An account of a trip through Latvia's eastern border region, Latgale. As well as geopolitical intrigue, there are stunning lakes, rich culture and incredibly friendly people.
For 40 years, Zvārde Parish was used by the Soviet military for bombing target practice. Today, it is a stunning wilderness, with moving monuments to this sad history.
Latvia's remote north-west coast is a natural haven of forests and pristine beaches. It's also the traditional home of the Livs, one of the world's tinniest nations. Throw in some bizarre Soviet military relics and you have a road trip like no other in Europe.
Latvians have loved beer for thousands of years, and the amber nectar continues flowing to this day. More than just a drink, it's a way of life and a way to communicate with the gods.
Riga today is a major tourism destination but where did farmers, merchants and pilgrims stay when they came to town in earlier times? Plus reviews of five Riga hotels with amazing histories.
Latvians have a rich array of Easter traditions, including whacking each other with willows, painting eggs and swinging on swings to keep the mosquitos away. Find out what's behind these pagan customs
Riga's elegant boulevard district was in large part designed by the brilliant architect Jānis Frīdrihs Baumanis. Rising from humble origins, he not only built a new city, he set the Latvian nation on the path to independence by starting the Song Festival tradition. Latvia's parliament, the music academy, the circus and dozens of other lovely structures created by him still grace Riga today.
The intriguing history of Latvia's national drink Riga Black Balsam, and five top places in Riga to sip cocktails with the bitter black potion.
A brief history of witch hunts in Riga, looking at Latvian magical beliefs, infamous trials and execution sites in the city.