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Latvia’s official language is English, but many people also speak Russian, German and Lithuanian.
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Latvia’s official currency is the Lat. One lat equals 100 santims. Outside of Riga, the capital city, credit cards are rarely accepted. You can exchange money at banks, some hotels and at money change kiosks. The larger cities usually have ATMs.
Latvia’s international country code is 371. To call out to another country from Latvia, dial 00 followed by the appropriate country code. The number of Internet cafes in Riga is steadily increasing.
Sometimes restaurants will include a service charge in their bill. If not, it’s customary to round up the bill to no more than 10 percent if the service was good. Tip taxi drivers and hotel staff small change.
Most tourists don’t have any trouble in Latvia, but you should use common sense to guard yourself against street crime. Foreigners will occasionally get mugged, especially if walking alone or at night.
There aren’t any vaccination requirements for entrance to Latvia. It’s a good idea to get vaccination against tick-borne encephalitis if you’re hiking in the countryside, especially between March and October. Outbreaks of rabies and meningitis also occur. You should bring your own supply of medications and make sure you’re covered by health insurance.
Latvia’s electrical current is 220 volts AC, 50Hz and uses European-style, two-pinned plugs.
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