Latvia, sandwiched between its Balkan neighbors Estonia and Lithuania, was once defined by its inhabitants as a preening little village in a hilly countryside. Fierce industrialization has unfortunately shattered this idyllic picture. Despite its 530 km of coastline, Latvia is not a beach destination. The ocean is polluted, and will be for a long time. The situation is hopeful, however, since the country has instituted a nature protection program. Tourists, still uncommon, can not only discover the varied architectural riches of the cities, but can also visit the lakes and forests that make up the Latvian landscape. The Latvians' warm hospitality is a major draw in the their up-and-coming tourist industry.

Geography

• Area: 64,589 square kilometers
• Neighboring countries: Russia, Estonia, Bielorussia, Lithuania
• Highest point: Gaizinkalns, 312 m

Status
Republic

Government
Republic, pluralist democracy made up of a president, prime minister and a parliament made up of 100 elected members

Capital: Riga

Main cities

• Daugavpils
• Liepaja
• Jelgava
• Jurmala
• Ventspils
• Rezekne

Currency: lats

Languages spoken
Latvian, Russian

National holiday: November 18

Principal industries
: the economy is still fragile

Agriculture
cattle, barley, wheat, rye and oats; lumber; fishing

Health Tips
It is strongly recommended that you don't drink water from the tap, which is not potable in most districts of Riga, and generally speaking, anywhere in the country. An up-to-date diphtheria/tetanus/polio shot is recommended, and well as a vaccination against the encephalitis carried by the central European tick from May to October.