Latvia flights and travel guide

Language

Latvian is the official language, but English, Lithuanian, Russian and German are also spoken.

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Communications

The international dialling code for Latvia is +371. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the UK). City/area codes are in use; there are three for Riga: (0)3, (0)28 and (0)29. International Direct Dialling is available from all public and hotel phones. Public phones use phone-cards, which can be bought from numerous shops and kiosks. For local operator assistance dial 116, and for international operator assistance dial 115. The two local GSM cell phone operators use GSM 900 and GSM 1800 networks. Riga has an increasing number of Internet cafes.

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Tipping

Tipping is not obligatory in restaurants, but it is customary to round up the bill to no more than 10 per cent if a service charge has not been included and the service was good. Carry small change for tipping taxi drivers. In hotels tip according to the services provided.

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Safety

Visitors should be vigilant in public places and tourist sites due to the risk of random terrorist attacks that Latvia shares with the rest of the world. Most visits to Latvia are trouble-free, but street crime can be a serious problem for tourists, and there are occasional muggings of foreigners, particularly if walking alone or at night.

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Health

No health certificates or vaccinations are required to enter Latvia, but visitors are advised to have an innoculation against tick-borne encephalitis, which is a problem especially during the months of March to October, if planning to hike in the country and forests or stay in rural areas. Rabies is endemic, and outbreaks of meningitis occur. Medicines are usually available, but it is best to bring a supply of personal medication. Health insurance is necessary. A reciprocal agreement with the UK entitles UK citizens to emergency treatment on the same terms as Latvian nationals on presentation of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

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Electricity

Electrical current is 220 volts AC, 50 Hz. European-style two-pin plugs are in use.

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