About Baltic States

🗺️ About Latvia

Latvia lies in the heart of the Baltic region, between Lithuania and Estonia, with the Baltic Sea to the west. It has about 1.8 million inhabitants, and its capital Riga is the largest city in the Baltics. Latvia is known for its beautiful coastline, unspoiled forests, and elegant mix of medieval and Art Nouveau architecture. It is a member of the EU, NATO, and Schengen Area, making it easily accessible for travelers.

🏰 A Glimpse of History

Latvia’s history reflects centuries of cultural crossroads — from German and Swedish rule to Russian and Soviet occupation. It declared independence in 1918, was occupied during World War II, and regained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Today, it’s a proud and modern nation that values both its cultural heritage and freedom.

🗣️ Language

The official language is Latvian, a close relative of Lithuanian but distinct in sound and grammar.
 

Visitors can usually communicate in:

• English, especially among younger generations;
  
  

• Russian, still widely understood;
  
  

• occasionally German or Polish in older communities.
  
  

Useful phrases:

• Hello – Sveiki!
  
  

• Thank you – Paldies!
  
  

• Goodbye – Uz redzēšanos!
  
  

🍲 Latvian Cuisine

Latvian food is simple, natural, and inspired by local ingredients: rye bread, fish, mushrooms, and dairy products. Try grey peas with bacon, smoked fish from the Baltic coast, and Sklandrausis – a sweet carrot-and-potato pastry. Don’t miss the chance to taste local birch sap juice or herbal liqueur Riga Black Balsam.

🌳 Nature in Latvia

More than half of Latvia is covered by forests, making it a paradise for nature lovers. You’ll find thousands of lakes, rivers, and wild meadows, all within easy reach of the cities. Birdwatching, cycling, and mushroom picking are favorite local pastimes.

🏞️ What to See

• Riga Old Town – UNESCO site filled with churches, cobbled streets, and Art Nouveau façades.
  
  

• Jūrmala – a seaside resort with white sandy beaches and wooden villas.
  
  

• Gauja National Park – Latvia’s “Switzerland,” perfect for hiking and canoeing.
  
  

• Cēsis – a charming medieval town with castle ruins and a relaxed vibe.

🗺️ About Estonia

Estonia is the northernmost Baltic country, located on the shores of the Gulf of Finland, across from Helsinki. With a population of about 1.3 million, it is one of Europe’s least crowded nations. Estonia is famous for its digital society, islands, and beautiful coastline dotted with over 1,500 islands. The capital, Tallinn, is a blend of medieval charm and modern innovation.

🏰 A Glimpse of History

Estonia has been shaped by Danish, Swedish, German, and Russian influences. It declared independence in 1918, regained it in 1991, and has since become one of Europe’s most technologically advanced nations. It’s the birthplace of Skype and a leader in e-governance and digital identity.

🗣️ Language

The official language is Estonian, closely related to Finnish.
Most Estonians speak English fluently, especially in cities, and Russian is still commonly understood.

Useful phrases:

• Hello – Tere
  
  

• Thank you – Aitäh
  
  

• Goodbye – Head aega
  
  

🍲 Estonian Cuisine

Estonian food blends Nordic and Eastern European influences. Try kohupiim (curd dessert), kilu võileib (sprat sandwich), and verivorst (blood sausage) — a winter favorite. Local craft beers and homemade berry wines are also popular.

🌿 Nature in Estonia

Estonia’s wild landscapes are among the most untouched in Europe. Vast forests, wetlands, and a jagged coastline offer endless opportunities for hiking and nature photography. In summer, enjoy white nights, when the sun barely sets; in winter, explore frozen waterfalls and snowy forests.

🏞️ What to See

• Tallinn Old Town – perfectly preserved medieval center, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  
  

• Lahemaa National Park – forests, bogs, and manor houses just an hour from Tallinn.
  
  

• Tartu – Estonia’s university city with youthful energy and cultural events.
  
  

• Saaremaa Island – windmills, lighthouses, and peaceful coastal landscapes.