INDIVUE – travel & art

Recent Posts

  • Good and pleasant hotel from Riga, Latvia

    Good and pleasant hotel from Riga, Latvia

    I visited Riga in late February 2020 and chose my hotel within an easy reach of Riga Airport. I made the following video about my visit to Wellton Riga Hotel & SPA, and the video will tell, among other things, what the hotel suite room was like.

    The video will also show the magnificent views out of the large windows of the room, where there was a bus stop, trams, cinema and Stockmann department store, among others. More interesting details about this hotel are also mentioned in the video and you can watch it and listen to it here –

    Video of my stay in Wellton Riga Hotel & SPA

    Read more about my visit to Wellton Riga Hotel & SPA in Finnish.

    Booking a hotel in Riga, Latvia

    Booking a hotel in Riga, Latvia, and knowing what to expect can be quite straightforward, but understanding the local culture and being prepared for potential issues can enhance your experience.

    Booking Hotels

    1. Online Booking Platforms: Websites like Booking.com, Expedia, or Airbnb are commonly used to book hotels and accommodations in Riga. You can compare prices, read reviews, and see photos of the properties.
    2. Travel Agents: If you prefer personalized assistance, travel agents can help find and book the right accommodation based on your needs and budget.
    3. Direct Booking: Contacting the hotel directly (through their website, email, or phone) might provide more personalized service and sometimes special offers.

    What to Expect

    1. Variety of Options: Riga offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and apartments.
    2. Language: While Latvian is the official language, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and hotels, so communication should not be a problem.
    3. Payment Methods: Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have some local currency (Euros) on hand for small expenses.
    4. Amenities: Most hotels will offer standard amenities like Wi-Fi, but it’s wise to check in advance if you have specific requirements.
    5. Location: Consider your hotel’s proximity to attractions, public transportation, and safety, especially if you plan to walk around the city.

    How to Deal with Various Issues

    1. Complaints or Problems: If you encounter any issues, address them with the hotel staff as soon as possible. They are typically eager to rectify any problems.
    2. Understanding Terms: Be sure to understand the cancellation policies, check-in/check-out times, and any additional fees (like for parking or pets) before booking.
    3. Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover any unexpected cancellations or issues.

    Cultural Points

    1. Hospitality: Latvians are known for being hospitable, but they may seem reserved at first. Politeness and respect are appreciated.
    2. Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory in Latvia, but it’s common to leave small change or round up the bill in restaurants. This may vary in hotels, so it’s wise to ask if unsure.
    3. Local Customs: Observing local customs, such as greeting people and showing appreciation for the local culture and language, can enhance your experience.

    By doing some research ahead of time and being mindful of local customs, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay in Riga. Utilize online resources, travel blogs, guidebooks and local advice to tailor your accommodation to your needs and preferences.

    My visual travel guide INDIVUE – Trip to Europe, contains inspiring and guiding travel experiences from Latvia and different parts of Europe. You can read it for free in the link attached!

    Watch also more of my authentic hotel experiences around the world here and subscribe the channel for the upcoming new videos!

  • Best hidden cafés in Riga, Latvia

    Best hidden cafés in Riga, Latvia

    Due to corona, the travel restrictions imposed on Riga, Latvia, are no longer in force for people coming for example from Finland, like me. Silja has already started ship cruises in-between Helsinki and Riga and those cruises will last all summer season. Check my video and read more about the best hidden cafés in Riga I found. I had visited Riga myself in the end of February 2020, shortly before tourism around the world came to a standstill due to the Covid. The video will present you 4 nice cafés right in the center of Riga.

    Video duration 3:25

    Best hidden cafés in Riga, Latvia

    Exploring the Charm of Riga’s Cafés: A Journey Through Taste and Culture

    1. Lāci: A Cozy Retreat by the Liberty Square

    The first stop was Lāci, a quaint café nestled by the edge of a bustling square near the iconic Latvian Statue of Liberty, just opposite a McDonald’s. From the outside, Lāci presents itself as a traditional bakery with its inviting display of fresh bread and pastries. However, stepping inside reveals a cozy space, complete with tables and chairs, where one can enjoy a leisurely break. Their tea, aromatic and perfectly brewed, was a delightful experience. The highlight, however, were the biscuits – particularly the gluten-free almond cookies, which were irresistibly delicious and had me coming back for more.

    2. Pienene: A Hidden Gem Behind a Decor Shop

    Next I discovered pienene, a charming café cleverly hidden in the back room of a decorative item shop. This café offered a serene escape, especially appreciated while waiting for fellow travelers who venture to climb the nearby old church tower. The church, a prominent feature in Riga’s old town, is less inviting in winter when the balcony on top is freezing with icy winds or pouring rain. Pienene, with its comfortable couches and warm ambiance, provided a much-needed respite from the harsh weather.

    3. Parunāsim: The Romantic Heart of Old Town

    The third café, parunāsim, proclaimed itself as the most romantic spot in Riga’s Old Town. Located near the famous ‘Three Brothers’ houses, this two-story café was bustling with customers, almost leaving me without a seat. The selection of cakes and teas was both impressive and delicious. The café’s décor was a feast for the eyes, with a notable beautiful floor mosaic on the first floor and a piano humorously inscribed with a sign “My next husband will be normal” on the music stand. This touch of humor added a unique character to the café, blending romance with a hint of whimsy.

    4. A Fashionable Rendezvous at the Fashion Museum Café

    The fourth café I visited was intriguingly situated in the Fashion Museum in Riga. This café not only offered delightful teas but also featured a delectable gluten-free chocolate cake adorned with walnuts. The museum café was a haven for fashion enthusiasts, with its adjacent museum shop boasting an appealing selection of books on contemporary fashion trends.

    Each café in Riga has its own story, its own unique blend of flavors and ambiance. From the cozy, traditional settings to the whimsical and romantic, these cafés are more than just places to drink tea and coffee; they are cultural experiences, embedded in the heart of Latvia’s capital. Whether you are a local or a traveler, a visit to these charming spots offers a delightful journey through Riga’s rich café culture, one that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the soul.

    Useful links: