Latvia Flights and Travel Guide

Language

Latvian is the official language, but English, Lithuanian, Russian and German are also spoken.

Back to top

Communications

The international dialing code for Latvia is +371. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the U.S.). City/area codes are in use; there are three for Riga: (0)3, (0)28 and (0)29. International Direct Dialing is available from all public and hotel phones. Public phones use phone-cards, which can be bought from numerous shops and kiosks. For local operator assistance dial 116, and for international operator assistance dial 115. The two local GSM cell phone operators use GSM 900 and GSM 1800 networks. Riga has an increasing number of Internet cafes.

Back to top

Tipping

Tipping is not obligatory in restaurants, but it is customary to round up the bill to no more than 10 percent if a service charge has not been included and the service was good. Carry small change for tipping taxi drivers. In hotels tip according to the services provided.

Back to top

Safety

Visitors should be vigilant in public places and tourist sites due to the risk of random terrorist attacks that Latvia shares with the rest of the world. Most visits to Latvia are trouble-free, but street crime can be a serious problem for tourists, and there are occasional muggings of foreigners, particularly if walking alone or at night.

Back to top

Health

No health certificates or vaccinations are required to enter Latvia, but visitors are advised to have an inoculation against tick-borne encephalitis, which is a problem especially during the months of March to October, if planning to hike in the country and forests or stay in rural areas. Rabies is endemic, and outbreaks of meningitis occur. Medicines are usually available, but it is best to bring a supply of personal medication. Health insurance is necessary.

Back to top

Electricity

Electrical current is 220 volts AC, 50 Hz. European-style two-pin plugs are in use.

Back to topp