Making it's name as an up and coming holiday destination in the last decade Latvia has really come into its own. Tucked into the northern corner of Europe between other Baltic states Estonia in the north and Lithuania to the south and bordering Russia along the west Latvia is rich in a bloody history shaped by its past as a former soviet state. Latvia manages to retain an other world charm whilst being at he fore run of the twenty first century. 

Capital city Riga has developed into a glorious city of cosmopolitan standards with night life that is the envy of cities throughout Europe and a stylish youth with the world at their feet. The nine hundred year old city however is still a haven of historical artefacts and medieval architecture to please the historian in you.

Latvia plays host to the small and enchanting Baltic seaside resort ofJurmala, made up of twelve small villages. Stretching beaches and pine forest side by side punctuate the beauty of the area. Throughout Latvia picturesque villages are dotted along forest edges and bordering clear blue lakes.The areas of  Kurzeme, Latgale and Vidzeme are all healthy open land which are favorites with hikers.

July sees Latvia boom to life when hosting the Baltic biggest music festival. Positivus AB in Salacgriva sees 18000 revelers flock to the region to take in this rocking festival. Latvian cuisine tends to be based on the heavy filing fare needed during cool long winters. a tradition left behind by Russian ruling. On the menu expect to find lots of potatoes, cabbage and bacon drippingserved inside or alongside stodgy dumplings. A treat is the thick black national drink Baltic balsam which is akin to cough medicine and used for all healing purposes