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One of the best aspects of traveling is bringing home mementos to remind you of your trips. The Baltics are no exception. Here are the best souvenirs from Latvia.
Latvian Jewelry
There is an old belief that anyone returning from Latvia should bring a silver ring for good luck. These traditional rings are called namejs and feature a wrapped rope design. There are also the seven-day rings (if you watch Bad Vegan, you’ll have seen one). They’re supposed to bring good luck and keep away spirits. Legend has it that a young woman had 7 admirers, so she asked the jeweler to make her a ring with each of their names. The name tag that fell off first, was to be her betrothed. Of course, amber jewelry is also very popular in Latvia as in the other Baltic countries.
Latvian Handcrafts
You’ll find many hand-crafted items in Riga. Wooden, clay, and leather items can be found in many shops. And of course, don’t forget handmade jewelry!
If you’re looking for a greener and more elevated souvenir, you can find a nice variety at Pienene Riga, near St. Peter’s Church. In addition to selling eco-friendly cosmetics and other items, they have a room in the back where you can try tea and wine from Latvia.
Riga Black Balsam
There is no alcohol more closely associated with Riga than the Riga Black Balsam. Originally created over 260 years ago as a cure-all, this bittersweet tasting alcohol stays true to the recipe.
While the authentic flavor is more of an acquired taste, the black currant flavor has taken over in popularity. For those who do not want to try this 45% alcohol neat, it is popularly incorporated in a variety of cocktails with other mixers.
Traditional Latvia Wool Items
Mittens, socks, scarfs, hats – everything to keep you warm is available in Latvia. Many contain ethnographic designs that are traditionally Latvian. These will make a great reminder of your trip when you use them in future winters.
Gotina Milk Candy
What is more wholesome than candy made from milk and sugar? These soft candies melt in your mouth – similar to a very soft fudge.
The original flavor tastes like caramel but you can purchase an assortment of flavors from coffee to sunflower seeds. You can find these at the Riga Central Market.
Latvian Honey
In Latvia, honey is not just plain honey, it offers varietal honey depending on the area, season, and flora around the beehive. Beekeeping is an important tradition in Latvia and many people have their own hives at their summer homes.
Whether you choose to buy jarred honey or a product made from beeswax such as a candle, you’re sure to bring back a piece of Latvian heritage.
Latvian Beer
While there are three macrobreweries in Latvia (Aldaris, Lacplešis, and Cesu), you can truly enjoy the best beer from the microbreweries found in almost every city. The most popular options are a pale lager and a darker option (similar to a dunkel).
Lielvārdes Josta (Lielvārde Belt)
This red and white woven belt that is part of the national costume deserves a spot on your shopping list. Due to the intricate design, it can take a weaver two and a half weeks to create each one.
Legend has it that the symbols describe the origin of the universe and human DNA. Folklore also said that the belt protected wearers from evil. You can find your own personal symbol by closing your eyes and feeling along the belt until you touch one that feels warm. What a unique souvenir from Latvia!
Smoked Sprats
These tiny fish are smoked over oak hardwood. They are packed in sunflower oil and placed in a tin. In Latvia, they are a popular addition to many meals and can even be eaten straight out of the can!
Catch-All Souvenirs
Don’t forget to bring home souvenirs with either “Riga” or “Latvia” on them. Whether you’re looking for snowglobes, refrigerator magnets, spoons, or anything else, they are easy to find all around town.
There are several souvenir shops in the square with the Blackheads House. You’ll find just about anything you want to bring home with you there, so you don’t even have to go off the tourist trail to get the best souvenirs from Latvia.
What is your favorite type of souvenir? Share with us in the comments!
If you’re traveling through the Baltics you may also be interested in the following posts:
Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler
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Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.
I would love to try the Latvian jewellery to boost my luck. Other things that have attracted me are the Latvian handicrafts preferably the wooden ones.