Latvia is located on the eastern shores of the Baltic Sea, and is the middle country of the Baltic States. It is roughly the same size as Ireland and is home to 2.3 million people. It is probably the most culturally diverse of the three Baltic States, with about a third of its population of Russian origin. This diversity is most prevalent in the capital city of Riga, which has re-established its pre - Soviet reputation as a vibrant, cosmopolitan city that rivals Prague (but without the tourists!).

Riga is by no means Latvia's only place of interest for Latvia holidays. To escape the city for some relaxation, Latvians head for Sigulda. Often referred to as 'Little Switzerland', it is less than 1 hour from Riga and is an ideal day trip. It enjoys a rare combination of a medieval castle, picturesque national park, eerie caves and for the more active, even a bobsleigh run! Just a little further than Sigulda lies Cesis, which has a wonderful old town, as well as the famous Cesis brewery.

For coastal holidays and spa holidays there's Jurmala, Latvia's premier spa resort town, situated on the Riga Gulf coast, just 15 miles from Riga. It's known both as a beach resort, with its 20 miles of fine white sand beaches edged by vast pine forests, and as a spa resort, offering a range of relaxation and health programmes. You can also find picturesque wooden summer cottages built over 100 years ago, which make an interesting contrast to the Soviet era compounds built for the enjoyment of Communist Party chiefs, in what was one of their favourite summer resorts.

Approximately 1 hour south of Riga lies the Bauska region near the Lithuanian border. The region is famed for its castles and palaces from medieval to classical. Not to be missed is the Rundale Palace, which is Latvia's answer to Versailles. Built in the 1730's as a summer home for the Duke of Courland, it was created by the same architect who designed the famed Winter Palace in St Petersburg.

As you can see, Latvia has a lot to offer. It's not just a city break destination, but also an enjoyable destination for taking a longer trip to explore this diverse and interesting country.