Thursday, July 31, 2014
Our GPS got a little confused and could not work out the way to Riga. But we didn’t panic! Pulled out the backup paper map and headed on gut feeling and a south westerly bearing. It was not long before we found signs to confirm that we were indeed on the right route.
The border crossing from Estonia into Latvia was a breeze. In fact we passed through it at 50 kph without stopping. It is good to be inside the Schengen Area.
Once in Latvia the rain came. It has been a very long time since we have had rain quite as heavy as this; maybe the last time was during the rainy season in Malaysia. On the positive side, Sterlin got a free carwash. Fortunately once we pulled into Riga the rain vanished. We located the hotel quickly and checked into a mighty fine room.
Being hungry after the drive we headed into the Old Town for a meal and drink. Naturally the Old Town of Riga is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and quite beautiful. The pub had a “buy one and get one free” happy hour promotion on margaritas, so that seemed like the obvious choice. It rained the entire time we were in the pub (yep, the rain had returned), but the weather gods had the kindness to cancel the evening rain so we could walk around and enjoy the Old Town after dinner and drinks without getting soaked.
Friday, August 1, 2014
Relaxing day just wandering around the Old Town, twice. Did a little shopping along the way. The entire city was on Sale, so picked up some shoes for Stephen and a new fancy top for Caroline. Both a bargain.
Old Town Riga is quite beautiful and also quite different to Tallinn. The center is more compact and a little more commercial. There are lots and lots of coffee shops.
