26 August ’04, Thursday. This morning we decided rain or shine, we were going to walk across the big suspension bridge and enjoy Riga’s Old City as much as time would allow. Our walk into town was about 30 minutes and it did rain a heavy mist all the way. You might say that were are used to this weather, coming from the Seattle area, but you never get used to getting even a little wet. As it was, we really enjoyed the old architecture of Riva. As most of the countries close to Germany, the Old German influence is evident. Riga also boast’s a lot of very modern buildings and other structures. One of these, was an semi-underground parking lot…the only thing showing was a long grass mound that had vent windows on top. We also saw The Latvian Riflemen Monument, that depicts the Soviet occupation so vividly. You can almost hear the Red Army marching through the streets. The changes for Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania are happening very fast, and in the next ten years or so, you will not recognize them as they are today. Good or bad, they are moving forward into the westernized world. In the major cities, it is not inexpensive. Yes, there are “bargains”, but you will have to dig for them. Food in the restaurants is still rather a good value, but it surprises us as to how the local people can afford the clothing and other items you look at when you go to town shopping. Around Riga, there are a large number of lakes that are tied together with a river system. All of this is now being sub-divided and new homes are everywhere. Some are large primary homes and still others are for vacation homes. They would all make us a very happy person to own one. The rest of the country is primarily green hills dominated by tall birch and pine trees, dairy pastures and quiet little town and villages. Well, fortunately for us, the rain gave up completely, and we were able to enjoy the sites with the warmth of the sun for the rest of the day. Tomorrow….moving south
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