The Baltic Experience: Exploring Latvia's Neighbors
Every year, on September 22nd, Latvians come together with our neighbors to celebrate Baltic Unity Day. This special occasion serves as a testament to the enduring friendship and historic ties that unite the Baltic republics of Latvia and Lithuania.
Latvia, tucked in the heart of the Baltics, has a strategic location that makes it a great starting point for exploring the region's rich tapestry. These three countries are known as the Baltic states because of their shared history, which has fostered close collaboration and friendship among the peoples. In fact, Latvians refer to Lithuanians as "braļukas," which translates as "brothers." Much like siblings, there's light-hearted teasing between us, but, when the need arises, we stand united and protect one another. This strong sense of kinship exemplifies how much we value our neighbors, and Baltic Unity Day is just one of the special occasions where we celebrate this bond.
Due to the relatively compact size of all three Baltic nations, we frequently visit each other. This presents a wonderful opportunity also for you to explore Latvia's neighboring countries, which are just a few hours away. As there are regular bus connections and well-maintained roads, one can easily reach cities in Estonia and Lithuania. Despite our similarities, the differences among the Baltic countries are truly remarkable, and visiting each one provides a unique experience.
So, here are two of Latvian favorite spots to visit in our neighboring countries:
Tartu, Estonia
Source: Neil Howard
Tartu is the home of the Ahaa Center. Regardless of your age, a day spent at the Ahaa Center is nothing short of a captivating journey into the wonders of science. Here, you can immerse yourself in interactive displays, conduct fascinating experiments, and unlock the mysteries of the natural world. From mind-bending physics demonstrations to captivating biology showcases, the Ahaa Center ensures that science comes to life in the most engaging and accessible way possible. As a university city, Tartu offers a rich cultural tapestry with numerous attractions to explore. And let's not forget the vibrant nightlife that keeps the city alive after dark. For those who wish to delve deeper into Tartu's history, culture, and attractions, there is an abundance of experiences awaiting exploration. From the Botanical Gardens to the medieval Tartu Cathedral, the city offers a variety of attractions.
Find out more about Tartu here.
Klaipeda, Lithuania
Source: Klaipeda Tourism Center
Klaipeda, one of Lithuania's largest cities, is just a two-hour drive from Liepāja and a four-hour drive from Riga. It not only has an enchanting old town where you can wander for hours, but it also offers ferry access to Curonian Spit (In Lithuanian - Kuršių nerija), a sand dune that is also included in the UNESCO World Heritage list. You can take a ferry and enjoy a day exploring nature and discovering unique natural landscapes, or visit the Museum of the Sea, and enjoy captivating dolphin shows at the Dolphinarium.
Find out more about Klaipeda here.
So, let’s celebrate the Baltic Unity Day by remembering that good friends bring joy to our lives. Enjoy the Baltic experience and of course, do not forget to try out the national dishes.