Riga was the beginning of a trip I didn't really have planned. I was basically going there to do some mandatory training for my new job at sea and they had a very good maritime college there at an affordable price. I decided then that I would use the opportunity to travel through the Baltic's and into central Europe over a month or two, to explore places and countries I had yet to see.
Riga itself I had been to briefly on my ship Silver Whisper last year and loved it. This time the season was different but it was a magical time to arrive. The city which has the most fairytale canal running through it was dotted with hundreds of trees all changing colour. It reminded me of Canada in fall. It was chilly in temperature but it didn't stop me exploring the city every minute I had spare, rain or shine.
For the time I was at the college I biked there though the beautiful streets covered In fallen leaves and enjoyed the vibe of the city a lot.
My course included basic safety training including fire fighting, survival at sea etc all which included practical exercises. I met some wonderful people during the 10 days I was there and learned some very valuable information for working at sea.
On my weekend off in-between my courses I went to see Die Fledermaus at the Latvian National Opera with Sean, a fellow couchsurfer I had met, I explored the city by foot, I spent a whole day hiking through the forest of Sigulda which was one of the most beautiful places I've ever been in my life. I did many different things and I really tried to immerse myself in the city and absorb what it has to offer. While I was there I stayed at St Marta's Hostel which offered free breakfast a free bike and free laundry all for €5. I then moved closer to old town to Riga Hostel which was very comfortable too and was close to everything old town had to offer. I am so thankful to have been here in Autumn, a time when I think Riga becomes the most spectacular place. From here i planned to go to Lithuania.
Riga itself I had been to briefly on my ship Silver Whisper last year and loved it. This time the season was different but it was a magical time to arrive. The city which has the most fairytale canal running through it was dotted with hundreds of trees all changing colour. It reminded me of Canada in fall. It was chilly in temperature but it didn't stop me exploring the city every minute I had spare, rain or shine.
For the time I was at the college I biked there though the beautiful streets covered In fallen leaves and enjoyed the vibe of the city a lot.
My course included basic safety training including fire fighting, survival at sea etc all which included practical exercises. I met some wonderful people during the 10 days I was there and learned some very valuable information for working at sea.
On my weekend off in-between my courses I went to see Die Fledermaus at the Latvian National Opera with Sean, a fellow couchsurfer I had met, I explored the city by foot, I spent a whole day hiking through the forest of Sigulda which was one of the most beautiful places I've ever been in my life. I did many different things and I really tried to immerse myself in the city and absorb what it has to offer. While I was there I stayed at St Marta's Hostel which offered free breakfast a free bike and free laundry all for €5. I then moved closer to old town to Riga Hostel which was very comfortable too and was close to everything old town had to offer. I am so thankful to have been here in Autumn, a time when I think Riga becomes the most spectacular place. From here i planned to go to Lithuania.