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summer/autumn 2014

Gateway to the highlands

Instrumenti: Positive procrastination

Wooden cool

Summer at your leisure!

                    

A WORD FROM THE CHAIRMAN

c o n t e n t s

W

north-eastern Europe’s busiest air transport hubs. With our dining,

Going for gold!

TRAVEL PEOPLE

Positive procrastination

22 ECONOMY Euro leader

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EDUCATION

we aim to make your brief stay with us as enjoyable as possible. In fact the range of stores available at the airport is constantly expanding – duty-free, multi-brand and mono-brand. This year sees the arrival of two high-end brands in the Departures area: Furla, which excels in all kinds of leather accessories; and Tumi, known for its luxury travel, business and lifestyle accessories, durable bags and wallets. waiting for them to enjoy some of the best coffee available in Riga, at the third Costa Coffee café to open at the airport, visible as soon as you walk through the gate in the Arrivals area. Riga International Airport still sees by far the biggest number

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FAMOUS TRAVEL DESTINATION Museum exploration

DISCOVERY

Wooden cool

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shopping, cafés and other facilities,

We also invite arriving passengers as well as families and friends

Educational excellence

36

Airport, the leading airport

in the Baltic region and one of

4 TRADITIONS 12

elcome to Riga International

TRAVEL

Summer at your leisure!

of passengers – around 5 million passengers a year. Some 83 destinations are reachable direct from Riga this summer season. In May we welcomed the biggest Boeing aircraft type ever to land at the airport – a Boeing 747-8 cargo plane, with a wingspan of almost 70 metres. We are excited to welcome a decision by Wizz Air, one of Europe’s fastest growing airlines, to base one of its aircraft here. Wizz Air is one of our strategic partners, and we’re delighted they have chosen Riga as a base for route development. They have doubled their routes from our airport to eight. In addition, the Latvian national airline airBaltic has launched new routes for the summer season – plus one so far announced for the coming winter. Important construction projects include the completion of an

48 AIRLINE NEWS

expansion of the VIP Terminal, improving the comfort, style and

Riga network expands

master-plan to boost the airport’s annual capacity to 13.7 million

50 DESTINATION GUIDE Gateway to the highlands

56

RIGA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

service quality for business travellers to the highest European standards. This and other ongoing projects are part of a development passengers by 2020. For more information on new routes and other developments at Riga International Airport, take a look at the articles on the airport at the back of this magazine. Enjoy your time at RIGA International Airport!

All the latest news from the leading airport in the Baltics Aldis Mu¯rnieks Chairman of the Board of RIGA International Airport

summer/autumn 2014

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3

Photos courtesy of Latvian Sport Museum, P. Kudatschenko, J. Rieksts.

Traditions

GOING FOR GOLD! Latvians have been taking part in organised international sport since the 1890s

G

ateway Riga takes a look at the history

Second Riga Cyclists Society; both formed at

of organised sport in Latvia and some

around 1890. The Riga Athletics Club built a

of the athletes that helped shape the

cycle track in Strelnieku Gardens while the Riga

development of sport in this nation until regained

Athletics Club became home to the best ath-

independence in 1991:

letes of their generation: Krauze, Malers, Polis,

The very first organised sports societies in Latvia were the Riga Athletics Club and The

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summer/autumn 2014

Farnasts, and Miezitis, who competed under the name RAK-1 (Riga Athletics Club ‘1’).

At that time, Riga Circus was one of the

representing 13 different sports associations.

Such was the success of the Russian

most famous circus organisations in all of

This was a big step forward for Latvian sport

team in Stockholm that the Russian Olympic

Europe. Named after its owner Salmonskis,

as it enabled the country to participate at the

Committee decided to begin holding regular

the circus was an important meeting place for

Stockholm Olympics the following year.

Russian Olympiads. The first took place one year

many local sportsmen, including Latvia’s lead-

169 athletes represented the Russian

after the Stockholm Olympics in Kiev, while the

ing strongmen. Latvian Greco-Roman wrestling

Olympic team with over one quarter of these

following year – exactly 100 years ago – the

was particularly ‘strong’ in the late nineteenth

considered Balts. Latvia very proudly saw 28 of

second Olympiad was held in Riga.

century, and early in the twentieth century,

its athletes compete in Stockholm, and Harald

in 1902, the amateur group ‘Herkuless’ (later

Blaus became the toast of the nation by becom-

known as RAC-II) was formed in the Latvian

ing the first Olympic medallist in the history of

capital.

Latvian sport. Harald picked up a bronze medal

The Russian Olympic Committee was

in clay pigeon shooting and later became Latvian

formed in 1911 and just nine months later

champion in several different disciplines includ-

the Baltic Olympic Committee was created,

ing figure skating!

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summer/autumn 2014

Harald Blaus became the toast of the nation by becoming the first Olympic medallist in the history of Latvian sport

Famously, on September 20, 1919 the Soldiers

shooting, Bietags came second in wrestling,

25,000 spectators. Football also became

1958-60 this team won the basketball European

Sports Club organised a football competition

and Bubenko took the bronze in 50-kilometre

increasingly popular during the 1930s, follow-

Cup three times. The women’s team TTT were

against the sailors of British warships.

distance walking.

ing on from the great success of the first Baltic

USSR champions for a never-to-be-matched 21

The Riga Garrison Club became the leading

Away from the Olympics, the Latvian basket-

Cup in 1927. Today, the Baltic Football Cup is

times between 1958 and 1987, and took the

sports club from around 1920, and in the same

ball team won the first European championships

the oldest international football cup competition

European title 18 times during this period. The

year, many of those who had competed in the

final in Geneva in 1935; certainly one of the

in all of Europe.

most famous basketball player from this era was

1912 Stockholm Olympics worked together to

greatest achievements in the country’s sport-

In the post-war years, basketball was all the

Julianka Semjonova, who was known all over

help organise the first Latvian Comprehensive

ing history. The 42nd European Speed skating

rage in Latvia as ASK Riga dominated the sport

the world. The Latvian won two Olympic gold

Sports Festival in Riga, with 343 athletes com-

championships, held in Riga in 1939, attracted

in the Soviet Union for three decades. From

medals and never lost an international game dur-

peting in 10 disciplines. The event was repeated in 1921 and 1923 and then every four years until the outbreak of World War II. In 1922, 40 representatives from 21 different sports organisations founded the Latvian Association of Sports Organisations – LASO. The LASO operated until 1936. During its two decades of independence, Latvia participated in four summer Olympic Games as well as three winter Olympics. The

The AllRussian II Olympiad opened on June 16, 1914 at the Riga Hippodrome 8

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The All-Russian II Olympiad opened on June

proud Latvian debut was in Chamonix in the

16, 1914 at the Riga Hippodrome. It was a spec-

Winter Olympics of 1924. Janis Dalins was

tacular event with 1,000 sportsmen and women

Latvia’s leading athlete during this period, win-

from 24 cities taking part. Riga was the most

ning silver at the Los Angeles Olympics of 1932

successful of all the city teams as it scooped 34

and setting a number of world records for dis-

gold medals. Events included rowing, football,

tance walking during the 1930s.

wrestling, swimming, tennis and track and field.

Sport really began to develop in Latvia dur-

Riga was one of the wealthier and more

ing the 1930s with the establishment of many

developed cities in Europe at the time of

sports teams in basketball, ice hockey and

the second Russian Olympiad but just a few

football, as well as the increased popularity of

months later the country was devastated by

sports such as speed skating, track and field,

World War I. Rather predictably, Latvian sport

and shooting. One of the leading athletes was

suffered greatly in the coming years, especially

L. Puce who was Latvian champion 42 times

as many of its sports grounds were completely

over a twenty year period in javelin, discuss

destroyed. It was not until 1919, with the estab-

and shot. In 1936, Latvia welcomed home a

lishment of the ‘Soldiers Sports Club’ that sport

number of successful athletes from the notori-

began to regain a foothold in Latvian society.

ous Berlin Olympics: Karlis Klava took gold in

summer/autumn 2014

ing her career. Today, Semjonova is recognised

While, Latvia boasted the youngest ever Chess

in the FIBA Hall of Fame.

world champion thanks to Andris Andreiko.

Inese Jaunzeme became the first Latvian

Latvia dominated European and Soviet

Olympic champion in 1956 when she was

speed skating in the 1960s before ice hockey

crowned world champion for javelin throwing.

became the undisputed national sport of this

Janis Lusis took part if four Olympic Games,

Baltic country largely thanks to the successes of Riga Dynamo. The team won silver in the USSR championships in 1988 and today plays in the KHL where it regularly reaches the play offs and is regarded as having the most vocal and passionate fans.

Famously, on September 20, 1919 the Soldiers Sports Club organised a football competition against the sailors of British warships

In the 1980s, sled sports really took off in Latvia, largely thanks to the fantastic worldclass track in Sigulda. Latvia produced three world champions in 1978 alone. Ten members of the USSR’s 16-strong 1980 bobsleigh team were Latvians. With regained independence in 1991, Latvian sport began a hugely exciting new winning medals gold, silver and bronze during

era with many world champions and high

the 60s and 70s. Many today regard him as the

points in many sports including participation

greatest sportsman to have ever represented

by the national football team in the 2004 UEFA

Latvia.

European championships. But the story of the

Latvian cycling was hugely successful in the 1960s with Emilija Sonka crowned USSR

regained independence years will need to wait for another time…

champion on several occasions, while Bodnieks and Lacis also dominated in the sport. Jevgenijs Koselevs and Minjona Sakse were world volleyball champions in 1952, while Radiotehnika won the sport’s European Cup in Boat racing saw many successes from the 1960s to the ‘80s with a number of Olympic Medalists and European champions in the sport.

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For a far more detailed exploration of Latvian sport history, pay a visit to the Latvian Sport Museum in Riga Old Town. Entrance costs less than a euro and you can find out all about the regained independence years, plus plans for sports development in this country in the coming years. The museum is open TuesdaySaturday; 10-17 (from 11:00 on Saturday mornings)

Latvia Sport Museum

’74, ’75 and 1977.

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More Latvian Sport!

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summer/autumn 2014

Alksnaja iela 9, Riga, LV-1050 +371 67225127 www.sportamuzejs.lv

Travel people

Photos courtesy of Instrumenti and Iveta Vaivode

We actually had our page deleted from Wikipedia and, eventually, we were banned

POSITIVE PROCRASTINATION Instrumenti are one of the most popular bands Latvia has produced in the modern era. Gateway Riga’s Justin Walley sat down with Janis and Reinis from the two-piece electro indie pop band at their TRU music studio, where the three of them discussed how the group formed, its influences, their thoughts on their fans, and whether procrastination is a good or bad thing.

P

lease tell Gateway Riga readers about

we enjoyed the social aspect of the band, the

discussing and sharing music we each liked

how the band started.

music and the singing. The main idea of creating

at that time.

I think it was five years ago. It was

Instrumenti was creativity. As Cosmos we did

the logical next step. At that time we had

a lot of cover versions of songs we loved. But

been together in music for ten years. Before

we realised at some point that we were into

We created things that weren't appropri-

Instrumenti we were involved in Cosmos, where

creating something; talking to each other and

ate to Cosmos. In our spare time we tried out

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summer/autumn 2014

How did you make the break from Cosmos?

new things for fun, with no intention of initiat-

confusing that nobody - not even our friends -

ing something serious. Somehow, it grew and

understood who was behind Instrumenti.

We wore panda masks and sent random press

Our first gig was on ‘Peldosa darbnica’, an abandoned ship in Andrejsala harbour. We did

developed and we recorded some stuff. For the first two years we were incognito.

Where was your first Instrumenti gig?

Why were you so keen to keep your identities

the set and took off our masks. While I was

secret for so long?

in the toilet, I overheard two men discussing

releases to newspapers and magazines; some of

We didn’t want people to see us as a side-

our band and music as I washed my hands.

it was absolute nonsense. We actually had our

step or progression of the band. We also wanted

They said the music was great and 'why can't

page deleted from Wikipedia and, eventually, we

to be purely judged on the music itself; espe-

Latvians make music like that?' This was great

were banned because our cross postings made

cially in this small scene here in Latvia where

to hear. It was the best kind of encouragement.

no sense at all. And the story about us was so

everyone knows everyone.

People suddenly wanted us.

There was also a house party in the countryside. We were there with five or six friends. I

You mention Bjork. I know you have a great affinity with the country of Iceland.

think our song came on the radio and the others

We have been in love with the Icelandic

were discussing it, not realising it was actually

music scene for many years; especially art-

us. That was fantastic; to discuss the music

ists like Bjork and Sigur Ros. It made us dig

neutrally.

deep. We were looking for a place to record our first album because it included many different

What were your musical influences when

sounds. We decided we should go somewhere

you started the band?

where we could connect those influences.

We were really into Peter Gabriel and Bjork, as well as some aspects of the ideas of how

What is it about the culture, music, people

Michael Jackson made his music; his presence

and landscape of Iceland that is so appealing?

We wanted to be purely judged on the music itself

and attitude. You felt he had a responsibility

We loved the vibe in Iceland. There is some

different landscape and in a different time; and

to the audience; some kind of 'stage ethics',

similar feeling there in Iceland to the feeling that

we are not even sure if that time is in the past

if you like.

exists here in Riga. It is like home, but home in a

or the future. There is a common connection. Who are the best known Icelandic artists you have worked with? We had a coincidence with some musicians coming to Latvia from Iceland: Valgeir Sigurðsson was here with Ben Frost and Sam Amidon from his Bedroom Community. Their tour stopped off in Latvia. We were invited to open for them. After the gig we had dinner and told them that we were close to making an album. And after that we arranged to go to their studio in Reykjavik. It was a very big step musically as a band and as human beings. We learned many important things that taught us how to do things, and

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summer/autumn 2014

Best R ates availab le at www.b estwes ter n.co

it helped craft an image of the ideal place for

as individuals has influenced us. It was a great

creating music. It enabled us to get closer and

honour to share that stage.

closer to what we would like here in Riga. We want to be open to any musician to use this studio space regardless of where they are from. Would you consider living in Iceland one day? There are no trees. We could see ourselves going there for a year perhaps. But we like to come back home. One influence from our time there is the approach of Nico Muhly, the American composer and arranger. We were lucky to work with him when we were there. He was innovative. We often ask ourselves: what would Nico do? His work is vivid and special. He walks and talks so fast. I think we were inspired by his aura. You have been compared to the likes of

You have toured all over the Baltics and

There is some similar feeling there in Iceland to the feeling that exists here in Riga

Muse, Sigur Ros and even Keane. Do any of

we sound. Although, there are probably some

these name tags fit?

layers of that somewhere.

I guess it comes from a mixture of our music

recently in the UK. Do you enjoy being on the road. The most personal connection with the audience we have had is usually our own audience in house; that is when you do something that you have creative control over. Our biggest shows that we have had and most technically important were at Arena Riga, and last year in November, six shows at the Palladium. Creativity wise, those shows were the biggest step so far from us. We are happy we are releasing a live concert DVD really soon. It will have a picture book and is a nice way of remembering our experiences last year. How was London? far from home with all the gear and musicians

Earlier this year you were the final act at the

we use for our Riga shows. When you set up

bands. From the side, I guess people see things

grand opening concert of Riga 2014. That

a show at home it is difficult practically to take

objectively. And so, it doesn’t really matter what

must have been a very proud moment?

that somewhere else. But we enjoyed it very

we like or dislike. In past years we listened to

That concert was really special. The people

much. We used to travel as just the two of us

James Blake and Bon Iver. But that’s not how

around us were all important. Everyone on stage

without managers and other people. Of course

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summer/autumn 2014

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There is a danger, when you spend too much time with something that you start changing things that should actually be there it is possible to do this still, but whenever it is

I reckon you are. And pretty famous ones

say Latvian and Russian people. In Russia, they

It helps people break away from the political

choir music, is the strongest parts of the music

achievable, we want to perform with our whole

too. I mentioned to a couple of people I was

are more expressive and vocal. This is not a bad

stupidity.

scene in this region. The St. Petersburg School

stage show.

interviewing you and they were very compli-

thing; it is just a different temperament. We

mentary about Instrumenti.

have some really cool and intelligent fans in

What do you make of the current cultural and

and Pe¯teris Vasks are a big influence on the

musical scene here in the Baltics?

world music scene.

The new album is entitled ‘Procrastination’. Sorry to ask, but is this something you suffer from? We are over it now (collective laugh). We were struggling after the first album. What? Where? When next? Now we have the songs we want, but we are waiting for the right moment. Recently in Berlin, we created lots of new material. Now we are waiting for step two. It’s not procrastination. It is healthy to put stuff away and return to it. It is nice to have a break from it and then hear it differently. There is a danger, when you spend too much time with something that you start changing things that should actually be there. Positive procrastination?

There is some similar feeling there in Iceland to the feeling that exists here in Riga

Dare I ask then, when will the album be released?

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Russia, who have studied all the stuff connected to our music and our culture. Amazingly, some

We have really good stuff in the classical

Also folk music is a big and important thing,

is a peaceful place to live. We are not stressed

of them are even learning Latvian to understand

scene. There are many, many excellent perform-

showing what music is like here. To some

out. We just live here. People are busy with

the meaning behind the songs. We are thankful

ers and composers: the likes of Nelsons and

extent, our modern culture is still developing.

their own stuff. To be honest, there are no crazy

for the opportunity to take our music to Russia.

Garanca. The classical scene, along with Baltic

The flag carriers for Latvia are still Prata Vetra.

fans. Some people very quietly and politely tell you they love the music or were moved by a connection to a special song. Maybe they lost a close friend for example. Some have told us they met their beloved one to our songs. That is a wonderful thing to hear. Yes, I get the sense with many famous Latvians I have interviewed here that the public leave them alone and don’t like to bother them. In England anybody famous is usually

it looks like spring next year; although it will

instantly surrounded by people even if they

likely be ready this year.

pop into their local supermarket.

What are the pluses and minuses of being

many people seem to like celebrity for celebrity’s

pop stars in Latvia?

sake. It is an empty thing; fake. Although aside

Yes, it is not like England or Russia where

We don’t think we are pop stars…or famous.

GATEWAY RIGA

Thank you. That is nice to hear. We don’t really think of what we do in that way. Latvia

Yesterday (May 21), we had a meeting and

Not guilty (another collective laugh).

summer/autumn 2014

of Classical Music is a big influence. Arvo Pärt

from that, there is a huge difference between

They were and are the ones who have really

We should also mention Tallinn Music

What are your future ambitions for your music?

managed to take their music to a global audi-

Week. For us, this is the crossing point where

We would like to keep making music, and

ence. There are also our friends from Estonia:

the Baltics meets Europe musically. We think

growing up in the ways we make our music. The

Ewert and the Two Dragons. Right now, the jazz

TMW has been one of the most important

two of us are enjoying what we are doing and we

scene is also on the rise, although much of that

things musically in the past twenty years in

have a good base here for doing that (TRU music

is happening outside of our borders and this is

this part of the world. It is still growing and I

studio). We hope to see this place recognised as

a different school from our traditional master,

don’t think the public has realised yet quite

a studio and music school in the next few years.

Raimonds Pauls.

how important it is.

We can see things happening here.

We would like to keep making music, and growing up in the ways we make our music 20

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summer/autumn 2014

Photos courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

Economy

EURO LEADER

Latvia set to post fastest economic growth in EU

A

ccording to data published by the

EU economy is expected to grow by around 2

European Commission in May, Latvia

per cent, while the figure for countries using

is expected to record the fastest eco-

the euro is predicted to show 1.7% expansion.

nomic growth in both the EU and the euro area

Domestic demand and low inflation rates

this year. The Commission is predicting Latvia’s

are said to be two of the principle reasons for

GDP will grow by 3.8% in 2014 and by a mas-

the European-wide growth, with some policy

sive 4.1% in 2015. To put this in context, the

makers now confident the European Union is

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summer/autumn 2014

over the worst of the economic crisis. In Latvia’s

bouring Estonia, unemploy-

case, the ‘readjustments’ of the past half-decade

ment is set to drop as low

have enabled the country’s economy to re-

as 8.1 percent, and Latvia

emerge stronger and slimmer after the crash

should continue the posi-

of 2008. Riga’s ports, for example, saw a 20%

tive Baltic trend into 2015

increase in the amount of cargo they handled

with the number out of work

in the first four months of 2014. The nation’s

here expected to dip further

current account is also close to balance.

to 9.6%.

Unemployment in Latvia could end the year

Post euro-adoption infla-

at around 10.7 percent; below the predicted

tion in Latvia is projected at

Eurozone average of 11.8 percent. In neigh-

1.2 percent for 2014, and is expected to rise to 2.5 percent next year as Latvia’s economy moves up through the gears.

Unemployment in Latvia could end the year at around 10.7 percent; below the predicted Eurozone average of 11.8 percent

The European Commission is predicting Latvia’s GDP will grow by 3.8% in 2014

Real wages are said to have

European Capital of Culture for 2014, should feel

increased by 4.2% in 2013. EU inflation is

like an extra shot of espresso for the Latvian

expected to remain below 1 percent for 2014.

economy.

There is broad consensus that bank credit

One of the darkest clouds on the economic

does though need to be revived if businesses

horizon is the ongoing situation in Ukraine. This

are to continue the current positive momentum.

could threaten Latvia’s exports to both Ukraine

And other obvious areas for improvement are

and, more significantly, to Russia. A decelera-

infrastructure, the judicial system and reforms

tion or contraction in the Russian economy

to the labour market. The nation’s embarrass-

would have a negative impact on Latvia’s trade

ingly low benefits payments also need to be

with what is one of its biggest trading partners.

‘looked at’ if Latvia is to be taken seriously by

Latvia is also heavily dependent on Russian

the broader European community as a place for

energy supplies. Furthermore, a deepening

its citizens to work and live in future years. One

crisis in this region would potentially affect

economic factor out of Latvian policy makers’

the confidence of external parties looking at

hands is the prolonged weakness in many of

the wider region.

its euro area trade partners.

Overall though, Latvia’s fortunes do appear

The country is expected to benefit from a

very much on the up and its current status as

tourism boom this summer as hundreds of thou-

greyhound ahead of the pack in terms of GDP

sands more tourists than are normally expected

growth amongst EU countries should certainly

in the summer months visit the Latvian capi-

serve as a boon in the year the nation’s capital

tal. Tourism income during Riga’s stint as the

city is also the European Capital of Culture.

Education other partner university abroad. Hopefully, we

these present graduates, what is the appeal

will add Asia and North America to the double

of Latvia for foreign students as a place to

degree options.

live and study?

We regard ourselves as international now,

For those that come from the CIS, and coun-

but the target is to become global. Currently 10%

tries like Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, Latvia is

of our students are foreign students, and we are

safe and friendly, yet European. These students

aiming for this figure to rise to 25%.

receive residence permits and can spend one

Although Latvian demographics are moving

semester studying abroad in other EU countries.

less tough and the quality of living is arguably

Many of them also take advantage of the oppor-

higher. But Latvia is still in Eastern Europe, giv-

in the wrong direction, there are positive

ing those who want to live somewhere with a

increases in the numbers of foreigners com-

different feel that opportunity.”

ing here to study and live. We are working a lot with students from the CIS. We also have our Erasmus and double degree students, and we have seen a significant increase in the number of students we are attracting from European countries too. Our courses are conducted in English, Russian and Latvian. This is allowing us to expand our market. Students from CIS countries can study Photos courtesy of RISEBA

in English or Russian while EU students can

EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE

EPAS ACCREDITED

RISEBA. We are a European Foundation Management Development member. RISEBA completed the accreditation process in January of this year and got the certification in May. Our European

tunity to travel around the Schengen zone and

Business bachelor course is now EPAS accred-

participate in EU-funded projects and initiatives.

“We are currently hosting 18 US MBA students from Robins School of Business, University of Richmond. They are working as consultants, helping Latvian companies enter the US market. They are doing this free-ofcharge. Each of six leading Latvian companies has three MBA students working with them. They work each day, study and explore Riga and beyond. This is very important in terms of international recognition. We have strong support from the US embassy and from the American Chamber of Commerce.” Does RISEBA have any big plans for 2015?

ited by EFMD. Having EPAS accreditation is like

Our students from southern Europe love the

us being a five-star hotel. It is easier than ever

nature and architecture. There are also the pric-

“RISEBA is competing with leading educa-

now to sign partnership agreements with the

es in Latvia. We are very competitive compared

tional establishments in Berlin, Venice and other

likes of Europe, Asia and America.

to most countries when it comes to accom-

cities to host a huge conference in 2015. We

modation and food. If you consider the likes of

hope our new campus will be chosen as the

Norway has the richest middle-class in the

Saint Petersburg and Moscow, we have some

main venue. If we are awarded this event, it

world. How does RISEBA attract students

obvious advantages: here it is safer, certainly

will be a major coup for RISEBA.”

We are working through international projects in the UK and Norway. Word of mouth and social media are also helping to spread the positive word. Young professionals are always online. One of the ways we target new students is through student fairs. We have decided to promote strongly in the CIS and India. In February 2014, in cooperation with other Latvian higher educational institutions, we set up a 'Study in

ou are one of the leading higher edu-

have cooperation agreements with more than

we have executive training, a vocational second-

ed to target China and Brazil, and this year we

cation establishments in the Baltic

100 education institutions around the world in

ary school and a creative business incubator;

received our first application from a potential

region. But I believe you see oppor-

faraway places, including Canada and China.

so we appeal to many people.

student from Mexico.

RISEBA University has its school of business, a

We offer double degree courses in Sweden,

RISEBA currently has close to 3,000 stu-

school of architecture and design, and a school

Germany, France and Finland enabling our stu-

Besides RISEBA’s exceptionally high edu-

dents and our vibrant alumni totals 9,000. We

of media and communications. On top of that,

dents to spend one semester or one year at the

cational standards and the opportunities

•

from the United States.

Latvia’ centre in Chennai. We have also decid-

tunities far beyond Latvia?

24

Our European Business bachelor course is now EPAS accredited by EFMD.

with the prestigious Richmond University

from places like Oslo to come to Riga?

RISEBA is one of the fastest expanding higher education institutions in northeastern Europe. Gateway Riga sat down with Head of RISEBA External Relations Division, Polina Naidenko, to try and discover the secret of their success.

Y

of course study English-language courses at

I believe you now have a working relationship

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Advertorial

Вид с рыбацкой лодки на SUN REPUBLIC в саулкрастах. Этот жилой комплекс на рижском взморье расположен уникально близко к морю — всего 50 метров — на своей территории в 3,8 гектара.

«ДОРОГАЯ, ДАВАЙ КУПИМ КВАРТИРУ В САУЛКРАСТАХ — ЧТОБЫ ВОКРУГ ТИШИНА, ДЮНЫ И БАЛТИЙСКИЕ ПЛЯЖИ. МНЕ ПРОСТО НУЖЕН ОТДЫХ ОТ МОСКВЫ». Об удивительных, как считают многие, темпах продаж и о том, какой отдых в 2014 году ждет жильцов квартир «Sun Republic» в непривычном для россиян, но любимом рижанами направлении – Саулкрасты, расскажет Алексей Пашкевич, член Правления SIA “Ainazu 23 иn 25”.

над согласованием у нас, опять же, джазово-

Бунина: «Что ж! Камин затоплю, буду пить...

го ресторана с завораживающим видом на

Хорошо бы собаку купить». Вполне подходя-

Балтийский залив. Имя повара пока называть

щее описание отдыха в Саулкрастах. Какое же

Конечно первый вопрос – почему Саулкрасты?

не буду, но большинство гурманов прекрасно

это счастье — после московской суеты, спешки,

Россияне ведь очень мало знают про это

его знают и ценят, он входит в топ-5 поваров

вечного смога и толп людей. Я знаю, что многие

направление.

Латвии.

из тех, кто купил у нас квартиры, приезжают

У меня много друзей в Юрмале, и я со своей семьей тоже присматривался к даче в тех краях.

сюда именно в таком настроении – это действиВы любите джаз?

тельно счастье.

Но Юрмала показалась нам, извините, чуть-чуть

Представьте себе: закат, уютный, совсем не

излишне городской. Тогда знакомые посовето-

жаркий вечер, хорошее вино, отличный ужин и

А как к джазу относятся клиенты, неужели

вали искать в другом направлении – Видземское

прекрасный женский вокал под аккомпанемент

столько любителей?

взморье, Саулкрасты.

контрабаса. (Смеется) Моя жена, которая сейчас

Клиенты у нас люди разных профессий, раз-

Так совпало, что когда в 2008 году нам пред-

много времени проводит с нашей маленькой

ных музыкальных и эстетических пристрастий.

ложили купить в Саулкрастах новый проект на

дочкой в Саулкрастах — а там для этого все

У нас и квартиры есть на любой вкус. И цены

123 квартиры с территорией 3,8 га удивитель-

есть — процитировала бы в этой связи Ивана

от 90 000 евро до 550 000. Все мы разные, но

но красивой земли с собственным выходом к морю, то с городом я уже был знаком. Это облегчило принятие решения. Не пожалели о своем решении? Какая рыночная привлекательность у этих квартир? Мы справились с проблемами, возникшими во время кризиса, и сейчас — на пике продаж. Спрос высокий, настроение у нас отличное. Дома были сданы в 2011 году, какое-то время занял ремонт квартир и благоустройство территории, и с начала 2013 года мы начали активно продавать. Сейчас уже больше половины распродано. Но самое интересное еще впереди. У вас грандиозные планы на 2014 год? Саулкрасты — это ведь город ежегодного

Вид из гостиной в доме SUN MARINO, одного из семи домов комплекса SUN REPUBLIC. Цена такой квартиры 380 тыс. евро. В стоимость входит полная отделка и место в подземном паркинге. Цены на квартиры в комплексе начинаются от 90 тысяч евро.

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джазового фестиваля. И в этом году мы начали работу над отделкой второй группы квартир именно в стиле «Джаз», работаем сейчас

Отделка квартир в стиле джаз будет закончена в сентябре 2014 года, а до этого времени их можно купить со скидкой 10%. Так, цена большой квартиры в 100 м2 составит 245 тыс евро до сентября и 269 тыс евро с 1 октября.

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чтобы запомниться надолго. Как минимум у тех, кто ценит, опять же, тишину и комфорт. 4 мая мы в Саулкрастах провели открытие сезона для риелторских компаний и представили наше специальное предложение на отделку в стиле «Джаз» – 10% скидка на время отделки. Раздали буклеты с подробным описанием дизайн-проекта. А чтобы создать джазовое настроение, пригласили знаменитостей — известнейшего джазового музыканта Латвии, саксофониста Дениса Пашкевича и его супругу Иоланту Гулбе-Пашкевич. Что касается еды, то об этом на празднике позаботился еще одно известное в Латвии лицо: шеф-повар ресторана «Ostas

«Для меня отделка в стиле джаз – это как любимый альбом Майлза Дэвиса 1969 года «In a Silent Way» – спокойно и очень красиво.»

Skati» Ингмарс Ладигс, победитель шоу поваров «Mu-sdienu Latvijas Garša», заслуживший титул лучшего шеф-повара Латвии. Все прошло на высоте, приехало 128 человек гостей, было

кое-что нас объединяет: это желание спокойно

оформляет сделку? Тем не менее, это так.

много музыки, детей и смеха. Гости оценили

отдохнуть в экологически чистом месте, рас-

Кстати, такое ознакомительное проживание

преимущества такой большой ухоженной тер-

слабиться и прийти в себя перед возвращени-

бесплатно, это часть гостеприимства нашей

ритории как наша, мне показалось всем понра-

ем к работе. Мне понравились слова одного

Солнечной Республики.

вились дома и разные квартиры, которые мы

из наших клиентов — спасибо ему, так вот он

показывали. Кажется, что все остались очень

сказал: «Тут квартиры покупают исключительно

А как к вам относятся наши риелторы? Много

довольны. Лично меня расстроило только то,

умные люди. Алексей, делайте из этого реклам-

клиентов привозят?

что обещали, но не сыграли мелодию Паулса

ный слоган». Я бы за, только наши маркетологи меня не слушают. (Смеется)

Да, спасибо им огромное за это. У нас основ-

из фильма «Долгая дорога в Дюнах». Она ведь

ная доля продаж — это рекомендации: жильцы

так отлично подходит к этим местам! Вот такая

приглашают своих друзей покупать здесь же в

у нас романтика. (Смеется).

Кстати, о клиентах. Правда ли, что вы един-

Саулкрастах, в Sun Republic. Вторая группа, и

ственные в Латвии, кто своим потенциальным

это как минимум одна сделка в месяц, — реко-

покупателям предлагает формат «Попробуй

мендации риелторов. Они, кстати, особенно

перед тем как купить»?

поддержали наш формат «Test life». Привозят

Да, это я придумал. (Смеется). А если серьез-

на одну ночь к нам, потом показывают другие

но, то это и есть секрет наших успешных про-

объекты – в Юрмале и в Риге. Но у нас они про-

даж. Люди приезжают провести здесь один-два

водят весь первый день — этого достаточно,

дня и влюбляются в эти места, в архитектуру комплекса, в эти многокилометровые пляжи. Привозят с собой детей. Мы называем этот формат «Test Life», он дает возможность оценить, что инфраструктура в Саулкрастах абсолютно комфортная – через дорогу поликлиника и аптека, в пяти минутах магазин и пекарня. На рынке деревенские продукты, речная рыба. Гости могут побывать в бане, сходить в пляжный ресторан, отпустить детей поиграть на наших игровых площадках. А потом проснуться утром, пойти на море и дышать этим свежим, таким пряным воздухом. Как же он здорово пахнет! Особенно после Москвы. (Смеется). Может быть, поэтому большинство из тех, кто остался у нас на несколько дней, после возвращения в Москву в течение максимум трех месяцев

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Приезжайте, наши менеджеры покажут вам город и наши квартиры. Особенно ждем латвийских риелторов — показать, какие мы стали, как обживается комплекс.

Забронируйте проживание «TEST LIFE» по тел. 27704006 или на сайте www.sunrepublic.lv

Photos courtesy of Latvian Tourism Development Agency and Pedvale

Famous Travel Destinations

MUSEUM EXPLORATION Latvia boasts a wonderful collection of open-air museums, ideal for visiting this summer season.

W

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inspiration from the Abava Valley environment

has been around since way back in 1924, mak-

and to use natural materials from the local area.

ing it one of the oldest open-air museums on

The cultural heritage of Abava Valley is also an

the continent. With 120 buildings, the Latvian

essential aspect of the museum’s concept as

Ethnographic Museum is also one of the larg-

this too should be integrated with the natural

est ethnographic museums in Europe, with the

landscape and artistic inspiration.

collection originating from the four corners of

larly popular during annual festive celebrations

Latvia including Latgale, Vidzeme, Kurzeme and

such as Easter and Mid-Summer.

www.pedvale.lv

from Riga.

at six of the best open-air museums

This really is a delightful museum that dates

in Latvia; each of which is worthy of your explo-

back to 1992 when Ojars Feldbergs decided to

ration this summer season.

create a museum close to two former manor houses. There are more than 150 artworks in the collection on display here and the 100-hectare museum is considered a ‘cultural monument of national importance’.

popular in Latvia. It is located in a beautiful spot

Pedvale Open-Air Museum is highly regarded

on the banks of the Abava River Valley, close

and has already received a special reward from

summer/autumn 2014

The Latvian Ethnographic Open Air Museum

might consider this a good company retreat.

In this feature, Gateway Riga looks

Pedvale Open-Air museum is one of the most

to the ongoing project are encouraged to seek

It is possible to stay overnight here, and a

to the town of Sabile, around 120 kilometres

PEDVALE OPEN-AIR MUSEUM

of the cultural landscape’. Artists contributing

LATVIAN ETHNOGRAPHIC OPEN AIR MUSEUM

UNESCO for ‘the preservation and development

conference hall is available for hire for those who

hoever said museums are boring?!

Pedvale OpenAir Museum is highly regarded and has already received a special reward from UNESCO for ‘the preservation and development of the cultural landscape’

Zemgale.

At times this museum feels like a Latvian

The museum is located just outside of the

village stuck in a time trap with its collection

Latvian capital, adjacent to a lake, and is particu-

of farmsteads and houses, some of which date

includes castle ruins, reconstructed Latgalian houses, and Bronze Age dwellings. The location on Araisi Lake is one of the big sells of this museum and visitors can explore a windmill and a collection of houses situated on an island in the lake. As is the case with almost all of Latvia’s open-air museums, this is a particularly great place to visit around the key annual festivals. www.latvia.travel/en/ araisi-archaeological-museum-park

JURMALA OPEN AIR MUSEUM This little visited open air museum is a great escape from the city for anybody seeking peace and quiet and a slice of culture. Situated in a forest, close to the Lielupe River and local beaches, Jurmala Open Air Museum is essentially a nineteenth century fishing hamlet made up of barns, dwelling houses, a bathhouse and fish curing sheds. The museum’s wonderful location provides visitors with the opportunity to stroll through the forest along a decked footpath, which leads over sand back to the seventeenth century. It covers

mer months, craftsmen practice their trades

Latgalians and Livs were the prominent cultures

dunes to the local, usually-deserted-beach.

almost 100 hectares of countryside and all of

for the public. Tram ‘6’ runs all the way here

in this land. It is said that Araisi Archaeological

www.latvia.travel/en/jurmala-open-air-museum

the constructions on show are original, having

from the centre of Riga. Here is a full list of

Museum Park is the most studied site of its

been relocated to the museum. The permanent

the events being hosted by the museum

kind in this entire region. Situated close to the

TURAIDA MUSEUM RESERVE

exhibition includes countless household furnish-

this summer: www.brivdabasmuzejs.lv/

attractive town of Cesis, the 12-hectare site

Turaida is a collection of monuments that tell

ings associated with Latvian rural life. Livonian

attachments/291_Events_%202014.pdf

fishermen’s former residences are amongst the highlights of this fascinating and hugely atmospheric museum.

Araisi Museum Park is a collection of recon-

rides around the museum and even engage

structed buildings from ancient times, includ-

in a spot of cross-country skiing. In sum-

ing the Bronze Age and the periods when the

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past 1,000 years. As much as anything, it is the

ARAISI ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM PARK

During the winter, visitors can enjoy sledge

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the historical and archaeological story of the

summer/autumn 2014

wonderful location of Turaida, close to some of the most beautiful forest scenery in all of Latvia that makes a visit here so unforgettable.

With 120 buildings, the Latvian Ethnographic Museum is also one of the largest ethnographic museums in Europe

The museum site encompasses around 42 hectares and is located six kilometres away

It is said that Araisi Archaeo­ logical Museum Park is the most studied site of its kind in this entire region

from Sigulda, and around 50 kilometres from

attractions are added to the reserve, including

draw for many who visit here. For others, it

Riga. Although this area has been settled since

children’s rides. Dainas Hill with its collec-

is the opportunity to follow kilometres of for-

ancient times, the first written records for Turaida

tion of fascinating sculptures is still the major

est trails that allow exploration of the stun-

date back to the start of the thirteenth century.

ning countryside. During the summer months

There are numerous legends linked to this area

the reserve is open daily from 9am until 8pm.

including the tale of ‘the Rose of Turaida’.

www.turaida-muzejs.lv

Turaida means ‘God’s garden’ – a name given to it by the ancient Livs, and it is not difficult to see why the Livs were so taken by the place, which today is dominated by the red brick Turaida Castle, rising out of the forested landscape as if in a fairy tale. Turaida was actually named ‘European Museum of the Year’ back in the 1990’s and each year more

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Turaida is a collection of monuments that tell the historical and archaeological story of the past 1,000 years

summer/autumn 2014

VENTSPILS SEASIDE OPENAIR MUSEUM Pride of place at this museum is the miniature train narrow-gauge track, which runs on a 1.4 kilometre circle line and three-kilometre long ‘mountain’ line. The museum is particularly popular during annual festivals that take place between May and October, when craftsmen from the region display their trade to inquisitive visitors. The seaside open-air museum actually dates back to 1954 although it only opened to the public after 1960. This vast museum boasts an astounding 600 exhibits and around 20,000 items related to the lives of Latvian farmers and fishermen. One of the most popular exhibits is a large windmill that was brought here from the countryside in the 1970s. The park is open from May 1 until October 31, so now is the perfect time to visit. www.muzejs.ventspils.lv

Photos courtesy of Kalnciema Kvartal and Latvian Tourism Development Agency

Discovery

WOODEN COOL Kalnciema Quarter is a very special corner of Riga where the country ’s rich wooden architectural heritage is the backdrop to one of its coolest and most upcoming cultural zones.

T 36

he Kalnciema Quarter, located just off

ble of listed wooden buildings from the eigh-

on the continent has such a concentration of

Kalnciema Street on the Pardaugava

teenth and nineteenth centuries. In Europe,

urban, high class wooden architecture sur-

side of the River Daugava, is an ensem-

these are considered unique as nowhere else

vived without being destroyed by the ravages

•

In Europe, these are considered unique as nowhere else on the continent has such a concentration of urban, high class wooden architecture survived of fire or the ill-conceived whims of modern

tions are found in Pardaugava, and particularly

cism structures are UNESCO-protected and of

city planners.

in and around Kalnciema street; one of the city’s

great interest to many scholars, architects and

Riga’s astonishing collection of wooden

main transport arteries, which today helps con-

admirers of wooden architecture, because of

buildings are scattered throughout the city but

nect downtown Riga to the city’s international

their scarcity in modern day Europe. The loca-

many of the predominate surviving concentra-

airport. Latvia’s wooden classicism and eclecti-

tion of the Kalnciema Quarter on the road in from

 16 fully equipped apartments  kid's playground  free WiFi  private parking  breakfast  airport transfer

We look forward to welcoming you

to the aparthotel RIGAAPARTMENT soon!

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summer/autumn 2014 129 Gertrudes Street, Riga, Latvia, LV1009 (entrance from 7 Valmieras Street)

24 hour reception: +371 2546 1546 Reservation: +371 2006 0009

[email protected] www.RigaApartmentHotel.com

the airport means that many first time visitors to

Culturally, Kalnciema Quarter remains out-

Pride of place is the restaurant Maja – a

have worked at Maja, while the interior, which

the city are instantly made aware of the city’s

side the fringes of the mainstream, but this is

restored nineteenth century cottage offering

boats chandeliers and gorgeous oak floors, is

certainly no flee-bitten hippies' hangout. Imagine

top class international dining to those in the

reason enough to dine here. Maja is open from

perhaps middle-aged hipsters, organic farm-

know. Some of the finest chefs in the country

noon until 10pm.

unique wooden architectural heritage. In the regained independence years, painstaking renovation of the unique Kalnciema Quarter lead to the district’s rich delights being reopened for the public to enjoy. In turn, this process encouraged new businesses to set up here: restaurants and small start-ups made this home and gradually the Kalnciema Quarter began to host a series of cultural and business events as it was fully renovated around 2009. Today, the quarter is regarded by many in the know as the food and drinks capital of Riga, with its organic markets and highly regarded restaurant.

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Latvia’s wooden classicism and eclecticism structures are UNESCOprotected

summer/autumn 2014

ers, internationally renowned chefs and some of the capital’s most culturally connected creative minds meeting in one place, and you get a sense perhaps of what this place is about. Indeed, so popular has this district become over the past couple of years that it now hosts open air markets, hip festivals, sold out concerts and independent movie nights every week throughout the summer months.

Kalnciema Quarter began to host a series of cultural and business events as it was fully renovated around 2009



Getting there

From the centre, you can reach Kalnciema Quarter by crossing Vansu Bridge by foot or bicycle and continuing straight for several minutes. Trams ‘4’ and ‘5’ pass close to Kalnciema Quarter as does the regular ‘Airport Bus’ (number ‘22’). Patrons are just as likely to arrive here by cool retro bicycle as by seven-series.

here on a Thursday evening to see what all the fuss is about. Visitors to Kalnciema Quarter will also find a Kalnciema Fair is held every Saturday from 10am until 4pm. The fair is a little different each

survived and has become a home of several

design shop here as well as a wine store, gallery

spin-off initiatives.”

and regular exhibitions. Parts of Kalnciema are

and every time and there is always plenty of

For this summer season, open air concerts

real organic food and drink on show. According

are held in the huge backyard, and an alley of

to Supurbfood.eu: “While other initiatives that

local farmers’ food and snacks is set up every

have tried to establish farmers markets in Riga

Thursday evening until the end of September.

have mainly failed, the Kalciema Quarter market

This usually runs from 7-11pm. Entrance is free,

remains the only stable farmers market that has

so there is no excuse for not popping down

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available for events, seminars, lectures, conferences and parties.

Pride of place is the restaurant Maja – a restored nineteenth century cottage offering top class international dining

In Spring 2014, renovation began on the last of the unrestored houses, where next July "Wooden architecture centre Kalnciema Quarter", popularizing the wooden architecture of Pa¯rdaugava, will open to the public.

In Spring 2014, renovation began on the last of the unrestored houses

Upcoming events yy Every Thursday: open air concerts from 7pm-11pm yy Every Saturday: farmers’ and crafts markets 10am- 4pm yy Gallery: open every day from 12am-10pm yy Paper object festival' organised by Kalnciema quarter from June 27 till July 22 (http://www.papiraobjekti.lv/ eng/)

Travel

SUMMER AT YOUR LEISURE! Summer is here and there is no better time to get out and about and enjoy the countless leisure activities Latvia has to offer.

Jurmala's impossibly white sandy beach stretches for 33 kilometres

The best real estate Photos courtesy of Latvian Tourism Development Agency

in Italy for You!

L

atvia is a dream for lovers of the outdoors.

with the twilight beginning as late as thirty

RIGA-ON-SEA

impossibly white sandy beach stretches for 33

This nation is one of the least densely

minutes before midnight around midsummer,

Jurmala is a gorgeous spa town located just 25

kilometres and is backed by fragrant pine for-

populated countries in Europe and offers

and it beginning to get light as early as 3.20 in

kilometres away from the Latvian capital. For all

ests and a collection of small urban zones. The

dozens of different outdoor leisure activities

the mornings. So why not take advantage of

intents and purposes, you could call this Riga-

leisure activities on offer here are many, quite

throughout the land. Latvia is also blessed by

Latvia's delightfully bright and sunny summer

on-sea, as a thirty minute train ride costing little

aside from sunbathing and swimming in the sea.

warm pleasant summers and its north-easterly

by enjoying some of the best leisure activities

over a euro will transport you from the capital

Yachting is becoming increasingly popular along

location means that summer evenings are bright

the country has to offer?

city to this wonderful summer escape. Jurmala's

the Lielupe River which helps sandwich the

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GR AND M I L ANO S TUD I O

www.grandmilanostudio.ru www.grandmilanostudio.com

Holding company Grand Milano Studio was born owing to cooperation of ten business sectors: real estate, advertising, construction, design, advocacy, notary, tourist industry, accounting, translations and transport. The company brings together experts with extensive experience working as a team. We offer  Sales of residential, commercial, luxury real estate, land  Real estate registration and full legal support of property bargains  Real estate management  Russian-speaking stuff recruiting  Help in opening bank accounts and obtaining loans  Help in obtaining residence permit  Buying or starting a business  Architectural and engineering design, interior design  Construction and renewal on a “turnkey” basis  Investment projects

The main office is located in Milan, but Grand Milano Studio offers properties in Liguria, Tuscany, Rome, Venice or on the lakes, on the island of Sardinia and Adriatic coast, as well as Côte d'Azur in Switzerland. The company is a member of the Italian association of realtors F.I.M.A.A.

Mob. +39 392 1298168 Olga Kibenko [email protected] Mob. +39 377 4031770 Yulia Kibenko [email protected]

Grand Milano Studio di Olga Kibenko C.so di Porta Romana, 51 20122 Milano, Italy grandmilanostudio.ru | italybrand.ru

summer/autumn 2014

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43

is also the opportunity to bungee jump from a cable car, and Sigulda Adventure Park is popular for its 'Tarzan' obstacle course, tobogganing track and Ferris wheel. resort between the Gulf of Riga and its watery

shipers. Latvia surprised a few people around

you will quickly realise that Latvians have more

expanses. Beach goers can also hire out water

the world when they won the Olympic bronze

than a passing passion for the sport of beach

WIND ENTHUSIASTS

sports equipment and the resort also boasts an

medal for beach volleyball at the 2012 Olympic

volleyball. While, beach football has caught on

You will have gathered that sports involving the

extremely popular water park.

Games. Plenty of journalists attending the

in recent years, visitors will spot dozens and

wind are popular in Latvia. Sailing can of course

Kite surfing has become popular in the past

London games even questioned whether Latvia

dozens of volleyball games being played at any

be enjoyed year round but with thousands of

few years, while you are sometimes just as

had beaches or indeed a summer season. Take a

one time in Jurmala.

lakes (12,000 in total); the summer season is

likely to spot bicycles on the beach as sun wor-

stroll along Jurmala in the summer months and

FLYING IN THE GARDEN OF GOD

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Roja and Mersrags, to name just a few places. Surfboarding has become popular on Latvia's

the Sigulda region with part of it known in

west coast in destinations like Jurkalne and

ancient Liv as 'the garden of God'. This is a

Liepaja, where strong sea breezes help to whip

marvellous place to enjoy summer leisure

up some decent surf, while close to Riga at

activities and the options are certainly varied.

Lake Kisezers, a number of windsurfing clubs

The Aerodium is a vertical wind tunnel where

have been set up. Further afield, in places like

visitors can soar in the air just like in free fall

Daugavpils, Lake Aluksnes and Cesis, windsurf-

but without any of the safety risks or heart

ing is also catching the public's mood.

greatest memories of their time in Latvia and

MAKE SURE YOU KEEP THE KIDS ENTERTAINED!

was also regarded as being one of the high-

Children in Latvia must be some of the luckiest

lights of World Expo 2010 in Shanghai, where

on the planet as they enjoy a school summer

it delighted attendees. Close to Sigulda there

holiday that lasts three months! It is a given

is for many leisure enthusiasts one of their

•

Yacht clubs now exist in Ventspils, Lielupe,

One of the most beautiful places in Latvia is

stopping moments of skydiving. The aerodium

44

perhaps the best time of all to hoist the sail.

Latvia surprised a few people around the world when they won the Olympic bronze medal for beach volleyball summer/autumn 2014

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Other top summer attractions include Ramkalni with its 400-metrelong roller sled track UP, UP AND AWAY

river rafting, jet skiing, and a whole myriad of

Hot air balloon rides over the beautiful Latvian

other water sports available to visitors.

countryside are a unique way to enjoy a bird’s

Orienteering and geocaching seem to become more popular with each passing week. There are orienteering competitions throughout

eye view of this wonderful country. Sigulda,

LAST BUT NOT LEAST

Kuldiga, and Liepaja are some of the favourite

If we wanted to mention in detail all the

hide and seek meets treasure hunting – now has

places for this.

summer leisure activities available in Latvia

thousands of geocaches across the country.

the summer all over Latvia, while geocaching –

we would be here all day. And so, as a final

Love fishing? Then enjoy the almost limit-

therefore that kids entertainment is well catered

lanes, forest walks and a lake to keep all of the

with over 500 kilometres of coastline, Latvia

SECOND CITY PLEASURES

mention, let us also draw your attention to

less opportunities all over Latvia. Whether it is

for in Latvia. We have already mentioned the

family entertained. There are also adventure

has dozens and dozens of amazing beaches

Very few tourists venture as far as Latvia’s

the following, including Latvia’s five golf

angling or sea fishing that tickles your fancy,

waterpark in Jurmala - Livu Aquapark - but

parks catering to the whole family in Ventspils

waiting to be discovered. One of the most

second city – Daugavpils – and this is a great

courses: Saliena, Ozo, Reinis, Denderi and

there are pike, salmon and trout aplenty.

other top summer attractions include Ramkalni

and Cesis.

popular is Saulkrasti, while the blue flag

shame as not only does the city boast some

Viesturi.

beach at Liepaja is a brilliant place to hang

amazing tourist sites such as its outstanding

Horse riding is becoming popular all over the

to miss out on the dozens of leisure activities we

out, regardless of whether it is to partake in

150-hectare fortress and Mark Rothko Art

country but the untouched nature of Rezekne

have mentioned is the 2014 FIFA World Cup. But

with its 400-metre-long roller sled track, Lido

Summer is here, so enjoy it! The only excuse

in Riga with its family entertainment centre,

LIFE IS A BEACH

and Mezaparks - on the edge of the capital -

We began by mentioning the sandy delights

leisure activities, or simply to sunbathe or to

Centre, but it is also a great place to spend

and other parts of Zemgale are especially worthy

as most of the games kick off in the late evening,

where there is a zoo, adventure track, bicycle

of Jurmala, but we must also point out that

enjoy a summer festival.

some down time in the summer months, with

of your attention.

you haven’t really got an excuse anyway!

The Aerodium is a vertical wind tunnel where visitors can soar in the air just like in free fall 46

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Photos courtesy of Wizz Air

Airline News

RIGA NETWORK EXPANDS Exciting news for Latvian residents and the millions who visit this Baltic country every year: Wizz Air has created a base/hub in Latvia.

T

he forward looking airline has added

consumers will have access to more low cost

an Airbus A320 to its Riga fleet, and

services. Wizz Air is offering some seats on the

four new routes came into service on

new Riga routes on sale from just 19.99 euro

June 19. The four new routes are from Riga to

through its website.

Barcelona, Doncaster Sheffield, Dortmund and

József Váradi, Wizz Air’s CEO told journal-

Paris Beauvais. At the same time, Wizz Air has

ists: "This announcement underlines Wizz Air’s

decided to increase frequencies on its existing

commitment to Latvia. We started our opera-

services to London Luton and Oslo Torp. With

tions in Riga four years ago and already carried

the new destinations Wizz Air is now offering

200,000 passengers in 2013. The new Riga base

25 weekly flights on 8 routes from Latvia’s capi-

will not only bring a significant capital invest-

tal, representing 85% capacity growth year on

ment, but also create a number of local jobs with

year (July 2014). The airline is also confident

Wizz Air and our local business partners. Latvia

its expansion in Riga will stimulate the local job

is our 10th country where we have established

market in the aviation and tourism sectors as

base operations. We look forward to becoming

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the airline of choice of Latvian consumers and visitors.” Elsewhere, Wizz Air has just expanded its

With the new destinations Wizz Air is now offering 25 weekly flights on 8 routes from Latvia’s capital

In other news, Wizz Air has increased the

allowed to use Portable Electronic Devices

number of reserved seats on all of its flights.

(PEDs) such as mobile phones, electronic read-

The Reserved Seat option will be increased by

ers and tablet computers, on all Wizz Air flights.

33% to 16 seats in the first three rows of every

The only considerations to be made are that

aircraft. Passengers opting for the Reserved

passengers are asked to remove headphones

Seat option, available from €6 per flight, are

during the safety announcements of the cabin

amongst the first passengers allowed to board

crew and switch off electronic devices when the

and to disembark the aircraft.

crew cannot confirm that these are operating

Signifying that the airline is ahead of many

in flight mode and match the criteria for usage

airlines in its thinking, passengers are now

during the flight. Larger electronic devices which

network in Bosnia, Macedonia and Poland. And

could lead to injuries, such as laptops, will only

Wizz Air, touted as the largest low-cost airline in

need to be stored during take-off and landing.

Central and Eastern Europe, has just celebrated

According to an article in the British

its 10 year anniversary of its first flight from

Financial Times on May 22, Wizz Air is "planning

Katowice in southern Poland to London Luton on

to raise €200m through an initial public offering

May 19th 2004. Wizz Air was established with the ambition of making flying more affordable to the citizens of central and eastern Europe, with other leading low-cost airlines focusing more on western and southern Europe a decade ago. By the end of 2013, Wizz Air had carried a total of 69 million passengers. The airline can now boast 300 routes and 96 destinations across 35 countries. Wizz Air reported revenue of around €1bn in the year leading up to March 31; up around 20 per cent on 2012-13. Profit for the same period was €89m, up almost 200%.

The airline can now boast 300 routes and 96 destinations across 35 countries.

on the London Stock Exchange next month. The company wants to use the proceeds from selling new shares to strengthen its balance sheet, buy aircraft parts and expand in existing and possibly new markets." The newspaper went on to speculate that the IPO could provide Wizz Air with a market capitalisation of £1bn, which would appear to be very good news for the future of Wizz Air's new Riga base, and suggests many more new destinations to and from Latvia could be on the way soon.

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49

K

nown affectionately as the ‘Granite City’

the city itself was founded in 1179. History,

or ‘Silver City’, Aberdeen is Scotland's oil

recreation and breath taking highland scen-

capital and principle city of Aberdeenshire.

ery are all close at hand, with castles, coastal

There have been human settlements here for

golf courses and, of course, whisky distilleries

at least eight thousand years, and Celtic tribes

galore for those interested in sampling one of

made this home around the time of Christ, but

Scotland's most famous exports. The Highland

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Photo courtesy of Paul Tomkins VisitScotland Viewpoin

Photo courtesy of VisitScotland Viewpoin

beach - a stone's throw from the city centre,

Balmoral), pristine beaches, fantastical castles

with Aberdeen serving as an ideal base for

and even a monster are all nearby, depending

exploring further afield.

on the time of year!

City highlights include Aberdeen Maritime

Queen Victoria is said to have fallen in love with Aberdeen and its region after a visit to ‘Royal Deeside’. Perhaps this isn’t surprising considering the region is home to 300 castles, a fantastic array of wildlife, miles upon miles of unspoiled beaches and a top class arts and cultural scene. Aberdeen Art Gallery has a world

class collection which includes work by one of the most sought after contemporary artists –

Wildlife lovers can discover an amazing array of creatures in this region including Golden eagles, deer, ospreys, dolphins, seals, puffins and whales

Damien Hirst – as well as the masters Monet

Its title of Europe's oil capital (the industry

and Renoir. Two of its best known festivals are

provides 50,000 jobs in the area) means that

the annual Aberdeen International Youth Festival

it has plenty to offer the young modern pro-

and the Aberdeen Jazz Festival.

fessional in terms of career opportunities, high

In 2012, Mercer voted cosmopolitan

living standards, shopping and restaurants.

Aberdeen the 4th most liveable city in Great

There is almost no unemployment in Aberdeen,

Britain and number 56 in the world for expats

and its population size of roughly quarter of a

(Vienna was ranked top in the world). Aberdeen

million is ideal for many residents seeking a

has also been awarded ‘Britain in bloom’ winner

small-sized city that never becomes too over

ten times.

bearing. Holiday makers can also enjoy the

Museum, St. Machar’s Cathedral, 16th century Provost Skene’s House and the 17th century Tolbooth. While a short distance away from Aberdeen is the Cairngorms – one of the UK’s greatest assets: a huge expanse of untamed mountains, moorland and forests. At Glen Tanar, Scotland’s centuries-old Caledonian pine forest is waiting to be explored. Wildlife lovers can discover an amazing array of creatures in this region including Golden eagles, deer, ospreys, dolphins, seals, puffins and - last but not least – whales. Quaint fishing villages and some of the world’s oldest and most famous whisky distilleries are also available in the mix if you are planning a Scottish escape this coming season. Aberdeen International Airport is just 11 kilometres from the city centre.

Photo courtesy of VisitScotland Viewpoin

Aberdeen is the gateway to the Scottish Highlandsand the north-east Scottish coast.

In 2012, Mercer voted cosmopolitan Aberdeen the 4th most liveable city in Great Britain

Games, the Royal family (part-time residents of

Photo courtesy of Paul Tomkins VisitScotland

GATEWAY TO THE HIGHLANDS

tesy of Paul Photo cour sitScotland Tomkins Vi in po ew Vi

Photo courtesy of Paul Tomkins VisitScotland Viewpoin

Destination Guide

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51

Aziza

July 4 / Dzintaru Concert Hall

Felix Livshitz

June 10 / Great Guild www.bilesuserviss.lv/

Diana Arbenina

SUMMER SEASON HIGHLIGHT

www.bilesuserviss.lv

L'One

Fly Project

www.info.studio69.lv

www.info.studio69.lv

July 19 / Studio 69

XI Kremerata Baltica Festival

Super Discoteque Retro FM

www.kremerata-baltica.com

www.bilesuserviss.lv

July 4-5 / Baltais Figelis

July 26 / Studio 69

f o rth c o mi n g e v e n ts

f o rth c o mi n g e v e n ts

June

July 19 / Mezaparks

June 18 / Dzintaru Concert Hall

New Wave Festival 2014

www.bilesuserviss.lv/

July 22- 27 / Jurmala www.bilesuserviss.lv

Andrejs Makarevics

June 19 / Dzintaru Concert Hall

Irina Bilik

August 7 / Dzintaru Concert Hall

Serebro

www.bilesuserviss.lv/

www.makroconcert.lv

July 23 / Studio 69

www.info.studio69.lv

Bianka

August 9 / Studio 69

www.info.studio69.lv/

Moraljnj Kodeks

Grigorijs Lepss

July 5 / Dzintaru Concert Hall

July 28 / Dzintaru Concert Hall

www.makroconcert.lv

www.bilesuserviss.lv/

'Born in Riga'

World Jazz Festival

July 6 / Riga

Kings of Leon

www.riga2014.org

www.positivus.com

The ball of flowers show

July 30-31 / Arena Riga www.worldjazzfest.com

June 25 / Mezaparks

www.riga2014.org

Tom Jones

June 26 / Arena Riga www.fbi.lv

Telmans Guzevskis

June 29 / Dzintaru Concert Hall www.bilesuserviss.lv

LMT Summer Sound 2014 July 11-13 / Liepaja

July

www.summersound.lv

Svetlana Loboda July 12 / Studio 69

www.info.studio69.lv

Rigas Ritmi Festival July 3-5 / Riga

www.rigasritmi.lv

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summer/autumn 2014

Igors Mamenko

July 14 / Dzintaru Concert Hall www.bilesuserviss.lv

www.fontainefestival.com

Rietumu Bank Latvian Speedway Grand Prix August 16 / Bikernieku

August

Geegun

Ruki Vverh

Laba Daba Festival 2014

www.info.studio69.lv

www.info.studio69.lv

www.labadaba.lv

Stass Mihailovs

University of Latvia www.botanika.lu.lv

July 9-19 / Riga

August 15-18 / Liepaja Promenade

www.bilesuserviss.lv

July 10-13 / Botanical garden of

8th World Choir Games

Fontaine Festival 2014

Positivus Festival 2014

Positivus is back for its eighth year and if you haven’t attended the Baltics’ best music festival then make sure you don’t miss out this summer! While many of Europe’s most popular festivals feel like they sold their souls many years ago, Positivus remains unpretentious and a delight to all who attend and perform. The six stages are backed by pine forests, meadows and a stretch of beautiful white-sand beach. The three-day festival attracts more than 25,000 party goers and has seen headline acts including Muse, Manic Street Preachers, Fat Boy Slim and Sigur Ros. This year’s line-up includes Kraftwerk, Ellie Goulding and Elbow. July 18-21 / Salacgriva

www.positivusfestival.com/en/

July 24 / Studio 69

August 1-3 / Ratnieki

August 29 / Studio 69

August 30 / Dzintaru Concert Hall

Comedy Club

www.bilesuserviss.lv

August 1-3 / Dzintaru Concert Hall www.bilesuserviss.lv

The Milk Festival

August 3-4 / Lucavsala Island, Riga www.piens.nu

September 24th Latvian Cycling Unity Ride September 7 / Sigulda www.velo.lv

Amber Route

September 16 / Latvian National Library www.koris.lv

Nyusha

July 25 / Studio 69

National Motorcross 2014

www.info.studio69.lv

September 27-28 / Golden Motor

Championship Boxing

August BI 2 & LNSO

www.bilesuserviss.lv

www.makroconcert.lv

July 26 / Skonto stadium

August 4 / Dzintaru Concert Hall

Centre www.mxon2014.lv

Information correct at time of going to press. Photos courtesy of Makroconcert, FBI, Positivus, Fontaine, Studio 69, Summer Sound, Rigas Ritmi

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53

DE COMMERCE GASTRO PUB 1871

h o t s po ts

Welcome to Majorenhoff restaurant! We are happy to offer our guests versatile cuisine for gourmets and lovers of exotic foods and traditional European dishes. You will be able to find a wide assortment of different kinds of pizza in our restaurant according to your own taste, and you will know what the real Italian pizza is. Tried our pizza, baked according an ancient Italian recipes with adding spices and sauces, and you will find yourselves in the streets of Palermo or Neapol. We are ready to offer a wide assortment of sushi to admirers of Japanese food. Restaurant's style, interior and atmosphere are ideal for various events from business lunches to romantic dates and meeting with friends. Here everything is done to make our guests comfortable. Attentive and helpful waiting staff will acquaint you with new dishes on our menu. Our restaurant is situated in the very heart of Ju¯rmala resort at the beginning of pedestrian Jomas Street. Our guests always come back and every time we are ready to surprise them with our new offers. Sophisticated yet cosy atmosphere, versatile and creative menu will leave you with the best impression and positive emotions.

Aspazijas bulv. 36/38, Riga tel +371 66010333 www.decommerce.lv, [email protected] Hours of Operation: Open Daily, from 12:00 until 23:00 (breakfast from 7:00 to 11:00).

TAVERN

Latvian traditional restaurant „Tavern” is located in the longest building of Old Riga – Barracks of Jacob`s, Torn¸a Street 4 – 2C, opposite the cannon. “Tavern” offers two different dining rooms: 100% Latvian Cuisine 100% Latvian Beer 100% Latvian Music In this house there have always lived soldiers so don`t be surprised if you hear steps or love whispers... If you don`t believe us, stay till midnight! 100% Fish 100% Wild Game 100% Live Music You are welcome to enjoy our special atmosphere and our chefs` masterpieces – all the recipes are created exclusively for our restaurant and you! Torņa iela 4- 2C, Jēkaba Kazarmas, Riga, LV-1050 tel +371 67321260, +371 67271915 (24/7) [email protected]

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The Restaurant „Pe¯tergailis” is a marvelous exception, open since 1978. Above all, it keeps stable and secure position in the niche in spite of all the governmental changes. You will be suprised by such an amazing collection of roosters over the bar, as well the design and interior of this place is cosy and justify the name of the restaurant.

KEY TO RIGA

Restaurant "KEY to RIGA" - inspired by Latvian tradition You are welcome to our restaurant KEY to RIGA in order to experience old time Riga atmosphere, enjoy its hospitality and city's traditional cuisine. The restaurant is situates at very heart of Riga Old Town – the Dome Square. Our brand is authentic and ancient interior, ample candlelight and traditional cuisine dishes, like Key to Riga, Devil’s Servants, Nun’s Confession, One Little Piggy – these are only some of the dishes in our menu that will bring you into a rich world of taste, all served in clay pottery. Our outstanding masters of cookery and waiters make sure that your every visit is a royal adventure – enjoy your meal in an ancient interior or sunny outdoor terrace. Restaurant was created fallowing an inspiration from the legendary Latvian film DEVIL'S SERVANTS (Vella kalpi) which was made in early 1970's by Riga Film Studio and was highly acclaimed later on across the borders. You are welcome to our restaurant KEY to RIGA for breakfast, lunch and dinner..., to celebrate and feel like a king or queen!

The success key of The Restaurant „Pe¯tergailis” is the delicious meals served with acceptable prices. The menu is classic with lot of original „Pe¯tergailis” meals. 25 Skārņu iela, Riga, LV-1050 tel +371 67212888, +371 29240866 [email protected] www.petergailis.com Open: 10:00 – 24:00

Doma Square 8a, Rīga (Old Town) tel +371 28370747 ; +371 67225190 [email protected], www.keytoriga.lv Working time: Every day from 11:00 until the last quest

Jomas iela 42, Jūrmala tel +371 20240000, +371 67764060 www.majorenhoff.lv, [email protected] Open every day from 10:00 – 23:00

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BAR & RESTAURANT PE¯TERGAILIS

h o t s po ts

RESTAURANT MAJORENHOFF

Following the latest culinary trends in the world of gastronomy, De Commerce Gastro Pub 1871 offers its innovative new approach to the traditional pub-restaurant dining experience with meticulous attention to flavors, ingredients, and presentation. Stylishly decorated classic interior is designed using fine wood, luxurious fabrics and finishes, complemented with an intense palette of dark tones, while the natural light floods the room softens and refreshes the ambience. Enjoy the view of the vibrant city center, experience our imaginative menus with an extensive selection of wine by the glass and handcrafted cocktails and do not forget to sample the impeccable, award-winning cuisine of our top-rated Executive Chef Karlis Visockis.

summer/autumn 2014

ALUS ARSENA¯LS

ANDALU¯ZIJAS SUNS

Restaurant «ALUS ARSENA¯ LS» («Beer Arsenal») is located in the Old Riga, near the Presidential Palace of the Republic of Latvia, on the quiet Arsena¯la Street. During summer season a large terrace is opened with an outlook on the Presidential Palace of the Republic of Latvia. Democratic, informal atmosphere, excellent Latvian cuisine, attentive and fast service, reasonable prices – it's the restaurant «ALUS ¯LS». ARSENA Good choice of latvian draft beers. ¯LS» – IT’S A GOOD TRADITION! «ALUS ARSENA Pils laukums 4, (entrance from Arsenala iela) LV-1050, Riga, Latvia. tel +371 67322675, +371 20363335 [email protected], www.alus-arsenals.lv OPEN: Mon – Thu 11:00 – 23:00 Fri – Sat 12:00 – 24:00 Sunday 12:00 – 23:00

This is a democratic pub for everyone’s taste beginning with the freeform industrial style design and ending with a wide variety of dishes from hamburgers to carbonades made in the Latvian style. Our speciality is TEX-MEX dishes. Prices are reasonable and serving sizes huge (it is a rare occasion when our guest can manage 2 dishes in one sitting). If you don’t want to eat to excess we have special offers for breakfasts and for dinners (from 12.00 till 17.00). During the summer you enjoy have a meal or lounge with a refreshing drinks on our outside terrace.

RESTAURANT ELEFANT

Bergs Bazaar, 83/85 Elizabetes iela, Riga, tel +371 67288418, +371 29988881 [email protected], www.andaluzijassuns.lv Open: Mon-Thu: 10.00 – 01.00 Sat: 11.00 – 03.00 Fri: 10.00 – 03.00 Sun: 11.00 – 01.00

Airy and stylish Elefant restaurant is located on the first floor of the Wellton Elefant Hotel. White elephant statue welcomes guests to enjoy a relaxing meal from our fine a la carte menu, which offers a wide range of European and traditional Latvian dishes. Restaurant is ready at your service daily from 11:00 am till 03:00 am - everyone has their own perfect meal time! During summer time, you can enjoy the weather with seasonal specials on our outside terrace daily daily 11:00 am – 11:00 pm! Get refreshed with chilled drinks, light salads and cold soups! 90 Kalnciema Street, Riga, LV-1046, Latvia tel +371 67083110 [email protected] http://wellton.com/elefanthotel/en/dining/ Open: daily from 11:00 am till 03:00 am

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55

Riga International Airport

All photos courtesy Riga International Airport

NEW ROUTES AND DEVELOPMENTS IN RIGA

A range of new routes are available direct from Riga this summer. The Latvian national airline airBaltic has launched

85%. Basing one aircraft in Riga provides much

include the Polish airline LOT to Warsaw and

was completed. The next part of the project will

testing grounds for the company’s evolving

ognize individual passengers’ voices and be

greater flexibility for the airline in its planning by,

Transaero to Moscow.

be to construct a gallery to connect the terminal

range of robots.

pre-programmed to be aware of details such

for example, making early departures possible. It boosts the competitiveness of direct traffic.

BIGGER PLANES

and a new pier will be constructed with facades

One day robots could help with, for exam-

as their shopping habits. Initially, from 2015,

and infrastructure. Purchase of seven jet bridges

ple, the airport’s program to meet and assist

special beacons would be placed around the

In May, Riga joined the league of 150 airports

will then get underway. It is hoped the whole

the elderly or people with special needs.

terminal to test the environment and see if

and Aberdeen in Scotland, Gothenburg, Sweden,

around the world that can accept flights of one

project will be completed in 2018.

Equipped with software that understands more

it is suited to the particular robots Iridium is

Palma de Mallorca, Spain, both Burgas and

of the biggest aircraft types, the Boeing 747-

The overall effect will be a substantial rise

than 100 different languages, they would rec-

developing.

Varna in Bulgaria and Bucharest, Romania. This

8. The biggest Boeing series plane to land in

in capacity and, eventually, an increase in the

Riga airport’s history was operated by the cargo

amount of space for shopping and restaurants.

airline Atlas Air. With a length of more than 76

A reconstructed VIP Centre, expanded to

metres and wingspan in excess of 68 metres,

2060 square metres, opened last November,

the aircraft is truly a giant of the skies.

able to provide speedy services to Schengen

coming winter season it aims to launch direct flights to Poprad at the foot of the High Tatra Mountains in Slovakia. New routes will be opening up to and from Riga as one of Europe’s fastest growing airlines establishes a base at the airport. Routes to Barcelona, Paris, Dortmund and Doncaster/Sheffield are taking off as Wizz Air opens its base at Riga International Airport on

83 destinations are available from Riga this summer.

The event sends a signal to cargo operators

and non-Schengen passengers alike. With this,

that Riga International Airport can now handle

Riga is prepared for 2015, the year of Latvia’s

planes of this size. Riga current takes around half

EU presidency.

of the total air cargo in the Baltics and can easily handle two Boeing 747s simultaneously. The

AIRPORT ROBOTS?

airport handled 53,000 tonnes of cargo in 2013.

A letter of intent has been signed between Riga

June 19. Wizz is already a strategic partner of

Altogether 83 destinations are available from

the airport, with popular routes in operation to

Riga International Airport this summer season.

London Luton, Eindhoven, Oslo Torp and Bergen.

Other airlines are back in development for

The new routes will make eight in total for

passenger volumes, increasing the number of

Extending the terminal building continues. Last

as one of a number of public spaces such as

Wizz Air from Riga, increasing their capacity by

flights to popular existing destinations. These

year construction of additional aircraft stands

hotels, rail stations and shopping centres as

56

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GATEWAY RIGA

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summer/autumn 2014

NEW EXTENSION

Photo courtesy of F64

routes for the summer season, between Riga

International Airport and the UK-based robotics company Iridium. The aim is to use the airport

Arrival of the Boeing 747-8

summer/autumn 2014

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GATEWAY RIGA

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57

NEW SHOPS EXPAND PASSENGERS’ CHOICE

New stores at Riga International Airport include Furla and Tumi The range of shopping keeps expanding at the

is a partnership between TAV, the leading airport

been able to bring quality brands to Riga airport,

Baltic region’s biggest airport. Two new stores

operator in Turkey, the duty-free operator Unifree

increasing the choice for passengers.

have been unveiled, demonstrating the airport’s

and Gebr.Heinemann, one of the largest duty-free

The overall aim is to make the passenger

direction towards quality high-end brands.

operators and supply firms in Europe. The partner-

experience at the airport as smooth as possible

ship creates powerful operations and logistics.

with a pleasant stress-free environment for shop-

Tumi is known as the world’s leading brand of luxury travel, business and lifestyle accessories.

Established in 1999, ATU Duty Free is the

Its exclusive long-lasting products include hand

sole duty-free operator of airports in Istanbul,

ping and relaxing before a flight. To promote this idea, Riga Airport

luggage, luggage accessories and wallets.

Izmir, Ankara and Alanya/Gazipaşa in Turkey,

International has one of the fastest free Wi-Fi

Furla, meanwhile, is one of the most famous

Tbilisi and Batumi airports in Georgia, Enfidha

speeds among airports worldwide. Users sim-

“Made in Italy” brands in the field of leather

airport in Tunisia and Skopje and Ohrid airports

ply wait for ten seconds of advertising before

accessories. Its stores sell eye-catching and

in Macedonia, as well as Riga.

logging on. For smokers, a smoking area has

stylish handbags and a wide variety of wallets.

ATU Latvia also recently opened a new store

been placed next to one of the Costa cafés in

The Tumi and Furla stores take up 17.5 square

in Riga’s VIP Terminal. The new 25-square-meter

Departures. Information screens are placed

meters of retail space, opening at Riga Airport

shop features high-end brands in tobacco, alco-

everywhere so that shoppers are constantly

International in time for the busy summer sea-

hol, fragrance, cosmetics and accessories

informed about their flights.

within the passage of both arriving and departing

STRESS-FREE SHOPPING

an e-commerce operation starting next year, in

passengers.

son. They can be found in the commercial area,

Meanwhile, the airport is planning to launch

Tumi and Furla are the second and third mono-

which everything that can be bought in the ter-

Riga Airport International launched cooperation

brand stores to open at Riga airport after the

minal will also be available for purchase online.

with the professional airport retail operator ATU

successful unveiling of Victoria’s Secret in 2013.

Duty Free in 2011. A German-Turkish joint venture,

Shops with a single brand are virtually unheard

BUSINESS-CLASS SERVICE

ATU now operates 15 duty free and travel value

of at other airport terminals in the Baltic region.

Riga Airport International is also offering further

shops in Riga along with subcontracted shops. It

Through its expertise in airport retail, ATU has

services. Entry to the Business Lounge, which provides good food, soft and alcoholic drinks, comfortable seating and the latest newspapers. Passengers are called personally when it’s time for boarding. Fast Track security is also available, at €10. Alternatively, many cafés offer a “grab-andfly” food service. Or you can be a member of the RIX Club privilege card for €179 a year, which gives business-class services and unlimited access to the Fast track security control, access to Business Lounge five times a year, as well as discounts in stores, golf clubs, taxis, etc.

Production Check-In Baltic Palasta iela 10, Rīga, LV 1050 Tel: +371 29207271 Magazine  reg. nr. 000703023

Editor-in-Chief Justin Walley Contributing writer Anatol Steven Art director Guntis Gvozdevs Publisher Māris Jēkabsons Advertising and Sales Enquiries: [email protected] Tel:+371 29207271 Editorial: [email protected] Comments and opinions: [email protected] Website: www.riga-airport.com

Gateway Riga is the official airport magazine for RIGA International Airport. It is distributed three times per year. Start circulation 17000. Opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors or persons interviewed and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editor, Check-In Baltic or RIGA International Airport. All rights reserved. Material in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without written permission. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and illustrations are not accepted. Gateway Riga accepts no responsibility for such materials sent to its office, nor is it liable for loss of, or damage to, such material. All prices are subject to change without notice. Gateway Riga accepts no responsibility for printing errors. Printed by PNB Print, Latvia.

Special thanks for help with editorial content and/or providing photo: Wizz Air, Daniel de Carvalho, Zane Berzina, Instrumenti, Positivus Music, Gunārs Deniškāns, Makroconcert, Enars Plinta, Latvian Tourism Development Agency, Studio 69, Jānis Enkūzens, Fontaine, Summer Sound, RISEBA, Sanita Buciniece, Lelde Zaķe, Solvita Freimane, Sport Museum Latvia, Liva Petersone, Kalnciema Kvartals, Pedvale, Polina Naidenko, Visit Scotland, Daniel Barr, Scottish View Point, Laura Miglone.