RigaNOW! Magazine issue# 43

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Acting Editor-in-Chief Katja Strelcova Contributing writers Art director

Amy Bryzgel Aleksandrs Golovins

Copy editor

Dorian Ziedonis

Associated publisher Laura Miķelsone Advertisiment department

Signe Albiņa ads@riganow.magazine.lv

International sales Pauline Conjard coordinator p.conjard@riganow.magazine.lv

Letter from the editor RigaNOW! Ganîbu dambis 24a, Rîga, LV 1005, Latvia Tel. (+371) 738 3499, Fax (+371) 738 3099 e-mail: riganow@riganow.magazine.lv All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. RigaNOW! is a registered trademark of “SK Latvia”.

While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, RigaNOW! cannot be held responsible for changes in dates, prices, and opening terms which may occur after press date.

Magazine registration number: 000702728 RigaNOW! does not take press courtesy dinners, products, or trips for reviews. As a result, you can trust us to speak our mind. We’re always keen to help readers find interesting restaurants, entertainment, shops and new hotels.

So please let us know if you have a favorite place we haven’t featured. e-mail: riganow@riganow.magazine.lv

© SK Latvia Publishing House Reg. Nr. 50003574031 In cooperation with: SK Group (N.Y.) Inc., USA and Pelikans Marketings SIA, Latvia SK Latvia Publishing House is also publisher of:

If you happen to be in Riga in June, consider yourself lucky, because you have a chance to see ancient folk traditions through the Lîgo holiday.

Don’t know what Lîgo is? Let us explain you.

Lîgo is a favorite holiday in Latvia, marking the midsummer and giving locals a great chance to get a bit wild in the nature. Lîgo has deep rooted pagan traditions, so there’s a lot of fun including dancing, singing and even leaping over fires, not to mention grilling and drinking beer. A lot of grilling and a lot of drinking, in fact. So join merry singing and dancing crowd at Latvian Open Air Ethnographic museum or Dome Square and have fun!

Since it’s the peak of summer, this issue is all about outdoor activities.

What better place to enjoy delicious meals and contemplate the city than al fresco terraces? In this issue you will find a review of the best summer terraces that have popped up all around Riga.

If there’s an inner rebel in you trying to get out, Latvia’s a great place.

In our Extreme Sports feature we have highlighted some of the best, yet safe ways to get an adrenalin rush.

If planning an out of town trip, flip straight to page 26 and read about Latvian countryside treasures – beautiful castles and manors, just oozing history and the luxurious baronial lifestyle.

For those of you who want to discover some more of Latvian soul, there is an article on the biggest Latvian arts treasury – Latvia’s National Art Museum.

In our What’s New features and events calendar we will tell you what are the hippest places and hottest events in Riga right NOW! I hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as we enjoyed making it.

Acting editor-in-chief, Katja Strelcova

www.sk.lv

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CONTENTS Key Sections 8

Dining What’s New! Advice from our staff on dining around town

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Entertainment What’s New! The editor’s list of the latest in entertainment

12

Shopping What’s New! What’s new and hot for seasonal shopping

14

Cultural Highlights The editor’s choices for the month

15

Calendar of events A quick look at events this May

Culture feature

20

Special features 16

Dining feature Review of best Riga’s summer terraces

20

Culture feature Tour in Latvian State Museum of Arts

22

Dining

26

16

Entertainment feature Extreme sporting adventures Out of town A trip to the splendor of Latvia’s manors

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календарь

56

события месяца

58

новинки риги

60

ночная жизнь

62

рестораны

64

магазины

66

гостиницы

Maps / 30 Dining Guide / 34 A select guide to dining in Riga, from pubs to haute cuisine Night Guide / 38 Nightclubs, Bars, Health Clubs Shopping Guide / 41 The city’s best boutiques, specialty shops, and department stores Hotel Guide / 44 A select guide to luxury & upmarket hotels Country living

Museum Guide / 48

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Essential Guide to Riga / 50 Important telephone numbers and tourist information

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Entertainment

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Promotion

Spice up your festivities According to the theory of relativity there should be people, who love enjoying tasty meals and beautiful things. If you are one of them, mc2 is just a right place for you to shop and dine.

Interior and delicatessen center mc2 contains Decorum- exclusive furnishing, interior details and Gastronome – a gourmet’s paradise. In Gastronome you can buy some delicious treats, dine in their restaurant, but also arrange your evens – whether it is a private party, corporate presentation or even a wedding. Here is our advice how to get things done quickly, easily and with a class, yet with minimum effort from your side.

The name has no single meaning. But we all remember the simple formula for energy — E = mc² — from our schooldays and, in this case. At Gastronome they interpret this formula in such a way: delicious and healthy food will keep your energy levels high. If you let Gastronome staff organize your food, it can actually save you a lot of energy for simply enjoying the party.

Gastronome offers its clients a wide choice of fresh products from world’s best ecological farmers and producers and individual approach to organizing tailor-made parties.

The team of professional cooks and waiters at the Gastronome can ensure that any festivity that you are planning goes off well, taking into account your own particular wishes. Service can be provided for banquets, seminars, presentations and other similar events held in the Gastronome restaurant, at your own home, or at any other place you decide. Gastronome can perform with maximum creativity when organizing smaller parties for 10-15 people, but large scale events are also ensured with the same high class.

The chef of gastronome can help you select the menu and prepare all the dishes with his colleagues.

You can create a special menu if you are having a theme party: Mediterranean, Eastern or Grills, for instance. A professional som-

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melier can make up a wine list. A selection of wines of Gastronome is truly unique, with 60% of vintage bottles not to be found anywhere else in Latvia.

As for the dessert, Gastronome has established pastry traditions baking bread, cookies and cakes according to authentic time-proved recipes. Gastronome confectioner, who has won the third place in desserts’ design contest, can create sweet masterpieces - cakes with original marzipan decorations for your special occasion: from wedding to children birthday party.

Experienced waiters and the restaurant manager will ensure impeccable service for your guests.

If you wish Gastronome can also organize music and fresh flower arrangement to enhance your event.

Summer is a great time to have some event outdoors. Gastronome can ensure you food and service outdoors. In summer season Gastronome features a special grill menu, specializing in seafood - just think of octopus carpaccio, grilled dorado, barbell or tiger shrimps with delicious summer greenery and delectable sauces. According to mc² a formula of an unforgettable summer party is: mouth-watering grilled seafood, vegetables and meat + lush outdoors location = guaranteed your guests’ satisfaction.

Satisfaction squared, in fact.

To make your reservation and discuss details please contact:

Signe Plânica Restaurant and events administrator mc2 Gastronome, Krasta 68a, Riga Tel: (+371) 7019625 Fax: (+371) 7019616 Signe.Planica@mc2.lv www.mc2.lv

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Dining NOW!

What’s new

by Katja STRELCOVA

Dining Vive le Figaro!

Vive le excellent food and fine dining that you can find at the new restaurant Vive Le Figaro! Vive le Figaro has opened in place of cowboy-style Steiku Haoss on Strelnieku square in Old Town. After the renovation the restaurant has completely revamped, now offering a much more sophisticated setting for a wonderful dinner.

The interior of the first floor is very slick and Spanishinspired, with animal skins, contrast colors and corrida scenes (not much blood though) painted across the walls. Take a table next to the window to see the historical buildings of Strelnieku square, or tuck into a secluded corner for a more intimate atmosphere. On the weekends there is live piano music, which creates a very special atmosphere. May I invite you for a dance, madam?

The menu in le Figaro is international, names of the dishes sounding like music for any gourmet. For starters choose Figaro’s specialty - salmon steamed in dill sauce on cranberry jam, served with toasts and tomato sorbet. From the salad selection Lapland cheese salad with selected lettuce leaves, cherry tomatoes and apricot jam sounds like an interesting combination of ingredients. There is also a wide choice of hot starters, such as squid stuffed with green asparagus and forest mushrooms, served with saffron risotto and green Burnuaset sauce and foie gras with aubergine caviar, goose breast and truffle puree. For the main course think of king tiger prawns prepared in sea salt with pineapple-chilly salsa and pickled cherry tomatoes.

One more thing the restaurant can take pride of is its great service. The staff is very professional and welcoming, yet not interfering. The waiters will be happy to assist you and recommend the right wine for your meal.

For smokers there is a calm pastel colored dining room upstairs. The basement floor is more of a bar and dancing hall also available for rent for private parties.

Vive Le Figaro! is set to be a trendy place and is definitely worth your visit.

Fazer CafË & Restaurant

One of the most popular places for shopping among both locals and tourists is Stockmann department store, widely recognized in Riga and other Nordic cities. One can spend hours browsing four floors of fashion, perfumes and kitchen utensils. When you’ve done your shopping and all you need is just to sit back and relax – there’s a new handy café on the top floor.

Fazer Café was recently opened after a short reno-

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vation. The interior is light with a definite Nordic touch to it. Clean lines, almost sterile white walls, wooden chairs and see-through plastic tables add a futuristic mood.

Although the name is now Fazer café & Restaurant, it is still self-serviced, so that is what you should expect. Besides ready-made dishes, such as various hot and cold snacks: sandwiches, omelets, salads, rolls, you can choose m a i n courses

from the daily offer. The café also has a large selection of soups, grills, wok dishes, soups, pancakes and pasta.

The main attraction of the café is its wonderful view on Riga and the Old town through an almost floor-to-ceiling glass window, which makes it a good place to watch the crowds of people and traffic pass by, while enjoying a light snack.

Vive le Figaro! – Grçcinieku 26, F-3, Tel.26699966 Fazer Café & Restaurant – Stockmann, 4th floor, 13. janvâra 8, H-4, Tel: 7071222

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Armorial is one of the oldest family companies in France. For 400 years we have satisfied our customers throughout the world.

Leather is our passion. We use only specially selected quality crocodile and ostrich leather in our Armorial products, which shows the world your demanding and unique taste. True French aristocracy considers Armorial to be the best gift that one can give, which shows you can respect yourself. And we are proud that French President Jacques Chirac is one of Armorial’s most satisfied clients. Armorial has prepared 100 gift ideas. Enjoy the holidays with your own Armorial!

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Entertainment NOW!

by Katja STRELCOVA

What’s new Entertainment Tequila Boom

If you want to have a really wild night out – take a ride to a new tequileria restaurant Tequila Boom on Marstalu street.

With sombreros on the walls, traditional Mexican rainbow-colored ornaments and stripey knitted table rugs the interior is by no means pretentious, but rather simple.

Food is traditional Tex-Mex fare, including corn chips, oven fried nachos with various fillings, quesadillas, fajitas in mango cream with chicken, beans&cheese, tropical burritos with chicken, grunter, veal and many other snacks.

Radio Bar

Just a turn from Dome Square, in the heart of Old town now there’s a new venue for music lovers, called Radio Bar. In fact, Latvian Radio is also just around the corner, and this is how the bar got its name.

Funky interior of Radio Bar unites modern neon lamps with design elements from the 15th century. Radio in every form – as the music, as well as decoration is the leading theme of the bar. Radio Bar consists of three large halls, where there is a place for those who come to dine (yet when we went there

If you still have room for dessert, you better order an ice-cream to soothe the fire after the meal.

If you pop in on a lazy afternoon, there is a special business lunch offer. During a hot day it’s especially nice to enjoy cold gazpacho soup, sitting in a shadowy open-air courtyard, over viewing a section of medieval wall entwined with lush green ivy, and multilayered rooftops of the Old town.

Spanish rhythms will make you want to dance after a couple of shots!

There are more than 30 kinds of tequila on offer:

Tequila Blanco, Tequila Gold, Tequila Reposado, Tequila Anejo and Mezcal. You can order it by the shot or by meter, consisting of 12 shots.

Besides the tequila, the list of other cocktails is just immense. Cocktails are ranged by price starting from 3.5 to 5.7 euros, many of them based on tequila, of course. We even found such combinations as tequila and champagne, or tequila, Tabasco sauce and chili pepper– this must be burning hot! A large selection of beer and hot drinks is also on offer.

So park your horse outside and have fun, cowboy!

the food was not available yet), dance as well as a room for smokers. Radio bar has a small stage in one of the rooms, so some live music performances and a DJ will be keeping the crowd bouncing on the weekend.

The bar will most likely attract Riga local bohemian youth and music fans.

When we visited the bar, they were still tuning their radios and not completely ready, so come and check it out, if it’s a truly special theme bar or just another hole in the wall.

Tequila Boom – Mârstaïu 6, G-4, Tel: 6 722 2122 Radio Bar – Šíûòu iela 17, F-2, Tel: 26155340

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Shopping NOW!

by KatjaBySTRELCOVA Kurt SVEILIS

What’s new Shopping Montenapoleone

Milan, along with Paris, New York and London is considered as one of the fashion capitals. Now a piece of sunny Milan has come to Riga with a small boutique in Montenapoleone, named after famous fashion promenade Via Monte Napoleone in Milan.

There is a reason why Milan is among the top destinations for fashionistas from all over the world. Via Monte Napoleone is one of the most expensive streets in Europe with the names of the shops reading just like a fashion bible: Armani, Ferre, Gucci, Moschino, Missoni, Louis Vuitton, Versace, Prada and many others.

No need to go to Milan though, as Riga’s fashion scene seems to be getting bigger and bigger. Montenapoleone is a compact two-storey boutique representing fashion items by the luxury Italian brands, both for Him and for Her. Here you will find the latest summer collections by the legendary Prada, extravagant Alexander McQueen, clothes

by Iceberg and Moschino, accessories by Just Cavalli, as well as his summer collection Roberto Cavalli, Emporio Armani collection and Giorgio Armani’s first line. There are also the luxurious Valentino and Gianfranco Ferre, Versace and Gucci. Among the unique offer are Voyage Passion and Casadei to be found in Montenapoleone only.

Although the boutique might seem small on the outside, you will find the latest clothes and accessories, as well as some great deals on previous collections. Men’s and women‘s outfits, from casual jeans to tailored business suits are to be found in this petite, yet style-packed boutique. So meet you there on the corner of Montenapoleone and Brîvîbas!

Denim dreams G-Star Raw

Denim is more than a cotton fabric; it has become an absolute must-have item in every wardrobe.

There are various versions of the origin of denim. Most reference books say that denim is an English corruption of the French phrase “serge de Nimes;” a serge fabric from the town of Nimes in France. Another legend says denim comes from Genoa, Italy. It was a cotton, linen and wool blend fabric that 12

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got the name “jeans”, the name deriving from the town of Genoa, where it was produced.

Whatever the truth is, it is absolutely clear that a simple pair of high quality and perfectly cut blue jeans has become a modern classic.

Now you can get your favorite denims by legendary jeans brand G-Star Raw, in Galerija Centrs shopping mall. There are several brands recognized as high quality jeans makers, and G-Star Raw is definitely one of them. From its conception in 1989, G-Star has been known for its innovative and cutting edge style in the world of denim. Pushing the boundaries, continuous experimentation and product development has led to worldwide success of the brand. G-Star Raw is rough, raw, no-frills, yet sexy style for confident people. The new store offers a wide range of male and female jeans and jackets; there are also shorts, denim dresses, funky t-shirts and accessories. Deep indigo and washed out, drain pipes and flared, boot cut and cropped, but always chic, G-Star Raw jeans are just screaming from the racks, “Wear me out!”

Montenapoleone – Brîvîbas 45, C-2, Tel: 67693111 G-Star Raw - Galerija centrs, Audçju 16, H-3, Tel: 67018018

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Calendar

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Calendar

by Katja STRELCOVA

Cultural highlights

With summer approaching Latvia, the cultural life of Riga is moving to its zenith.

Various concerts, festivals, exhibitions – you won’t be bored. This month our RigaNOW! must-see list features fine French arts, a spectacular Opera Festival and national traditions of celebrating Ligo holidays. Enjoy!

Made in France

June is the final month of a grand-scale French Spring festival, which has been bringing the best of French culture and awakening Riga citizens and tourists from winter sleep for the whole spring. From Sevres porcelain to Fauve painting we’ve seen it all, and this month it’s time to discover the modern French culture, which is as striking and exciting as the art of past centuries.

Welcome to Arsenals exhibition hall of the Latvian National Museum of Arts, which houses contemporary works exhibition Made in France, or Fait in France showing the richness and diversity of French plastic arts over a period of fifteen years. The aim of the project is not to reflect a particular school or movement but to be a manifesto of openness and creative freedom whose spirit is not subject to any single system of ideas. This exhibition reflects this successful formulation and offers visitors a one-stop opportunity to become familiar with all the styles and tendencies in French contemporary art.

The exhibition features 30 artists’ works from France. The 50 artworks on show have been selected from the collections of eight French Regional Centres of Contemporary Art. Along with Made in France, there is a video installation by one of the most famous representatives of the modern arts scene - Melik Ohanian – coming from the Museum of Contemporary Art in Val-de-Marne (Paris). A video installation The Hand, created in 2002, consists of nine different short films on nine monitors positioned on the ground. Strange, shocking or creative – you decide.

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Riga Opera Festival

Riga Opera Festival 2007 marks the 10th anniversary of the highly successful, internationally acclaimed summer festival. The festival is offering an exciting program of opera and concert just before the Latvian National Opera’s season. The festival was founded in June 1998 to showcase the new productions of the season together with favorite productions of previous seasons in a festive, exceptional atmosphere. During the past ten years, the Riga Opera Festival has established itself as an outstanding celebration of cultural life in Latvia and abroad, attracting not only a Latvian audience, but also opera lovers from all over the world. The festival quickly developed into a truly international event.

The Riga Opera Festival 2007 is the first one ever to open with a world premiere: Joseph is a Fruitful Bough, by Latvian composer Ēriks Ešenvalds and is based on the Biblical story of Joseph and his brothers. The Festival will also feature two performances of Richard Wagner’s Die Walküre, the second installment of the ambitious new Der Ring des Nibelungen, and two performances of the new production of Giuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata. Don’t miss the premiere of January 2006 - Latvian production of Shostakovich’s Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk, which received the Audience Award for Best Production of the 2005/06 season.

As a special event, the Opéra de Lyon will be presenting the performance of Francis Poulenc’s gripping one-act opera La Voix Humaine, staged by internationally praised French director Laurent Pelly and starring legendary British soprano Dame Felicity Lott.

LÎgo celebrations

If you happen to be in Riga in June, consider yourself lucky, because you have a chance to see ancient folk traditions through the Lîgo holiday. Lîgo or Jâòi is the biggest party on the Latvian calendar, marking the Midsummer and giving everybody a chance to indulge in some crazy pagan fun, which includes a lot of eating, drinking, dancing, singing and even leaping over fires.

The shortest night in the year is an excuse for every city slicker to head to the countryside and drink and be merry. But besides these private parties, vast concerts and celebrations will be held in Riga all month long. The official postcard slogan of Latvia says “The land that sings”, so come and check it out on June, 16 in Bastejkalns, where the best Latvian choirs will perform in the 5th Annual Singing Festival.

Narrow cobblestone streets of the Old Town are just oozing history and witchcraft around Lîgo time. For centuries the main square of Riga became a giant pharmacy on Midsummer’s Eve as traditional healers sold brews made from freshly picked herbs. These days Old Town markets also sell beautiful herb flower wreaths and souvenirs.

Special celebrations and fairs will be held in the Open Air Ethnographic Museum. Stroll the picturesque grounds of the Open Air Museum on the shores of Lake Jugla, and pick up some bargains from the stands of Latvia’s best traditional potters, leatherworkers, weavers and other artisans. The museum’s collection of authentic country buildings is a must for every visitor, and the Lîgo mood will make you trip even more special.

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Calendar

June in Riga 1

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What: Ballet premiere Les Creatures Where: LNO Time: 19.00

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What: Concert Macy Gray Where: Arena Riga Time: 19.30

What: Requiem (Mozart) Where: Riga Dome Cathedral Time: 19.00

What: Opera premiere Joseph Is a Fruitful Bough Where: LNO Time: 19.00

What: Baltic Regional Energy Forum Where: Latvian Society House Organized by: US Embassy, LBS

What: Gardening exhibition Where: Íîpsala Hall

What: Concert NAZARETH un KEN HENSLY BAND (ex. Uriah Heep) Where: Ogre Stage Time: 21.00

What: Concert Smokie Where: Ogres Stage Time: 21.00 What: Conference Transbaltika 2007 Where: Radisson SAS Daugava

What: Italian music concert “O Sole mio!”

Where: Dzintari concert hall Time: 20.00

What: 5th summer singing festival Where: Riga Bastejkalns (G-1)

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What: Performance by Goran Bregovich “Carmen with a happy end” Where: Dzintari concert hall Time: 20.00

What: 10th European Union Commerce Registers Forum Where: Latvian Society House

What: Early music festival Where: Rundale palace

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What: Midsummer celebrations Where: all around Latvia

July 2 July

3 July

What: Concert Muse

What: Concert

Where: Arena Riga

Aerosmith Where: Skonto hall

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Dining feature

by Kurt Sveilis

O

ne of the joys of summer in Riga is that finally... finally we can dine al fresco. Little tables pop up on sidewalks in front of the trendy Old Town restaurants; terraces are being completed with the placement of flower boxes as the foot traffic starts to pick up. In our review we have selected some of our top favorite terraces for a lazy evening meal outdoors for you to enjoy.

Restaurant Piramida Many people are sometimes put off by the five-star dining experience by the degree of formality, or perhaps the price. ‘The Terrace’ at the five-star Hotel Ridzene, which opened for in May, offers up-market dining in a relaxed atmosphere and at very competitive prices. The open terrace area faces the Esplanade Park and is sure to be an ideal place to spend balmy summer evenings, or to find a shadowy shelter for a business lunch.

Pride of place is the Salad Boat, (literally a wooden boat) which contains “a full assortment of the freshest garden greens, succulent vegetables, assorted pickles, and a fine selection of sauces and dressings for a mere

6 euros. Each Thursday evening the boat sails in, full of tiger shrimps for the guests to enjoy, complimented by a glass of wine as well.

The Terrace feels like a garden in the middle of the city, decked out in wood and surrounded by a dazzling array of flowers, plants and shrubs. In such an outdoor setting nothing can be better than the grill and a pint of cold beer.

“The menu is mostly simple grill food, which ideal for an outdoor setting”, says the chef of the restaurant Lauris Aleksejevs. We went for grilled shrimps (around 18 euros) and a pork chop (12 euros); both tasted excellent and came with grilled zucchini, aubergine and tomato as a garnish. Also try the beef steak, which is among the most popular dishes at Piramida. There are also some chillin’ soups for a boiling hot afternoon.

The experienced chef cooks in full view of the diners, offering a full range of grill menu dish-

es. Tuna steak and salmon steak and chicken brisket are fine examples of quality dishes, and include a wide choice of condiments.

If the temperature drops, or the rain threatens, there is a roof and heaters to keep your dining experience as comfortable as possible.

As you would expect from the Hotel Ridzene, there is a more-than-extensive drinks menu on offer.

At night, it turns into a wonderful romantic restaurant thanks to the cool breather from the park and special lights, creating a very cozy summerhouse atmosphere.

Expect to see many well-to-do locals mixing with hotel guests at The Terrace, as this informal high-class dining experience looks sure to become de rigueur in Riga this summer.

Charlestons Having a terrace that takes up three levels, it could be said that Charlestons has one of the largest outdoor dining areas in the city.

Located in the center of Riga, Charlestons has been known for hosting many functions as well as providing daily meals to happy guests.

Elmars Tannis, the owner of Charlestons says that every year they get better and better with their service and the range and quality that they offer. This diligent work has been paying off; last year they got awarded “Best Bar BQ Grill” by the local food and wine enthusiast magazine “Gastro Nams”.

We popped in for a visit when they were testing out what would be on the grill menu.

Though the menu is not set per say, each day,

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Dining feature

Monterosso

there will be a special item from the grill that they will focus on.

We had the pleasure of trying the grilled salmon. From living in the Baltics there have been times that even we get a little tired of having salmon because of its abundance. So we were a little hesitant to try another ordinary salmon. I know what you might be thinking at this point, that life is very rough for us living so close to the Baltic Sea. To our surprise this grilled salmon had a new taste, a deep rich flavor, bursting with hints of bacon and black pepper. Elmars says this seasoning comes from the salmon being grilled on two moistened planks of cedar wood. Then just salt and pepper and a little lemon juice are added. As the fish cooks on the grill the cedar gives off natural juices to flavor the salmon.

Other tempting dishes added for this grill season are the grilled chicken with tiger shrimp and long grain rice, beef fillet with grilled zucchini and grilled potatoes in their own jackets and pork chops on the bone with an assortment of grilled vegetables. The grilled dishes range in price from 7 euros to 12 euros.

There are two other dining options when at Charlestons. If the weather does not hold, then head for a comfortable dining experience indoors. All the tables are nicely dressed with tablecloths and wine glasses set on the tables. The interior is hard to put a finger on though. You see the use of wood in the design, from the long wooden beamed floors to the waist high paneling along the walls. This is all offset with touches of artwork that Elmars has picked up throughout his travels.

The other choice for dining is located on the lower level of the terrace. Here you will also

find an operating grill, but this is for Elmar’s other venture into Mexican cooking called El Charlitos. This place exudes a more relaxed “mañana” atmosphere. Either way you are sure to enjoy your time at this culinary hideaway.

On the edge of Old Town, you will find the upmarket Italian restaurant Monterosso. Since 1913, a restaurant has always inhabited this real estate, and Monterosso continues the tradition.

Large arched windows that look out onto the cobblestone streets make for an ideal lunch or dinner setting. Once inside, you will quickly notice the fine woodwork of the bar area, which has not been changed since its inception. The dark wood and intricate detailing makes for a worthwhile visit just on this point. The other original touches to the interior are the hanging lamps and the wooden paneling.

The food here is a real treat. Once seated and your order taken, the waiter will prepare for you a dish with oil, balsamic vinegar and freshly ground pepper, along with the accompanying thin Italian pizza bread called focaccia.

It’s recommended to go through and sample the complete listing. Start with the insalate and antipasto salads, ranging in price from 6 euros to the 11 euros tiger shrimp salad, sautéed in oil, garlic and lemon and served with cold roasted peppers. Other good starters are the lobster consommé with black pasta and Parmesan cheese. If you are entertaining as a group, look for the Caviar Card. There is red, sturgeon, and Beluga when available, accompanied with a plethora of tasty condiments. Now that your stomach has a foundation, you need to start thinking about your main dish. One of the standout dishes is the black pasta tossed in a seafood ragout, which includes baby oc-

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Dining feature

topus, lobster, tiger shrimp, chunks of salmon and clams on the shell, for 15 euros. There are many selections to choose from and you will be tempted to try them all, so definitely a return visit will be in order.

When it comes to their dessert selection go straight to the tiramisu, highly recommended by locals. The wine list is extensive and the silver wine buckets at each table are screaming to be filled with the drink of the gods. For more private events you can reserve the banquet room that is also finely decorated.

Gutenbergs No review of terrace dining would be complete without mentioning Gutenbergs’ terrace.

Situated on the fifth floor of the hotel of the same name, just off of Dome Square in the Old Town, the terrace restaurant already has a well-established reputation along with the indoor restaurant, on the ground level. This standard of quality has only moved higher, out onto the rooftop.

There are so many reasons to head up there, whether it’s for dinner, lunch or a nightcap to watch the sun set, as you will be enthralled with the view. First off, you get to see a sight that is not accessible from ground level.

Riga’s rooftops tell a historic tale with their numerous wind vanes and church spires. You might even catch a glimpse of one of Riga’s chimney cleaners, practicing his trade.

To one side of the terrace is Dome Square and the unmistakable facade of Dome Church, and to the other side towards the Daugava River you might catch the sight of a tourist boat ferrying its passengers up and down the river. Further on over the river you can see the outskirts of Riga as fading away over the horizon.

If you come around lunchtime to the terrace, then have a few light sandwiches, such as the roast beef with fried paprika and sweet chili sauce, or the Latvian smoked eel sandwich with spices and Philadelphia cheese.

If you come with friends and want a nibble, get the grilled tiger shrimps with Tandoori sauce; they also have a selection of smoked meats, fish, cheeses and garlic toast for beer 18

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snacks, and for wine treats they offer a platter of pears poached in red wine served with blue cheese, California rolls, Parma ham and a melon salad.

If you’re looking for something more filling, they offer sea trout steak in a white wine sauce, beef filet steak in a red wine sauce, and breast of Muscovy duck prepared in a classic French style, all grilled for you on the terrace and served fresh.

Gutenbergs is an ideal place to take that someone special, and what better way to spend that time than by enjoying that moment savoring a homemade Creme Brule with white chocolate served hot with ice cream and topped with vanilla sauce, as you gaze out upon Riga’s panorama.

Kalku Varti Located right in the heart of the Old Town this place is often overlooked. Not that it is hard to find, but that the terrace many long time residents of Riga do not even know about.

Having a splendid view of Livu laukums (Livu square), you get a bird’s eye view of all the grandeur.

First find the entrance past the crowded beer garden, once indoors head up the spiral staircase.

Nicely accommodated the tables are well dressed for any occasion. There is a restaurant on the lower floor as well but outdoors is the place to be. On the menu you will find such niceties as soy red wine marinated beef tournedos, or the Grand Marnier marinated roasted duck. Most dishes range in price around 8 to 13 euros.

The much pricier grilled seafood for two includes tiger shrimp, salmon, green mussels, squid, and sea scallops.

The grill-chef Arturs Freibergs says he couldn’t have a better job in the summer, commenting with a smile, “I’m doing what I love today, and I get to work outside and not in a hot kitchen.”

Piramida – Reimersa 1, H-1, Tel: 732 4433, Fax: 732 2600 Charlestons – Blaumaòa 38/40, C-2, Tel: 777 0573 Monterosso – Vaïòu 9, G-2, Tel: 67507170 Gutenbergs – Doma laukums 1, F-2, Tel: 781 4090 Kaïíu vârti – Kaïíu 11a, G-2, Tel. 722 4576

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Sadala

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Culture feature

In September 2005 the Latvian National Art Museum celebrated its 100-year anniversary with all of the pomp and circumstance that one could expect of such an event. What began as the Riga City Art Museum has now outgrown itself and come to occupy two buildings, and it also eagerly awaits the completion of a third one to house parts of its collection.

By Amy Bryzgel It wasn’t until the late 19th century that there even was the concept of a Latvian national art, let alone the need for a museum in which to house it. The Latvian National Awakening, around the turn of the previous century, brought with it the recognition and appreciation for Latvian art and culture as a basis for the recognition as Latvia as a separate and independent state. The Riga City Museum of Art was founded in the wake of the developments of the National Awakening, and planning for the museum had begun as early as 1897. The Riga City Council did not plan very carefully, however, nor did they seem to have any optimism about the growth of Latvian art, because when the museum opened in September 1905, it was the perfect size for the city’s collection, but had absolutely no room for anything more – either in the exhibition space or in storage. In fact, the museum designers did not make room for warehouses to store works of art that it collected henceforth.

That this was a problem became apparent relatively quickly, especially with the arrival of the museum’s second director, Vilhelms Purvitis, 20

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who, aside from being an artist in his own right, was also an avid collector. Purvitis was appointed director of the City Museum of Art in 1919 (until that point the designer of the building, Wilhelm Neumann, had acted as director), just as the Red Army was marching into Riga. Until the Bolsheviks were finally driven out of Riga, the City Museum of Art went under the name of the Soviet Latvian Museum of Art. After that, the city resumed responsibility for the museum until the Soviet Occupation of 1939, when Purvitis was finally sacked as museum director.

According to Mara Lace, the museum’s current director, the time when the museum was under Purvitis’ directorship was one of its most active periods ever. From the start, he was concerned not only about purchases and acquisitions, but also about the maintenance and care of the works of art, which involved keeping the building in order to preserve and protect the actual pieces of art themselves. He wrote countless letters to the Riga City Council, demanding improvements, and little by little, improvements were made.

Perhaps Purvitis’ greatest legacy is the expansion of the museum’s collection of Latvian art.

When he signed on as director, there were only ten Latvian works of art in the entire collection!

Purvitis set out to remedy that oversight by purchasing works of art by the most modern and progressive artists working in Latvia at that time. Some of his purchases were considered scandalous back then, but in retrospect, we see that these early acquisitions now form the cornerstone of the museum’s collection of Latvian modern art.

During the Soviet period the museum underwent several name changes, for example being called the State Museum of Latvian and Russian Art from 1945-1964, and then the State Art Museum of the Latvian SSR, from 1964-1989.

After 1989 it once again became the State Museum of Art and it was only recently, in 2005, that the name was once again changed to the Latvian National Museum of Art. During the Soviet period the museum remained active but the collection was only allowed to grow according to official state policies regarding culture. This meant that acquisitions were limited to works that fit the guidelines of the rubric of Socialist Realism, and that were produced by official artists, who were members of the Artist’s Union. As a result, for the most part experimental works of art that were created in the 1970s and 80s, including photo-documentation of performances, kinetic art, installation art, and conceptual art, were not part of the museum’s collection at all. Purchase of these works, which are also a crucial part of the history of Latvian art, began only in the 1990s, after independence was restored.

Nowadays the museum building remains greatly unchanged since Purvitis’ day. It is still the impressive, massive art nouveau building that German architect Wilhelm Neumann designed over 100 years ago. Purvitis’ own decorative wall paintings, which he did for the museum from 1906-1908, are still in place in the lunettes of the second floor vestibule. The second floor also has a display of a number of his paintings, which are without a doubt a significant part of the history of Latvian art. According to Latvian art historian Eduards Klavins, Purvitis’ work is integral to the concept of the Latvian national identity. Klavins also feels that it was Purvitis who created the overall image of Latvian landscape painting, as many of his images can be recognized when traveling across the country. For a people so closely connected with their land, Purvitis was the one who gave the significance of that land a physical expression, on canvas.

The National Museum also still has the same problems with space that it had at its inception. While it still houses the majority of the national collection of Latvian art, another building has been used to exhibit parts of its collection since 1989. The Arsenals Exhibition Hall, located just down the street from the main museum buildings, houses the museum’s post-War art collection, as well as building its own collection of Latvian artists living abroad. Still, even these two buildings are not enough to handle the wealth of Latvian art that has been produced throughout the last century. Plans are currently underway to build a Contemporary

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Culture feature Art Museum on Andrejsala; in the meantime Latvia remains one of the only European nations to be without a place to house its contemporary art.

Other things have changed a lot since Purvitis’ days. During his time admission was free, and the museum was only open ten months out of the year; it was closed in July and August to allow its staff summer holidays. Still, one can’t complain, since the ticket prices nowadays are far from prohibitive – entrance to the permanent collections is only 1.4 euros for adults and 0.70 euros for children, students and pensioners. Entrance to special exhibitions are 2.10 euros and 1 euro, respectively. The White Hall on the ground floor offers changing exhibitions, and the permanent display traces Baltic art from the mid-18th to the mid-19th century, as well as Russian art from the late 18th – late 19th century. The second floor contains the permanent collection of Latvian art from the end of the 19th century until the middle of the 20th century.

Part of the display of Russian art is in a room dedicated to the work by the Russian artist Nikolai Roerich. This is a unique part of the LNMM collection, as it contains a large number of works by the artist. Roerich was a philosopher and mystic, as well as an artist, and his paintings reflect the artist’s quest for spirituality. In the 1930s, the Roerich Society of Latvia, a group dedicated to his ideas and principles, proposed starting an art museum; the artist himself sent several of his paintings directly from India to help with the establishment of that museum. When the Soviet regime disbanded the Roerich Society in 1940, the paintings became part of the City Art Museum, and they have remained in that collection to this day.

In conjunction with the 100-year anniversary, the National Museum published a huge volume about the history of the museum and the progression of Latvian art since its opening.

Simply entitled The State Art Museum (Valsts Makslas muzejs, Jumava 2005) (as it was called at the time), the book is an invaluable resource for those interested in Latvian art. It also contains over 300 full-colour glossy images of the significant works of art from the museum’s collection, many of which had previously never been available in print.

A visit to the Latvian National Museum of Art is a must for any visitor, not only to see the works of art on display, but also to see the building, which is a work of art in itself, and a vital part of both the history of Latvia and the city of Riga as well.

The Latvian National Museum of Art K. Valdemara iela 10a and The Exhibition Hall Arsenals Tornu iela 1 (Old Town) Website: www.lnmm.lv Open Wed.-Mon. 11:00-17:00; Thurs. 11:00-19:00; closed Tues.

The White Hall on the ground floor offers changing exhibitions, and the permanent display traces Baltic art from the mid-18th to the mid-19th century, as well as Russian art from the late 18th – late 19th century.

The second floor contains the permanent collection of Latvian art from the end of the 19th century until the middle of the 20th century.

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Entertainment

By Kurt SVEILIS

Extreme Sigulda!

Take a walk on the wild side with our extreme guide to summer fun while you are in Latvia.

Whether it is jumping out of a plane or taking a balloon ride over Sigulda, we are sure that you will have a memorable and exhilarating time.

Sky Diving from the Ground up

It all started with a bang at the recent grand opening of the new free-flight simulator when the pyrotechnic’s mini-van exploded and burst into flames. The van was lost, but the vertical wind tunnel was a hit.

If you want to fly like a bird, but don’t want to jump out of a plane, then this exhilarating experience is the next best thing, and at points better. Used for years so that military and acrobatic skydivers can practice their skills without wasting costly fuel and flight time, this experience is now available to the general public.

The Aerodium is the first of its kind in Eastern Europe and the newest in the whole world.

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Most anyone can fly; you need to weigh between 30 kg and 100 kg, and you have to be shorter than 2 m. You also have to be in good physical condition and not experiencing any serious medical problems.

After a short preparation program you are provided with all the necessary equipment (special apparel, goggles, helmet, gloves, etc.) and go to the wind tunnel where an air stream takes you up at a speed of 180 - 200 km/h. If necessary, the instructor will provide support in the beginning of your flight.

As far as safety goes they say you are at the greatest risk in the first 5 minutes you spend as a student learning to fly. As you are learning to fly, your brain is busy consuming the

new information and therefore places you at an “awareness level” that’s below average.

You have spent your entire life walking and being oriented vertically, and flying is done in a horizontal orientation and will take your brain a few minutes to comprehend. After a few minutes, your brain begins to settle down and process the flying just as it does anything else. Once you can understand what you are doing, and have learned the basic skills required, your risk of injury drops exponentially. At this point in time you are in control of your body, you are able to begin performing maneuvers. Each time you learn a new maneuver your risk increases slightly and then decreases again with proficiency.

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Entertainment Some skydivers consider the wind tunnel a more difficult way of flying. There are no space limitations in skydiving, while in the wind tunnel you have a space that is 4m wide.

Costs are another thing to consider. Two minutes of flying time costs 55 euros.

The sport is quite addicting, so once you have flown you will want to do it more.

To book a time call Ivars Beitans of Aerodium and he will set you straight with directions on how to get there; and make sure you have a safe and pleasant flight.

Meþakaíis Forest Cat

Not afraid of heights? Like to swing from trees, or maybe you have been thinking of getting over your fears? Well, now is your chance. The newly opened Meþakaíis nature park provides those physically inclined the opportunity to test one’s balance high above the ground.

This play park provides a wide range of different level climbs and obstacles for children and for adults. All climbs are supervised by local staff, and safety equipment is provided, but just in case something happens, they ask that you sign a contract so that they are not implicated in your injury….or worse.

One of the excursions is a forty-meter cable ride from tree-to-tree that will leave you wondering where you left your change. Other jaunts include walking the narrow wooden bridge while holding on to the side cable for balance, think Raiders of the Lost Ark, and other obstacle courses are available. Of

course you should have a safety line at all times. Prices vary due to age and which excursions you would like to take part in. A full day adult pass for the whole park is 13 euros, and for students aged 16-18, 10 euros.

To get there head to the town of Sigulda, about an hour’s drive outside of Riga. Once you see the sign that says Sigulda, make your first left and follow the signs to the parking lot.

There is a café available if interested in a bite to eat; we suggest you wait till after.

Latvian Air Club Ltd.

It’s always refreshing to get a different perspective on things, and looking down from way above is a fun way to do this.

Latvian Air Club will get you high in a variety of interesting ways. They offer joy flights from an airfield near Sigulda for panoramic spins over the Gauja River Valley. The cost is 10 euros for adults and 8 euros for kids for an 8-minute flight that covers a 20 km loop. Your

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Entertainment

aircraft will be a special Polish-made 3-seater that can access remote airstrips, so it is also possible to hire it if you want to see special events elsewhere, from the top. Another activity, perhaps for the more adrenaline-deprived, is parachute jumping at Cesis airfield.

The cost is 21 euros per jump, including training and insurance. They can also hook you up with hot air balloon rides.

Another soaring service offered by the club is aerial photography, so if your company needs a birds-eye photograph for an ad, this is the place to come. Gift vouchers are available for all of these activities - what better way to elevate the mood of your friends and family?

Down hill tobogganing

Sit down in a toboggan with small rubber wheels and drive along a track, so that your hair stands on end. If you’re going too fast,

brake a little, if not, then smile!

They have the longest rodeling circuit in the Baltics - 400m long and it has seven turns.

Safe and exciting not only for your kids, but also for you - mums, dads and grandparents.

The “Râmkalni” leisure park is in a beautiful location by the shore of the Gauja river by the Murjâòu bridge. Take the Vidzeme Highway to “Sēnîte” and then head towards Valmiera.

Drive for less than a kilometer and there we are! On your right just before the bridge over the Gauja river.

Hot-air balloon flights

Preparation of the balloon for the flight takes an hour, with a similar time after landing to pack the balloon away and then return to the launch site in the retrieve vehicle, so you should allow 3-4 hours for the whole experience. During the flight the balloon will cover anything from

2 to 20 kilometres, depending on the strength of the wind on the day. The direction is determined by the wind, and that is one of the many magical qualities of ballooning. Flight duration is usually an hour, weather and daylight permitting. You can assist in the preparation of the balloon for the flight and the deflation after, if you wish to do so.

The balloon travels at heights of up to 1,000 meters. You may fly over villages, towns and countryside and even see wildlife, particularly on morning flights. You can take advantage of the excellent vantage point that the supremely steady balloon basket provides for aerial photography. Balloons are fitted with “rotation vents” which allow the pilot to occasionally rotate the balloon to provide you with a truly panoramic view as you float through the air.

You will lift off and drift freely with the wind over the countryside, so bring plenty of film to capture the panorama of the world beneath you. Balloons can be used to provide an added “lift” to almost any outdoor event, and they can organise balloon flights for groups from your choice of venue. They also arrange balloons for advertising.

Reservations for balloon rides should be made at least two days before the scheduled flight day.

Morning and evening flights are always available. Afternoon flights are available during the autumn and winter months. Three-person minimum are required.

For champagne flights, passengers celebrate with the traditional champagne toast and also receive First Flight Certificate.

Aerodium - Riga – Sigulda highway, Tel: 910 6062 Meþakaíis - Sigulda, Senèu 1, Tel: 797 1624 Latvian Air Club - Elizabetes 17/1, Tel: 968 9636 Râmkalni – see text, Tel: 797 7277 Ballooning / Altius travelers club Tel: 761 1614

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Guided TOUR

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Castles

by Katja STRELCOVA

Manor of speaking

Fancy owning your own manor and being the lord of your own B & B? Well, Latvia has an abundance of them, from the brittle cheap to the stately expensive. Even if you don’t decide to invest in a new property and open the next big adventure there are still plenty of manors that you can enjoy for a country weekend, special celebration or a business event. If you are traveling around the Vidzeme region of Latvia, we have highlighted some of the manors well worth visiting and spending the night in.

Mârcienas manor What makes Mārciena so special is its real country house atmosphere. Here you can see the whole farm: a landlord’s house, farmer stables, blacksmith’s cottage and even a small country zoo. But don’t be fooled thinking Mārciena hasn’t progressed since those times. You should pay a visit to their modern SPA house with its two different temperature swimming pools, 4 baths, fitness equipment, classical, eastern and hot stone massage.

Just 14 km from the slopes of Gaiziņkalns; the manor of Mārciena is a perfect place for skiers in winter. In summer you can enjoy playing golf on the premises of the manor.

Not to mention that Mārciena is kidsfriendly, offering many sporting and playing facilities for the smaller ones, so you

can even leave them under the supervision of professional babysitters, while exploring the vicinity.

Mārciena, Madona pag., www.marciena.com Tel: 480 7300

Jumurdas manor One of the most eco-friendly Latvian country manors will give you just the right relaxation for the body and soul. In the daytime you can take part in various sporting activities, horse riding, boating, or take a walk to the nearby manor houses, water tower, or the deer garden of Viesakas for some wildlife watching. While in the evening, after taking a steamy sauna, you can relax on one of the terraces with a breathtaking view of the river, sipping aromatic herbal tea and listening to the symphony of nature sounds.

Jumurdas pagasts, Madonas rajons, www.jumurda.lv Tel: 487 1791; 866 5705

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Castles

Igates palace At first glance you can’t understand where this fussy twittering comes from but the castle, built in 1880 by the Von Pistolkor’s family, was chosen by a great flock of swallows as their nesting ground. The palace is located in a traditional Latvian landscape of rolling meadows and stately forests, and is surrounded by a tranquil mirror-surface lake. Here you can choose either staying in the palace hotel or in the guesthouse, both of which are well suited.

For lunch or dinner we advise the Mill Tavern with a wonderful view of the Igate palace and old windmill, which is still grinding flour to this day. Guests of the Mill bar have an excellent choice of Latvian traditional meals as well as international cuisine.

Vidrižu pag., Limbažu raj., www.igatespils.lv Tel. 406 2432

Dikïu palace One of the most splendid Latvian manors is the neo-baroque manor of Dikli. Dikli has a very important place in Latvian culture and history, since this is the place where Latvian theatre traditions started and the first Latvian Song Festival took place.

The oldest facts date back to the beginning of the 15th century, when the manor belonged to the family of Von der Pahlens.

The manor went through the hands of

many high-born owners, being sold for old Latvian coinage of marks, thalers, and roubles. The present-day Dikli palace, which is now housing a four-star hotel with rich recreation facilities, was built in 1896.

There is a magnificent collection of 20 ancient fireplaces and kilns in the palace.

Near Dikli you can go hunting, fishing, horse riding, boating, cycling or just walking in the picturesque surroundings. After

an adventurous hunt, relax in the Dikli Hotel restaurant where there is always something new and extraordinary to try from seasonal treats.

“Dikļu pils” - Dikļu pagasts, Valmieras rajons, www.diklupils.lv Tel: 420 7480

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Castles

Eufrosine This recently built four-star hotel complex is named in favor of a legendary transatlantic ship Eufrosine, built in Latvia in 1902.

The navy theme is implied in the interior of the complex and looks natural in a pine tree landscape. The hotel is strategically located near a motorway that leads to the

coastline of Vidzeme and Ainazhi, the cradle of Latvian shipping and navigation. A stylish restaurant with a splendid Mediterranean cuisine menu are the trump card of the hotel. When dining in Eufrosine check out such chef’s favorites of roe meat soup with forest mushrooms, minced fresh fish

trio with aragula salad or grilled, ray wing with caper berries sauce. Ādaži, Rīgas dist. www.eufrosine.lv Tel: 738 7979

Bîriòu palace Would you like to feel like a true landlord living in a palace with its own two lakes, four perfectly groomed parks and a horse stable with finely crafted carriages to give you a slow trip in the lazy afternoon? Welcome to the pearl of Vidzeme manors - Birinu palace. Built in 1860, Birini palace is known for the merger of the Neo-Gothic and half-arch architectural styles, ornate woodcarvings, fretted balconies and oak staircases, as well as a large park. The history of the castle is a complicated but very interesting one, full of intrigue, love stories and myths from the original inhabitants, the Von Pistolkors. The palace beckons you to stay in the stylish three-star Gardener’s House hotel with water relaxation facilities.

Bīriņi, Limbaži distr. www.birinupils.lv, Tel: 406 6316

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Castles

Lauteres manor Lauteres baronial estate, with a private lake filled with trout, carp, and pike, will be a pleasure for those of you who love fishing or hunting in the surrounding forests. After a lucky hunt, you can have the chef prepare your catch; but if you come up empty you won’t go hungry. There are traditionally Latvian and Russian cuisine dishes on the menu. Summer facilities include boating and swimming, while in winter there are 9 skiing tracks in the 10 km vicinity.

Madonas raj., Aronas pag., Lautere, www.lautere.lv Tel: 924 2537

Medzâbaki Medzâbaki is the biggest corner-jointed hotel in Baltics and Scandinavia, which is situated on the shore of the Lake Lilaste, just 35 km form Riga on the Riga-Tallin highway, less than kilometer from the Riga Gulf. In light summer evenings you can take a walk and enjoy beautiful sea views and white sand. Although Medzâbaki might not really qualify as a manor, it will definitely please anyone searching for hearty home food and cozy Latvian atmosphere.

With an ideal combination of the ancient and modern, the hotel is suitable both for leisure and business, featuring rustic hotel rooms, restaurant with an open-air terrace, fitness center, conference room, sauna with a pool and a playground for children.

Medzâbaki-2, Lilaste, Carnikavas pag., www.medzabaki.lv Tel: 714 7070

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Riga’s center & old town 11. Novembra krastmala B-3; E-2...F,G-4 13. janvāra iela B,C-3; H-4 Abrenes iela C-3 Ādmiņu iela D-3 Akadēmijas laukums C-3 Akas iela C-2 Aklā iela E-2 Akmeņu iela B-3,4 Alauksta iela D-2 Alberta iela B-2 Alberta laukums H-4 Aldaru iela F-2 Aleksandra Čaka iela C-2,3…D-2 Aleksandra Grīna bulvāris A-3 Aleksandra Puškina iela, see Puškina iela Alfrēda Kalniņa iela C-3 Alksnāja iela G,H-4

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Alojas iela C-1 Alunāna iela, see Jura Alunāna iela Amatu iela G-2 Andreja Pumpura iela B-2 Anglikāņu iela E-2 Antonijas iela B-2 Arhitektu iela H-2 Aristida Briāna iela C-1,2 Arsenāla iela F-2 Artilērijas iela D-2 Asara iela, see Jāņa Asara iela Aspāzijas bulvāris B-3; H-2...

H-3 Ata Kronvalda bulvāris, see Kronvalda bulvāris Atgriežu iela F-2 Audēju iela B-3; H-3 Augšiela D-2 Augusta Deglava iela D-2 Ausekļa iela B-2 Avotu iela C-3…D-2 Āzenes iela A-3 Balasta dambis A-1…A-3

Baložu iela A-3 Balvu iela D-4 Bāriņu iela A-4 Barona iela, see Krišjāņa Barona iela Basteja bulvāris B-2,3; F-1...

G-2 Baznīcas iela C-2 Bezdelīgu iela A-3 Bieķensalas iela B-4 Birznieka-Upīša iela, see Ernesta Birznieka-Upīša iela Bīskapa gāte E-2...F-3 Blaumaņa iela C-2 Briāna iela, see Aristida Briāna iela Brieža iela, see Pulkveža Brieža iela Brīvības bulvāris H-1...H-2 Brīvības iela C-2…D-1 Brīvzemnieka iela, see Friča Brīvzemnieka iela Bruņinieku iela C-2…D-3 Buru iela B-4

Centrāltirgus iela B-3; H-4 Cēsu iela D-1 Citadeles iela B-2; E-1 Čaka iela, see Aleksandra Čaka iela Dainas iela C,D-2 Daugavas gāte E-2 Daugavgrīvas iela A-1…A-3 Daugavpils iela D-3 Deglava iela, see Augusta Deglava iela Doma laukums B-3; F-2 Dzirnavu iela B-2…C-3 Eduarda Smiļģa iela A3…A-4 Eksporta iela B-1…B-2; E-1 Elijas iela C-3 Elizabetes iela B-2…C-3 Emiļa Melngaiļa iela B,C-2 Ērgļu iela D-1,2…D-2 Ernesta Birznieka-Upīša iela C-3 Ernestīnes iela A-3 Ēveles iela C-1

Friča Brīvzemnieka iela A-4 Gaiziņa iela C-3 Ganību dambis B-1 Ganu iela B-2 Garlība Merķeļa iela, see Merķeļa iela Gleznotāju iela G-3...H-2 Gogoļa iela C-3 Grebenščikova iela C,D-4 Grēcinieku iela B-3; F-4...G-3 Grīna bulvāris, see Aleksandra Grīna bulvāris Grostonas iela C-1 Ģertrūdes iela C-2…C,D-3 Hanzas iela B-2…C-2 Herdera laukums F-3 Hospitāļu iela C-1 Ieriķu iela D-1 Indrānu iela D-1 Inženieru iela H-2 Ivana Turgeņeva iela, see Turgeņeva iela Jāņa Asara iela D-2 Jāņa iela G-3

Jāņa sēta G-3 Jauniela F-3 Jēkaba iela B-2,3; F-1...F-2 Jēkaba laukums F-1 Jēkabpils iela C-3 Jelgavas iela A,B-4…B-4 Jersikas iela D-3,4 Jeruzalemes iela B-2 Jēzusbaznīcas iela C-3 Johana Gotfrīda Herdera laukums, see Herdera laukums Jura Alunāna iela B-2 Kalēju iela B-3; G-3...G-4 Kalna iela D-3 Kalnciema iela A-3 Kalniņa iela, see Alfrēda Kalniņa iela Kalpaka bulvāris, see Oskara Kalpaka bulvāris Kalupes iela C,D-3 Kaļķu iela B-3; F-3...G-2 Katoļu iela C-3 Katrīnas dambis B-1 Katrīnas iela B-1

Klijānu iela D-1 Klostera iela F-2 Klusā iela D-1 Kojusalas iela D-4 Krāmu iela F-3 Krāslavas iela C-3 Krāsotāju iela D-2 Krasta iela B-3…D-4 Krišjāņa Barona iela B,C3…D-1; H-3 Krišjāņa Valdemāra iela A3…C-1; E-1...F,G-1 Kronvalda bulvāris B-2; F-1 Kuģu iela B-3 Kungu iela B-3; G-3...G-4 Kurbada iela C-3 Ķēniņu iela G-2 Ķīpsalas iela A-2 Laboratorijas iela D-2 Lāčplēša iela C-2…C-3 Laipu iela G-3 Lapu iela A-4 Latviešu strēlnieku laukums F-3,4

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Lauku iela D-2 Lauvas iela D-3 Lazdonas iela C,D-3 Lenču iela B-2 Lielgabalu iela C-2 Lienes iela D-2…D-3 Liepājas iela A-4 Līksnas iela D-3 Līvu laukums G-2 Lomonosova iela D-4 Ludzas iela D-3 Lugažu iela B-1 Maisa iela F-3 Maiznīcas iela C-2 Mālpils iela C-1 Marijas iela C-3 Mārstaļu iela G-3,4...G-4 Martas iela C-2 Mārupes iela A-4 Maskavas iela B,C-3…D-4 Matīsa iela C-2…D-3 Matrožu iela A-2 Mazā Jaunavu iela G-3 Mazā Jauniela F-3

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Mazā Kalna iela D-3 Mazā Krasta iela C-3…D-4 Mazā Miesnieku iela F-2 Mazā Monētu iela G-3 Mazā Muzeja iela F-2 Mazā Nometņu iela A-4 Mazā Peitavas iela G,H-4 Mazā Pils iela F-2 Mazā Skolas iela F-3 Mazā Smilšu iela G-2 Mazā Trokšņu iela F-2 Mazā Vaļņu iela H-3 Mednieku iela B-2 Meistaru iela G-2 Melngaiļa iela, see Emiļa Melngaiļa iela Mēness iela C,D-1 Merķeļa iela C-3; H-1 Miera iela C-1,2…D-1 Miesnieku iela E,F-2 Mihaila Lomonosova iela, see Lomonosova iela Miķeļa iela B-2 Minsterejas iela G-4

Mucenieku iela G,H-3 Muitas iela B-2; E-1...E,F-1 Mūku iela F-2 Mūkusalas iela B-4 Mūrnieku iela D-2 Nēģu iela B-3 Nikolaja Gogoļa iela, see Gogoļa iela Noliktavas iela E,F-1...F-1 Nometņu iela A-3 Ogļu iela A-2 Ojāra Vācieša iela A-4 Oskara Kalpaka bulvāris B-2; H-1 Palasta iela F-3 Palīdzības iela C-1,2 Pasta iela G-4 Peitavas iela G-4 Peldu iela G-3...G-4 Pērnavas iela D-2…D-3 Pērses iela C-2,3 Pēterbaznīcas iela G-3 Pētersalas iela B-1 Pils iela B-3; F-2

Pils laukums E-1 Pļavas iela D-2,3 Poļu gāte E-2 Prāgas iela B-3…C-3; H-4 Pulkveža Brieža iela B-1,2 Pumpura iela, see Andreja Pumpura iela Pūpolu iela B,C-3 Puškina iela C-3 Radio iela B,C-3; H-3 Raiņa bulvāris B-2,3; G-1...H-2 Raņķa dambis A-3 Rātslaukums B-3; F,G-3 Reimersa iela G,H-1 Republikas laukums E-1 Rīdzenes iela H-3...H-3,4 Riepnieku iela C-3 Rietumu iela A-2,3 Riharda Vāgnera iela G,H-3 Rozena iela F-3 Rūdolfa Blaumaņa iela, see Blaumaņa iela Rūpniecības iela B-1…B-2 Sadovņikova iela C-3

Sakaru iela B-2 Satekles iela C-3 Senču iela D-1 Skanstes iela B-2…C-1 Skārņu iela G-3 Skolas iela C-2 Slokas iela A-3 Smilšu iela B-3; F,G-2 Smiļģa iela, see Eduarda Smiļģa iela Sparģeļu iela D-2 Spīķeru iela C-3 Sporta iela C-2 Stabu iela C-2…D-3 Stacijas laukums C-3 Stadiona iela D-2 Staraja Rusas iela A,B-3 Strēlnieku iela B-2 Strēlnieku laukums, see Latviešu strēlnieku laukums Svaru iela F,G-3 Šarlotes iela C-2 Šķūņu iela F,G-2,3 Tallinas iela C-1,2…D-2

Talsu iela A-4 Teātra iela H-3 Tērbatas iela C-2…C,D-2; H-1 Terēzes iela D-2 Timoteja iela C-3 Tirgoņu iela F-3 Toma iela D-4 Tomsona iela C-1 Torņa iela B-2; F-1...G-2 Torņakalna iela A-4 Trijādības iela A-3 Trokšņu iela F-2 Turgeņeva iela C-3 Ūdensvada iela F-4 Upes iela C,D-1 Uzvaras bulvāris A,B-3…A-4 Vācieša iela, see Ojāra Vācieša iela Vāgnera iela, see Riharda Vāgnera iela Vagonu iela D-3 Valdemāra iela, see Krišjāņa Valdemāra iela Valguma iela A-3…B-3

Valkas iela B-2 Valmieras iela D-3 Vaļņu iela B-3; G-2...H-3 Vārnu iela D-2 Vecpilsētas iela G-3...H-4 Veru iela B-2 Vesetas iela C-1…C-1,2 Vidus iela B-2 Vienības gatve A,B-4 Vietalvas iela D-3 Vīlandes iela B-2 Viļānu iela D-3 Vingrotāju iela B-2 Visvalža iela C-3 Zaķu iela D-2,3 Zaķusalas krastmala B,C4…C-4 Zaļā iela B-2 Zirgu iela F,G-2...G-2 Zirņu iela C-1 Zvaigžņu iela D-2 Zvejnieku iela A-2

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It is believed that humans first set foot in what is now called Latvia around 9000 BC. The Livs, or Livonians, a Finno-Ugric hunter-gatherer tribe, were the first ancestors of presentday Latvians.

c.1100

Seeking a trade route to the east, Germans gradually established a foothold on the strategically important site of what is now Riga.

1201

Bishop Albert arrived, built a fortress and founded the City of Riga.

1600- The Polish-Swedish war

After more than 30 years of war the Poles and Swedes divided Livonia.

1700

WWII

The Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact divided Europe into spheres of influence with the Germans taking western Europe and the Soviets the eastern countries, including Latvia.

Moscow forced the governments of the three Baltic States to sign treaties of "mutual assistance", allowing the stationing of Soviet troops on their soil. In June of 1940, Moscow declared that Latvia had not abided by the treaty and on the 17th sent 100,000 troops into the country. Karlis Ulmanis' government was replaced with a pro-Soviet Council. On July 21 the puppet parliament voted to have Latvia join the USSR. During the next year, land and businesses were confiscated. The night of June 14, 1941 brought a wave of mass deportations, as more than 14,000 people were sent to Siberia.

The first open public protest during the occupation took place on June 14 when the Helsinki-86 human rights activist group placed flowers at the Freedom Monument to commemorate the 1941 deportations.

1989

To protest the 50th anniversary of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, close to 2 million people formed a human chain along the 650km Baltic Way, stretching from Tallinn, through Latvia, to Vilnius.

1990

In response, pro-communist political forces launched an attack on the independence movement. With brutal force they attempted to overthrow the lawfully-elected Supreme Council. These goals were thwarted by organized non-violent mass resistance. On August 21 the Moscow coup failed and the Supreme Council immediately declared Latvia a sovereign state. By September 17, Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia were admitted into the UN.

In June of 1904 revolutionaries met secretly to found the Latvian Social Democratic Worker's Party, demanding improvements in working conditions, freedom from the constant constrictions of civil rights and an end to the Russification of the Latvian people.

1918

On February 15, 1922 Janis ÄŒakste was elected the first President of Latvia by the 1st Saeima. The worldwide economic crisis of the 1930's also hit Latvia hard. This created political and economic tension within Latvian society, and some radically inclined politicians felt that, under these circumstances, the constitutionally defined parliament was not sufficiently effective. A bloodless coup d'etat, led by Prime Minister Karlis Ulmanis, took place on May 15, 1934, followed by a period of relative growth and stability under his dictatorship.

1987

1991

20th century Revolution & Independence

Independence

Mikhail Gorbachev's policies of glasnost (openness) and perestroika (restructuring) prompted a third national revival.

On March 18, the LPF won 124 seats (62%) in the Supreme Council, which on May 4th adopted a declaration restoring independence to Latvia.

War began as the Russians gained control of eastern Livonia. Though the Swedes managed to push the invading forces back as far as Moscow, they were eventually defeated.

Russian rule here lasted until the First World War.

Latvia declared independence one week after German capitulation. The next two years were spent fighting off the remnants of the German forces, as well as Soviet troops claiming Latvia as a Soviet republic. On August 11, 1920 the Treaty of Riga was signed under which the Russians recognized Latvia's sovereignty.

1980's

1993

1941

Germany began its invasion in June and by July 10 had taken Latvia back under control.

Seen first as "liberators", the Nazis proved to be anything but, killing some 70,000 Jews and 2,000 Gypsies and forcibly conscripting close to 100,000 Latvians into their army. After three years of German rule, Soviet troops managed to regain control of the republic and restore communism.

1950's

The first free elections were held on June 6.

Guntis Ulmanis, grand-nephew of pre-war president Karlis Ulmanis, was elected president by the 5th Saeima.

2004

The admission into NATO is completed and Latvia joins the European Union as a full member on May 1st.

2005

US President George W. Bush visits Riga and in his historic speech challenges Russia to fully acknowledge the Soviet Union’s illegal seizure of the Baltic States.

On March 25, 1949, the Soviets deported close to 50,000 Latvians, many of whom perished in Siberia.

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Dining guide

Dining guide

With Riga's flourishing restaurant trade there are plenty of places to choose from, from a quick bite to eat to a more traditional sit-down dining experience, with most foreign cuisines having made their mark.

American T.G.I. Friday’s - This American chain restaurant offers the most popular American dishes made from the freshest of Latvian ingredients.

The waitresses are very polite, maybe even a little too polite if you want to be left alone.

Kaļķu iela 6, G-3, Tel: 722 9070, Open daily: 12:00-24:00.

Arabic Al Tohme – is a two-storey restaurant on the beach of Majori with a wonderful sea view.

The interior is enchanting simplicity, while the menu is traditional Lebanese cuisine. Pilsonu 2, Tel: 7755755, Open daily: 12.00 - last guest

Armenian Aragats - Caucasian kitchen offering Armenian and Georgian dishes. Shashlik, fish dishes and vegetarian meals are available. Try the strong sand-boiled coffee for authenticity. Service is available in German and English. Miera 15, C-1, Tel: 737 3445, Tue-Sun: 13:00-22:00, Mon: closed

Art CafËs Tea House Goija – lush Moroccan interior, meditating music, and a wide selection of Chinese, Moroccan, and Indian teas. Lie down on a bunch of pillows, enjoy your cup of tea and just relax. Strēlnieku 1a, B-2, Tel: 7333370, Mon-Thr: 11.00 – 02.00, Fri-Sat: 11.00 – last customer

Belgian Bon Vivant – is a place of glowing mahogany-stained solid oak, engraved bar stools, beveled mirrors, vintage beer posters and etched glass. The beer list gives an overview of the unique and wonderful portfolio of Belgian beers, and an opportunity to discover the beer paradise that is Belgium. Mārstaļu 8, G-3, Tel: 7226585, Mon-Thr: 11.00 – 01.00, Fri-Sat: 11.00 – last customer.

British

Dickens resttaurant - Enjoy your fishand-chips or the Sheperd’s pie with a pint of beer in quiet Dickens restaurant, which is an epitome of dining in a traditional English way.

Antique maritime and aeronautical elements, retro pictures and trophies make the interior

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of the place. Pēterbaznīcas iela 17, G-3, Tel. 7213087, Open daily: 12:00 - 24:00.

Chinese

Honkonga (Hong Kong) - When they say spicy, they really mean it, so be careful. You will also find standard Chinese dishes here. If you are new to Chinese cuisine, the polite waitresses will explain everything to you. The coziness of this place makes your meal even more pleasant. Valdemāra 61, B-2, Tel: 781 2292, Open daily: 12:00-22:00 Shangri-La - Located a bit outside of cental downtown, it’s worth the distance to eat here.

Owned and operated by the same owners as Hongkonga. Brīvības iela 326/328, Tel. 755 4547, Open daily:12.00-22.00 Soho – is a discreet and cozy little restaurant close to Art Nouveau district. Soho’s Beijingborn chef, Mateo, is serving up numerous tasty and bountiful dishes from his industrious, fiery wok. A whole array of seafood, pork, beef, lamb, sushi and vegetarian-based dishes are also on offer. Elizabetes 6, B-2, Tel. 7240250, Daily: 12.00 – 23.00

French Province BraSserie – This cozy wine bar is a piece of sunny French Province in the heart of Old Town. Here you can enjoy a glass of vintage wine with delicious fresh croissants, baguettes and cheeses. The wine list is just impressive. Kaļķu iela 2, G-2, Tel. 7222566, Daily: 8.00 – 23.00

Indian Indian Raja - Voted into the "Chaine des Rotisseurs" as one of the outstanding restaurants in Riga. Vecpilsētas 3, H-4, Tel: 7221617, Sun-Thr: 12:00-23:00, Fri-Sat: 12:00-24:00.

Irish Tim McShane's - Tim McShane's Irish pub offers a relaxing, student-oriented atmosphere.

Choose from a wide selection of Irish dishes, like lamb stew and steak in Guinness beer. You are sure to feel as if you are in the land of green clover. 24 beers on tap, yes, 24. See if you can try all of them in one night. We dare you, we

double dog dare you. Tirgoņu 10, F-3, Tel: 722 2438, Open daily: 11:00-01:00, Fri-Sat: 11:0004:00 De Lacy’s - Tired of fake Irish pubs? Then De Lacy's is probably the answer to your otherwise unlikely-to-be-fulfilled prayers. Šķūņu 4, C-3, Tel: 722 9045, Open daily: 11.00-02.00, Sat, Sun: 12:00-02:00

Italian Da Antonio – situated in the Domina Hotel, this Italian restaurant with shiny marble floors and very smart, well-trained staff set the tone for a formal eating experience. The menu offers some great delights for an intimate evening. Extensive wine list features dozens of wines coming from Umbria, Lazio and Piemonte regions.

Pulkveža Brieža iela 11, B-2, Tel: 7631790, Mon-Fri: 7.00 – 23.00, Sat-Sun: 8.00-23.00 Da Sergio - It’s clear that this place is Italian, even if you’ve never been to the land of tomatoes and meatballs. If you like mushrooms, try Pizza No.15 - fantastic! There are also other Italian dishes available, including seafood and pasta. Tērbatas 65 (entrance from Matīsa), C-2, Tel: 731 2777, Open daily: 11:00-23:00 Bella Italia Pizzeria & Ristorante – an up-scale Italian restaurant with a warm Mediterranean feel, owned by an Italian, the chef from Sicily. In the pizzeria you will get simpler, yet not less delectable Italian fare at reasonable prices. The pizza is prepared in the open-fire oven. Vāgnera 16 (entrance from Teātra street), G-3, Tel. 7223587, Open daily: 12:00 - 24:00 Paparazzi - The interior is slick, black and white. The only color you will be seeing is the brightness of the dishes coming from the Italian kitchen. The menu is not hard to navigate and has plenty of delectable dishes to choose from. Once the fresh bread is brought to your table, the waiter will bring the trolley of balsamic mixtures and oils for dipping your bread or putting onto your salad. Don’t be shy here, get crazy and try something new. All dishes are cooked by their Italian chef suprimo! Antonijas 12, C-2, Tel: 750 5710

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Dining guide Monterosso - Italian cuisine in a pleasantly elegant setting. The cappuccino bar is ideal for quick lunches. The menu has all your goodies like pastas, pizzas and meat and fish dishes.

The large thin crust pizzas are the best bargain at 8 - 10€. Vaļnu 9, G-2, Tel: 750 7170, Open: 12:00-24:00 Fellini – Upscale Italian kitchen. Each dish represents a distinctive part of Italian cuisine with a bit of flair thrown in for good measure. Get a booth for extra privacy, or just to let the others know you are in la Dolce Vita. Open: all week: 12:00-23:00 (Berga Bazars) Marijas 13, C-2, Tel: 728 4801 Tiramisu - At Tiramisu food and atmosphere is the star of the “show”. Excellent menu, everything from homemade pasta to delicious steaks. The extensive wine list is one of the most impressive in town, boasting more than 100 of the finest Italian wines. This is the place where stylish locals of intelligentsia meet. Ģertrūdes 32, C-2, Tel: 7312218, Mon-Fri: 12.00-23.00, Sat: 12.00-23.00, Sun: 12.00-22.00

Japanese VanILLe – this is one of the most elegant restaurants in coffee-and-creme (vanilla creme, must be) palette and with dim candlelight. Fusion-style menu unites European and Japanese cuisine, prepared by the high-skilled eastern chefs. Vanille is sure to please even the most demanding restaurant connoisseur. Vaļņu 26, H-3, Tel: 7221435, Open daily: 12.00 – 24.00 Sumo - Japanese dishes such as sushi, sashimi, tempura, yakitori. This place can get a little pricey if you start to mix and match dishes.

Kungu 8, G-4, Tel: 750 32 44, Open daily: 11:00-24:00 nobu – is a new up-scale sushi bar in Garden Palace hotel, offering sushi and other dishes of Eastern cuisine. Grēcinieku 28, G-3, Tel: 7359746, Mon-Fri: 12.00 - 24.00, Sat-Sun: 12.00 - 02.00

steak and potatoes with your choice of gravyjust like your grandmother used to make. Alus Ordenis is easily found next to the German Embassy and under the Black Cat bar. Raiņa bulvāris 15, H-2, Tel: 781 4190, Open daily: 12:00-24:00.

Alus sēta (Beer Garden) - Step back in time in this very popular Latvian theme self-service restaurant. We recommend the ribs and cabbage stew, or try the pork and potatoes. We promise you won't be hungry for the next few days! This place won't leave you thirsty either; try one of the many micro-brewed beers available on tap.

It used to have cheap beer, no more. Non-smoking tables are available. Tirgoņu 6, F-3, Tel: 722 2431, Open daily: 11:00-01:00 rozengrals - A true one of a kind place that must be seen to be believed. The theme here is the dark ages, and dark it is with hundreds of candles lighting the restaurant. All the hired help are nicely dressed to fit the part and the food is of the time as well, but the plumbing is surely modern with an authentic twist. Rozena 1, F-3, Tel: 722 0356, Open daily: 12:0024:00 Lido Atpūtas Centrs (Lido Festive Center) - Welcome to Meat World! This is a must for all visitors to Riga, and a paradise for kids. The largest timber corner-jointed building in Europe offers a giant buffet with Latvian meals, as well as different international and especially healthy dishes. It can host up to 1,000 visitors and very often it seems there are even more. There is also a beer cellar, where you can try their special homebrewed honey beer. After your meal, you can enjoy the exhibitions, the unique architecture and the rides, like traditional Latvian bungee jumping. Krasta 46, D-4, Tel: 750 4420, Beer cellar: 12:00 - 24:00, Bistro: 10:00 - 23:00, Express restaurant: 13:00-24:00

Staburags - Here you can see what Latvia really is about, with gigantic portions of ribs, pork, potatoes and beer in liter mugs, accompanied by merry folk music. The long dark corridors, massive wooden furniture and decorations from past times provide the necessary setting for a great meal. Enjoy your meal just like they did in good old days. An unforgettable experience! Čaka 55, C-2, Tel: 729 9787, Open daily: 12:00-24:00

MediterranEan Amphora – a spacious restaurant with three separate halls in crispy white, sea-blue and terracotta orange is located in the quiet Art Nouveau district in a cozy cellar on Elizabetes street. This high quality, yet relaxed restaurant, offers healthy traditional Greek dishes with a European twist as well as large wine list, mostly coming from the Land of the Gods. Elizabetes 10b, B-2, Tel: 7338191, Mon-Sat: 12.00-23.00

Pizza IL Patio - Though we couldn't find the patio, we did find pizzas baked in a wood-fire oven, delicious pastas and friendly service. This European-style chain of pizzerias also offers a plentiful all-you-can-eat salad bar for d5. Kaļķu 6, G-3, Tel: 722 0755, Open daily: 12:00-24:00 Paparazzi pizza – first things first, don’t confuse this Paparazzi with the Paparazzi restaurant located next door. Same owner, but different price levels and menus offered. This one serves fantastic crunchy pizzas made on the open fire. Antonijas 12, C-2, Tel: 750 5710, Open daily: 12:00-23:00. pomodoro - the owners have added a real Italian flavor to the place, especially regarding the menu and interior. Whilst enjoying the Italian music, you can try the authentic food including pizzas, salads, pastas and soups, with a selection of Italian wines and drinks in-

Samurajs - offers a mid-range Japanese dining experience, but the quality is definitely at the higher end. From a welcoming waitress’ bow (irasshaimase) at the entrance to an extensive menu the place spells authentic. Kaļķu 2, B-3, Tel: 7503142, Open daily: 12:00 - 24:00

Jewish Shalom – Genuine jewish cuisine. A.Briana 10, Tel: 7377373, Open daily: 12.00-22.00

Korean Soraksans - The food is cooked by Korean chefs making the dishes extra pleasing. Banquet room is available for private functions.

Miesnieku 12, F-2, Tel:722 9068, Open daily: 12:00-23:00 &

Latvian

Alus ordenis (Beer Medal) - Latvian style beer cellar with a wide selection of local beers on tap. The cozy atmosphere and the ceramic beer mugs are a beer drinkers dream. The food is country style with many hearty treats such as June

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Dining guide cluding herbal Grappa or Nastro Azurro beer.

Vecpilsētas 8a, G-3, Tel: 7211044, Mon-Thr: 11.30 - 24.00, Fri-Sun: 11.30 - 01.00

Russian Arbat – named after a famous Moscow promenade street, this restaurant offers traditional Russian cuisine and genuine hospitality.

R.Vāgnera 3, G-3, Tel: 7214057, Open daily: 12.00 – 24.00 Slavu Restorāns – this chain restaurant promises lavish grand scale Russian cuisine, so certainly try such specialties as home made pickles, marinades, confectionery, the Tsar’s fish soup, solyanka, okroshka, pelmeni, vareniki, sterlet, sturgeon, of course with a shot of crystal vodka. Blaumaņa 9, C-2, Tel: 7283974, Opena daily: 12.00 – 23.00

Seafood

SKONTO Zivju restorāns - When people think of a fish restaurant in Riga, they think of Skonto Zivju Restorāns. This upmarket restaurant serves a complete menu of submarine dishes. You can choose your lobster or trout straight from the aquarium. The food might be a little pricey, but it reflects the quality you receive. Vāgnera 4, G-3, Tel: 721 6713, Open daily: 12:00-24:00 Corallo – Leave it to an Italian to create such a wonderful seafood restaurant in the capital of the Baltics. The dishes are like sunshine on a plate no matter what the weather; oysters, tiger prawns, lobster and fresh fish are the norm here. Open: Thur-Sat: 18:00-23:00 (Berga Bazars) Marijas 13, C-2, Tel: 728 4048

last client, or Tērbatas 41/43, C-2, Tel: 727 2707, Open: 10:00 - 1:00, Sat, Sun 11:00-1:00; Grēcinieku 26, B-3, Tel: 7224151, Open daily: 11:00 - last customer, Sat-Sun: 12:00 - last customer.

13 Kresli – a steak house situated in the heart of the Old Town, right on the Dome Square. It offers 7 types of classic steak and several kinds of beer on draught. 1 Doma laukums, F-2, Tel: 721 36 96, Open daily: 11.00 - 01.00 steak house DOME - Located just off of Riga’s main Old Town square, Doma laukums, this is what could be considered one of Riga’s true international steak houses, offering juicy steaks and traditional European fare. Smilšu 2, F-2, Tel. 732 00 37, Open daily: 11.30 - 01.00

Swiss Alpenrose - The lovely decorated interior and exterior put you right in the mood for that Swiss experience (without the yodeling). The meat-filled hot apples, pickled veal, home baked breads and Swiss wines are to die for and we haven't even gotten to the many fondues on offer. The hills are indeed alive with the sound of music. Jauniela 16, F-3, Tel: 722 0402, Open daily: 12:00 23:00

Tex-Mex El Charlito's - When you’ve had all the potatoes and cabbage you can stomach and are craving something with a little more of a bite, its time to go south of the border. No, not Lithuania, but Mexico! El Charlito has all your Tex-Mex standards, served in a well-decorated atmosphere. Blaumaņa 38/40, C-2, Tel: 777 0572, Open daily: 11:00-24:00

Gastronome - is the name for the store of finest gourmet foods and delicacies from all over the world. Gastronome also features a seafood restaurant with open grill-kitchen and their own smokehouse. Its chefs offer delicate smoked fish, various seafood dishes and other splendid culinary meals. Reval hotel Latvija, C2, Tel: 7772356, Open daily: 11.00 – 23.00

La Salsa – the menu consists of European and hot and spicy Mexican favorites, such as burritos, chilies, and quesadillas. Latino music is the leading motive in this place, so come here and learn the steps. Pils 7, F-2, Tel. 722 40 07, Mon-Sat: 11.00 - last customer, Sun: 12.00 last guest

Scandinavian

UZBEK

Columbine - Though Columbine restaurant is located in a Swedish-owned hotel, the food could be called international. The surroundings are tastefully done to match the wonderful menu. Aspazijas bulv. 36/38 (in Hotel Metropole), H-3, Tel: 722 5411, Open daily: 11:00-23:00

Registan Art – traditional Uzbek restaurant with an original oriental ambiance and menu.

Don’t make haste, take your time to enjoy various eastern dishes and don’t leave without traditional sweets. Upes 8, C-1, Tel: 7377526, Open daily: 10.00 – 23.00

Spanish

Bergs - Stylishly located in the shopping bazaar of the same name this hotel restaurant serves great food by one of Latvia’s best young chefs. Elizabetes 83/85, C-2, Tel: 777 0957, Open daily: 12:00 - 24:00

El Primero - This Spanish restaurant with its minimal interior, heavy black oak chairs, candlelight and posters of bullfighters is a good place to enjoy some of your Spanish favorites.

Smilšu 6, F-2, Tel: 732 3664, Mon-Fri: 11:0023:00, Sat: 11:00-24:00, Sun: 12:00-23:00

Steakhouses

Steiku Haoss (Steak Chaos) - Some of the best steaks in town! This is also the only place that I have ever had large Idaho baked potatoes in Latvia. If you order the XXL steak you can share it with a friend. The interior is very western, with horse saddles for bar stools. Meistaru 25, G-2, Tel: 722 2419, Open: 10:00 - till the 36

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International

Fabrikas RestorĀns - Fabrikas Resto­ rāns is located across the river Daugava, in the Kīpsala neighborhood. The uniqueness of the restored brick and wooden buildings here give the area a laid-back charm. Not to mention the sweeping view of the river, where you can linger and watch the boats and the hustle and bustle of the city life across the water. The menu is quite diverse and at lunch it can get packed.

For an eatery on the other side of the river to be doing so well signifies that they are doing something right. Balasta dambis 70, A-2, Tel: 787 3804, Open daily: 11:00-24:00 Gutenbergs - Hotel Gutenbergs has done a fine job of offering two unique places to dine.

On the bottom floor you have a formal dining room, and on the roof terrace in the warmer months you have a more casual seating arrangement, with a great view of Riga's rooftops.

Doma laukums 1 (in Hotel Gutenbergs), F-2, Tel: 781 4090, Open daily: 12:00 - 23:00 Panorama - The Panorama restaurant offers ample options to meet your needs as a guest.

Impress your clients with a spectacular view of Old Riga's panorama and the Daugava River.

For a romantic evening, escort your date to the north end of the restaurant for a candle-lit dinner, complete with piano or string music, or just relax with the morning paper while you sit down to a Sunday brunch. Radisson SAS Daugava, Kugu iela 24, B-3, Tel: 706 1111, Open daily: 7:00-23:00 PiramĪda - Those who are seeking an intimate and elegant ambience and outstanding service will discover culinary treasures in the Piramīda Restaurant. Situated under a glass pyramid the restaurant offers excellent internation cuisine and fine wines. On weekdays there is a wounderful selection of mouthwatering dishes on offer as luncc A’ la carte are available from 12:00-15:00. Reimersa 1 (in Reval Hotel Rīdzene), H-1, Tel: 732 4433, Open daily: 11:00-24:30 Raibais balodis (Colorful Pigeon) - Located in the quaint surroundings of the Konventa Seta in Old Town, this restaurant offers a wide variety of international dishes. The interior has just been redone to complement its romantic interior. It is also an ideal place to have a grand breakfast. Kalēju 9/11, G-3, Tel: 708 7580, Open daily: 11:00-24:00 Vive le Figaro!

Vive le Figaro is a new restaurant in Riga, offering Spanish-inspired sophisticated setting for a wonderful dinner. The menu in le Figaro is international, offering everything form juicy steaks to fresh seafood. On the weekends there is live piano music, the restaurant can take pride of is its great service. Grēcinieku 26, F3, Tel. 26699966, Open: Mon-Thr: 11 - 23.00, Fri-Sun: 12.00 – 01.00.

Gourmet Bellevue - Enjoy elegant dining with a panoramic view of Riga. The Bellevue is located on the 11th floor and offers gourmet cuisine served with style in a pleasant atmosphere. The modern design, coupled with dim lights and soft music make you feel comfortable. Slokas 1 (in Maritim Park Hotel), B-3, Tel: 706 9000, Open daily: 18:00 - 23:00 Carpe Diem – translated from Latin it means “seize the moment”. You will definitely want the time to stop in this classy, sophisticated restaurant. A non-obtrusive, calm interior in pale

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colors is designed in the best traditions of luxury restaurants. The menu offers contemporary international cuisine. Live jazz performances run every evening. Meistaru 10/12, G-2, Tel: 7228488, Mon-Wed: 10.00 – 24.00, Thr-Sat: 10.00 – 02.00 La Boheme – this up-scale restaurant in the embassy district is a synonym for style, luxury, life and most of all taste. The interior has a strong Scandinavian feel with warm woods and stock walls. Sophisticated food is delicate as background smooth jazz and light classical music. La Boheme has been following the trend of many European restaurants – and now features a private room for cigar smokers. J.Alunāna 2a, B-2, Tel: 7321938, Mon-Sat: 12.00 – 23.00, Sun: 12.00 – 20.00 Otto Schwarz - someone has said "There are some restaurants which are so unique that they become a legend and part of a history." As you gaze over one of the largest wine lists in the Baltic be sure to enjoy the great view of the park below. Head Chef Uldis Krebs prides himself on the freshness of the seafood and meats.

Kaļķu 28 (in Hotel De Rome), H-2, Tel: 708 7600, Open daily: 07:00 - 23:00, for breakfast: 7:00-10:30; Dinner - Lunch: 12:00-23:00 Seasons - Upscale dining at its finest. Here you will be pampered with excellent service and a fabulous menu that is sure to please all.

Sit back in the leather chairs and enjoy the fireplace with a nice wine, and let your troubles disappear. Pils 12 (in Grand Palace Hotel), F-2, Tel: 704 4000, Mon-Sat: 7:00-23:00.

ing your order, or about a fire in the kitchen, as you can grab the fire extinguisher hanging on the wall right next to you. This fire departmentthemed engine-red restaurant offers a large selection of beer on tap and grill menu. Dzirnavu 62, B-2, Tel. 7365113, Mon-Thr: 11.00 - 24.00, Sat-Sun: 11.00 - 02.00 Vive le Figaro!

Vive le Figaro is a new restaurant in Riga, offering Spanish-inspired sophisticated setting for a wonderful dinner. The menu in le Figaro is international, offering everything form juicy steaks to fresh seafood. On the weekends there is live piano music, the restaurant can take pride of is its great service. Grēcinieku 26, F-3, Tel. 26699966, Open: Mon-Thr: 11 - 23.00, FriSun: 12.00 – 01.00.

Vegetarian Kamala – is named after Kamala, a 4-armed Indian deity that sits in a cross-legged posture meditating on a tender pink lotus. With an accent on Ayurvedic health, the menu of Kamala is vegetarian, althought they have a shashlik – just made from soya tofu. Jauniela 14, F-3, Tel: 7211332, Open daily: 12.00 - 23.00

Aquarius – is a fancy new restaurant in Jurmala. As the interior of the restaurant is author-designed, so is the menu. Next door the restaurant houses a culinary shop Brown Sugar, where you can get some delicious cheeses, wines and fresh pastry. Bulduru prospekts 33, Tel: 7751071, Open daily: 12.00 – 23.00 TB palace - The TB Palace hotel follows the best traditions of the European aristocratic houses of the XIX century and satisfies the most sophisticated tastes of its visitors, and so does its luxurious restaurant, where you will be treated like a royalty. Pilsoņu 8, Jurmala. Tel: 7147094, Open daily: 09.00 – 22.00 Caviar Club – a spacious restaurant in the Baltic Beach Hotel will give a unique dining experience as it offers excellent cuisine (think of a separate caviar menu) and marvelous selection of wines as well as unforgettable view of a sunset over the sea. Special kids’ menu also available. Open daily: 7.00 am – 10.30 am Breakfast buffet; 11.00 pm – 2.00 am

Jurmala restaurants Al Tohme – is a two-storey restaurant on the beach of Majori with a wonderful sea view.

The interior is enchanting simplicity, while the menu is traditional Lebanese cuisine. Pilsonu 2, Tel: 7755755, Open daily: 12.00 - last guest

Vincents - Winner of many awards and much praise, Vincents is sure to please. The food at Vincents is definitely international with an accent on organically grown products.

Elizabetes 19, B-2, Tel: 733 2634, Open daily: 11:00-23:00

Casual bestsellers - Located in Albert Hotel this quaint restaurant has the feeling of a large library and the options on the menu are as wide as the amount of books on offer. Great for lunch or dinner. Dzirnavu 33, B-2, Tel: 733 1717, Open Mon-Fri: 06.30 - 23.30, Sat-Sun: 07.00 - 23.30 Charlestons - With tasty titles like Jack Daniel’s porkchops and Cognac karbonade, you know there is something fun happening in the kitchen. There are two parts to Charlestons, the lower for lunch, and cafe for quick dining, and then upstairs for more formal dining. Both do a fine job of providing good service matched with good food. Blaumaņa 38/40, C-2, Tel: 777 0573, Open daily: 12:00-24:00 Melnie mŪki (Black Monks) - Comes highly recommended by locals and foreigners alike.

Polite wait staff that serve up a blend of tasty cosmopolitan cuisines. The mix of polished wood, exposed brick and textile gives it a subdued cozy feel. Jāņa Sēta 1, G-3, Tel: 721 5006, Open: 12:00-24:00 Red Fred – Don’t worry about the chef burnJune

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Entertainment guide

Night guide

Bars, nightclubs, casinos & fun centers

Riga, one of the largest cities on the Baltic Sea, has a dynamic entertainment scene. The diversity of cultures mingling in this town mix to create an interesting and exciting night out that, if you’re not careful, can easily stretch into the morning. Dance clubs, bars, casinos and exotic shows can be found on almost every corner and will accomodate almost all tastes.

BARS A. Suns – Not only is A. Suns the right place to have all your pub grub favorites, it also is a happening place to meet for a drink or two.

You’ll find it full almost every night of the week with all sorts of Rigavites enjoying themselves.

The beers are cold, the waitresses are hot. Be sure to reserve a table on Friday nights or during TV sports events. Elizabetes 83/85 (Berga bazārs), C-2, Tel: 728 8418, Mon-Thr: 10:0001:00, Fri: 10:00-03:00, Sat: 11:00-03:00, Sun: 11:00-01:00 Alus Arsenāls – This is a cellar worth crawling down into. Wide spacious halls, and firm oak-carved chairs create a medieval atmosphere. A polite staff serves inexpensive Latvian dishes and beer. Crowds of students at night don't let this place forget its real name - The Beer Arsenal. Pils laukums 4 (entrance from Arsenāla iela), F-2, Tel: 732 2675, Open daily: 11:00-24:00 Casablanca – while Moroccan cuisine is served in the ground floor restaurant during the daytime, the basement is a popular lively nightclub with live jazz music and DJs performances. Smilšu 1/3, F-2, Tel. 7225190. Open daily: 08.00 – 24.00, Fri-Sat: 08.00 - 05.00 Coyote Fly – this funky place in charcoalgrey and lipstick-red colors is inspired by the famous NYC Coyote bar. The square metallic bar-stand with exclusively female bartenders in the center is wide enough for table dancing. DJs are performing various styles of music on the weekend, keeping the crowd bouncing in rhythm. The Coyote Fly bar definitely gets the thumbs up for the smart and sexy interior and the ultimate Friday night out atmosphere.

Palasta 3, F-3, tel: 7227793, Open: Mon-Wed: 10.00 – 24.00, Thr-Sat: 12.00 – 02.00.

D’Vine Grape and Spirits Bar - this wine and tapas bar puts traditional pleasures into a futuristic setting, sleek metal and lacquer beneath the fuchsia glowing ceiling. Glass from all sides lets you see - and be seen by – the streets of Riga as you sip brandy, wine or champagne. This modern bar can easily transform to a mini multi-facility conference or pri38

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vate party venue. Elizabetes iela 55, C-2, Tel. 7772217. Open daily: 12.00 - 24.00, Fri-Sat 12.00 - 01.00.

Jazz Club Liize – when in jazzy mood, head to this a small music club – restaurant.

Every day of the week jazz is served in huge portions: jam sessions every Tuesday, live jazz concerts every Thursday, Friday & Saturday featuring Latvian and foreign jazz musicians.

Vecpilsetas 19, G-3, Tel: 2678 94 70. Open daily: 11.00 - last guest.

Hedonia 55 – If you are a true lover of inventive cocktails, then Hedonia 55 is the place.

They have over 70 cocktails to choose from.

During the day the music is easy club music and as the day progresses to night the beat will pick up. Things have been known to get wild at Hedonia 55. Dzirnavu 55, C-2, Tel: 724 2855, Mon-Thr: 12:00-24:00, Fri: 12:00-06:00, Sat: 14:00-06:00, Sun: 16:00-24:00 Lounge Eight – means an escape to a distinctive realm – exclusive, adventurous and special, a piece of Mediterranean-Cuban sunshine in the heart of Old Riga. Immerse in the lazy chill-out mood the “Liberty Island”, sipping various fruit, berry and even sea-buckthorn mojitos and smoking a fat La Casa Del Habano sigar. Lounge 8 makes a difference to most of the noisy bars in Riga, by attracting more mature and classy audience. This is one of the hottest spots, where local celebrities mingle with prominent Riga businessmen, so make sure to make a reservation. Vaļnu 19 (entrance from Glēznotāju), B-3, Tel: 7359595. Open: Sun – Wed: 12.00 - 24.00, Thr – Sat: 12.00 - 03.00 Mārtiņi bārs – This nightclub in the old town is swinging to the beat with the trendy.

Styled with the Martini logo and look, it feels as if you have just stepped out of one of their advertisements. Kaļķu 12/14, G-3, Tel: 722 2205, Mon-Fri: 13:00-last custumer, Sat-Sun: 14:00last custumer.

NEW Balzāma bārs – Balzāma Bārs is a stylishly smooth place, located in Doma Laukums Square in Old Town. One should have really high expectations in such a fancy neigh-

borhood, and Balzāma Bārs rises to the occasion perfectly. As soon as you enter through the doors you find yourself in a spacious lounge featuring comfy dark brown leather couches and two large modern lamps on the ceiling, shimmering in unison with the music. They have a rich selection of cocktails that are mixed with great care and professionalism. Prices are rather high, but correspond to what one would expect in such an establishment. As of late this has become one of the best bars in Riga. Doma laukums 2, F-2, Tel: 722 8842 Open: MonWed: 08:00-24:00, Thr: 08:00-01:00,Fri: 08:0003:00, Sat: 11:00-03:00, Sun: 11:00-24:00.

Rīgas Balzams – This sophisticated restaurant bears the name of the pride of Latvia, "Riga's Black Balsam". This concoction, made of more than 12 herbs is famous for its medicinal qualities. If the Balzams doesn't seem to want to go down straight, try ordering a cocktail containing this dark wonder stuff. "Riga's Black Balsams" is Latvia's answer to Christmas fruitcake, so pick up a few bottles while you’re here and give the gift that keeps on giving. Torņa 4, F-2, Tel: 721 4494, Mon-Wed: 10:30-24:00, Thr-Sat: 10:30-01:00, Sun: 11:00-24:00 Sarkans (Red) – This ultra-modern restaurant and club spaning three floors serves up a mean menu and tasty cocktails. This place really comes alive on the weekends. Very quickly Sarkans has made a name for itself by entertaining the young and beautiful. You may find some lawyers here too. Stabu 10, C-2, Tel: 727 2286, Mon-Thr. 10:00-24:00, Fri: 10:00-04:00, Sat: 12:00-04:00, Sun: 12:00-24:00 Skyline Bar – Even if you can't get a window seat to look at Riga from the 26th floor while sipping fabulous cocktails, this bar is worth visiting. You can enjoy the scenic view from the glass elevators carrying you smoothly up and down the side of the Reval Hotel. Being as fashionable a place as it is, this bar attracts both the Latvian elite and foreign businessmen.

Elizabetes 55 (Reval Hotel Latvija - 26th floor), C-2, Tel: 777 2222, Open daily: 15:00-01:00, Sat-Sun: 15:00-03:00.

Star Lounge Bar – located on the top

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Entertainment guide floor of Alberts Hotel, it gives an alternative panorama of Riga, creative and stylish setting, international crowd and a wide choice of cocktails, wine and beer. Dzirnavu 33, B-2, Tel: 7331717 Vairāk Saules (More Sun) – On any given night you might spot the likes of a Latvian NHL player, local musicians or the just plain beautiful. Most nights swing here, but weekends are sure to find this place packed. Dzirnavu 601, C-2, Tel: 728 2878, Open: Mon-Thr: 12:0002:00, Fri, Sat: 12:00-04:00, Sun: 12:00-24:00 PUBS De Lacy’s – Tired of fake Irish pubs? Then De Lacy's is probably the answer to your otherwise unlikely-to-be-fulfilled prayers. Stag party heaven on weekends. Šķūņu 4, C-3, Tel: 722 9045, Open daily: 11.00-02:00.

2639 3839, Open Thu: 22:00 - 04:00, Fri-Sat: 22:00 - 06:00 Kaļķu vārti (The Lime Gate) – Interested in hearing live folk, pop and rock with a Latvian flavor? A good place to start would be Kaïíu Vārti, right in the heart of the Old Town.

A good place to go for fine dining during the day. At night the medieval basement is opened up to concertgoers. The dark, cavernous space is a remarkably intimate place for acoustic sets by some of Latvia's best-loved stars, while also being large enough for the more physically active rock music crowd. Kaļķu 11a, G-2, Tel. 722 4576, Wed-Sat: 21:00- last customer, Sun-Tue: Closed.

La Rocca – The largest nightclub in the Baltics, featuring the latest laser, light and sound technologies. Waitresses wearing short shiny dresses serve lots of young, energetic revellers trying to look their best to impress each other.

If none of that is to your liking you can always go to the chill-out room, rock bar, or just stare at the spectacular go-go dancers. Brīvības 96, C-2, Tel: 750 6030, Fri-Sat: 22:00-06:00, SunThu: Closed Nautilus – As the red light starts to flash on the dance floor you might be thinking, Dive, Dive, Dive into the masses of gyrating bodies.

The chill-out room has some of the best bar-

DICKEN’S British Pub - Dickens boasts the largest selection of beers on tap in Latvia, including British, Dutch, German and even Jamaica’s own Red Stripe. A wide selection of British cuisine is on the menu. It includes the standard British fish and chips, but bring your own newspaper to wrap them in. Grēcinieku 9/1, G-3, Tel: 721 3087, Sun-Thr: 10:00-01:00, Fri-Sat: 10:00-2:00 Tim McShane's – Tim McShane's Irish pub offers a relaxed atmosphere. With a wide selection of Irish dishes, like lamb stew or steak in Guinness you are sure to feel as if you’re in the land of green clovers. Twenty four different beers on tap; see if you can try all of them in one night, we dare you. It doesn't get as busy as one would expect from an Irish pub, with live Irish music, Karaoke and discos. Tirgoņu 10, F3, Tel: 722 2438, Open daily: 11:00-01:00, FriSat: 11:00-04:00 Nightclubs Bites blūza klubs – Often you need to go a little off the beaten path to find the brightest gems. If live blues is your taste, then the Karaliskas Bites Bluzs Klubs (The Queen Bee Blues Club) is well worth the trek. Across the street from Hotel Albert in an area of Riga not usually associated with nightlife lies this bastion of authentic Americana. Blues artists from as far away as Chicago and New Orleans twice a month play this venue as well as local artists almost every night. However, the fun doesn't stop here; the Bee Club is also an excellent place to go during the day for down-home American cooking. Dzirnavu 34a, B-2, Tel: 733 3123, Mon-Fri: 08:30-23:00, Sat: 12.00-last customer.

Dolls – Located in Hotel Riga, this club offers some of the best looking dancers in Riga, the place has class written all over it. Presentation is well thought out and the location has a clean vibe to it. Aspāzijas 25, H-2, Tel: 750 9260, Open daily: 22:00-09:00, Restaurant: 12:00-22:00 Fashion Club – A fashionable night club in the heart of the city. Concerts and fashion shows every weekend. Tērbatas 2, C-2, Tel: June

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Entertainment guide tenders in Riga working the crowd. And some of the best looking women working the crowd as well. Dance parties here have been known to last into the wee hours of the morning. Kungu 8, G-4, Tel: 781 4455, Fri-Sat: 23:00-8:00, SunThr: Closed.

All casinos in Latvia must take a copy of your I.D. and make a digital photo of you, for security reasons. Good luck!

Casino Club Admiral

For the well-to-do, more traditional player who takes his or her gambling seriously.

Blaumaòa 32, C-2, Tel: 728 6925 Open daily: 00:00-24:00

Aladins

Roulette, Poker, Black Jack, billiards. Èaka 32, C-3, Tel. 916 9920, Open daily: 00:00-24:00

Europa Club Casino – Kr. Barona 12, C-2, tel: 750 2839

Olympic Casino

Located along the banks of the Daugava, the Olympic Casino is one of the biggest in Riga. Radisson SAS Daugava Hotel.

Kuìu 24, B-2, Tel. 744 444, Open daily: 00:00-24:00

Play & Boy Casino

Gamble in an orgy of erotic decadence.

Brîvîbas 96, C-2, Tel: 7506030, Open daily: 00:00-24:00

Tobago Casino Club

Aspazijas 22 (entrance from Vaïòu), H-2, Tel. 722 3222, Open daily: 00:00-24:00

Olympic Voodoo Casino

Offering: Texas Hold’Em Poker, American Roulette, Slot machines, Black Jack, Poker, 6-card Poker. Free bar for players. Elizabetes 55 (Reval Hotel Latvija), C-2, Tel. 782 8777, Open daily: 00:00-24:00

VEGAS Entertainment Complex

The Largest Entertainment Complex in the Baltics! 15 tables Casino, widest selection of slot machines, sports betting and Sports Bar, night club, restaurant and car parking. Included is an exclusive VIP casino that can be rented for private parties and banques. Concerts and fashion shows on weekends. Tçrbatas 2, C-2, Tel: 2639 38 39, Open daily: 00:00-24:00

Paldies dievam piektdiena ir klāt (Thank God It's Friday... the Latvian version) Joy and happiness is in the air in this Caribbean cocktail bar. A large variety of international meals and various cocktails made by two of Riga's best bartenders wearing shorts and Hawaiian shirts. That long counter is not just for sitting, there’s Go-Go dancing on weekends!

11. Novembra krastmala 9, E-2, Tel: 750 3964, Sun-Thr: 10:00-02:00, Fri, Sat: 12:00-4:00.

Pulkvedim neviens neraksta (Nobody Writes to the Colonel) This is one of Riga's most popular nightclubs.

The lights here are dim, and the interior is something of a mix between an old underground metro station and an ornamented warehouse with ventilation pipes, exposed wiring and textured walls. Try the basement where a dance hall, smaller bar and furry walls will put you in the right mind to try the drink of choice - absinthe.

The smaller bar is a homage to Austin Powers.

It’s simply shagadelic, baby! Peldu 26/28, G-4, Tel. 721 3886, Mon-Fri: 12:00-02:00, Sat-Sun: 12:00-5:00. Admission: Wed, Fri, Sat 2-5.

Studio 69 – The hottest club in town for those who like their nights steaming with eroticism.

Though not cheap, it promises an enjoyable experience. You might just get a wink from one of the girls on the dance floor. The interior has just been rejuvenated. Also of note is the periodic strip show, and every Friday there is live music. Brīvības 96, C-2, Tel: 750 6030, Sun-Thr: 21:00-05:00, Fri-Sat: 21:00-06:00.

Jockey Club – Located near Reval Hotel Latvija the Jockey Club has been a rite of passage in Riga for years. Elizabetes 49, B-2, Tel: 722 8844, Open daily: 20:00-06:00, Admission: €15 Cinemas Forum Cinema – The 2nd largest cinemaplex in northern Europe. It has 14 theaters with 3,000 seats. 13. Janvāra 8, C-3, Tel: 119, Open daily: 11:00-02:00.

Aerobics & Gym A + S – Lāčplēša 60, C-2, Tel: 728 9567, Open daily: 06:45-22:00, Sat-Sun: 09:00-20:00 Body & Soul – Brīvības 193d, C-2, Tel: 731 2943, Mon-Fri:07:00-23:00, Sat-Sun: 09:0021:00 City Fitness – Marijas 13, C-2, Tel: 7288585, Open: Mon-Thr: 07:00-23:00, Fri: 07:00-21:00, Sat-Sun: 09:00-21:00.

health club, offering a swimming pool, sauna, SPA services and massage. Radisson SAS Daugava Hotel, Kuģu 24, A-3, Tel: 7061111. MonSat: 6.30 – 23.00, Sun: 11.00 – 17.00 Sports Club Centrs – located on the fifth floor of Galerija Centrs, this sports club offers a varied schedule of group workouts, led by top professional coaches, as well as a gym and sauna complex. Galerija Centrs, Audeju 16, H-3, Tel: 7018000. Open daily: 07.00 – 22.00 Water Relaxation Aqua Villa SPA – a day SPA in the old town offering a wide range for beauty treatments for ladies and gentlemen, including SPA packages, cosmetology procedures, body care and hair salon. Vecrīga, Tirgoņu ielā 11, F-3, Tel: 7814686.

Mon-Fri: 8:00 - 21:00, Sat: 10:00 - 21:00 Joker club – Water aerobics, sauna, swimming pool and body treatments. Katrinas iela 12, B-1, Tel: 709 9800, Sat-Mon: 12.00-22.00, Tue-Fri: 10:00-20:00 Līvu Akvaparks – Līvu Akvaparks, the indoor water attraction and amusement park in the resort town of Jūrmala, lies about 25 km outside of Riga. The 11,000 m2 park is expected to be the biggest in the Baltic region, and offers a wide range of water attractions. Vienības prosp.

36, Jūrmala, Tel: 775 5636, Open daily: Mon.Fri 12:00 -22:00, Sat-Sun: 10:00 - 22:00 Taka Spa - the philosophy of Taka Spa is to bring peace and clarity to your mind; strength and beauty to your body thought SPA procedures, massage, yoga, Pilates and meditation room. Kronvalda bulvāris 3a, B-2, Tel: 7323150. Mon-Fri: 09.00 – 21.00, Sat: 10.00 – 19.00 Kolonna SPA – situated in Galerija Centrs, at this Spa complex you can get seriously spoiled by the wide range of beauty rituals: hydrotherapy procedures, 14 types of massage, Finnish and Turkish sauna, various seaweed and mud treatments, body wraps, tanning procedures, not to mention manicure, pedicure, hair cutting and professional make up. Galerija Centrs, Audēju 16, H-3, Tel: 7018034. Mon-Fri: 08.00 – 22.00, Sat-Sun: 9.00 -20.00

Radisson SAS Daugava Health Center – everybody, not just those staying at Radisson SAS are welcome to enjoy their 40

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Shopping guide

Shopping Riga’s best boutiques,

guide

speciality shops and department stores

Riga has everything you might want, and the only time you may have to stand in line is when a great sale is taking place. Riga might not have the big fashion houses of New York or Paris, but what it does have is quite distinctive. Discover the unique qualities of the many outdoor markets, handicrafts and antique stores throughout the center and Old Town.

Credit cards are accepted at most locations, so shop till you drop.

Antiques

Art galleries

Baltars - Dzirnavu 31, C-2, Tel: 722 9120, Mon-Sat: 11:00-19:00, Sun: closed.

Riga Gallery - Latvian contemporary artists and 20th century art, art exhibitions, buying and selling of artworks.: Aspazijas bulv. 20, H-2, Tel: 67225887, Open daily: 12.00 – 19.00, Sun – closed.

Doma Antikvariāts - Doma laukums 1a, F-2, Tel: 7814401, Mon-Fri: 11:00-19:00, Sat: 11:00-15:00

carousell - Kaļķu 2, G-3, Tel: 721 0487, Mon: 12:00-19:00, Tues-Fri: 11:00-19:00, Sat: 12:00-16:00, Sun: closed

Antiqua - Valdemāra 20, Torņa 4, B-2, Tel: 728 4377, Open: 11:00-15:00, Sun: closed.

Konvents - Kaļķu 9/11, G-2, Tel: 708 7542, Open daily: 10:00-20:00 Roma antīks - Kaļķu 28 (Hotel de Rome), G-2, Tel: 708 7642, Open daily: 10:00-21:00

Books

Jāņa Rozes - A large selection of international books. They can also order books for you. Barona 5, C-2, Brīvības 90, Krasta 46, Audēju 16, Maskavas 357, Tel: 728 4288,

Mon-Fri: 10:00-19:00, Sat: 10:00-18:00, Sun: closed.

Globuss - A nice little book store in the Old Town. Read your new purchase in their coffee shop upstairs. Valnu 26, H-3, Mon-Fri: 10:00-19:00, Sat: 10:00-17:00, Sun: closed.

Valters un Rapa - Largest bookstore in the Baltics with a café in the basement.

Aspazijas 24, H-3, Tel: 7227482, Mon-Fri: 09:00-21:00, Sat: 10:00-21:00, Sun: 10:0016:00

Fashion (upscale)

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Shopping guide elegant for yourself? Then look no further than this upscale boutique of fine French leather goods. One of the best-known exclusive French brands for wallets, briefcases and accessories; Jacques Chirac even owns a few items. Meistaru 8, G-2, Tel: 721 5025 Mon-Fri: 10:00-19:00, Sat: 10:00-17:00, Sun: closed Betty Barclay - Betty Barclay's fashion boutique is quite simply the ultimate in chic.

Aspāzijas bulvāris 28, H-3, Tel. 781 4181, Mon-Fri: 10:00-20:00, Sat: 10:00-18:00, Sun: closed.

Bergs – High quality German brands offering fashion for ladies and gentlemen. Also Italian shoes, lingerie; perfumes. Marijas iela 11, C-3, Tel: 67288393, Mon-Fri:10.00 - 19.00, Sat: 10.00 - 17.00, Sun: closed.

Blow – Designer clothes outlet by Comme des Garcons, Lanvin, Martin Margiela, Hogan, Fake London, Marni, Lancetti, Lawrence Steele, Marc Jacobs, Viktor&Rolf. Kr.Barona 16/18, C-3, Tel: 67287366, Mon-Fri: 10.00 20.00, Sat: 11.00 -18.00, Sun: closed.

Chapurin – One of the most famous Russian high class designers offers his latest creations in Old Town boutique. Jēkaba 3/5, F-1, Tel: 67228862. Mon-Fri: 11.00 – 19.00, Sat: 11.00 – 17.00, Sun: closed.

20.00, Sat: 10.00 - 19.00, Sun: 10.00 - 17.00 Marina Rinaldi – Latest fashion trends for voluptuous women. Vaļņu 3, G-2, Tel: 67715851, Mon - Fri: 10.00 – 19.00, Sat: 11.00 – 18.00, Sun: closed.

Max Mara – Luxury smart Italian women’s fashion. Kr.Barona 24/26, C-2, Tel. 67280409, Mon-Fri: 10.00 - 19.00, Sat: 11.00 - 18.00, Sun: closed.

Palazzo Italia - Italian fashion center having the latest collections from top Italian designers such as D&G, Robert Cavalli and many many more. Biggest selection in the Baltics! Barona 2, C-3, Tel: 707 0930, MonSat: 10:45-19:45, Sun: 11:00-18:00.

Plaza Boutique - High-class designer labels. Smilšu 18, G-2, Tel: 721 2181, MonSat: 11:00-19:00, Sun: closed.

Podium – Large multi brand store of upscale fashion. Brīvības 201, Tel: 67070701 Skala – Multibrand boutique: Dirk Bikkembergs, Iceberg, Stone Island, C.P.Company, True Religion, Rock & Republic, Philosophy

by Alberta Ferretti, Gaetano Navarra, Viktor & Rolf, C’N’C Costume National. Tērbatas 36, C-2, Tel: 67290788, Mon – Fri: 11.00 – 20.00

Footwear Alberto Guardiani – up scale Italian shoes for men and women. Brīvības 66, C-2, Tel: 67295789, Mon-Fri: 11.00 – 20.00, Sat: 11.00 – 19.00, Sun: 11.00 – 17.00 CHESTER men’s and women’s footwear, Kr.Barona 36, C-2, Tel: 7217109, Open daily: 10:00-21:00 Carre – High quality Italian shoes.

Grēcinieku 5, G-3, Tel: 67229911, MonFri:10.00 - 19.00, Sat: 10.00 - 17.00. Sun: closed.

Loretti - High fashion women's shoes and boots. Terbatas 53, C-2, Basteja bulv.16, Tel: 7295142, Mon-Sat: 10:00-19:00, Sun: closed Vicini – Designer shoes: Giuseppe Zanotti Design. Torņa 4/3a, B-2, Tel: 67324068, Mon-Fri: 10.00 - 19.00, Sat: 11.00 - 18.00, Sun: 12.00 - 16.00.

Jewelry/watches Barkwood Luxury Watches & Jewelry - Kaļķu 2, G-3, Tel: 722 1122. Open daily: 11:00 - 19:00, Sat: 11:00-17:00 Martas krasta - Hand-made earrings, rings, necklaces made by Latvian jewelers.

Kalēju 21, F-3, Tel: 722 1003 Open daily: 11:00-19:00, closed Sun

Decadence - Women and men collections

by Vivienne Westwood and Paul Smith. Mazā Smilšu 13 – 601, G-2, Tel: 67227798, MonFri:10.00 - 19.00, Sat: 11.00 - 18.00, Sun: closed.

Versace – Cream of the crop of clothes, shoes and accesspries. Vaļņu 3, G-2, Tel: 67715812, Mon-Fri: 10.00 – 19.00, Sat: 11.00 – 18.00, Sun: closed.

Montre - Exclusive luxury watches and jewelry for the refined individual. Located in the Palazzo Italia fashion center. Kr.Barona 2, C-3, Tel: 724 0034, Open: 10:45-19:45.

Emporio Armani – Women & men lines of clothing, accessories & shoes. Elizabetes 51, B-2, Tel. 67240018, Mon-Fri: 10.00 20.00, Sat: 10.00 - 18.00, Sun: closed.

Toskāna - French fashion by Jean-Paul Gaultier. Basteja 16 (Basteja pasāža), G-2, Tel: 721 5045, Mon-Fri: 10:00-20:00, Sat: 11:00-19:00, Sun: 11:00-17:00

Putti - One-of-a-kind earrings, rings, necklaces and cufflinks all made by Latvian jewelers. Marstaļu 16, F-3, Tel. 721 4229. MonSat: 10:00-18:00, Sun: 11:00-16:00

Escada – Escada and Escada Sport collections. Vaļņu 3, G-2, Tel: 67715817, MonFri: 10.00 – 19.00, Sat: 11.00 – 18.00, Sun: closed.

Wolford - Full collection for men and women undergarments. Tērbatas 28, C-2, Tel: 728 2097, Tue-Fri: 10:00-19:00, Sat, Mon: 11:00-19:00

Garage – A selection of modern clothes, accessories and interior decorations by Latvian designers. Marijas 13 (Berga Bazars), C-3, Tel: 67288308, Mon - Fri: 10.00 – 20.00, Sat: 10.00 - 19.00, Sun: closed.

Fashion

GF Ferre – Gianfranco Ferre, GFF collections. Elizabetes 51, B-2, Tel. 67504882, Mon-Fri: 10.00 - 20.00, Sat: 10.00 - 18.00, Sun: closed.

Hugo Boss – Essence of elegance for men and women. Elizabetes 77, B-2, Tel: 670247074, Mon-Fri: 10.00 - 19.00, Sat: 10.00 - 18.00, Sun: closed.

Kabuki – Multibrand boutique offering Kenzo, Valentino, Christian Lacroix. Kungu 4, Tel: 721 00 53, G-3, Mon-Fri: 10.00 42

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(casual)

Gerry Weber – Elegant and practical clothes for women by a famous German brand. Tērbatas 32, C-2, Tel: 67285954, Mon-Fri: 10.00 – 20.00, Sat: 11.00 – 19.00, Sun: 11.00 – 17.00 Mango - Spanish chain of affordable and trendy women’s and girls’ wear. Brīvības 47, C-2, Tel. 728 85 09, Mon-Fri: 10.00 - 19.00, Sat-Sun: 11.00 - 17.00 Zara – One of the most stylish and beloved high-street brands all over the world, offering women’s, men’s, youngsters and kids’ clothes, shoes and accessories. Tērbatas 30, C-2, Tel. 7504387, Mon-Fri: 10.00 – 20.00, Sat: 10 – 19, Sun:11.00 – 18.00

Ženeva – Sells watches from affordable Festina to exclusive Omega, Longines, Rado, Vercace, Gucci, Balmain, Tissot, Jaguar; jewelry by Korloff, Schoeffel and Versace.

Audēju 10, H-3, Tel: 67224042, Mon-Fri: 10:00-19:30, Sat: 10:00-18:00, Sun: 10:0017:00

Markets Central Market - Five large zeppelin hangers stocked full of meat, fish, cheese, vegetables, and almost everything you might need for cooking. Word to the wise, watch your purse or you might see it being sold the next day. Prāgas 1, C-3, Tel: 722 9961, Open daily: 08:00-18:00

Shopping centers

alfa Centrs - Brīvības gatve 372, Tel. 707 6400, Open daily: 10:00-22:00 Galerija centrs – Audēju 16, H-3, Tel: 67018018, Open daily: 10.00 – 22.00, first floor: 08.00 – 22.00

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Shopping guide

domina Centrs - Italian owned shopping mall with many stores that are not found at other shopping malls, Ieriku 3, by the Zemitanu bridge.

Tel: 7631111, Open daily: 10:00-22:00

style stationary: writing paper, envelopes, pencils, address books, and other writing accessories. Galerija Centrs, Audēju 16, H-3, Tel: 67220444, Open daily: 10.00 – 22.00

MC2 - Includes an extensive selection at the delicatessen, furniture store and art gallery. Krasta 68a, D-4, Tel: 700 6868, Mon-Sat: 10:00-21:00, Sun: 10:00-19:00

D'Artanjans - A French café, with a variety of meats, cheeses, patés and other goodies. Marijas 13 (Berga bazārs), C-2, Tel: 728 8847, MonSat: 10:00-20:00, Sun: closed.

Mols - One of the biggest shopping malls in Riga just got even bigger. Lots of stores and boutiques to choose from. Krasta 46, D-4, Tel: 703 0303, Open daily: 10:00-22:00

Monte Kristo - World coffee. Kalēju 18/20, G-3, Ģertrūdes 27, Elizabetes 10, Tel: 703 0239, 7283271 Mon-Sat: 08:00-21:00, Sun: 11:0020:00

Spice - A mall for a large selection of fruits, vegetables, meats, seafood and nonperishable goods. Lielirbes 29, Tel: 7807281, Open daily: 10:00-22:00

Spirits and Tobacco

Sweets Emihla Gustava Chocolate - This is a place where your chocolate fantasies come true.

Forget about calories and just indulge. Marijas 13 k.4, C-2, Tel: 728 7510, Open daily: 09:0022:00, Sun: 10:00-20:00 Laima - Latvia's largest chocolate confectionery’s outlet store. Smilšu 20, G-2, Miera 22, Tel.: 721 3970, Mon-Fri: 08:00-18:00, Sat: 09:0018:00 Sun: 11:00-18:00.

Perfume & Cosmetics

Kolonna – Kaļķu 11, G-2, Tel: 7212074, Mon - Fri: 10.00 - 20.00, Sat-Sun: 11.00 – 18.00

Arka - Good selection of Australian, Italian and South African wines. Tērbatas 10/12, C2, Tel: 728 4826, Mon-Fri: 10:00-20:00, Sat: 11:00-17:00

Kristiana – Kr. Barona 3, C-2, Tel: 67284327, Mon-Fri:10.00 - 19.00, Sat:11.00 - 18.00. Sun: closed.

Stockmann - The key to success for the Finnish department store giant Stockmann is a broad assortment of quality products at competitive prices. Many foreign goods to be found at Stockmann can't be found at any other retail store in Latvia. 13.janvāra 8, C-3, Tel: 707 1200, Open daily: 9:00-22:00

Churchill Club - For the cigar aficionado.

Your smoking and drinking needs are taken care of with a wide selection of cigars and drinks to match. Vaļņu 1, G-3, Tel. 722 2060, Mon-Fri: 10:00-20:00, Sat: 11:00-18:00

Elkor center – Techno, furniture and sports equipment giant. Brīvības 201, Tel: 67070701, Open daily: 10.00 - 22.00

Souvenirs

Latvijas Balzams - Čaka 160, D-2, Marijas 1, C-3, Tel: 722 8715, Mon-Fri: 08:00-22:00, Sun: 09:00-21:00

Sportland – Multibrand store, offering free time and sports clothes and sports equipment.

Galerija Centrs, Audēju 16, H-3, Tel: 67104520, Open daily: 10.00 – 22.00

La Casa Del Habana – Finest Cuban cigars to be taken away or enjoyed just at the spot in Lounge 8 bar upstairs. Vaļnu 19 (entrance from Glēznotāju), B-3, Tel: 7359595. Open: Mon – Wed: 12.00 - 24.00, Thr – Sat: 12.00 - 03.00

Elkor Sports – Sporting garments and equipment by major producers. Brīvības bulvāris 19, H-1, Tel: 67213455, Mon – Sat: 10.00 – 20.00, Sun: 10.00 – 17.00

Art Nouveau Riga – Souvenirs and interior designs with Art Nouveau influence. Strēlnieku 9, B-2, Tel. 7333030, Open daily: 09.00 - 19.00.

Annas Andreas Linu Manufaktura – Fun and stylish pillows, blankets, table wear and aprons with Riga-style prints made from natural linen. Galerija Centrs, Audēju 16, H-3, Tel: 67625435, Open daily: 10.00 – 22.00

Specialty Shops Apsara - Good tea house. Tērbatas 2, C-2, Šķuņu 10, Skārņu 22, G-3, Tel: 7212332, Open daily: 10:00-23:00 Ballera Kanceleja – Romantic retro-

Electronics

Tabakas Nams – Cigars, tobacco and alcoholic drinks. Vaļņu 8, G-2, Tel: 67225897, MonFri: 12.00 – 20.00, Sat: 12.00 – 19.00.

Zigmunds 42 - Good selection of cigars, pipes and tobacco. Ģertrudes iela, 22, Tel: 727 6158, Mon-Fri: 10:00-21:00, Sat: 11:00-18:00

Sports

INFO

SHOPPING

The following listings cover establishments the editors find worthy of your attention as well as advertisers in RigaNOW! Each listing has an easy to use map (p. 30 – 32) reference number.

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Hotel guide

Hotel Riga’s best luxury

Authenic feel at Europa Royale 44

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guide and upmarket hotels

Riga now boasts five 5-star and nine 4-star hotels. The Reval Hotel Latvija towers over the city skyline with 25 floors of rooms to choose from, serving as a beacon for travelers throughout the world. All of the front desk staff at major hotels speak English and other European languages, so communication shouldn’t be a problem.

At most hotels the staff will go out of their way to make sure your stay is a pleasant one.

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Hotel guide Luxury Baltic Beach Hotel Spa & resort (in Jūrmala) Ideally located on the shore of the Baltic Sea, this elegant hotel fully renovated in 2004 offers 165 comfortable well-appointed rooms, suites and apartments, making it the largest spa in the Baltics. You can swim in their large pool filled with filtered seawater, exercise in the gym, enjoy a variety of saunas, sun-beds or a massage. The hotel offers conference rooms, and a banquet hall ideal for larger conferences. For entertainment enjoy the luxurious restaurant, Caviar Club, with a splendid sea view. Standard rooms feature twin size beds, hairdryer, air conditioning, Internet access, mini bar, and a private safe. The superior room features more amenities such as a king size bed, and what is more important - separate exit to balconies. Jūras iela 23/25, Majori, Jurmala, Tel: 777 1400, Fax: 777 1410, e-mail: reservations@balticbeach.lv, Rates: standard: €57-171, comfort: 79 - 221, superior: €164-185, apartment: €128-221, suite: €285 - 400, presidential suite with five rooms: €1243, Garden house apartments start at €857 per day.

offer 3 conference & banquet rooms, as well as out of house catering.

Kaïíu 28, H-2, Tel: 708 7600, Fax: 708 7606, email:reservation@derome.lv, www.derome.lv Rates: single €142, double and superior room €156, suite €195, presidential apartment €700.

Prices include breakfast buffet, sauna, service and VAT. Parking lot available.

Hotel Grand Palace Class and elegance are what this establishment is all about. Run by the Schlossle Hotel Group, it meets all the highest standards. The hotel has won for the fourth year in a row the best hotel in Latvia by the body of "World Travel Awards".

The deluxe rooms are furnished in English and French classic style. You’ll find a digital in-room safe, direct dial/ISDN-lines and phones, voice mail and modem/fax connection, mini-bar, payTV, trouser press, full bathroom and even a single-use Kodak camera. The lounge bar and the two respected restaurants offer excellent food and exceptionally friendly staff. The hotel is also handicap accessible.

Pils 12, F-2, Tel: 704 4000, Fax: 704 4001,

center and sauna, with a great panoramic view of the nearby park. Comfy rooms designed in reddish tones with all the necessary extras for business travellers. Enjoy outstanding meals in one of the best restaurants in Riga at the hotel restaurant Piramida.

Reimersa 1, H-1, Tel: 732 4433, Fax: 732 2600, e-mail: ridzene@revalhotels.com Rates: Daily rates starting from €140, check www.revalhotels.com for prices. Prices include breakfast, excluding VAT. Under­ground parking.

All facilities have wheelchair access.

Radisson SAS Daugava The internationally-known hotel chain offers one of the best hotels in the Baltics. Each of the spacious rooms has cable TV, mini-bar and a full bathroom. Fitness center and swimming pool are also there for your convenience. Many conferences are held at this hotel due to its 300 person capacity. Eat in one of the two restaurants, Panorama Restaurant and Bar, or the Mediterranean restaurant Talavera. The hotel is wheelchair as well as child friendly.

Kuģu 24, A-3, Tel: 706 1111, Fax: 706 1100, email: reservations.riga@radissonsas.com, Rates: standard single/double €142-157, business class single/double €168-177, Suite €330, “Sigulda suite” €650, Presidential apartment €980.

Parking lot available.

Upmarket

Hotel de Rome This 5-star hotel offers almost everything one could expect. Hallways and rooms furnished with turn-of-the century antiques create an elegant mood. Some of the rooms offer spectacular views of the nearby park and the Freedom Monument. Enjoy your dinner at the renowned restaurant Otto Schwarz on the top floor. They

e-mail: grandpalace@schlossle-hotels.com Rates: standard €225-270, deluxe €245-295, business class: €325, junior suite €450, suite €630.

REVaL Hotel Rīdzene This luxury hotel is a perfect environment for business. The Latvian interior is combined with a Scandinavian flavor. The hotel offers a fitness

Hotel Bergs Hotel Bergs is a designer boutique hotel located in the city center and is conveniently located in the historic Bergs Bazaar complex. In its “2004 Hot List” the American magazine Condé Nast Traveler features the Hotel Bergs among the 100 best hotels worldwide in 2004. This boutique hotel with its modern interior offers its clients a chance to relax and enjoy some of its amenities such as the library and clubroom. Decorated with the owner's own impressive private art collection for a strong cultural impression. Hotel Bergs is sure to become a favorite destination for travellers. Berga Bazārs, Elizabetes 83/85, C-2, Tel: 777 0900, Fax: 777 0940, e-mail: reservation@hotelbergs.com

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Hotel guide Rates: studio €175, Apartment €235, Loft suite €269, Penthouse €339. Special longterm rates are available as well as secure parking.

Europa Royale Riga Overlooking the majestic Vērmanes Park this 19th century luxurious five-floor hotel is well known as a cultural monument. The Benjamin House, in which the hotel is located is a historical building which was fully restored and updated with modern conveniences. The central location makes it very attractive for leisure and

business travelers. The Old Town and National Opera house can be reached in a few minutes.

Businesspeople will find themselves in close vicinity of the political and business districts.

Shopping streets and major places of interest are close by. Highlights of the hotel include an average of 20m2 rooms, windows in some bathrooms and balconies that overlook the park, and the most grandiose dining room in Riga.

Standard: €110 - 130, DeLux: €140 - 160, Suite: €280, Presidential suite: €650.

Kr. Barona 12, C-2, Tel: 707 9444, Fax: 707 9449; e-mail: riga@europaroyale.com www.europaroyale.com

Islande Hotel Just opened in 2006, the hotel offers all facilities and services which might be expected in a four star hotel. The hotel is located on Kipsala, across the river Daugava. A quick 10 minute walk over the bridge will get you into Old Town. The 205 well-equipped rooms, including two suites -"Odins" and "Freija" have fantastic panoramic views of the Old Town, as does the rooftop restaurant "Arctic lights". The hotel is ideally suited for large tours as well as families, has a bowling alley, wellness center and gym. Kids under 12 get to stay free! With 5 conference rooms supplied with the latest technical equipment, and the convention center within walking distance, it also makes for the ideal choice for business travellers. Singles: €92; Doubles: €107 - 128; Suites: €200 - 385. www.islandehotel.lv ķipsalas 20, A-2, 46

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Tel: 760 8000, Fax: 760 8001, e-mail: reception@islandehotel.lv

Hotel Gutenbergs Enjoy the interior on each floor, designed in different styles. From more intimate in the newer wing, to classical in the older one. Rooms are small, but very comfortable, equipped with cable TV, phone and bathroom. There is a rooftop summer terrace where you can enjoy wonderful evenings. Modern conference facilities are available as well as non-allergic rooms.

Doma laukums 1, F-2, Tel: 781 4090, Fax: 750

3326, e-mail: hotel@gutenbergs.lv, Rates: single €115, double €135, Jr. suite €171, suite €225.

Maritim Park Hotel Riga The famous German hotel chain successfully expanded to Latvia, offering a great hotel with bright, modern rooms and one of the largest conference facilities in Riga. There are all the usual conveniences; phone, satellite TV, private bath, air conditioner and internet connection in each room. All guests get to use the modern fitness center, which includes a sauna and steam bath.

Eat at the restaurant Bellevue on the 11th floor, or try the Park restaurant on the 1st floor.

Slokas 1, A-3, Tel: 706 9000, Fax: 706 9001, e-mail: reservations@maritim.lv Rates: Standard: €129 - 149, Superior: €189-209, Jr. Suite: €270, Ex. Suite: €385. Prices include VAT and breakfast buffet. Parking lot available.

Reval Hotel Latvija This excellent hotel offers everything to make your stay as pleasant as possible. You will find phone, mini-bar, hairdryer, climate control and satellite TV, as well as a fitness center, 16-hour room service, laundry and valet service, shops, beauty salon and underground parking for up to 40 cars. You certainly won't feel bored here either. You can enjoy the spectacular view from the Skyline bar on the 26th floor, have an excellent meal in the Esplanade restaurant, and have

fun in the Olympic Voodoo casino. With nearly 600 modern rooms for you to choose from, there is sure to be one to your liking.

Elizabetes 55, C-2, Tel: 777 2222, Fax: 777 2332, e-mail: latvija.sales@revalhotels.com Rates: Daily rates starting from €99, check www.revalhotels.com for prices. Breakfast and VAT included.

Metropole This hotel was built in 1871 and completely renovated in 1992 with Scandinavian style décor. The Metropole has become a favourite with business, diplomatic and leisure travellers alike.

The hotel is located in the Old Town near the National Opera and central shopping areas. It has 80 stylish rooms with a definite Scandinavian touch. The Metropole Hotel's Columbine Restaurant is well-known for its marvelous Scandi­navian and Inter­national cuisine. There is a complimentary business and fitness center and sauna. The hotel provides special rates for individual guests, groups, and weekend packages. Aspāzijas bulv. 36/38, H-3, Tel: 722 5411, Fax: 721 6140, e-mail: metropole@metropole. lv; www.metropole.lv Rates: single from €100-114, double €121, suites €179, family room €150. Complimentary business and fitness center.

Rīga The recently renovated lobby, restaurant and rooms are spacious and modern. If you ask for a room facing the park, you will be able to enjoy the exciting view of the Freedom Monument and Opera house. The hotel provides a large conference hall for business and banqueting and three smaller conference premises. There is a nightclub and a casino for your leisure as well as the Palm Garden Restaurant.

Aspāzijas bulv. 22, H-3, Tel: 704 4222, Fax: 704 4223, e-mail: info@hotelriga.lv Rates: single €120-130, double €150-170, triple €190 Jr. suite €200, suite €260, superior suite €660. Parking lot avaliable.

MID-RANGE Albert Hotel Albert Hotel is a moderately priced hotel situated in a quiet center of Riga. An 11-storey building in the exclusive zone of Art Nouveau architecture.

The hotel is also located in the heart of Riga's Commercial center, within walking distance to nearby embassies, major banks, companies, concert halls and the Old Town.

The hotel's name was chosen in the honor of the physicist and scientist Albert Einstein, and you can feel his innovative spirit in the creative interior design.

An impeccably stylish Bestsellers restaurant on the first floor offers you international cuisine: Italian, French, Greek, Russian, Chinese and Latvian specialties. On the glass upper floor of Albert Hotel you will find a lounge bar with an impressive view of the twinkling lights of Riga's

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Hotel guide

city center. Dzirnavu 33, B-2, Tel: 733 1717, Fax: 733 1718, Rates: single €84, double €84, family €122, business class €137.

Hotel Lielupe (in Jūrmala) Just a hop, skip and a jump away from the beach, this hotel includes a vast amount of amenities.

Bulduru prosp. 64/68, Jūrmala, Tel: 775 2755.

Rates: tourist: €47 - 80, standard: €77 - 100, comfort: €111 - 134, suite €256, apartment €341.

AINAVAS Boutique Hotel This completely unique boutique hotel will definitely make your stay in Riga memorable. Each of the 21 rooms is differently decorated. The breakfast varies every morning and is served by very polite and attentive staff.

Peldu 23, G4, Tel: 781 4316, Fax: 7814317, email:reservations@ainavas.lv, www.ainavas.lv Rates: single €120, double €156, jr.suite €175, suite €195, apartment €240. Prices include gourmet breakfast, generous amenities and VAT.

SPA HOTEL Konventa sēta Homey hotel with a strong Scandinavian feel.

The hotel is located in an historical place, so much so that they even have a museum in the basement. Rooms are very ornate with original oak beams in the interior. There are five wellequipped conference rooms and two high-class restaurants. The banquet hall is also available for any function. The exceptionally kind staff will make it hard to leave.

Kalēju 9/11, C-3, Tel: 708 7501, Fax: 708 7515, e-mail: reservation@konventa.lv, Rates: single €90, double €95, jr. suite €100-110, suite €120-135, apartments €180.

Hotel Valdemārs Hotel Valdemars, named after a famous Latvian public personality, is a modern hotel in a historical building, right in the center of the vibrating city of Riga. Valdemars is a completely renovated family owned hotel within the beautiful shell of the 1901 Art Nouveau building. Stay in one of their 84 rooms that are carefully decorated with a "Scandinavian" feel, providing the guests with all the necessary commodities and services. Situated only minutes from Old Town and door-to-door with local business centers, Hotel Valdemars is the optimal choice for your visit in Riga, whether it is for business or leisure. The hotel also features a delicious restaurant, full serviced conference and banquet possibilities. Single: €86, Double: €111, Jr. Suite: €126, Suite: €154, Royal Suite: €282.

K. Valdemara iela 23, B-2. Tel: 733 4462. Fax: 733 3001.

Hotel Jūrmala Spa To get that Scandinavian spa feeling you don't have to travel north. At the seaside resort of Jurmala you will find Hotel Jurmala Spa. They have replicated the care and effectiveness of the Scandinavian spa experience. With its high attention to detail, the whole place oozes wellness with many spa procedures to choose from. Natural materials are used whenever possible throughout, creating a truly relaxing interior. Most rooms have a vast view of Jurmala and the surrounding seaside area, and all rooms are non-smoking. Most rooms have wooden floors and splendid large stone tiles in the bathrooms. Hotel Jurmala Spa - Jomas 47/49, Majori, Jūrmala, Tel: 778 4415 Standard €127 - 134, twin de lux €169, superior LUX €340. Spa packages are also available check: www.hoteljurmala.lv monthly specials.

TB Palace Hotel & SPA More than just a hotel TB Palace Hotel & Spa offers the guest the luxury of all that is exclusive.

The spa center has only four suites, but complete attention is given to the well-appointed rooms and guests. The spa center offers foreign-trained medical professionals who will guarantee your privacy, offering their sought-after knowledge. Some of the treatments on offer are the hydrotherapy massage baths and hydrotherapy capsule, which helps relieve stress and eases the mind and body. Whatever your pleasure, they will accommodate your needs.

Pilsoņu 8, Jūrmala. Tel: 714 7094. Well-appointed suites starting at €200.

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Museums Aviation Museum See old birds from the cold war and unique moments in aviation history.

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Museums

A BRIEF GUIDE TO SOME OF RIGA’S BEST MUSEUMS Latvians love their museums. Almost any topic you can think of has a museum dedicated to it somewhere in Latvia. There's even a national Museum Day. If you have the time, here's a list of some of the museums worth visiting in Riga.

History Museum of Latvia Located in the Riga Castle (16th century), this is the best museum to visit if you want to get a full picture of Latvian history, from 9000 BC to present-day. Over 130 years old, the museum houses many exhibits including artifacts from archaeological digs and other historical objects.

Pils laukums 3, E-2, Tel: 722 3004 Open: 11.00 - 17.00, Closed: Mon., Tue. Admission free on Wed. Latvian Museum of Photography Along with its permanent exhibit tracing the development and history of photography in Latvia, the museum also has exhibits that change regularly, featuring local photographers, collections culled from the museum's archives or travelling exhibits of the work of foreign artists.

Mârstaïu 8, G-3, Tel: 722 2713 Open: Tue, Fri, Sat: 10.00-17.00, Wed, Thr: 12:00-19:00 Aviation Museum A collection of Old Russian aircraft from fighter-jets to big helicopters. Some of the highlights are the fighters such as the MIG21, SU-7 bomber and the MI-6 helicopter. Located just to the left of the Riga International Airport it is a great place to kill some time before your flight.

Airport Riga, Tel: 6862707, Open: Mon-Fri: 9:00 - 18:00, Sat: 10:00 - 14:00 Museum of Decorative and Applied ArtS The Church of St. George, built in 1204, is the oldest stone building in Riga. Gutted and turned into a warehouse during the 16th century reformation, it now houses exhibits of Latvian applied arts and professional design, dating as far back as the end of the 1800's. The museum also features exhibits by modern local and foreign artists.

Skâròu 10/20, G-3, Tel: 722 9736, 722 8733,

Open: Wen: 11.00 - 19.00, Tue,Thur, Fri, Sat, Sun: 11.00 - 17.00, Closed: Mon. Museum of Foreign Art Starting with 14th century architecture in the basement and ending with European fine art on the upper floors, this museum holds the largest collection of works by foreign artists in Latvia. Drawings from the 15th century, ceramics and sculptures from the ancient Orient to the European Renaissance.

Pils laukums 3, E-2, Tel: 722 6467 Open: 11.00 - 17.00, Closed: Mon. Museum of Riga's History and Navigation The museum started as the private collection of the Martini family in the 1700's and is now the oldest and one of the biggest museums in the Baltics. The museum traces the development of a small settlement on the banks of the river Ridzene to today’s City of Riga. The 16th century executioner's sword and mummified thief's hand are interesting exhibits.

Palasta 4, F-3, Tel: 721 1358 Open: 11.00 - 17.00, Closed: Mon, Tue Museum of War Founded in 1916, the museum moved to its current location in the historic Powder Tower in 1919. The exhibit charts the relatively short, but proud history of Latvian soldiers, starting with the riflemen that helped establish Latvia's independence after the First World War and including the events that led to renewed independence in 1991. The Powder Tower, bearing the scars of cannonballs, is itself an interesting monument dating from the early 1300's.

Smilðu 20, G-2, Tel: 722 8147 Open: 10.00 - 18.00, Closed: Mon, Tue. www.karamuzejs.lv Latvian Motor Museum Specialty museum features more than 100 motor vehicles dating from the early 20th century including motorcycles, military vehicles, and cars manufactured in Latvia and

limousines that once belonged to Molotov and Brezhnev in the Kremlin.

Sergeja Eizenðteina 6, Tel: 709 7170, Open: 10.00 - 18.00; Mon. 10.00 - 15.00 Occupation Museum of Latvia The most visited museum in Riga is dedicated to documenting the oppression of the Latvian people by the Nazi and Soviet regimes of the 20th century. It gives a unique opportunity to see inside a gulag barracks and witness the unbearable conditions suffered by thousands at the hands of the Soviets. The museum has been at the center of ongoing public debate for the past couple of years. The building that houses the museum is considered by some to be an eyesore against the beauty of the Old Town and by others to be a unique and important testament of the Soviet occupation.

Strçlnieku laukums 1, F-3, Tel: 721 2715 Open: 11.00 - 17.00, Closed: Mon, admission: with donation. www.occupationmuseum.lv State Museum of Art The museum's collection (approximately 14,000 pieces) contains many essential works by the most influential Latvian artists from as far back as the 18th century, as well as the largest collection of Russian art in the Baltics. The museum regularly holds themed exhibits of past and present masters, as well as traveling exhibits from abroad.

Kr. Valdemâra 10a, B-2, Tel: 732 5021 Open: 11.00 - 17.00, Thur. 11.00 - 19.00, Closed: Tue. www.vmm.lv

INFO

MUSEUM

The following listings cover establishments the editors find worthy of your attention as well as advertisers in RigaNOW! Each listing has an easy to use map (p. 30 – 32) reference number.

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Emergency numbers Fire 01 Police 02 Ambulance 03 Gas leak 04 Electricity The electrical current is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Bring European plugs.

Time Greenwich Mean Time: +2 (+3 in summer)

Geography Area: Highest point: Largest lake: Longest river:

Population Latvia: Riga Population: Daugavpils: Liepâja: Jelgava:

64,589 km2 Gaiziòkalns - 311.5 m Lubânas - 82 km2 Daugava - 1020 km 2,339,000 790,000 117,000 97,000 71,000

Australia Arhitektu 1-305, Tel: 722 4251 , Fax: 722 4249

Japan Valdemâra 21, Tel: 781 2001, Fax: 781 2004

Austria Elizabetes 21a-11, Tel: 721 6125 , Fax: 721 4401

Kazakhstan Kaïíu 15, Tel: 750 7384, Fax: 750 7385

Azerbaijan Raiòa 3 -1, Tel: 714 2889, Fax: 714 2896

Lithuania Rûpniecîbas 24, Tel: 732 1519, Fax: 732 1589

Belarus Jēzusbaznîcas 12, Tel: 732 5321, Fax: 732 2891

Mexico Siluima 5-10, Tel: 752 3402, Fax: 752 3402

Belgium Alberta 13, Tel: 711 4852, Fax: 711 4855

Moldova Basteja bulv. 14, Tel: 7359160, Fax: 7359165

Brazil Vâcieða 13, Tel: 780 5100, Fax: 780 5101

Netherlands Toròa 4-1a, Tel: 732 6147, Fax: 732 6151

Canada Baznîcas 20/22, Tel: 781 3945, Fax: 781 3960

Norway Zirgu 14, Tel: 781 4100, Fax: 781 4108

Chile Baznîcas 8, Tel/Fax: 728 2319

Poland Mednieku 6b, Tel: 703 1500, Fax: 703 1549

China Ganîbu dambis 5, Tel: 735 7023, Fax: 735 7025

portugal Antonijas 11-62, Tel: 782 1924, Fax: 782 1931

Czech Republic Elizabetes 29a, Tel: 721 7814, Fax: 721 7821

Romania Brîvîbas 97, Tel: 704 3266, Fax: 704 3267

Denmark Pils 11, Tel: 722 6210, Fax: 782 0234

Russia Antonijas 2, Tel: 733 2151, Fax: 783 0209

Estonia Skolas 13, Tel: 781 2020, Fax: 781 2029

Slovakia Smilðu 8, Tel: 781 4280, Fax: 781 4290

EU Toròa 4, Tel: 732 5270, Fax: 732 5279

Spain Elizabetes 11, Tel: 732 0281, Fax: 732 5005

Finland Kalpaka blvd. 1, Tel: 707 8800, Fax: 707 8814

Sri Lanka Elizabetes 11, Tel: 722 9073, Fax: 724 2493

France Raiòa 9, Tel: 703 6600, Fax: 703 6616

Sweden Pumpura 8, Tel: 768 6600, Fax: 768 6601

Germany Raiòa 13, Tel: 708 5100, Fax: 708 5148

Switzerland Elizabetes 2, Tel: 733 8351, Fax: 733 8354

Greece Elizabetes 11-5, Tel: 735 6345, Fax: 735 6351

Taiwan Elizabetes 2a, Tel: 732 0610, Fax: 732 3268

Hungary Aldaru 7, Tel: 942 6311

turkey Blaumaòa 5a, Tel: 782 1600, Fax: 732 0334

Iceland Valdemâra 21, Tel: 703 5383, Fax: 782 0013

Ukraine Kalpaka 3, Tel: 724 3082, Fax: 732 5583

Ireland Valdemâra 21, Tel: 7035283, Fax: 7035286

United Kingdom Alunâna 5, Tel: 777 4700, Fax: 777 4707

Israel Elizabetes 2, Tel: 732 0980, Fax: 783 0170

Uruguay Ulmaòa gatve 2, Tel: 706 6302, Fax: 760 6873

Italy Teâtra 9, Tel: 721 6069, Fax: 721 6084

USA Raiòa bulv. 7, Tel: 703 6200, Fax: 782 0047 Uzbekistan Elizabetes 11-11, Tel: 732 2424, Fax: 732 2306

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Public holIdays January 1 New Year’s Day April 6 - 9 Easter May 1 Labor Day June 23-24 Summer Solstice November 18 Proclamation Day of

the Republic of Latvia December 24-26 Christmas December 31 New Year's Eve

Not feeling well?

Maybe someone from our short list of recommended English speaking specialists might help. If it's an emergency, call an ambulance by dialing (03), most of the dispatchers speak broken English.

24hr Pharmacy City Center location: Kamēlijas aptieka Brîvîbas 74 Tel.: 729 3514 24hr Pharmacy Old Town location: Rîgas Vecpilsēta aptieka Audēju 20 Tel.: 722 3826 General practitioner Dr. Tirans Bruòinieku iela 67 Tel.: 731 5584 Dentist Dr. Alēna Butkēvièa Dzirnavu iela 45/47 Tel.: 724 2470 ChildREN’s Doctor Dr. Egîls Zâlîtis Skolas iela 2 Tel.: 724 0202 Eye Doctor American Eye Center Tallinas iela 93 Tel.: 727 2257 Gynaecologist Dr. Dace Matule Stabu iela 52A-3 Tel.: 729 9896 Back Specialist Mugurkaula problēmu centrs K.Barona 117-44 Tel.: 727 1620 ARS - Clinic X-rays, blood tests and in patient clinic Skolas iela 5 Tel.: 720 1007

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Tourist information: Call 722 2222 for travel information.

Riga Tourist Information Center (Ðvâbes nams), Râtslaukums 6, F-3, Tel. 703 7900 www.rigatourism.com Latvian Tourism Board (Latvian Tourist Development Agency), Pils laukums 4, E-2, Tel. 722 9945, www.latviatourism.lv

Visas:

Citizens of the following countries do not need a visa to enter Latvia, for a stay of up to 90 days every six months: EU member states: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, France, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom.

EEA member states: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway.

EU "white list" countries: Andorra, Argentina, Australia, Bolivia, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Monaco, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Romania, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, The Holy See, United States, Uruguay, Venezuela.

exceed 15 days.

For further reading see these sites: www. mfa.gov.lv; www.ocma.gov.lv For assistance in obtaining residency permits, special visas or work permits, contact the Visas Division of the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs, Rîga, Raiòa 5, G-1, Tel. (371) 800 7657.

CUSTOMS REGULATIONS:

According to the Law on Customs Tariffs (with amendments after joining the European Union), EU citizens have no restrictions on the amount of cash they can bring into the Republic of Latvia. Every person at least 18 years old is entitled to bring in duty free: 800 cigarettes, 200 cigars, 110 liters of beer, 90 liters wine, 10 liters of other alcohol.

For more detailed information concerning perishable goods, and regulations for non-EU countries contact Latvian Customs (Muita) at: 720 7504

Money:

Latvia's currency is the lats. One lats is divid-

ed into 100 santimes. One euro is about 0.70 lats. The US dollar is about 0.53 lats.

Paper denominations come in 5; 10; 20; 50; 100 and 500 lats bills. Dollars and euros are not accepted as a form of payment in stores or restaurants.

Driving:

Persons in both the front and back seats must wear seatbelts. Motorists must use headlights at all times; and except in the case of immediate extreme danger, it is illegal to blow your horn in towns and villages.

Police in Latvia are empowered to collect fines on the spot of up to Ls 5 (8). Be sure to get a receipt! Larger fines can be paid at the bank. Due to a high incidence of vehicle theft and pilfering, guarded parking facilities should be used. The speed limit in the city is 50 kph and on major two-lane roads 90 kph. Latvia has one of the highest per capita rates of automobile accidents and fatalities in Europe. Driving while intoxicated is a very serious offense and carries heavy penalties. Local authorities use roadblocks and breathalyzer tests as enforcement tools.

Citizens of all other countries need an invitation to obtain a visa.

For a short-term entrance visa (up to 90 days during any six-month period) the following documents are required: - Passport that exceeds by at least three months the expiry date of the visa requested; - Completed visa application form; - 2 photos; Invitation to visit Latvia which has been approved by the Office of Citizenship and Migration Affairs at the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Latvia, no later than 3 months prior to the application; - A valid health and life insurance policy (guaranteeing the coverage of costs for health care in Latvia, as well as those associated with repatriation to the visitor's residence country in cases of serious illness or death); - A visa costs 29 euros.

At the border-crossing points of the Republic of Latvia visas are issued only in cases when, for valid reasons, the person has not been able to request a visa at the mission, supporting the reasons by relevant documents. The validity term of short-term visas issued at the border-crossing point shall not June

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Business guide

With its convenient access to the Baltic Sea, Riga is an ideal location for business, a hub for transport, and with its multi-level economic structure and great development opportunities, Riga truly is a modern city on the move.

Airport

Riga international airport (RIX), lies 8km southwest of the city. Bus N°22 leaving from Abrenes or 13. Janvāra will take you there for 0.30, while bus N°22A leaving from the Orthodox Cathedral costs 0.38. A taxi from center of Riga will be about 4.612 depending upon company and time of day.

Aeroflot - Skolas 9, Tel: 7240226, Fax: 731 32 50, Mon-Thr: 09:00-17:00, Fri: 09:00-17:00 AirBaltic - Airport, Tel: 9006006, Fax: 720 75 05 , Mon-Thu: 06:30-19:00, Fri: 06:30-19:00, Sat: 06:3018:00, Sun: 06:30-18:00 British Airways - Airport, Tel. 720 7097, Mon-Fri: 11:00-17:00, Sat-Sun 13:00-16:00.

City Centre, (Jēkaba Kazarmas), Torņu 4/IIIa, G-2, Tel. 732 6737, Mon-Fri: 09.00 - 18.00. Sat-Sun: closed. ČSA - Airport, Tel: 720 7636, Mon-Sun: 05:30- 17:00, except Fri: 09:00-17:00 Finnair - Airport, Tel. 720 70 10, 720 73 60, Mon-Fri: 09:00-17:30, Sat-Sun: 09.00-13.00; City centre, Barona 36, C-2, Tel. 724 3008; Mon-Fri: 09.00 - 17.00 KLM - Riga International Airport, Tel: 766 8600, Fax: 766 8207, Open: Mon.-Fri. 05.00-17.00 Turkish Airlines - Riga Airport, 3rd floor Tel: 7359444, 7359445. Fax: 7359443 AUSTRIAN AirLINES - Airport, Tel: 750 7700, Mon-Wed: 05:30-17:30, Thr-Sun: 09:00-18:00 LOT - Mazā Pils 5, F-2, Tel. 7207113, Fax: 724 2869; 722 7263; Mon- Fri: 05.00 - 17.00, Sat-Sun: 12.30-15.30.

Lufthansa - Airport, Tel. 750 7711, Fax: 750 7713; Mon-Fri: 09.00-17.00, Sat: 06.30-0.30, Sun: 10.0014.00 Spedair - Excess luggage transport, Tel. 720 7395 SAS - Airport, Tel. 720 7777, Fax 720 7505, Mon&Fri: 05.00 - 19.00, Tue-Thr: 05.00- 20.00, Sat: 05.00-18.30, Sun: 05.00-21.00; City centre Kaļķu 15, G-2, Mon-Fri: 09.00-18.00. Sat-Sun: closed.

Baltic Helicopter - Barona 119, D-2, Tel: 725 5535, 300/hr

Banks

AB.LV - Using state of the art technology to offer a wide range of financial services for domestic as well as international customers. Elizabetes 23, B-2, Tel: 777 5222, Fax: 777 5200 Baltic International Bank - Was founded in 1993.

From the very beginning the bank targeted large corporate clients and private individuals with significant account operations volumes. Kalēju 43, C-3, Tel: 7210172, Fax: 721 6870 Hansabank - JSC Hansabanka, one of the leading commercial banks in Latvia. Kaļķu 26, G-2, Tel:

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7444444, Fax: 702 44 00, Mon-Fri: 09:00-19:00 Norvik banka - Listed among the 5 largest Latvian banks. This bank is also among the leaders in terms of the most significant bank performance indicators and ratios -profitability, return on equity (ROE) and return on assets (ROA). E. Birznieka - Upīša 21, C-3, Tel: 704 1122, Fax: 7041111

54 56 58 60 62 64 66

Latvijas banka (National Bank of Latvia) The Bank of Latvia is the central bank of the Republic of Latvia.

Valdemāra 2a, B-2, Tel: 702 2300, Fax: 702 2420 Latvijas Krājbanka - A/S Latvijas Krajbanka was founded in 1924 as Latvijas Pasta Krajkase, and now has become the first Latvian commercial bank to acquire the quality management system's certificate ISO 9001:2000. Palasta 1, F-2, Tel. 709 2020, Fax: 709 2855, Nordea - Offers a full range of financial and banking services to corporate and private customers. Kaļķu 15, G-2, Tel: 709 6096, Fax: 7224149 Parex Bank - Parex Bank is one of the oldest commercial banks in Latvia. Since its establishment in 1992, it has rapidly grown to become the largest bank in Latvia. Parex Bank offers a wide variety of retail and commercial banking services locally as well as to the international community through 10 representative offices. Smilšu 3, G-2, Tel: 701 0000, Fax: 701 0001 DnB Nord - In 1998 NORD/LB started its expansion in the Baltic States. Regionally, the bank is on its way toward a good position in retail as well as wholesale banking. Smilšu 6, G-2, Tel: 800 8005, Fax: 7323449 Rietumu Banka - Rietumu Bank is one of the largest financial groups in the Baltics, offering banking services to private businesses and institutional investors.

Brīvības 54, C-2, Tel: 702 5555, Fax: 702 5260, Open 09:00 - 18:00 Trasta Komercbanka - Specializes in consulting on investments and financial instruments in managing capital. Miesnieku 9, G-4, Tel: 702 7777 seb/Unibanka - Unibanka's GDR was the first Latvian security released in international markets, and Unibanka is the first corporation in the Baltics with

shares issued on the London Stock Exchange. Pils 23, F-2, Tel: 800 80 09, Fax: 721 53 36, Open 09:00 - 17:00 HVB Bank - Was founded in December 1996 as Vereinsbank Riga and is a 100% subsidiary of Vereins- und Westbank AG, Hamburg. Elizabetes 63, C-2, Tel: 708 5500, Fax: 708 5507

календарь события месяца Car rental Avis - Lāčplēsa 92, B-3, Tel: 722 5876, новинки риги Fax: 782 0441, Open daily: 08:00-17:00 Budget - Airport, Tel. 720 73 27, Fax 720 76 27, Open ночная жизнь daily: 09:00-20:00, www.budget.lv Baltic Car Lease - Sixt Franchisee Airport, Aspāzijas рестораны 28, B-3, Tel: 720 7121, Fax: 720 7131, Open daily: 09:00-17:00 магазины Car4rent - Prices from 14Ls/day. Čaka 52, C-2, Tel: 731 6185, Mon-Fri: 10:00-19:00, Sat-Sun: closed. гостиницы Europcar - Basteja bulv. 10, G-2, Airport arrival hall, Tel: 722 2637, 922 2637 (24h), Fax: 782 0360, MonFri: 09:00-18:00, Sat-Sun: 09:00-17:00 Hertz - Aspāzijas 24, H-2, Airport arrival hall, Tel: 720 7980, Opne daily: 08:00-23:00 National Car Rental - Airport arrival hall, Tel: 720 7709, 24hr service Tel. 921 7535, Open daily: 09:0021:00 Opel Rent - Krasta 66, D-4, Tel. 630 5909, 24hrs Sixt - Airport, Tel. 720 7121, Fax 720 7131, www.sixt.lv, Open daily: 09:00-18:00

Consultants and lawyers

Hough, Vilciņš, Seppälä & Palubinskas - Corporate, employment, financial, international, maritime, real estate and taxation law. Valdemāra 34-8, C-2, Tel: 731 5396, Fax: 731 5434, e-mail: latlaw@apollo.lv Kļaviņš & Slaidiņš - Elizabetes 15, C-2, Tel: 781 4848, Fax:781 4849, e-mail:advokati@klavinsslaidins.lv Loze, GRUNTE & CERS - Blaumaņa 22, C-2, Tel: 783 0000, Fax: 783 0001 Prudentia - Specializing in attracting investments, raising financing, retrieving funds, protecting assets, sustaining or raising company profit margins. Ausekļa 1, B-2, Tel: 721 2324, Fax: 721 4319, e-mail: prudential@prudentia.lv Rödl & Partner - Valdemāra 33, B-2, Tel: 733 4280, Fax: 783 0327 Skudra & Udris Law Offices - Marijas iela 13 (Berga bazārs), C-3, Tel: 781 2078, Fax: 782 8171, e-mail: attorneys@su.lv Sorainen Law Offices - The Pan-Baltic M&A and Business Law Firm. Kr.Valdemāra 21, C-2, Tel: 736 5000, Fax: 736 5001, e-mail: sorainen@sorainen.lv

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Календарь

Июнь в Риге 1

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Что: премьера балета Les Creatures Где: ЛНО Когда: 19.00

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Что: концерт Мейси Грей Где: Арена «Рига» Когда: 19.30

Что: концерт «Реквием» (Моцарт), участвует Инесе Галанте Где: Домский собор Когда: 19.00

Что: концерт Горана Бреговича «Кармен со счастливым концом» Где: к/з «Дзинтари» Когда: 20.00

июль 3 июля Что: концерт группы Aerosmith Где: холл «Сконто»

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Что: премьера оперы Joseph Is a Fruitful Bough Где: ЛНО Когда: 19.00

Что: форум «Энергетика» Где: Дом Латышского общества Организатор: посольство США в Латвии, LBS

Что: выставка текстиля «Традиционное и современное» Где: Музей декоративноприкладного искусства

Что: концерт Кристины Орбакайте Где: к/з «Дзинтари» Когда: 19.30

Что: концерт Леонида Агутина и Анжелики Варум Где: к/з «Дзинтари» Когда: 19.30

Что: к онцерт NAZARETH и KEN HENSLY BAND Где: эстрада «Огре» Когда: 21.00

Что: международная конференция «Трансбалтика 2007» Где: Radisson SAS Daugava Организатор: RMS Forum

Что: концерт группы Uma2rman Где: к/з «Дзинтари» Когда: 20.00

Что: концерт итальянской музыки «O Sole mio!» Где: к/з «Дзинтари» Когда: 20.00

Что: 5-ый ежегодный песенный фестиваль Где: Бастионная горка

Что: праздник летнего солнцестояния Лиго Где: по всей Латвии

Что: 5-ый ежегодный песенный фестиваль Где: Этнографический музей

Ом узы к ю фес морис альных ти тива и рос лях чески с звез ийски и конц х х е в на д в Юр и запа ртах мал д шем е чи ных ию т вып льском айте уске спе ц !

2007

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События месяца

Екатерина Стрельцова

Июнь – самое время отправиться на природу и насладиться солнечной погодой, или посетить один из концертов. В этом номере читайте об итоговых мероприятиях фестиваля «Французская весна», Рижском оперном фестивале и, конечно же, традициях празднования национального праздника Лиго.

Сделано во Франции

Фестиваль «Французская весна» плавно перешел в лето и уже близится к своему завершению. За три месяца вниманию зрителей были представлены работы различных жанров и эпох – от выставки севрского фарфора до авангардных танцевальных постановок. В этом месяце в фокусе – многогранное и интригующее современное искусство Франции. В галерее «Арсенал» до 24 июня проходит выставка Fait in France - «Сделано во Франции», на которой представлены 50 работ 30 авторов. Одновременно в Арсенале проходит видео-инсталляция «Руки» одного из самых известных европейских художников Мелика Оханяна, являющая собой девять ТВ экранов, расположенных в определенном порядке на полу, каждый из которых показывает краткометражные ленты. Не пропустите самую вкусную часть фестиваля – гастрономический праздник, который пройдет 2 июня на площади возле Дома конгрессов. Среди гостей фестиваля - преподаватели и студенты париж– ской школы Grégoire Ferrandi. Блюда французских мастеров вы сможете отведать в рижских и юрмальских ресторанах. Также возле Дома конгрессов пройдет Зеленый базарчик, организованный Мартиньшем Ритиньшем, основоположником движения slow food в Латвии, где вы сможете полакомиться экологически чистой местной продукцией. Ну и как же можно говорить о Франции, не упомянув об изящной моде? Выставка духов и декоративной косметики известного дома моды Guerlain будет проходить до 17 июня в Доме Черноголовых. Фестиваль завершится феерическим шоу 21 июня на Домской площади.

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Лигуют все!

Заметили, как принарядился город? Все дело в празднике летнего солнцестояния Лиго, который с размахом отмечают по всей Латвии в ночь с 23 на 24 июня. Чтобы проникнуться этим весельем, предлагаем вам посетить интересные мероприятия под открытым небом. В преддверии праздника 16-17 июня состоится пятый ежегодный песенный фестиваль, на котором выступят лучшие хоры Латвии. В первый день музыканты будут выступать в парке на Бастионной горке, 17 июня веселье переместится в Этнографический музей на берегу озера Югла, куда, кроме того, советуем отправиться за настоящими латышскими сувенирами. Травы, веселье и немного колдовства поселятся на булыжных улочках Старой Риги с 17 по 24 июня, где вы сможете приобрести сувениры и венки из трав и цветов в многочисленных лавочках и палатках. Лиго – праздник, корни которого в древних языческих временах. Да и сейчас в праздновании Лиго есть что-то языческое – песни, пляски, прыжки через костер. В эту ночь горожане выезжают на природу жарить шашлык и веселиться – одним словом, «лиговать». Количество яств на Лиго напоминает средневековый пир – вкуснейшее латвийское пиво, сыр с тмином и ароматный шашлык. С этим праздником связано много традиций и примет. Например, влюбленные на Лиго отправляются в лес, где ищут цветок папоротника (который, как известно, вообще не цветет). На Лиго принято гулять до самого утра, потому что ложиться спать в эту ночь – плохая примета, а с утра надо обязательно умыться росой, которая подарит здоровье на весь год!

Рижский оперный фестиваль

Рижский оперный фестиваль был основан в 1998 году с целью демонстрации новых постановок уходящего сезона вместе с давно полюбившимися представлениями в особой праздничной атмосфере. С течением времени фестиваль стал музыкальным событием не только местного, но и международного масштаба, привлекая гостей и участников со всего света. В этом году в Риге проходит уже 10-ый по счету оперный фестиваль, который является международно признанным событием. Прежде чем отправиться на летние каникулы, Латвийская Национальная опера порадует рижан и гостей Риги обширной программой фестиваля. Фестиваль откроет мировая премьера оперы латвийского композитора Эрика Эшенвальда «Joseph is a Fruitful Bough», основанной на библейской легенде об Иосифе и его братьях. В программе фестиваля также «Валькирия» Ричарда Вагнера и вторая часть тетралогии «Кольцо Нибелунгов», а также новая постановка «Травиата» Верди. Не пропустите также главную премьеру 2006 года – латвийскую постановку «Леди Макбет Мценского уезда» Дмитрия Шостаковича, получившую приз зрителей за лучшую оперу сезона 2005/2006. В качестве специального гостя французская Opéra de Lyon покажет одноактовую оперу композитора Francis Poulenc «La Voix Humaine» постановки легендарного французского режиссера Laurent Pelly с божественным сопрано англичанки Dame Felicity Lott. Благодаря новаторскому подходу оперная музыка в Латвии сегодня переживает настоящий расцвет, привлекая в ряды своих поклонников не только взрослое поколение слушателей, но и молодежь.

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Экскурс

Новинки Риги Provence – вся Франция на вашей тарелке

На углу улиц Бривибас и Лачплеша, в старинном деревянном здании с недавних пор работает новый ресторан французской кухни - Provence. В этом уютном ресторанчике царит понастоящему теплая, домашняя атмосфера солнечного региона Франции Прованса. В ресторане готовят традиционные французские блюда, но предупреждаем: улитки не входят в меню! Интерьер ресторана мы оценили на «отлично»: деревянные полы (не хватает только скрипа), роскошная ретро люстра, будто бы пожелтевшие и выцветшие от времени странички гербария и семей-

ные фотографии, развешанные по стенам – все это создает шарм неторопливой старины. Сельское очарование придают занавески, небрежно собранные из пышной тафты, декоративные медные кувшины и тарелки и живые цветы, как внутри, так и снаружи ресторана. Мягкое освещение небольших тканых абажуров на столиках придадут беседе особую интимность. В Provence меню разделено на дневное и вечернее. Поскольку мы отправились в наше гастрономическое «путешествие» по Провансу днем, нам были предложены более простые крестьянские блюда по рецептам из различных уголков Франции. Традиционный французский луковый суп оказался выше всех

Екатерина Стрельцова

похвал – густой, сытный, с румяными сырными гренками. Мы попробовали также традиционный Лионский салат с картофелем и беконом и салат «Трио» с яблоками и тремя видами салата, но тут нас постигло разочарование – оба блюда оказались слишком жирными. Оливковое масло, бальзамический уксус, специи и свежий оливковый хлеб также сопровождали нашу трапезу. Тем временем, как дневное меню состоит из простых блюд в крестянском стиле, вечернее включает более изысканные блюда, например, устрицы и мидии под тремя видами соуса, и прочие морепродукты, стейки, утка и оленина в можжевеловом маринаде.

Новые повара в Monterosso Один из самых старых ресторанов Риги – Monterosso был основан в 1913 году. После полной реставрации в 2000 году ресторан за короткое время стал любимым местом для жителей города и гостей из других стран и отчасти визитной карточкой Риги. Элегантный классический интерьер делает Monterosso идеальным местом как для бизнес-ленча, так и для изысканного ужина. Исключительное меню, дополненное одной из самых обширных в Риге картой вин, создано всемирно известным шефом Патриком Пэйджсом. Недавно Monterosso порадовал своих гостей приятными новостями: в ресторан пожаловал новый поварской дуэт из Италии. Итак, знакомьтесь, шеф-повар Массимо Солдани и его помощник Франческо Гросси прибыли из солнечной Тосканы. Поскольку у постоянных клиентов есть уже свои предпочтения и любимые блюда из стандартного меню ресторана, новые повара не станут его кардинально менять. Массимо и Франческо будут создавать, в основном, специальные еженедельные предложения.

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За покупками в Sky & More Новый торговый центр открылся в быстро развивающемся районе между улицами Сканстес и Дунтес. Теперь у жителей высотной новостройки Duntes ozoli и окрестных домов появилась возможность делать покупки прямо рядом с домом. Название торгового центра составляют два слова - Sky & More. Sky – известная сеть продуктовых магазинов, предлагающих покупателям местные и заморские деликатесы. А More («больше») включает в себя магазины для всех членов семьи. Для сильной половины человечества предусмотрены стильные магазины одежды

Doris, Hartwick и Navigare, магазины техники Euronics и Technomarket. Любители охоты, рыбалки и отдыха на природе найдут все необходимые принадлежности в магазине Expedition store. Если вы собираетесь в отпуск – чемоданы и сумки ведущих фирм вы найдете в Traveller. Известно, что женщины обожают коллекционировать туфли – широкий выбор обуви представлен в магазинах Alberto Fabiani, Clarks, Fermani. Эксклюзивные бренды одежды вы найдете в ультра-модной Studio Takeshi Kurosava, одежда классического стиля представлена в Otto Kern - Pierre Cardin, а в Palermo модниц порадуют одежда и аксессуары от Alessandro

del Aqua, GF Ferre, See by Chloe и других дизайнеров. Соблазительное белье вы найдете в магазинах Luna и Almera Lux, а ювелирные украшения сияют в витринах Shine, Fratelli, и Zappini. Для самых маленьких посетителей Sky & More предназначены Sportland Kids, Ninna Nanna и Coccodrillo. Кроме того, в Sky & More открылся первый и пока единственный в Латвии магазин одежды JLo, дизайн которой создает поп дива Дженнифер Лопес. Если вы устали от покупок и проголодались, сможете пообедать в одном из кафе Sky & More: нескольких кофейнях, пиццерии Čili Pizza или ресторане восточной кухни Gan Bei.

Saint Germain – In Vino Veritas! Вслед за Провансом еще одна французская провинция, Сен Жермен, появилась на карте ресторанов Риги, однако концепция Saint Germain совершенно другая. Saint Germain – элегантный винный ресторан-погреб, который как нельзя лучше вписывается в респектабельный район посольств и элитных зданий эпохи Ар Нуво. Первый ресторан Saint Germain открылся в Вильнюсе два года назад, став очень популярным местом среди туристов и местных ценителей вина. Успех ресторана превзошел ожидания владельцев, поэтому теперь настала очередь Риги. Ресторан Saint Germain назван в честь Юго-западной провинции Франции, известной своими многовековыми традициями виноделия. В Saint Germain царит старинная и одновременно креативная атмосфера эклектики. Со средневековой кирпичной кладкой соседствует диковинная роспись на стенах в виде переплетенной виноградной лозы. Несмотря на формальную сервировку столов и винную специализацию, в Saint Germain царит легкая атмосфера, и хочется беззаботно плюхнуться на мягкий диванчик и насладиться бокалом вина. Особенно приятно летним вечером отдыхать на открытой террасе.

Итак, вино. Оно исполняет главную роль в спектакле этого ресторана. За стеклянной дверцей специального винного погреба с определенным температурным режимом хранится более 150 видов эксклюзивного вина со всего света, в том числе, естественно, из Франции. Список внушительный даже для опытного ценителя вин. Кухня в Saint Germain интернациональная с французским «привкусом», к каждому блюду легко подобрать соответствующее вино. Шеф-повар рекомендует отведать филе тунца с томатами, фирменный чизкейк и, конечно же, традиционный паштет Foie Gras.

Province – Lâèplçša 12, C-2, Tel: 67240412 Monterosso – Vaïòu 9, G-2, Tel: 67507170 Sky & More - Duntes 19a, Tel: 7853417 Saint Germain – Antonijas 9, B-2, Tel: 67334019 Июнь

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Развлечения

Ночная

жизнь Рига — один из крупнейших городов Балтии, город, где ночи так же динамичны, как движение в час пик. Ночная жизнь разнообразна и насыщена: клубы, бары, казино — на любой вкус. Бары Hedonia 55 Для истинного любителя замысловатых коктейлей Hedonia 55 самое подходящее место: здесь на ваш выбор предлагается более чем 70 их видов. Днем звучит легкая, спокойная музыка, к вечеру ритмы становятся насыщеннее. В Hedonia 55 будет от чего потерять голову.

Dzirnavu 55, C-2, тeл. 724 2855, пон.-четв.

12:00-24:00, пятн: 12:00-06.00, суб: 14:0006:00, воск: 16:00-24:00

Orange bаrs Кухня небольшого “Оранжевого бара” рассчитана на вкусы богемы. Впрочем, как и вся атмосфера: однажды на вечеринке одним из гостей, с полным уважением к собравшимся зрителям, был исполнен импровизированный мужской стриптиз (с ведома администрации). Остаться в зале после 24:00 по выходным можно лицам, не моложе 25 лет.

Jāņa Sēta 5, G-3, тeл. 7228423. Открыто: воск, пон. 12:00-01:00; втор.-четв. 12:0002:00, пятн.-суб. 12:00-05:00

Martini bаrs Этот ночной клуб, зажигающий в Старой Риге, уже приобрел небывалую популярность. Оформленный в фирменном стиле “Мартини”, он создает полное ощущение того, что вы только что сошли с его рекламных плакатов и роликов.

Kaļķu 12/14, G-3, тeл. 722 0577, пон.-пятн.

10:00-24:00, суб.-воск. 14:00-24:00

Paddy Whelan’s Зовется местными просто “паб” – одно из известных мест встреч в Старой Риге. Типичный ирландский паб, что означает: много шума, дыма и жизненного духа. Есть и специальные комнаты для некурящих. Живую музыку иногда можно услышать в исполнении старого рижского трубадура Яна.

Grecinieku 4, G-3, тел. 721 0249. Открыто:

пон.-четв. 11:00-01:00, пятн.-суб. 11:0003:00, воск. 11:00-24:00 Rīgas balzāms Изысканный ресторан носит название гордости Латвии — “Рижский черный бальзам”. Этот напиток, приготовленный на основе 12 трав, известен своими целебными свойствами. Если у вас нет настроения начинать вечер с бальзама, попробуйте коктейль, в состав которого входит этот чудодейственный напиток. “Рижский черный бальзам” — прекрасный подарок из Латвии, поэтому не забудьте купить здесь несколько бутылочек.

Torņa 4, F-2, тeл. 7214494, пон.-ср. 10:3024:00, четв.-суб. 10:30-01:00, воск. 11:0024:00 Sarkans Этот ультрасовременный ресторан и клуб, занимающий три этажа, предлагает скромное меню и вкусные коктейли. Здесь очень людно и оживленно по выходным. Очень быстро Sarkans стал популярен как место встреч и развлечений стильной молодежи.

Stabu 10, C-2, тeл. 727 2286, пон.-четв.

10:00-24:00, пятн. 10:00-04:00, суб. 12:0004:00, воск. 12:00-24:00 Skyline bаrs Даже если вам не удастся занять местечко у окна и за коктейлем полюбоваться красотой города с высоты 26-го этажа — сюда все же стоит прийти. Прекрасный вид открывается уже во время плавного подъема в прозрачных лифтах, которые расположены со стороны гостиницы Reval. Этот фешенебельный ресторан привлекает латышскую элиту и иностранных бизнесменов. Elizabetes 55 (Reval Hotel Latvija – 26-ой этаж), C-2, тeл. 777 2222, пон.-четв. 15:00-01:00, пятн.-воск.

15:00-03:00 T.G.I. Friday’s Американская сеть ресторанов предлагает самые популярные блюда Дикого Запада из свежайших латвийских продуктов.

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Развлечения

Обслуживающий персонал в ресторане очень внимательный: веселые официанты никогда не дадут вам заскучать.

Kaļķu 6, G-2, тeл. 722 9072, воск.-чет.

12:00-02:00, пят. - суб. 12:00-4:00

НоЧные клубы Fashion Club Fashion Club в развлекательном комплексе VEGAS по праву считается среди рижской публики одним из главных мест развлечений по выходным. Название клуба полностью соответствует программе, которая предлагается посетителям – каждую пятницу и субботу клуб насыщается атмосферой моды, – атмосферой, которая царит на сверкающих глянцем обложках дорогих журналов и на вечеринках в европейских столицах! Показы новейших коллекций, выступление популярных артистов и лучшая музыка. Добавьте к этому великолепный интерьер, фантастический свет и станет ясно, почему девушки из крупнейших модельных агентств Риги считают Fashion Club настоящей ночной Меккой и собираются здесь каждые выходные!

Tērbatas 2, C-2, тел. 26393839. Открыто четв. 22.00-4.00, пят. - суб. 20:00-06:00 La Rocca Самый большой ночной клуб в Прибалтике использует ультрасовременные лазерные, световые и звуковые технологии. Официантки в коротких блестящих платьях обслуживают массу молодых, жизнерадостных людей, которые хотят показать себя и произвести наилучшее впечатление друг на друга. Если же все перечисленное выше вас не устраивает, охладите свой пыл в нашем чилл-ауте, рок-баре, или, в конце концов, просто полюбуйтесь на зрелищные выступления танцоров ”go-go”.

Brīvības 96, C-2, тeл: 750 6030, пятн.-субб.

22.00-06.00, воск.-четв.: выходной Nautilus Как только на танцевальной площадке начнут вспыхивать всевозможные огни, у вас сразу же появится мысль о том, что

самое время нырять, нырять, нырять в эту толпу движущихся тел. Клиентов чилл-аута обслуживают одни из самых лучших барменов Риги. Здесь вы встретите и самых хорошеньких женщин. Танцевальные мероприятия регулярно затягиваются до утра.

Kungu 8, G-4, тeл. 781 4455, ср. 23:008:00, четв. – пят. 23:00-8:00, воск.-пон.: выходной.

Studio 69 Самое горячее местечко для любителей эротических развлечений. Не самое дешевое заведение, но оно того стоит — вы получите незабываемое удовольствие. Кто знает, может быть, одна из девушек на танцевальной площадке вам недвусмысленно подмигнет. Стоит заметить, что время от времени здесь проходит стриптиз-шоу, а по пятницам звучит живая музыка.

Brīvības 96, C-2, тeл. 750 6030, пон.-четв.: 21.00-05:00, пятн.-суб.: 21.00-06.00 Voodoo Сlub Горячие карибские ночи, наполненные тайной, вот что вам приходит на ум, когда вы думаете о вуду. Обновленный клуб Voodoo в самом центре Риги придерживается этой же точки зрения. Тайна и загадка повсюду. Вы же никогда не знаете, кого вы можете встретить. Карибские краски разогреют ваше внутреннее спокойствие, а горячая ночь заставит вас танцевать и веселиться.

Elizabetes 55, Reval Hotel Latvija, C-2 тел. 777 2355. Открыт 21:00-06:00.

Развлечения для взрослых Dolls Клуб находится в гостинице ”Рига”, предлагает вашему вниманию самых хорошеньких танцовщиц города. Клуб небольшой, в первую очередь, для постояльцев гостиницы. Вход: 15 евро.

Aspāzijas 25, H-2, тeл: 750 9260. Открыто: 22.00-09.00, ресторан: 12.00-22.00, завтрак: 05.00-09.00

Во всех казино Латвии должны обязательно сделать ксерокопию вашего удостоверения личности и ваше цифровое фото. Требования вызваны соображениями безопасности. Удачи!

Admiralu klubs Большой игорный зал с прекрасным рестораном и кабаре-шоу в соседнем зале.

Blaumaņa 32, C-2, тел. 7286925. Открыто круглосуточно.

Aladins Рулетка, покер, Black Jack, бильярд. Čaka 32, C-3, тел. 916 9920. Открыто: 12:00-06:00. Бар и игровые автоматы – круглосуточно.

Olympic Casino Расположенное в гостинице Radisson SAS Daugava, на левом берегу Даугавы, казино Olympic является самым большим в Риге.

Kuģu 24, B-2, тел. 789 2959. Открыто круглосуточно.

Play & Boy Casino Игра на фоне эротической оргии эпохи декаданса.

Brīvības 96, C-2. Открыто: круглосуточно.

Olympic Voodoo Casino Вуду родом из Западной Африки, слово это означает “дух”. Voodoo – приключение, возбуждение, ритуал и мистика. Посетите это захватывающее дух казино с его уникальным и незабываемым интерьером.

Elizabetes 55 (Reval Hotel Latvija), C-2, тeл. 782 8777. Открыто круглосуточно.

Vegas Casino Недавно открытое казино расположено в развлекательном центре Vegas. Здесь вы можете посетить бар, кафе, ночной клуб и VIP Casino c рулеткой и тремя карточными столами. Всевозможные игры помогут вам пополнить или облегчить свой кошелек.

Tērbatas 2, C-2, тeл. 709 2400. Открыто – с 24:00-00:00. Июнь

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Рестораны

Кухни мира Путеводитель по обеденным местам в Риге - от местных баров до изысканной ресторанной кухни. В Риге вы можете найти все, что вашей душе угодно ИнтернациональнаЯ Bergs Restaurant Bergs Restaurant, расположенный в невероятно стильной гостинице Bergs, в основном, предлагает блюда интернациональной кухни. Легкий и ненавязчивый интерьер позволит вам расслабиться и отдохнуть, наслаждаясь вкусными десертами и напитками и наблюдая за неспешной жизнью улочек и лабиринтов тихого Базара Берга. Elizabetes 83/85, C-3, тел: 7770957. Открыто: 12.00 – 24.00 Columbine Хотя ресторан “Columbine” расположен в гостинице, владельцем которой является шведская семья, кухню смело можно назвать интернациональной. Интерьер оформлен с великолепным вкусом и сочетается с качеством меню.

Aspāzijas bulv. 36/38 (гостиница ”Метрополь”), H-3, тел. 722 5411. Открыто ежедневно 12:00 – 23:00 Esplanade Меню с разумными ценами, достойная замена ресторану в гостинице. Здесь вы найдете много соблазнительных блюд, например, свиное филе в медовой глазури. Прекрасные меню для фуршета, завтраков и обедов. Живая музыка звучит в течение всего дня. Шведский завтрак – 7 евро, обед – 11 евро.

Elizabetes 55 (Reval Hotel Latvija), C2, тел. 777 2215, пон.-пят. 06:30 – 10:30, 12:00 – 23:00, суб.-вос. 07:00 – 11:00, 12:00 – 23:00 Gutenbergs В отеле “Gutenbergs” есть два обеденных зала. На нижнем этаже – зал для официальных встреч. А на крыше — более привычный, повседневный обеденный зал. Кстати, наверху есть возможность полюбоваться панорамой Старой Риги.

Doma laukums 1, (Hotel Gutenbergs), F-2, тел. 781 4090. Открыто ежедневно: 12:00 – 23:00 62

Orangerie Обедая под сводами стеклянного потолка этой современной оранжереи, вы получите ощущение свежести. Учитывая изысканность кухни и обстановки, вы можете смело приходить сюда, чтобы отметить особо значительное для вас событие.

Pils 12 (Grand Palace Hotel), F-2, тел. 704 4134, пон.-суб. 07:00 – 03:00, вос. 07:00 – 23:00.

Otto Schwarz Роскошный ресторан наверху Hotel De Rome имеет 120-летнюю историю. Когда вы будете просматривать самую большую карту вин в Балтике, не забудьте полюбоваться видом парка, простирающегося внизу. Шеф-повар Улдис Кребс гордится тем, что предлагает своим посетителям всегда только самое свежайшее мясо и мореподукты.

Kaļķu 28 (Hotel De Rome), H-2, тел. 708 7600. Открыто ежедневно 07:00 – 23:00, завтрак 07:00 – 10:30, ланч-обед-ужин 12:00 – 23:00

Piramida “Пирамида” — сокровищница кулинарного искусства. Обслуживание высочайшего класса в ресторане ”Пирамида” — для тех, кто жаждет интимной обстановки и изысканного окружения. Ресторан, расположившийся в стеклянной пирамиде, предлагает вам прекрасную европейскую кухню и изысканные вина. По рабочим дням – шведский стол до 15:00, в теплые летние дни – шашлык на Парковой террасе. Raimersa 1 (Park Hotel Ridzene), H-1, тел. 732 4433. Открыто ежедневно 11:00 – 24:00 Seasons Изысканный ресторан, где вас накормят по высшему разряду. Обслуживание выше всяческих похвал, меню удовлетворит самый изысканный вкус. Сидя перед пылающим камином в кожаном кресле с бокалом прекрасного вина, вы забудете обо всем.

Pils 12 (Grand Palace Hotel), F-2, тел. 704 4000, пон.-суб. 11:00-23:00

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Рестораны ИтальЯнскаЯ Fellini Что общего у знаменитого режиссера с рестораном, названным его именем? Ответ прост — класс. Итальянцы – большие любители и ценители вкусной еды, обладают мастерством приготовления необыкновенных блюд из самых простых продуктов. Режиссер Феллини был величайшим творцом черно-белого кино, повара ресторана ”Феллини” — мастера цвета и свежести.

Marijas 13, C-3, тел. 728 4801. Открыто ежедневно 12:00–23:00 Monterosso Monterosso – итальянская кухня в утонченной элегантной обстановке. Каппучино-бар – идеальное место для обеда. В меню вы найдете ваши излюбленные блю-

“Chаinе des Rotisseurs” одним из самых лучших ресторанов Риги. Уникальная обстановка и дружелюбная атмосфера объясняют, почему этот ресторан пользуется такой популярностью у рижан, со страхом относящимся к любым специям, кроме укропа. Для начала попробуйте луковый бхаджи, затем – овощной мадрас с чесноком наан и огурцами райта. Может быть, вам покажется, что это дороговато, то ведь вы этого достойны!

Vecpilsētas 3, Н-4, тел. 721 2614. Открыто: воск.-четв: 12:00-23:00, пятн.-суб: 12:00-24:00

менно попробуйте квас и удивительные рыбные блюда. R.Vāgnera 3, G-3, тел. 721 4057. Открыто ежедневно 12:00 – 24:00

ЛатышскаЯ

Russkij Dvor Все тот же знаменитый “Лидо”, благодаря которому создана целая сеть ресторанов в латышском стиле с блюдами латышской кухни, добавил к своему списку ресторан с кухней русской. Здесь вас ждут свиные ножки, холодец, борщ, пампушки, пельмени, квас и кисель. Ķengaraga 3, тел. 713 4930. Открыто ежедневно 10:00 – 23:00, воск: 11:00-23:00.

Центр отдыха “Lido” Добро пожаловать в царство мясных блюд! Этот центр – обязательный объект посещения всех гостей города Риги, а для детей

Traktieris “Трактиръ” – традиционный русский ресторан со старинным самоваром на каждом столе. Официанты одеты в красивые шелковые косоворотки, а в меню есть все, что душа пожелает. Помните — русская трапеза невозможна без стопки водки.

Antonijas 8, B-2, тел. 733 2455. Открыто ежедневно 12:00 – 24:00

Славянский ресторан Оформлен куклами, героями русских народных сказок. В этом ресторане вас накормят вкусно и недорого. Здесь же можно выпить вкусного пива.

Blaumaņa 9, C-2, тел. 728 3974. Открыто ежедневно 12:00 – 23:00

Дары морЯ Corallo Предоставьте итальянцу создать изысканный рыбный ресторан с неповторимой солнечной атмосферой в самом сердце Прибалтики. Добро пожаловать в Corallo, где вы можете насладиться свежайшими морепродуктами: устрицами, креветками и лобстерами. тигровыми Открыто: пон - суб: 18:00-23:00 (Базар Berga) Marijas 13, C-2, тел: 728 4048 да: пасты, пиццы, мясные и рыбные блюда. Оцените их большие тонкие и хрустящие пиццы всего за 5 – 8 €. Vaļņu 9, G-2, тел: 7507170. Открыто: 12.00 – 24.00 Tiramisu Ресторан славится своей уютной, по-настоящему итальянской атмосферой и кухней. Меню включает в себя всевозможные блюда – от стейков до домашних макарон. Не отказывайте себе в десерте – обязательно отведайте великолепный легкий тирамису. Карта вин, одна из самых лучших в городе, содержит около ста видов. Посетители ресторана – стильная местная интеллигенция. Ģertrūdes 32, C-2, тел: 7312218, пон.-пят.

12.00-23.00, суб. 12.00-23.00, вос. 12.00-22.00

ИндийскаЯ Indian Raja Sue’s Indian Raja – не так давно названный

— просто рай! В одном из самых больших деревянных срубов в Европе прeдлагается богатейший выбор блюд латышской и общепринятой интернациональной кухни. Центр может принять до 1000 гостей, но порой кажется, что их и того больше. Здесь же есть и пивной погреб, где обязательно нужно попробовать приготовленноe по специальным рецептам домашнеe медовоe пивo. После сытной трапезы можно погулять, совершить экскурсии и полюбоваться уникальной архитектурой, поразмяться, например, прыгнуть со страховочной резинкой. Хотя, наверноe, лучше всем этим заняться до еды. Krasta 76, D-4, тел. 750 4420, Пивной подвал 12:00 – 24:00, бистро 10:00 – 23:00

РусскаЯ Аrbat “Арбат” – прекрасный ресторан русской кухни в Старом городе носит название знаменитой московской улицы. Непре-

Рыбный ресторан SKONTO Рыбный ресторан SKONTO. Если люди собираются в рыбный ресторан, то прежде всего вспоминают ресторан SKONTO. Это ресторан высшего класса имеет в меню все, что обитает под водой. Лобстера или форель вы сами можете выбрать в аквариуме. Ресторан не из дешевых, но это реальная плата за качество еды и обслуживания.

R.Vāgnera 4, G-3, тел. 721 6713. Открыто ежедневно 12:00 – 24:00

ЯпонскаЯ Sumo Японская кухня: суши, сашими, темпура, якитори. Если вы начнете заказывать все подряд, то получится дороговато, поэтому советуем начать с ассорти. Не забудьте заказать саке, традиционную японскую рисовую водку.

Kungu 8, G-4, тел. 750 3244. Открыто ежедневно 11:00 – 24:00 Июнь

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Shopping

Магазинный путеводитель Лучшие бутики, магазины и универмаги Риги. В Риге есть все, что пожелаете. Быть может, в латвийской столице вы не найдете больших Домов моды, как в Нью-Йорке и Париже, однако выбор предлагаемых товаров вас приятно удивит БытоваЯ техника Hi-End Collection — самая современная аудио- и видео-техника в Риге. Basteja 16 (Basteja Pasāža), G-2, тел. 721 4303, oткрыт ежедневно 10:00-19:00

парфюмериЯ Boheme — Kungu 1, Brīvības 90, G-3, тел. 722 8077, пон. – пятн. 10:00-20:00, суб. 11:00-19:00 Mirang — Elizabetes 33, C-2, тел. 733 2095, пон. – пятн. 10:00-19:00, суб. 10:0017:00 Yves Rocher — Kr.Valdemāra 17, B-2, тел. 722 0262, пон. – четв. 10:00-19:00, пятн. – суб. 10:00-17:00, воскр. - выходной.

ких брендов, предлагающих бумажники, портфели и другие аксессуары из кожи. Жак Ширак уже купил несколько. Meistaru 8, G-2, телефон: 721 5025, пон.-пят.: 10:0019:00, суб.: 10:00-17:00, воскр.: закрыто.

Bergs — высококачественная одежда для мужчин и женщин. Lielirbes 29, тел. 745 6143, ежедневно 10:00-22:00 Betty Barclay — модный бутик предлагает простую, но в то же время стильную одежду известного дизайнера. Aspāzijas bulv. 28, H-3, тел. 781 4181, пон.-пятн: 10:00-20:00, суб: 10:00-18:00 Chapurin - Jēkaba 3/5, F-2, тел: 722 8862, пон.-пятн.: 11:00-19:00, суб.:10:00-17:00 City Fashion — модная одежда для мужчин и женщин. Tērbatas 4, C-2, тел.

724 2252, пон. – суб. 10:00-19:00, воскр.

12:00-17:00

Cubus — предлагает широкий выбор повседневной одежды для мужчин, женщин и детей. Tērbatas 13, C-2, тел. 721 7747, время работы: пон. – пятн. 10:0020:00, суб. 10:00-18:00, воскр. 10:0017:00 Gerry Weber — Tērbatas 32, C-2, тел.

728 0945, пон. – пятн. 10:00-20:00, суб. 10:00-19:00.

HUGO BOSS — мужская мода. Elizabetes 77, D-4, тел. 721 7074. пон. – пят. 10:00– 20:00, суб. 10:00–18:00 Palazzo Italia — крупнейший центр итальянской моды. Kr.Barona 2, C-3, тел.

707 0930, пон. – суб. 10:45-19:45 Plaza Boutique — одежда от дизайнеров высшего уровня. Smilšu 18, G-2, тел.

721 2199, пон. – суб. 11:00-19.00

Обувь Loretti — ультрамодная женская обувь.

Basteja bulv. 84, C-2, тел. 722 1707, пон.

– пятн. 10:00-19:00, суб. 10:00-19:00 Tops! — Kr.Barona 34, C-2, тел. 728 2313, пон. – пятн. 10:00-20:00, суб. 10:00-19:00, воскр. 11:00-17:00 Vacijas apavi — обувь известных марок из Германии. Elizabetes 85а (Berga Bazārs), C-2, тел: 728 8056, пон. – пятн.

10:00-19:00, суб. 11:00-18:00, воск. — закрыт.

Baldini — качественная мужская и женская обувь из Италии. Elizabetes 9, C-2, тел. 728 6900, пон. – пятн. 10:00-20:00, суб. 10:00-19:00, воскр. 11:00-17:00

Мода Armorial — ищете подарок или чтото элегантное для самого себя? Armorial - один из самых известных французс64

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Shopping Кондитерские изделиЯ Emihla Gustava Chocolate — место, где сбываются ваши шоколадные мечты. Забудьте о калориях и не отказывайте себе ни в чем! Шоколад импортируется из Бельгии, каждый отдельный заказ будет выполнен согласно вашим пожеланиям. Marijas 13, k.4, C-2, тел.: 728 7510. Открыто ежедневно: 9:00-22:00, воск.

11:00 -20:00.

Prestige — богатая коллекция мехов и кожаных курток. Merķeļa 9, C-3, тел.

7223046, пон.-пятн. 10:00-22:00, суб.

10:00-18:00

MC2 — богатейший выбор деликатесов, магазин мебели и художественная галерея. Krasta 68а, тел. 700 6868, пон. – суб.

10:00-21:00, воскр. 10:00-19:00

Toskаna — французская мода от JeanPaul Gaultier и других известных кутюрье. Basteja bulv. 16, G-2, тел. 721 5045, пон. – пятн. 10:00-20:00, суб. 11:00-20:00, воск. 11:00-17:00

Mols — один из самых больших торговых центров в Риге недавно стал еще больше. Огромный выбор магазинов и бутиков. Krasta 46, тел. 703 0303, ежедневно 10:00-22:00

Wolford – коллекции модной и качественной одежды, нижнего белья, эксклюзивных чулок и колготок. Tērbatas 28, C2, Тел: 7282097, вт.-пятн. 10:00-19:00, суб., пон. 11:00-19:00

Stockmann — ключ к успеху этого финского универмага — огромного Stockmann — богатейший ассортимент качественных продуктов по приемлемым ценам. Многие импортные товары, которые можно найти в Stokmann, нигде больше в Риге не продаются. 13.janvāra 8, C-3, тел.

707 1200, ежедневно 9:00-22:00

ювелирные изделиЯ и Часы Barkwood Luxury Watches & Jewelry — роскошные часы и ювелирные изделия – Kaļķu 2, G-3, тел.722 1122. Открыт пон.-пятн. 10:00-19:00, суб. 11.00-17.00 Montre — эксклюзивные часы и ювелирные изделия для утонченных индивидуалистов. Находится в центре моды Palazzo Italia. Kr.Barona 2, C-3, тел. 724 0034, открыт ежедневно 10:45-19:45 Martas Krasta — серьги, кольца, ожерелья ручной работы латвийских ювелиров. Kalēju 21, F-3, тел. 722 1003. Открыт пон.-суб. 11:00-19:00, воскр. - закрыт.

Putti — единственные в своем роде серьги, кольца, ожерелья и запонки – все изготовлено латвийскими ювелирами.

Marstaļu 6, F-3, тел. 721 4229. Открыт: пон.-суб.: 10.00-18.00, воскр.

11:00-16:00.

Торговые центры ALFA — Brīvības gatve 372, тел. 707 6400, ежедневно 10:00-22:00 Galerija Centrs — магазины на пяти этажах в Старой Риге. Audēju 16, H-3, тел. 701 8018, ежедневно 08:00-22:00 Domina — итальянский торговый центр со множеством магазинов, которых нет в других торговых центрах. Ieriķu 3, рядом с Земитанским мостом, тел. 763 1111, ежедневно 10:00-22:00

Специализированные магазины

Apsara — чайный домик с отличным выбором высококачественных чаев и чайных аксессуаров. Šķuņu 22, G-3, тел. 722 3160, oткрыто 10:00-23:00 D’Artanjans — французское кафе, предлагающее широкий выбор мясных изделий, сыров, паштетов и свежие устрицы.

Marijas 13 (Berga Bazārs), C-2, тел. 728 8847. Открыто: пон. – сyб. 10:00-22:00

Laima — фирменный магазин крупнейшего в Латвии производителя шоколадных и кондитерских изделий. Smilsu 16, G-2, Miera 22, тел. 721 3970. Открыто: пон.– пятн. 9:00-19:00, суб. 9:00-18:00.

Винные магазины Arka — отличный выбор австралийских, итальянских и южноафриканских вин.

Tērbatas 10/12, C-2, тел. 728 4826, пон. — пятн. 10:00-20:00, суб. – 11:00-17:00.

Dioniss — Blaumaņa 10, C-2, Blaumaņa 27, Kr.Valdemāra 14, тел. 724 0307, пон. – пят. 9:00-21:00, суб. — воск. 10:00-18:00 Luis — специализируется на французских винах и высококачественном коньяке. Kr.Valdemāra 67, C-2, тел. 784 4467, пон. – пят. 10:00-19:00, суб. 10:00-17:00

Спиртные напитки и табак Churchill Club — все для страстных любителей сигар. Здесь удовлетворят самые изысканные требования к спиртным напиткам и табачным изделиям. Vaļņu 1, G3, тел. 722 2060, пон. — пят. 10:00-20:00 суб: 10:00-18:00 Latvijas Balzams — Čaka 160, D-2, Marijas 1, C-3, тел. 722 8715, пон. – суб.

8:00-22:00, воск. 9:00-21:00

Monte Kristo — кафе предлагает изумительный выбор сортов кофе и чая. Kalēju 18/20, G-3, Ģertrūdes 27, тел. 722 7443, пон.суб: 08:00-21:00, воск: 11:00-20:00.

Stendera ziepju fabrika — мыло ручной работы с разнообразными наполнителями и умопомрачительными ароматами. Dzirnavu 84 (Berga Bazārs), C-2, тел. 728 3959. Открыто: пон. – пятн.

10:00-20:00, сyб. 10:00-18:00, вoскр.

10:00-16:00

Спорттовары Adidas — Kr. Barona 7/9, C-2, тел. 721 7991. Открыто: пон.–пятн. 10:00-19:00, суб. 10:00 -17:00, воскр. 11:00-16:00.

Nike — Just do it! …если, конечно, у вас имеется некоторая наличность. Blaumaņa 17, тел. 728 8742. Открыто: пон–пят.

10:00-19:00, суб. 10:00-18:00, воскр.

11:00-16:00.

EUR

0.70280

GBP

1.03700

RUB

0.02020

SEK

0.07640

USD

0.52200

CAD

0.48400

JPY (100)

0.42900

AUD

0.42800

CHF

0.42600

Курс может измениться. ежедневно обновляемый курс на www.bank.lv

Круглосуточные пункты обмена: MARIKA - Basteja bulv. 14 Fintex - Aspāzijas bulv. 22

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Гостиницы

Гостиницы Отличные четырех и пяти звездочные гостиницы Риги и Юрмалы предоставляют широкие возможности как для бизнеса, так и для отдыха. Персонал гостиниц свободно владеет английским, русским и другими европейскими языками, поэтому «трудностей перевода» возникнуть не должно. Желаем приятного пребывания. Люкс Hotel de Rome Гостиница Hotel de Rome расположена в самом сердце города, на входе в Старую Ригу. Всего несколько шагов отделяют гостиницу от Латвийской Национальной оперы, посольств, банков, торговых центров, мест отдыха и развлечений. Hotel de Rome – это элегантная 5-звездочная гостиница, принявшая первых посетителей в 1991 году. К услугам гостей предлагаются 88 номеров, обставленных в стиле начала 20-го века, бизнес-центр, конференц-залы, банкетный зал с камином, бар Romas Оperas galerija, сауна и один из старейших ресторанов Риги - Otto Schwarz на 7-м этаже гостиницы, откуда открывается прекрасная панорама города и уникальный вид на памятник Свободы.

Kaļķu 28, H-2, тeл: 708 7600, фaкс: 708 7606, e-mail: reservation@derome.lv, www.derome.lv. Цены: одноместный номер €142, двухместный/бизнес-класс €172, люкс €230. В цену включен завтрак, посещение бани и НДС. Есть автостоянка.

Hotel Grand Palace Отель Grand Palace принадлежит сети роскошных гостиниц Schlossle Hotel Group, и соответствует всем ее требованиям. В течение четырех лет Grand Palace получает награду World Travel Awards, поэтому этот отель признан лучшим в Латвии. Гостиница расположена в сердце Старой Риги и окружена историческими памятниками средних веков. Уютные комнаты оформлены в классическом английском и французском стиле. В номерах: цифровой сейф, интернет, прямые телефонные линии, услуги голосовой почты, факс и мини-бар. В гостинице к вашим услугам есть бизнес-центр, конференц-зал и первоклассный ресторан Seasons. Предусмотрены и все услуги для людей с особыми физическими потребностями.

Pils 12, F-2, тeл: 704 4000, фaкс: 704 4001, e-mail: grandpalace@schlossle-hotels.com, www.schlossle-hotels.com. Цены: стандартный номер €225-270, deluxe €245295, бизнес класс: €325, полу-люкс €450, люкс €630.

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Reval Hotel Rīdzene Эта элегантная гостиница в центре Риги – идеальное место для бизнес-туриста. В интерьере чувствуется скандинавское влияние. В гостинице есть фитнесцентр с сауной, конференц-залы, бар и ресторан. Комфортабельные номера оборудованы всеми необходимыми бизнесмену принадлежностями. Гостиница гордится своим эксклюзивным рестораном Piramida, который в летнее время предлагает открытую террасу с меню-гриль. Предусмотрены также все услуги для людей с особыми физическими потребностями.

Reimersa 1, H-1, тeл: 732 4433, фaкс: 732 2600, e-mail: ridzene@revalhotels.com Цены: начиная от 140€, с завтраком, без учета НДС, ежедневные изменения цен смотрите на www.revalhotels.com. Есть подземная парковка.

Radisson SAS Daugava Гостиница международной сети Radisson SAS – это первоклассная гостиница с мировым именем. Здание расположено на берегу реки Даугава, откуда открывается прекрасный вид на Старый город. Через мост, всего в паре минут ходьбы – достопримечательности Старой Риги, деловой центр города, многочисленные магази-

ны и рестораны. В гостинице есть салон красоты, фитнес-центр, бассейн, казино, круглосуточный бизнес-центр, конференц-залы на 300 человек, а также изысканный ресторан Panorama. Все комнаты оборудованы системой кондиционирования, телефоном с автоответчиком, сателлитным ТВ, мини-баром и беспроводным интернетом. Есть детская комната. Предусмотрены все услуги для людей с особыми физическими потребностями.

Kuģu 24, A-3, тeл: 706 1111, факс: 706 1100, e-mail: reservations.riga@radissonsas. com, www.radissonsas.com. Цены: стандартный €135-142, бизнес-класс €168177, люкс €330, люкс «Сигулда» €650, президентские апартаменты €980.

Upmarket Hotel Bergs Гостиница Bergs в 2004 году вошла в список ста лучших гостиниц мира, который готовит журнал Condé Nast Traveler. Она по праву считается самой стильной гостиницей в Риге. Эта художественно оформленный отель находится в тихом живописном комплексе Базара «Берга», где расположены кинотеатр, рестораны и магазины. В гостинице есть конференц-зал, библиотека и кабинет, где гости могут отдохнуть у камина и попробовать коньяк, сыграть в шахматы или пользоваться интернетом. Есть охраняемая автостоянка.

Berga Bazārs, Elizabetes 83/85, C-2, тeл: 777 0900, Факс: 777 0940, e-mail: reservation@ hotelbergs.com, www.hotelbergs.lv Цены: студия €175, апартаменты €235, двухэтажные апартаменты €269, пентхаус €339.

Europa Royale Riga Гостиница с видом на Верманский парк расположена в историческом здании 19го века, известного рижанам как Дом Беньяминов. Здание оборудовано самой современной техникой, тем не менее, владельцам удалось сохранить роскошь, шарм и настроение былых времен. Гостиница находится в центре города, между Старой Ригой, деловой частью и улицами магазинов. Посетите элегантный ресторан Benjamins. Есть возможности прове-

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Гостиницы дения конференций. Ресторан Benjamins предлагает отведать изысканные блюда интернациональной кухни или просто насладиться вечерней атмосферой города на открытой террасе. Цены: стандартный 110-130€, полулюкс 140-160€, люкс 280€, президентский люкс 650€.

Kr. Barona 12, C-2, Teл: 707 9444, Факс: 707 9449; e-mail: riga@europaroyale.com www.europaroyale.com Metropole Построенная в 1871 году и полностью реконструированная в 1992, эта гостиница сочетает в себе обаяние с высокими стандартами современного комфорта. Отель приобрел огромную популярность среди бизнесменов, дипломатов и просто гостей Риги. Гостиница располагает 86 номерами и оформлена в традиционном сдержанно-элегантном скандинавском стиле. Отель расположен в сердце Старого города, по соседству с Национальной

оперой, крупными торговыми центрами и популярными местами ночной жизни. Ресторан Columbine считается одним из лучших в Риге, кухня – интернациональная, с скандинавскими элементами. В распоряжении гостей есть фитнес-зал с сауной, бизнес-центр, и конференц-зал.

Aspazijas bulv. 36/38, H-3, тeл: 722 5411, факс: 721 6140, e-mail:metropole@ metropole.lv; www.metropole.lv Цены: одноместный €100-114, двойной €121, люкс €179, семейные апартаменты €150.

SPA Гостиницы Baltic Beach Hotel Spa & resort (в Юрмале) Элегантная, в 2004 году полностью обновленная гостиница Baltic Beach Hotel расположена в самой дюнной зоне на берегу Рижского залива, в 15 км от аэропорта и в 20 км от центра Риги. В трех корпусах гостиницы расположено 165 уютных но-

меров, а также бизнес-центр с 12 залами разного размера (вместимостью до 900 человек) для проведения конференций и банкетов, ресторан итальянской кухни il Sole и ресторан Caviar Club с видом на море. Центр Baltic Beach SPA является одним из крупнейших в Европе, предлагая 400 видов процедур, спорткомплекс, бассейн с морской водой и каскадами.

Jūras iela 23/25, Majori, Jurmala, тeл: 777 1400, фaкс: 777 1410, e-mail: reservations@ balticbeach.lv, www.balticbeach.lv. Цены: стандарт €57-171, комфорт €79 - 221, superior: €164-185, апартаменты €128221, люкс €285-400, президентские апартаменты (5 комнат) €1243.

TB Palace Hotel & SPA TB Palace Hotel & Spa – это небольшая гостиница располагает четырьмя эксклюзивными апартаментами: «Нефрит», «Рубин», «Изумруд» и «Янтарь», с неповторяющимся дизайном и аксессуарами, мини-баром, фруктами и цветами. Гостиница, разместившаяся в здании, построенном в 1908 году, считается снонимом изысканного интерьера и первоклассного обслуживания. В гостинице - широкий спектр косметических, медицинских и SPA-процедур. Квалифицированный персонал обеспечит вам качественные услуги, индивидуальный подход и полную конфиденциальность. Ресторан предлагает отличный выбор вин и советы собственного сомелье.

Pilsoņu 8, Jūrmala, тeл: 714 7094, факс: +371 714 7097, e-mail: tbpalace@tbpalace. com, www.tbpalace.com. Цены - от 200€ в сутки.

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