LATIVA

The most expensive of the Baltic States with some hotel rates being as high as any in Western Europe, but the cost of living is still relatively cheap. The best time to visit is April through to September when the weather generally at its best. Winter in Lativa can be extremely cold but still can be pretty.

Lativa offers some excellent sports activities such as skiing and ice-skating in the winter and canoeing and horse riding in the summer. The country is also home to what seem endless forests that are alive with wildlife such as bears, wolves and lynx. The country can also offer delightful castles, excellent hiking, nature reserves and lush green valleys.

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Worldmark's range of services:-

Due to our extensive oversea's network we are able to offer any client a full range of services. These can be purchased individually or as part of a package.

* Discounted hotels.
* Discounted air fares.
* Private car transfers.
* Sightseeing & Guided Tours
* Theatre Tickets
* Rail & Air tickets
* Chauffeur & Car Hire

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Riga

Riga is a large bustling city, which sits astride the Daugava River. Riga’s VECRIGA or "OLD TOWN DISTRICT" is studded with picturesque century architecture, which offer visitors a glimpse back through the city's historical past. The church of ST.PETERS offers visitors stunning views out over the city from its spire. Riga is also home to its very own 14th century castle, which has now become home to the president of Latvia.

Riga's east side is popular with visitors because of its parks and tree-lined boulevards. As with all of the Eastern European cities WWII took it's toll on this busy city. The MASKAVAS SUBURB is popular with visitors wishing to visit the city's JEWISH MUSEUM and the unusual RIGA MOTOR MUSEUM.

Dining options are varied and the vibrant nightlife is generally good in the DOME SQUARE DISTRICT. Where you can dine outside and drink the night way in the various late night bars.

We can offer discounted rates at the following hotels:-

Radisson SAS Daugav,Grand Palace,Park Ridzene,Metropole,Martim Park and the Reval Hotel

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Other destination suggestions:-

Sigulda

A truly stunning corner of Lativa which is studded with various castles and interesting caves all set in a pretty green valley. The winter months offer a fine selection of sports options.

Bauska

This little part of Latvia has been home to a daunting castle since the mid 15th century and offers it's visitors the chance to explore the grounds and watch the various seasonal Ancient Music festivals. Only a few minutes away is the stunning 18th century Rundale Palace, which is a fine example of baroque architecture.

Jurmala

Just a short train ride away is this beautiful little collection of towns. There are sand dunes, green woods, intersting musuems, vibrant bars and good quality restaurants. The area is so full of natural beauty to make any visit worthwhile.

Kuldiga

Another of Lativa's gems.Kuldiga is a mixture of 17th & 18th century's with a wealth of history that reflect this.Visitors are able to explore the nearby Venta River where visitors can explore,swim and fish.

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Travel Warning / Information

President Bush will be visiting Riga on 6 - 7 May and during his visit there will be limited access to the Old Town at certain times.There will also be a strict security policy and tourists will be required to provide ID at all times and confirmation of their hotel booking. There maybe delays at the airport.

Latvia shares with the rest of the world, including the UK, a risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks. You should therefore be vigilant in public places, including tourist sites.There is no recent history of terrorism in Latvia. The operation of criminal gangs in major cities, especially in Riga, can result in violence: the use of bombs cannot be excluded. This is not directed at foreigners but the usual precautions should be taken (e.g. be alert for suspect packages.

The number of muggings of foreign visitors has increased over the past year (some have had drinks spiked in casinos and clubs before being mugged). When walking visitors should be alert to the threat of pickpocketing and other forms of theft. Always avoid unlit streets and parks at night, and be extra vigilant if walking alone.

For identification purposes, carry a photocopy of your passport at all times. You should ensure that you have comprehensive medical and travel insurance.

This information is current as of 13/5/05 we recommend that travellers contact the FCO Travel Advice Unit: 0870 606 0290 for up to date information.

Health Information

Tick-borne encephalitis is a problem in Latvia, especially during the summer months from May to August. The incidence of mumps is on the increase and rabies is endemic in the region. You should consult your GP about inoculations against Tick-Borne Encephalitis.

We recommend that all travellers check with their GP prior to departure or refer to the the Department of Health’s website.

Currently no visa for U.K nationals is required to enter the country.

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Worldmark Travel
1st Floor
The Arena
24 Southwark Bridge Road
London SE1 9HF

Tel 020 7 922 0670 Fax 020 7 402 2545
E-Mail Worldmark.uk@hrgworldwide.com

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