Though first time European visitors may not place former Soviet Baltic countries high on their list of desired destinations, there is plenty to do and learn here. The city of Riga (founded in 1201 AD) carries more than its own share of history and charm. It’s also super cheap, visually stunning, and the throngs of tourists you will run into in London, Paris, or Amsterdam don’t exist here. Yet, anyway. So don’t discount it completely. I was pleasantly surprised by all the city had to offer.
Also, if you like churches and cathedrals, there are roughly 7,000 to check out here. Personally, I’m a bit burned out on stained glass windows and slightly creepy statues of Jesus, but do what floats your boat.
