Blogs from Latvia, Europe - page 37

8/18 I was sitting in what could have been the millionth “Double Coffee” I’ve been to since I came to Riga enjoying a nice cup of vanilla green tea and reading my Bible and I noticed an American flag by the bar. When I saw it, it hit me that I am going home in a few days and I realized a part of me is a little apprehensive, maybe even a tad bit scared. I haven’t been ‘home’ in 8 months and haven’t live there for a year. It is comforting to already know the plans God has for me once I return but I know it won’t be easy to see it all play out. I also know it’s going to be harder to seek God with as much fervor as this past year ... read more

I have been living in Europe long enough now to expect the public transport to be on time. 35 minutes late the bus finally shows up. It's a good thing I didn't have to be in Riga at a certain time. The delays didn't stop there. I had to decipher if my seat number meant the one above the seat or below the seat, as they were totally different. After I just thought "stuff it" and sat down, an argument broke out between one of the passengers and the driver. It turned ugly with the passenger slamming his fist on seats and pointing his finger into the drivers chest. I stood up and moved back fearing it might turn violent. It all came to an abrupt end when he took a seat up front and that ... read more

So finally I am able to leave Kyiv and Ukraine all together without problem. Haleluja ! It is a great feeling when I am in the air (flying) away and further away from Ukraine. The country has beautiful scenary and golden churches but the people are less helpful when you are in need of help and their attitude toward hospitality service seems non-existance. I DON'T recommend travellers to come to Ukraine unless you are an experienced traveller, you can speak a little Russian, dont mind being harrassed or singled out by customs officials because of your appearance (not business or suit and tie kind of person), and prepare to deal with problems arise yourself because when you think people who can help ..they are either clueless or does not want to help. Period. Yet, I DID ... read more

Riga is undoubtedly beautiful. An art noveau overload with cobbled streets, spires and turrets. Its medieval old town is heritage listed by UNESCO and it was nothing short of bustling when I arrived a few days before the summer solstice festival. However, now Riga risks losing its UNESCO status with the construction of too many modern buildings. Even worse, the cheap airlines have got in and every weekend bring obnoxious and arrogant groups of bucks parties across from the UK. There is a vibe about Riga I just didn't like. Organised crime is a problem and strip clubs, casinos and other sleazy outfits are taking over the city. One look around Riga and you'll notice the gap between the rich in their schmick black cars and the regular locals. Despite all this, you can't help but ... read more

Geo: 56.9465, 24.1049We weren't very excited about being in Riga, but decided to make the most of it. We walked around and came to the Latvian Musuem of War, could have been interesting and informative if it was in English- we left 5 minutes later. Then we discovered the shopping centre!! Was a bit disappointing, the clothes and shoes were terrible! We then discovered the cinema and the prices are amazing, only a few dollars to see a new release movie!! Then we went to the Historty Museum of Latvia. It was really good and informative. All the info was in English. Latvia was part of the USSR for 50 years. The Nazi's also came and deported many Latvians. Decided to then see a movie at 4pm- air conditioning!! The only one that was on was ... read more