
Riga Trolleys
by jbaayen
You can go pretty much anywhere in Riga with the trolley system.. a trip costs 20 santims - always. Don't try to explain to the ticket person that you want a ticket to there and there, it will only lead to confusion - most of them speak no or barely any English. Just give them the money, and they'll give you a ticket :)
Get out at the 'E.Birznieka- Upiša iela' stop for the railway station.