Ma¯rtin¸sˇRı¯tin¸sˇ - Riga International Airport

Transcription

Take your FREE copy!
spring/summer 2008
Mārtiņš Rı̄tiņš:
The saviour of real food
A new town is born
Tail wagging the dog?
The logistics
of the matter
TRADITIONS
The 2008 Latvian Song and Dance festival
10TRAVEL PEOPLE
Mārtiņš Rı̄tiņš:
16ECONOMY
CONTENTS
In a fix
In the airport pages
A WORD FROM THE CHAIRMAN
4
at the back of this
interesting issue of
our airport magazine, you can read how we have progressed from serving just over 1 million passengers three years ago to a
total of almost 2.5 million in 2006, to over 3 million
passengers in 2007. At this pace, we could become a
major transit hub in the near future. According to the
International Air Transport Association, Riga International
18
BANKING
20
TRANSPORT LOGISTICS
22
INVESTMENT
26
FUTURE VISIONS
spectacular rise in passenger numbers, so in 2008 we
Saliena: A new town is born
will start to build a new departures terminal, as well as
Twenty-first century banking
The logistics of the matter
Airport will sustain an average increase in air passengers
of over 12 percent a year until at least 2011.
In 2008, we aim to reach 30 percent growth approximately a million more passengers served, raising
the total to 4 million. To achieve this, our goal is to
open as many as 15 new routes this year, adding to
our current rostrum of 60. Many of these will be to
Fortune favours the brave
regional capitals to the east of Latvia. The current infrastructure at the airport is not enough to cope with this
to complete reconstruction on the runway.
28BUSINESS ISSUES
As shown by the example of our 3 millionth pas-
senger in 2007, who hailed from the small Latvian
town of Tukums, flying has now become accessible to
32
FAMOUS TOWN
the widest range of people. Riga International Airport
Daugavpils: Latvia's second city
aims at providing and developing the infrastructure for
air transportation so that flights to Europe become
everyday events.
36
DISCOVERY
40
DESTINATION GUIDE
42
AIRLINE IN FOCUS
44
ART
Instead, a single Schengen visa will suffice for most
Half a million images of Latvia
of the nations of Europe.
RIX, the Baltic region's leading airport, is due to
Mežaparks
benefit hugely from joining the Schengen area.
Businesspeople who intend to travel more often will
find new routes opening up to them. The great
Vienna: Live art, love life
advantage for us is that travellers from non-Schengen
countries such as those from Russia and the CIS as
well as from developing countries such as China and
Austrian Airlines: The leader in the east
India will no longer need a Latvian visa, which was
not so easily available as a German or a UK visa.
Enjoy your time at Riga International Airport!
48SPORT
Head and shoulders above the rest
56
RIGA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Kriˇj
sšjaā¯n
nis Peters
All the latest news and developments
from the number one transport hub in the region
Chairman of the Board
spring/summer 2008
of Riga International Airport
GATEWAY RIGA
3
Photos: Edmunds Mickus and Song and Dance Celebration Office
TRADITIONS
The 2008
Latvian Song and
Dance Festival
What is the one thing that most differentiates Latvia
and the Baltics from the rest of the world?
It would have to be the Song and Dance festival tradition.
4
GATEWAY RIGA
spring/summer 2008
what can only be described as 'song
Song and dance festival
time line
2008 marks 90 years since Latvia,
and dance play-offs' this spring to
Lithuania and Estonia were first rec-
determine who is good enough and
ognized as independent nations.
suitably prepared for the big event in
Latvia is celebrating this fact in style
July. Five years' preparation will be
1873 - 45 choirs, 1019 performers
1918 - the festival is a nationalistic
with this year's Latviesu Dziesmu un
on the line for the competitors.
factor, which helps in the establish-
deju svetki - the Latvian Song and
Dance Festival.
35,000 participants will gather in
Riga from July 5-12. This will be the
There will
be 15,000
dancers
performing
in unisony
In July 12,000 will join together
ment of Latvia as a nation state
for an 8-voice A Capella concert.
1940-1991 - the Soviets do not ban
There will be 15,000 dancers per-
the festivals but attempt to infiltrate
forming in unison in an event that
the Latvian events with Soviet ideas
would even have North Korean
including songs praising Lenin.
there has been a dance celebration -
leader Kim Jong Il foaming at the
1987-1991 - the song and dance
a tradition that stretches back way
mouth in admiration. Every singer
festivals are used to engender
before the country's emancipation as
and dancer wears a folk costume.
Latvian nationalism and a protest
a nation state. UNESCO recognized
This author is not aware of any-
movement against the nation's sovi-
this 135-year-old tradition by adding
where else on earth outside of the
et rulers. This prompts the Singing
the Latvian, Lithuanian and Estonian
three Baltic countries where such a
Revolution
festivals to its list of Masterpieces of
spectacle can be witnessed.
1993 Latvia holds its first post-
24th song festival and the 14th time
Oral and Intangible Cultural Heritage
It is said that in 2008 people from
Soviet Song and Dance Festival
list in 2003. This year's opening cere-
156 different nations live in Latvia.
2003 - 300 choirs, 500 dance
mony will include one Estonian and
They too will be given the opportu-
groups, 57 brass bands participate in
one Lithuanian song in recognition
nity to participate in this very Baltic
the festival. In total there are 30,000
of this shared heritage.
event through a series of minority
participants.
concerts held in Vermanes Park.
2008 - Latvia holds its biggest festi-
The main events will be held at
Mezaparks and the Daugava Stadium.
The UNESCO director general is
val to date with 35,000 participants
In all 15,000 dancers and 13,000
amongst the top ranking guests for
and significant involvement, for the
singers will participate in a series of
this year's not-to-be-missed spectacular.
first time, by foreign nationals.
6
GATEWAY RIGA
spring/summer 2008
Latvian Nationwide Song and Dance Celebration
5-12 July, 2008
5th July
Saturday
6th July
Sunday
14.00
Opening of Applied Art
Exhibition
Latvian Railway
History Museum
19.00
Homage to Song
Celebration principal
directors and conductors
Song Celebration Park In 2008 the Song and Dance Celebration will celebrate its 135th anniversary.
21.00
Sacred Music Concert
Dome Church
Concert participants: National Academic choir “Latvija”, Latvian Radio choir and
Riga Dome Choir School boys' and girls' choirs.
11.00
Song Celebration
Procession
Dome Square
All 35 000 celebration participants, clothed in traditional dress, will meet in Riga's Old Town on Dome
Square and pass by the Freedom Monument on their way to the Daile theatre, covering almost 2 km.
11.00
Opening of Song
Celebration Traditional
Craft Market
Vērmanes Garden
The Song and Dance Celebration traditional craft market is the place where craftspeople, traders, buyers
and the curious public meet.
Rural orchestra marathon
Vērmanes Garden
On July 6, for 12 successive hours, the market atmosphere will be supplemented by performances
of traditional music ensembles, rural orchestras, folk bands and children's ensembles.
16.30
Concert
“Dance Celebration 60th Anniversary”
Arena Rı̄ga
The first Song Celebration after the horrors of the 2nd World War was held in 1948 and took place in
an occupied country. Within the framework of the Song Celebration the 1st Dance Celebration was also
organised, with the participation of 1656 dancers.
21.00
Opening concert
Mežaparks
Open-Air Stage
The opening concert on the Mežaparks open-air stage will be an emotional meeting for all
35 000 participants who have travelled to Riga.
15.00
Choir competition
University of Latvia,
Large Hall
They have been preparing for five years to be named the best.
The atmosphere will be like that of the 100-metre sprint at the Olympic games!
Competition for kokle
ensembles
Riga Latvian Society
The kokle is a traditional Latvian instrument, which has developed into a concert instrument with
fifty strings. At the kokle ensemble competition Latvian kokle players will be competing for the title
of best ensemble.
11.30 - 23.00
7th July
Monday
12.00 - 16.00
Dance Celebration Concert International Exhibition A lively, attractive and highly energetic event with the participation of over 90 dance groups.
Performance
Popular Latvian songs known as ziņǧes will form the basis for the programme.
Centre, Ķı̄psala
(dress rehearsal)
These songs are extended traditional songs.
22.00
8th July
Tuesday
10.00 - 19.00
Brass band competition
Large Guild
Latvia has about 3000 concert band participants all of whom have been preparing since the last
Celebration in 2003 to once again compete for and win the title of best concert band.
10.00 - 19.00
Choir competition
University of Latvia
The final competition will take place to determine the best choirs in the mixed, male and female
voice categories.
Senior Choir and Dance
Group Concert
Dome Square
50 senior dance groups and 38 senior choirs will congregate on Dome Square,
making a total of 2200 participants.
19.00
Symphonic music concert
National Opera
Gidons Krēmers, Mariss Jansons, Pēteris Vasks, Vestards Šimkuss are amongst the star names.
22.00
Dance Celebration Concert International Exhibition The Dance Celebration concert performance - a lively, attractive and highly energetic event with
Performance (1st concert) Centre, Ķı̄psala
the participation of over 90 dance groups.
12.00
Theatre song medley
Vērmanes Garden
Actors from Latvian amateur theatres will demonstrate all these characteristics
in musical comedy extracts of Latvian plays.
17.00
Foreign Guest Group
Concert
Dome Square
The main idea behind the celebration is the coming together and unity of the Latvian people.
At the same time it is important to have representatives of other countries, demonstrating their traditions.
21.00
Vocal Ensemble Concert
(sacred music)
St. John's Church
During the Song and Dance Celebration the St. John's church will resound with the voices of Latvia's
best vocal ensembles. The programme will include sacred music by composers from various ages.
22.00
Grand Dance Performance
(dress rehearsal)
Daugava Stadium
A total of 15 000 dancers will be taking part in the celebration and during the dress rehearsal for
the Grand dance performance they will be rehearsing the intricate and vivid dance patterns that
will form a unified story during the performance.
23.00
Vocal Ensemble Concert
Dome Square
For several decades the chamber music genre has been proclaiming itself as an equal and serious
alternative to the extensive choir movement in Latvian traditional art. Latvian vocal ensembles
will perform a selection of the most beautiful love songs.
18.00
9th July
Wednesday
10th July
Thursday
11th July
Friday
12th July
Saturday
8
“Me in the Middle!” The exhibition will include 600 exhibits by craftsmen and women.
Includes wickerwork, ceramics, wood carvings, tapestries, textiles, traditional costumes.
12.00;18.00
“Latvia's Garland” - concert Vērmanes Garden,
for ethnic minorities
Ave Sol Concert Hall
Alongside Latvians, representatives from 156 various nations live in Latvia - Lithuanians, Poles,
Byelorussians, Ukrainians, Russians, Estonians and many others.
12.00 - 23.00
Brass Band Grand Concert
(dress rehearsal)
60 concert bands (brass, wind and percussion instruments) from all over Latvia will meet
in the very heart of Riga!
Dome Square
12.00
Dance Celebration Concert International Exhibition (See above)
Performance (2nd concert) Centre, Ķı̄psala
19.00
Folk Music Concert
20.00
Concert “Dedication to the Congress Centre
Folk Song”
Traditional or folk song is the name given to four-line verses (dainas) created in a specific form
of expression. 217 996 of these songs were written down at the beginning of the 20th century.
22.00
(1st concert)
Daugava Stadium
The Dance Celebration encompasses one day, the creation of a single, universal circle, reflecting the traditions of the various regions in Latvia, which are based on choreographic and musical folklore materials.
12.00 - 23.00
Brass Band Grand Concert
Dome Square
The 11 hour long concert band marathon with the participation of bands from all five Latvian regions will
symbolically unite all generations, who will transmit their values and experience to the next generation.
18.00
Rock opera “L a
ā¯cčˇp
pl e
ē¯ssis”
Arena Riga
22.00
(2nd concert)
Daugava Stadium
The scenario of the Dance Celebration encompasses one day, the creation of a single, universal circle,
reflecting the traditions of the various regions in Latvia, which are based on choreographic and musical
folklore materials. Number of participants - about 500 dancers from dance groups of all generations.
00.00
Celebration participants'
ball
Daugava Stadium
This is a celebration for those 35 000 participants who, for the last five years have been tirelessly
preparing for this unique event.
Folklore Day
Latvian Ethnographic
Open Air Museum
Every barn, smithy, windmill, church, dwelling and schoolhouse at the Ethnographic Open-air Museum
will be bubbling with life. People dressed in traditional costume will be living out scenes from their
Latvian ancestors' lives.
12.00
Children's Vocal Ensemble
Concert
Vērmanes Garden
Every five years children and youngsters from 4 to 18 have their very own Song and Dance Celebration.
15.00
Kokle Music Concert
Large Guild
The kokle is the Latvian national string instrument, which over the years has been adapted
for the performance of intricate compositions.
17.00
Award ceremony for folk
costume competition
Riga Latvian Society
UNESCO approved greatly of the fact that during the Song and Dance Celebration, participants dress
in traditional costumes. Many of them are hand-made by the wearers themselves.
21.00
Closing Concert
Mežaparks Open-Air
Stage
Although in Latvian this concert is simply called the Closing Concert it is, in fact, the culmination
of the Celebration. 13 000 singers dressed in traditional costume sing a capella songs in four
and even eight voices.
Communal singing
Mežaparks Open-Air
Stage
Usually, after the end of the official Song and Dance Celebration closing concert, the singers carry on
singing, joined by the 30 000 people in the audience. Traditional songs, new songs, old songs,
all are sung in turn, in order to prolong the joy of togetherness just a little longer.
11.00 - 15.00
GATEWAY RIGA
University of Latvia,
Large Hall
spring/summer 2008
The aim of the concert is to show the ability of Latvian folk songs to live on through
the interpretations of various authors.
TRAVEL PEOPLE
I instantly wanted to live there.
You say it was a new world. What
would you say was the 'wow' factor?
The Latvian community in
Latvian celebrity chef Martins Ritins is on a mission to save us all from the ravages
of mass-produced, poor quality food. In this exclusive interview Martins Ritins tells
Justin Walley about life growing up in England, desert life in Saudi Arabia and
how he wants us all to replace convenience meals with slow food.
time. Unfortunately, I spent the first
month living in the plantation style
hotel. Every night I was paranoid.
Toronto was 15,000 strong (as
With every sound I heard, I thought
opposed to 10,000 for the whole of
that they were coming for me
the UK) and there I was dancing
because I was the first white boss
male solo with four girls on the
there. At work, fifty per cent of my
stage at the festival. Imagine, the
staff of 150 didn't turn up for work
Toronto Maple Leaf Gardens where
on a regular basis; cricket was the pri-
all the greats have performed (albeit
ority for them. In truth I was too
hockey and not folk dancing) and I
young for the position. (I still think I
had the audience of 30,000 applaud-
would be too young today) They
ing me. There was an incredible feel-
needed Harvey Smith there, not me!
ing of being Latvian. I made busloads of friends straight away.
Did you return to Canada?
I worked for Grand Met Hotels in
And wanted to stay in Canada?
England and the Latvian Club in
I returned to England, went straight
London for two years. Then work
to the embassy and told them “I
took me to Saudi Arabia. That was
want to emigrate.” It was incredible -
another very tough year. I was living
I got a phone call from my brother
it took one week and one day from
in the middle of the desert working
saying he was getting married.
applying for me to get my work per-
as the catering officer for the US oil
I consequently dropped everything
mit. They needed lumberjacks and
company Aramco. I managed the din-
and went back. My brother's flat in
chefs. The next year my brothers
ners for the British, U.S. and Saudi
Canada was then empty while he
English town at that time…and
out of there. I got the opportunity to
came over. I was told much later that
diners. I was responsible for keeping
was on honeymoon. Three weeks
Martins, I understand that you were
Corby has a reputation in England as
work at the Corby Strathclyde Hotel
the Latvian-Canadian girls thought we
5,000 people's stomachs full so that
consequently became 12 years.
born in a refugee camp in England?
being a 'Scottish town'.
across the road from the technical
were the Beatles incarnate, with our
the oil would continue to flow.
Yes, that's right. My parents
We had a big Latvian community.
I stayed in Canada until 1991
Why was your experience so
college. I did what I call my appren-
English accents and mop heads. We
escaped Latvia at the end of the war
We met regularly at the Church and
ticeship under the guidance of a
partied like a rock group but we did
with my two eldest brothers and my
church hall we built. We had our
tough Scotsman called Harvey Smith.
not have to perform - on stage.
grandmother. They got to Germany
own Saturday Latvian school, male
To be honest, he would put Gordon
where my third brother was born and
voice and mixed choir, dance group
Ramsey to shame. I hated him at
then travelled on to England where
and theatre group. There was the
that time but he taught me discipline.
I actually spent four years in
there was work. I was born in
Latvian welfare fund in which my
I know today that being a good chef
Toronto, Edmonton and Montreal
workers but we weren't allowed to
Cheshire. We spent four and a half
father and mother played very active
owes more to the philosophy and
before moving to Jamaica. And
mix with them. I got reprimanded for
years living there in an army barracks.
and key parts.
work ethic one brings to the profes-
then returned again in the eighties
playing pool with a Sri Lankan man.
sion and these qualities are more
for 12 years.
My dad worked in a coalmine and
Photos: Mārtiņš Rı̄tiņš personal archive
ties, especially prior to the election
The Scots, many from Glasgow's
for Dunlop until the opportunity
Gorbal district, were about 70 % of
came up to work at Corby steelworks
the population. Then came the
in Northamptonshire. It was a 'new'
English, followed by the Irish, and
town. Almost 800 Latvians con-
then us, the Letts.
verged there because of the steel-
Nowadays, Corby has a reputation
I did what
I call my
apprenticeship under
the guidance
of a tough
Scotsman
important than knowing recipes.
How did you end up in Canada
after growing up in Corby?
I read that you spent two decades
in Canada…
Jamaica in the 1970s must have
been an incredible experience?
I would describe it as the hardest
the Sri Lankan, Pakistani and Indian
And you couldn't drink alcohol at
all. I wasn't used to that. But on a
positive note the whole experience
was another great lesson in discipline.
If food poisoning broke out in the
in London. The college was in
I was a still naïve 26-year-old opera-
hot climate of 40 degrees, you knew
Vincent Square. (Hence the name of
tions manager for the flight kitchen
you would be sent to prison, no
time we had a home of our own.
in the town, otherwise there's noth-
his restaurant)
Moving up-market from a Quonset
ing to go back for, except that my
hut to a council house!
childhood sweetheart still lives there.
were so many Latvians in one
youth, me included, wanted to get
10
spring/summer 2008
GATEWAY RIGA
pendence again.
How would you describe that first
I wasn't brought up that way. I loved
for being rough. My dad's grave is
When we left school the Latvian
nism and Latvia received its inde-
staff were money and power obsessed.
works. It meant that for the first
It's hard to imagine that there
Moscow and put an end to commu-
The Ex-pat British and American
but most eye-opening year of my life.
I studied at Westminster College
when Yeltsin stood on the tank in
negative?
I was
responsible
for keeping
5,000
people's
stomachs
full so
that the oil
would
continue
to flow
experience of Latvia?
I have a piece of Lenin from his
statue that was pulled down in
Riga. When I was a kid my parents'
stories about Latvia went in one ear
and some went out the other. But
then I flew over with my mother
and then walked where she had
walked as a teenager with her soldier husband, and all her and my
dad's stories came back to me and
in Montego Bay. There were people
questions asked. Imagine, washing
I went to Toronto to see the
working there longer than I was old.
fruit and vegetables in chlorine!
Latvian Song Festival. There were
I would describe Jamaica as paradise
…I went back to Canada via
My long lost relatives, my new
three plane charters full of Latvians.
to visit, not to work in. There was a
India, Thailand and Hong Kong.
instant friends, the beautiful country-
It was a new world out there and
lot of unrest, murders in the seven-
I was going onto China but
side and the history.
grabbed me emotionally.
What in particular?
spring/summer 2008
GATEWAY RIGA
11
And you wanted to stay?
thing! I've met him five times includ-
fresh and family. In Italy mamma
thing from bread, teas, honey, meats
food is smell, taste, freshness, and
Yes. Back in March '92 I worked
ing once in Italy at the Slow Food -
still tells everybody to sit down for
including ostrich and herbs to dried
only then the presentation comes
with a US film company helping set
Terra Madre conference. When he saw
dinner. It has gone further than
pumpkin and wool off the sheep's
into the picture.
up locations, staff and catering. Paul
me there he said, “You again! What
organic. Slow food is trying to revive
back. It is the place to be - meet the
Haggis, who is famous for the film
are we having for dinner tonight?”
food that is disappearing.
farmer, the producer - a positive com-
Copenhagen, all of Italy. It's simple
Crash, was the director. I hope he
He has got a phenomenal sense of
So, food has to be organic?
munity thing where young and old
and its gourmet. At the London
gets to read this because his compa-
humour. When I met the Queen last
As soon as I smell food that is
come to meet and it's turning into a
River Café if you order pheasant you
ny still owes me money from those
year she told me “My boy told me
not natural, has more additives than
great street party. I want to turn this
get pheasant - a whole bird cooked
days. The film was about how rock-
about you,” The bigger and the more
my bookkeeper, I can tell and it
into Riga's equivalent of the Borough
as it should be in a wood burning
'n'roll was smuggled into the Soviet
established a personality one is, the
puts me off eating altogether. All
Market that is so fantastic in London.
clay oven.
Union. The filmmakers took advan-
more charming they are compared to
food doesn't have to be organic, as
tage of the situation here and paid
the up and coming who think they
wild fish and game are natural. Free
us all next to nothing. I've written
are prima donnas and act like it.
range as opposed to factory chicken.
Slow food
is trying to
revive food
that is
disappearing
What do you put Vincents' continued success down to?
We don't cheat. We take no short
to them asking them to pay the out-
You are a champion of what you
If I charge money in my restaurant
cuts. Everything is made from
standing money they owe people but
call slow food. What is this exactly?
I have to give the best! Second best
scratch. You will always find the
I love Paris, Lyon, Madrid,
What is your personal favourite
food?
What ever is freshest in the door.
And what are you doing when
you are away from the kitchen?
I've never received a response. But
It is the opposite of fast food. We
just doesn't make for a good meal
stock pot on the gas ring, fresh fish
Well, there's the TV show. I've just
that's Hollywood! The tamed West
are talking about food prepared in a
or reputation. That should be every
coming in the door every day to be
come back from St. Petersburg. We get
comes to the Wild East!
kitchen, not a laboratory or a factory.
chef's target. It's the same with kids.
sold that day; traditional items such
to see some great cities and excellent
Latvians for example know that the
as wild boar, venison and pheasant;
restaurants. In 2008 we have a new
programme focusing on slow food.
…That gave me my foundation
had a lot of maturing to do. Like all
I first got involved in that in Canada.
here in Latvia. I was travelling back-
my life, nothing was planned and I
We were 27 chefs who met and dis-
food in the countryside is the best
real cream and real chocolate; a great
wards and forwards between Canada
opened the doors to Vincents restau-
cussed our needs with the farmers.
and yet as soon as they are back in
wine list composed by the Baltic
and Latvia so often that I thought I'd
rant in 1994.
We started an organic food market in
the town they buy this mass-pro-
sommelier champion Raimonds who
fantastic in Riga. I like to go to the
Toronto and organised events like
duced, chemically grown 'stuff' again.
is my restaurant manager.
opera, and the many cultural events
do some catering. I approached
And some of the world's most
I think the cultural side of life is
Raimonds Pauls, the Minister of
famous people starting rolling in the
Taste the Nation and Feast of the
We have a choice. You have a chick-
Culture at the time. As a result I did
door…
fields. Everybody then knew which
en sitting in its own excrement,
don't want to come here because it's
BB King was in town and he
farms all the food was coming from,
pumped full of hormones and antibi-
been rumoured that then you have
great for morale so that we can all
Song Festival. It was the best possible
opened the restaurant. I like to say
who grew and raised it. The protests
otics, tortured so that it grows twice
to WORK.
relax and recharge.
advertising for me. I then rented a
that he brought 'the soul' to the
in Rome at the Spanish Steps where
as fast, with no room to move. It
kitchen at Riga Film Studios and also
place. One week later the Archbishop
McDonalds wanted to open up shop
hasn't seen natural sunlight or green
about presentation and no substance?
opened the staff cafeteria for Repse at
of Canterbury was here. In the same
started the Slow Food organisation. It
or any other coloured grass. That is
Nonsense, don't be silly. Gourmet
the Bank of Latvia. They'd never had
way I like to say he 'blessed it'.
is now Worldwide in 130 countries.
not a happy chicken. Also the old
the opening reception at the 1993
From all the famous people I
Slow food also goes further in its phi-
joke of my youth is dying out: Why
Immediately the press became interest-
know you have met who made the
losophy than organic farming as we
did the chicken cross the road?
ed. From a place for over-boiled tea it
biggest impression?
also try to save and revive what is
Chickens don't cross the road these
slowly disappearing as in breeds of
days because they are all cooped up.
or seen food like it before.
became a futuristic, healthy eating-
I would like to sit down again
with Montserrat Caballé. She is
place for 200 people.
What was the main difference between working in Canada and Latvia?
In Toronto I ran five places with
a total of 150 staff. Here it is only
humorous and absolutely sincere. I
would almost describe it as a mother-son relationship.
From all the male visitors I would
possible to run one place to the
have to say that the most knowledge-
standard I would wish.
able, interesting person has been
I tried everything - anger, love
The most
knowledgeable, person
has been
Prince
Charles
pigs, chickens, legumes and many,
…In Italy last autumn there were
many more products that our grand-
1,000 chefs and 5,000 farmers at the
parents enjoyed. Also, the importance
Terra Madre conference from places
of the dinner round the family table.
as far away as Papua New Guinea
So, I guess you are not a fan of
GM food?
I'm absolutely against it; the com-
Prince Charles. I was with him at
panies, which are gaining more con-
and South America. If you are invited and experience something like
that, you are inspired and can't help
but bring the message back.
Where should I go to buy decent
and bribes (laughs). It doesn't matter
receptions talking to the guests. It is
trol over the production chain of
-in the end you have to join them
not a case of hello, that's nice, it's a
crops and food, and over the farmers
because you couldn't beat them. The
genuine how are you and then it
that use their products.
Latvians had nothing to compare
goes into deep conversation where the
But what's your definition of slow?
ket at Berga Bazaars the 2nd and 4th
anything to. On the world stage they
guest is put at ease. That is some-
Slow - traditional, local, seasonal,
Saturday in the month with every-
12
spring/summer 2008
GATEWAY RIGA
food?
We have a slow food organic mar-
Students from catering college
Isn't gourmet food sometimes all
that the country is famous for.
We are closed on Sundays. That's
If Riga were a dish how would
you describe it?
Liquorice-all-sorts.
ECONOMY
falling competitiveness due to staff
tors alone put pressure on Latvia's
tal reform. With a new govern-
and currency issues.
sovereign credit rating. It is also
ment in power and the central bank
worth watching the commercial
sitting on adequate reserves it points
ed room to manoeuvre. Economic
banks closely. Latvia has a greater
towards gradual reform.
and wage growth is central to
reliance on bank capital than most
improving living conditions, but
EU economies and a combination of
many levels. For the individual it is
rapid growth causes inflation.
high interest rates and rising
making reasoned choices between
Pegging the Lat is required for Euro
defaults may see banks constrain the
spending and saving. For business it
adoption, but has restricted the abil-
amount of capital available for
is operating with a long-term hori-
ity of the currencies to move with
growth. Latvian banks also source
zon but being flexible to short-term
the economic cycle and the use of
the majority of their capital from
change. Most of all it lies with the
interest rates as a tool to fight infla-
foreign markets, which continue to
government to set out a clear, credi-
tion. Liberalising the economy is
suffer a hangover from 2007.
ble and stable vision that provides
Herein lies Latvia's problem, limit-
The million Dollar or Lat question
remains
devaluation
Photo: Justin Walley
essential for Latvia to integrate and
In a fix
In this issue of Gateway Riga
guest expert Neil Mathieson summarises
the main developments related to the Latvian economy.
16
GATEWAY RIGA
spring/summer 2008
confidence for the business commu-
attract capital, but can lead to
question remains devaluation. While
nity and to deliver a balanced budg-
uneven flows as occurred in real
it would improve the current
et as an example to its citizens.
estate. Emigration has led to a
account deficit by making imports
smaller working population, allowing
more expensive and exports compet-
the remaining workforce to demand
itive, it would be painful for those
Director of Key Capital, a corporate
finance advisory.
Neil Mathieson is Managing
better terms without better produc-
who have worked hard to accumu-
2007 is gone but not forgotten.
tivity. The political structure does
late wealth and the many who bor-
Huge losses arose due to aggressive
not help either as coalitions often
row in Euros. Gains would also be
contact telephone +371 2200 1139
property lending; capital markets
lack the power or will to push
short lived without more fundamen-
or visit www.keycapital.eu
dried up; governments introduced
through painful reforms.
emergency support and volatility
2008? The economic plan of the
markets. That was the US and UK,
new government is eagerly awaited,
the world's first and fifth largest
however, a number of trends are
economies respectively, so could it
clear already:
Growth is slowing due to the
Reviewing 2007 first, positive
reforms of March 2007, high interest
developments included growth in
rates, reduced credit availability and
GDP of 11% year-on-year; a fall in
a slowdown in the wider EU (75%
unemployment to 5.9%; continued
of exports). Against this the
growth in real wages and low bor-
economies of the former Soviet
rowing at State level. Foreign Direct
Union continue to expand and
Investment continued at record lev-
Latvia is well placed to take advan-
els, growing over 11% year-on-year.
tage of this with its location and
Negative factors included the con-
language skills. GDP growth in a
tinued rise of inflation which, at the
time of writing, was running at
For more information
So what then can we expect in
affected currencies, interest rates and
happen to Latvia?
Herein lies
Latvia's
problem,
limited
room to
manoeuvre
The million Dollar - or Lat -
The answer for Latvia lies on
range of 5-8% is possible.
Risks remain. Inflation is persist-
13.7% on a monthly basis and 10.1%
ent, fuelled by energy prices and
annualised. The current account con-
opportunistic businesses, leading the
tinued to run at a deficit, equivalent
Ministry of Finance to forecast a
to 24.8% of GDP. Latvia's sovereign
12.5% increase in 2008. The
credit rating fell from A-/stable to
Ministry also forecast a continued
BBB+/negative on concerns of over-
deficit in the current account equiv-
heating and businesses experienced
alent to 21.6% of GDP. These facspring/summer 2008
GATEWAY RIGA
17
BANKING
“As many banking services as
possible should be presented in a
your money with one particular
usable way by your Internet Bank.
provider. Of course, even if a
At the same time, you should not
bank has an astonishingly good
forget that information about bank-
Internet Bank, but the bank itself
ing products, their price, offer con-
is weak and not trustworthy, then
ditions, addresses of the bank's
you need to look elsewhere. Start
branches, new product information,
with the bank, its philosophy and
promo campaigns and many more
mission, its reliability, its ability
things should be available in a
to offer a wide range of up-to-
convenient and clearly understand-
date products and its ability to
able form.”
develop in line with the rapidly
The quality of the bank's support
service and security issues are no
Twenty-first
century banking
Could you imagine the modern world
without cars, computers and airplanes?
Modern technology has changed the world
beyond all recognition.
in the number of clicks. It therefore
follows that the ways in which
banks do business and their approach
to offering products to their customers has changed drastically.
There are 23 banks in Latvia.
With around 50% of the Latvian
population now regularly online,
how should they choose between
the dozens of Internet banking services now available?
According to Vladislavs Alohins,
the Head of DnB NORD Banka's
Internet Department, there are four
principle criteria that should help us
Photo: DnB Nord
determine our decision:
New York as being in kilometres,
- Functionality;
Even the way we perceive measure-
more often than not, we now say
- Usability;
ment is changing. Rather than think-
that New York is ten hours away,
- The quality of support service;
ing of the distance from Riga to
while the distance between banks on
- Security.
18
spring/summer 2008
GATEWAY RIGA
changing world.”
Alohins is confident that, in the
less important. After all, there is no
case of DnB Nord, all of these fac-
point having a Ferrari if you've got
tors are a given: “We are trusted
no service backup and you leave the
and respected throughout the
driver's seat unlocked when you are
Baltics, Scandinavia and in Poland
not using it.
by both large companies and private
As Alohins stresses: “There are
two different continents is measured
selection criteria before entrusting
individuals. Because of this, we can
quite a number of Internet banks
now concentrate on making DnB
available in Latvia now, but you
NORD's Internet Bank the market
should consider all of these four
leader in the coming years.”
The logistics of the matter
Photo: www.volvo.com
TRANSPORT LOGISTICS
(outsourcing of complex warehousing
nal operator in one of the three
airline road feeder services. We appre-
solutions). In order to ensure effi-
cargo warehouses at Riga
ciate very much that the management
cient and integrated logistics services
International Airport. We are proud
of Riga International Airport is show-
to the Latvian and Baltic market,
to offer our customers a fully
ing strong support for the develop-
DHL opened up a new Logistics
equipped cargo terminal capable of
ment of cargo business in the airport.
Centre in May 2006 in the vicinity
handling more than 600 europallet
of Riga airport. In these purpose-
positions of general cargo at any one
built logistics facilities all DHL servic-
time. We offer specifically designed
es are offered under one roof ensur-
and approved facilities available for
ing high quality standards and effi-
the handling of all kinds of special
cient operations. In addition, DHL
cargo including dangerous goods,
has opened a 20,000 square metre
temperature-sensitive goods and valu-
warehouse facility in Jelgava (35 km
able cargo. Supporting the key value
south-west of Riga) providing con-
within the airline industry - the
tract logistics services to multination-
security - we offer cargo security
als and local customers.
services for airlines handled in our
According to Magnus Nordberg,
Inga Brasla, CEO SPEDAIR:
SPEDAIR SIA has gained extensive
terminal as well as some airlines
Managing Director of DHL Latvia,
handled in other cargo warehouses.
experience since its foundation in
there is a clear trend among Latvian
In 2008 we will be able to offer
1998 and has a stable market posi-
companies to outsource their ware-
even more improved security services
tion in the airfreight market in
housing and transportation services
by operating higher capacity security
Latvia. For years we have been one
and focus on their core compe-
equipment. All above-mentioned facil-
of the TOP 3 agencies in the air-
tences. It has also been noted that
ities support our mission to be the
freight forwarding market in Latvia,
transportation to and from all
the requirements from Latvian cus-
most advanced cargo terminal in
while we regard ourselves as the
European countries, sea & air freight
tomers are becoming more advanced
Riga International Airport, which we
leader in time critical express for-
services through our own offices in
and many local Latvian companies
consider we are.
warding of diagnostic specimens
both the Far East and the US as well
are nowadays evaluating the total
company of DSV Group A/S
as warehousing through our own
supply chain costs on a strategic
umes have grown by nearly 300%
Denmark, and part of an interna-
facilities in Riga.
level rather than looking at distribu-
compared to the start of our opera-
have become a "one stop agency" -
tion, international transport or ware-
tions. This was achieved by adding
our skilled personnel offer the full
housing as 'stand alone' functions. In
additional customers to our customer
range of services starting from collec-
this context, DHL can certainly add
profile throughout 2007. It must be
tion from their door, customs arrange-
value by adapting well-proven logis-
noted that we handle freight, which
ments, and transportation by any
tics and transport management con-
arrives in Riga on airline passenger
cepts from other countries to the
and cargo flights as well as airline-
local Latvian market.
operated trucks (road feeder services),
What do the leading transport logistics companies do
in Latvia and what are their views on the market in this country?
Morten Joergensen,
Director DSV Transport:
DSV Transport SIA is the daughter
tional group of companies represent-
The transport market in Latvia has
ed with its own offices in 51 coun-
grown rapidly over the past few
tries. We offer services via our own
years. DSV Transport has taken
network and partners in more than
advantage of this fact, developed and
100 countries and employ 19,000
subsequently increased the size of the
people worldwide.
company to become market leader.
DSV Transport SIA is one of the
Magnus Nordberg,
Managing Director DHL Latvia:
DHL, the leading global Logistics
& Express giant has been present in
The coming years will be more chal-
leading freight forwarders in Latvia
lenging when we take into account
offering scheduled and full-load road
the economic situation in Latvia.
The
transport
market
in Latvia
has grown
rapidly over
the past
few years
Latvia since 1995. Today DHL
which are regularly run to Riga due
employs almost 200 people in Latvia
to the fact that aircraft cannot
and the DHL brand is widely visible
accommodate all the demand. We
and recognized across the country.
also handle road feeder services of
Some people in the Baltics still
those airlines, which do not fly to
primarily recognize DHL as the
Riga, but operate a dedicated airline-
worldwide leading courier company.
trucking network in our region.
However, DHL's service offering in
Latvia consists of market leading
capabilities in air, ocean and road
20
GATEWAY RIGA
spring/summer 2008
Gunars Peize,
Director AG Handling:
The cargo handling company “AG
shipments.
Our cargo and postal mail vol-
In 2008 we are looking forward to
new airlines entering the market either they will offer passenger or
Our customers are happy that we
The management
of Riga
International
Airport
is showing
strong
support
for the
development
of cargo
business in
the airport
mode and any size of goods. The
services offered reached new levels of
excellence in 2007 when SPEDAIR's
brand new cargo terminal at Riga airport premises became fully functioning. The terminal is newly built and
has all the certification from the state
authorities and agencies.
Now we handle all kinds of special cargo. The warehouse is
equipped with freezers, refrigerators, a
dangerous goods room, safes for valuables and weapons. The SPEDAIR
freight transportation and freight for-
Handling” was established at the
cargo flights to Riga or show their
warehouse is the only bonded ware-
warding as well as contract logistics
beginning of 2007 as a cargo termi-
interest in our region by operating
house at Riga airport.
GATEWAY RIGA
21
Graph source: Financial Times
INVESTMENT
Fortune favours
the brave
Where should you put your assets in 2008?
22
GATEWAY RIGA
spring/summer 2008
We asked two of the leading lights
in the investment game: How do
you intend to allocate or advise
your clients to allocate assets
between cash, bonds, equities and
real estate going into 2008?
If anything can be learnt from
2007 it is that international investment remains a risky business. At
the start of 2008, global financial
markets are characterised by volatility, uncertainty, and a great deal of
both hope and fear. With this in
mind, a sensible long-term investment strategy is to ensure that
portfolios are well positioned to
seek returns whilst simultaneously
hedging future risks. Equities currently appear reasonably priced by
historic standards and are, therefore,
relatively attractive as a return-seeking asset. Maintaining sufficient
long positions (up to 30%) in cash
Peeter Koppel
of the last significant credit crunch
and bonds, however, is also advis-
Investment Specialist,
in 1998. Back then equities were
able in the current environment,
EVLI Securities:
trading on 27x. We recognize that
since at a portfolio level these
there are doubts as to the sustain-
instruments act as a hedge strategy
We are in the strong position
ability of earnings in current valua-
providing a degree of protection
that fortunes are created by buying
tions. However, history suggests that
against downside risks. Real estate
equities, not fixed income or staying
investors who have previously pur-
as an asset class appears to be over-
in cash.
chased equities at these levels have
valued currently in many places e.g.
We remain bullish on equities
benefited from positive performance
Britain, Ireland, Australia, Spain,
going into 2008 but do believe that
over the next 12 months even dur-
Greece, The Netherlands,
future returns will come with consid-
ing times when earnings have fallen.
Scandinavia and Eastern Europe,
erably higher volatility. The biggest
and given ongoing uncertainty in
risk to our bullish view is a sharper-
Kelvin Hooke
credit markets does not appear ade-
than-anticipated slowdown in the
Chairman of the Board,
quately supported to warrant an
global economy as a consequence of
Eurodeal Advisory Services:
overweight position.
the recent credit squeeze. We do
recognise the potential threat to
earnings from weakening global economic growth. However, we believe
that robust balance sheets, lower
interest rates and still reasonable valuations should sustain our bullish
view. Our bullish outlook is based
on moderating, not collapsing economic and earnings growth; easier
monetary policy; cheap valuations.
Reasonable valuations have helped
equities weather the bear market in
credit surprisingly well. The MSCI
AC World trailing PE at 16.2x is
considerably lower than at the start
24
GATEWAY RIGA
spring/summer 2008
At
the start
of 2008,
global
financial
markets are
characterised by
volatility,
uncertainty,
and a great
deal of both
hope and
fear
FUTURE VISIONS
modern societies have set out to create their visions of utopia in the
Its attractive, top-quality houses,
form of new towns and planned
offices and shops, are being designed
cities. Unbeknown to many of us,
and built to optimise living space,
several of the world's capital cities
building density, light and orienta-
were planned and created to take that
tion. Indeed, Saliena SIA is the first
society forward. Washington D.C., for
real estate developer in Latvia to
example, replaced Philadelphia as the
offer a 5-year warranty on each of
US capital in 1800, while perhaps the
its new German-built Row Houses.
greatest new town success story was
In the UK there have been 28 new
the elegant Georgian style develop-
towns developed since the end of
ment of Edinburgh new town under
WWII, while famously Prince Charles
the auspices of James Craig in the
has actively guided the development
18th century.
of Poundbury, a model village in rural
On a contemporary and much
England. The future British monarch
larger scale, the Chinese government
was originally berated for his 'pie in
is developing Dongtan as an example
the sky' views on modern living, but
of an eco-city. Built on an island
now he is seen as a visionary.
near Shanghai, it will have zero-
Very much in line with Charles'
greenhouse-emission transit and com-
thinking the new Latvian dream
plete self-sufficiency in water and
town comes with a school, several
energy, together with the use of zero
kindergartens and modern play-
energy buildings. In 30 years' time
grounds. Some of its main features
this dream city should have a popu-
include a sports centre, a golf club,
lation of 500,000.
one of Europe's Premier business
Latvia too, now has its very own
new town with exciting visions set
parks, and the biggest retail and
entertainment complex in the Baltics.
In China's Dongtan the plan is for
ship with Norway's Linstow A/S), a
out for the future. Saliena has been
It seems like 21st century town
A new town
is born
developed with the intention of cre-
planners are also returning to some
its residents to live in a town that
golf academy, tennis club, hotel and
ating the perfect town; a town built
other popular traditional ideas. In
integrates nature, cutting-edge architec-
chalet accommodation, the future
not for the Latvia of old, but for
this Latvian example it is a real
ture, a wide range of amenities and a
will bring many exciting changes and
modern European citizens.
community in creation, with a town
great community. Its Latvian equiva-
developments.
mayor, a local newspaper, organised
lent mimics this. It has a well
(PIU) is a theory of urban planning
holiday fireworks, free bicycles for
thought out system of roads and
will be the cleanest in the Baltic
composed of ten ideas that are
everyone, and free internet available
paths, designed by Swedish traffic
region, also has its own Business
intended to guide the formulation of
everywhere. This is an environment
consultants; Latvijas Gaze and
Park built specifically to meet the
city plans and urban designs for the
kept clean and tidy 24-hours a day,
Latvenergo provide the town's gas and
needs of 21st Century businesses.
perfect end result. This includes
by a committed and professional
electricity supplies; Lattelecom provides
Leading brands such as Mercedes-
Latvia has a new town offering contemporary
21st century living, unrivalled business opportunities
and as much fresh air and green space
as anybody could wish for.
social access, environmental sustain-
Territory Management Company
fixed line telecomms and Internet,
Benz, represented by Domenikss have
thinker Sir Thomas More in which he
Photos: Saliena
couldn't have a more perfect location.
Principles of Intelligent Urbanism
The new town, which it is hoped
ability and regional integration. The
And as Barny Edis, Commercial
while water and sewerage are man-
already seized upon this great oppor-
Saliena new town project, developed
Unit Manager of Saliena explains, the
aged by the municipal government.
tunity, and are planning their next
by German and Scandinavian archi-
success of this project goes far beyond
tects, ticks all of the PIU boxes.
its financial profit margins: "Moving
Saliena Passport, which guarantees
The town's residents also receive a
showroom at Saliena Business Park.
A new town is born. A place to
my family to Saliena completely
discounts in local businesses, includ-
live and work that is the perfect
It is a natural desire of humankind to
tells of a fictional island in the
forest park near the sea, just 15 min-
changed the way that I look at our
ing the golf club and its restaurant.
antidote to the hectic and unhealthy
strive to create its own utopian socie-
Atlantic Ocean where a perfect social,
utes from the Latvian capital and a
business. When you are living it, you
With additional plans in 2010 for
lifestyle of big cities, with their pollu-
ty. The word 'utopia' actually origi-
political and legal system exists.
mere 5 minutes away from Jurmala
care so much more about it. You
the biggest retail and entertainment
tion and stress. Latvia will never be
(Latvia's premier beach resort), it
can't go home at night and forget it.”
complex in the Baltics (in partner-
quite the same again.
nates from a story by 16th century
26
GATEWAY RIGA
Away from the pages of literature,
spring/summer 2008
With its traffic-free location in a
spring/summer 2008
GATEWAY RIGA
27
BUSINESS ISSUES
our people have the attitude that
structure like in other countries. I
we 'must spend because money is
mean, for example, where you have
losing value'. One mobile operator
low-paid immigrant workers doing
asked employees how much they
menial jobs at say, level one; trained
expected their salaries to grow by
Latvians at level two and so on.
each year. The average figure was
thirty per cent.
And with all this in mind, where
are we headed in 2008?
We still hope for a soft landing.
There is, of course, danger of a hard
landing because of all the unofficial
money floating about in Latvia still.
But a lot of what we hear is based
respect, but this requires both parties
Why is there such a problem with
discuss this cycle. Companies will go
to work at it. One of the latest
productivity in Latvia?
bankrupt otherwise if this spiral
developments is that everybody
continues. One consequence already
expects things to 'jump'.
If an employee gets more money
they should, in return, be given
is that many investors are no longer
What do you mean by 'jump'?
more tasks and broader responsibili-
attracted to Latvia because of work
Expectations are not in line with
ties. In general, however, they do
problems.
not want this. They must understand
that a company has limits financially
and operationally.
What is the root cause of this
problem?
This is a different generation now.
reality. Straight from university, graduates are asking for one thousand
lats per month despite having
absolutely no experience.
develop?
In 1991 there was nothing.
Everything has developed at pace.
market. Nobody is following up on
to outsource. The fact that many
the facts. Our people need to be told
businesses have owners or part own-
what they will face in certain situa-
ers who are foreign helps this. We
tions. For example if “A” happens
should study and develop. We have
then they might lose their home and
to be innovative. Those who do it
be out on the street. Things need to
will be here in the future.
change perceptions in Latvia?
Outsourcing increases productivity.
It is an efficient, productive way to
do this.
term. They invested in their own
than anybody. There is certainly a
comes to printing, internal bookkeep-
education with a university degree
lack of communication between
ing and cleaning, although, you could
but they aren't prepared to go
employers. It's a curious situation
argue, we are outsourcers by our very
through the transition period.
where employees are more unified
nature of work. I would say, in fact,
In this relatively small country
than employers. We need a concep-
that we are double outsourcers.
there are a lack of qualified workers.
tual approach on how to deal with
One of our challenges is to find
all of this.
take care of them.
Sometimes the tale seems to be
wagging the dog. Why do Latvians
It's
a curious
situation
where
employees
are more
unified than
employers
How do you think things will
Lindorff already outsource when it
good personnel, to keep, train and
workers must come together and
outside world.
Enterprise leaders perhaps more
guilty of only considering the short-
Gateway Riga speaks to Aleksandra Baranova and Reinis Kucers
from Lindorff to find out their views on the current dilemmas
facing Latvian employers.
I think there will be a personal
crash that won't be visible to the
I think the next natural evolution is
Who are the leaders that can
thing and allow for a fresh start?
on rumours rather than facts in the
be explained in a more primitive way.
Ireland. Many of these youngsters are
Does it need a crash to reset every-
Why are many people wary of
outsourcing?
Doesn't Latvia need more immi-
Businessmen are afraid to lose con-
grant workers? Why is there such a
trol. They shouldn't. They just need
negative attitude towards this?
to find reliable, responsible part-
With independence we were afraid
ners…it's still difficult to sell this
expect wages and prices to continue
of foreigners and the negative conse-
idea. Trust is needed. Patience. It's
rising?
quences that come with this. It costs
simple but…
When we joined the EU in May
650 lats to get a foreign worker here.
What is your message to your
2004 the government predicted that
There are plans to reduce this to fifty
workers and the Latvian business
it would take 25 years until Latvia
lats. But, it is true that something
community as a whole?
reached parity with EU standards.
needs to be done about our labour
There has been a misinterpretation
shortage. Unemployment has dipped
nation forward but all too often; we
We have energy to take the
of this. It's in our heads. As much
below five per cent. If workers from
are negative, critical and pessimistic.
is asking for a 30 per cent wage
It is also about employees' attitudes,
resort, is to go abroad with no expe-
as anything we need psychological
places like Moldova come in this
It seems that we don't like ourselves.
increase then they need to increase
planning, respect etc. I think one of
rience. You can have a good office
treatment of the nation. We need
should also help reduce inflation
We should be self sufficient and
revenues. This means they must
our tasks is to help employees to
job here with a good salary by local
to call on sociologists to help us
because they will be happy to work
proud of living here. We should be
increase efficiency. Management and
develop this feeling of mutual
standards or you can pick apples in
perceive things differently. Many of
for less. Currently there is no wage
optimistic about the future.
28
spring/summer 2008
If management knows he or she
GATEWAY RIGA
Many young people are irresponsible.
Option B, rather than the last
spring/summer 2008
GATEWAY RIGA
29
Photos: Archive of the Latvian Tourism Development Agency
FAMOUS TOWN
Latvia's
second city
contrast, Russia is a whopping 130
With a population of around 120,000
km away. This helps explain why,
Daugavpils is the largest city in Latvia
rather than being a Russian city,
after Riga. Despite this most Latvians
Daugavpils is an unusual mix of
have never actually visited the 730-
Latvian, Russian, Polish, Belarusian
year old city, which is regarded by
and Ukrainian (with Lithuanian influ-
many as a “Russian city”. While it is
ences thrown in for good measure).
true that around 85% of the popula-
Few Latvians are aware that a massive
tion is ethnically Russian, Daugavpils
13% of the city's population is, in
has a distinctly different feel from
actual fact, Polish.
cities in Russia itself. The city is 229
Latvia's second city remains ignored and shockingly
misunderstood by so many of the country's population.
32
GATEWAY RIGA
spring/summer 2008
Even to this day the city is known
km from Riga, 25 km from Lithuania
by different names, each reflecting its
and just 33 km from Belarus. By
long complicated history: Dzvinsk
Most
Latvians
have never
actually
visited the
730-year
old city,
which is
regarded by
many as
a “Russian
city”
(Belarusian), Dunaburg (German),
under attack from Napoleon and his
Daugpilis (Lithuanian) and Denenburg
boys twelve months later.
(Yiddish).
By the turn of the 20th century
The original city was founded
Dvinsk was one of the most impor-
close to the Livonian Order
tant transport hubs in the region
Dinaburga Castle. Over the centuries
thanks to excellent road and rail links
Poles, Swedes and Russians occupied
with St.Petersburg, Warsaw and Riga.
Dinaburg. It was recognized as a
The city suffered badly during the
town in 1582 and, as the administra-
First World War and the Latvian
tive capital of Latgale, was incorpo-
War of Independence, due to its
rated as part of the Russian Empire
front-line position. But after the
in 1772. A huge fortress was con-
Battle of Daugavpils from 1919 to
structed in 1811 and soon came
1920 it emerged in the 1920s
spring/summer 2008
GATEWAY RIGA
33
stronger and rapidly developed in the
Times are changing though, and
trianised shopping and dining street,
meat products. Modern day
lead up to WWII. It was also given
Daugavpils is now on the crest of a
which carves its way through the
Daugavpils is also home to the
a new name, 'Daugavpils' in 1920.
wave as serious amounts of money
very heart of the city.
biggest educational and cultural cen-
After the war the city became
are invested in its city centre.
of unemployment and near poverty.
Few
Latvians are
aware that
a massive
13% of
the city's
population
is, in actual
fact, Polish
34
spring/summer 2008
something of an industrial and
manufacturing powerhouse and benefited from tens of thousands of
migrant workers.
When Latvia regained its independence in 1991, Daugavpils suffered badly as much of its heavy
industry collapsed, leaving a vacuum
GATEWAY RIGA
Highlights include the c19th
The eclectic population mix is
reflected in the city's religious influ-
Daugavpils Fortress and the c17th
ences: Roman Catholicism has a
Russian Orthodox Church. But per-
great influence in the city, as do the
haps more than anything,
Lutheran and Orthodox churches.
Daugavpils is a great place to stroll
Judaic places of worship and Old
around with its attractive parks, sev-
Believers are also to be found in this
eral districts of well-preserved c19th
regional capital.
century Art Nouveau architecture
and Rigas iela, the fascinating pedes-
The city is known throughout the
Baltic region for its beer, dairy and
Roman
Catholicism
has a great
influence
in the city,
as do the
Lutheran
and
Orthodox
churches
of mother Latvia, they fail to recog-
roots. No, you might not hear
nise that here is a region -and in
Latvian spoken all the time here, but
Daugavpils a city- that has, for the
Latvia wouldn't be Latvia without its
most part, remained honest to its
second city…Daugavpils.
tre in eastern Latvia, with around
3,500 students studying at the
Daugavpils Pedagogical University.
Daugavpils and the Latgale region
(known as “The Land of the blue
lakes”), is the least visited of Latvia's
four regions, and its most misunderstood. While some of the country's
more nationalist citizens scoff at
Latgale as not being an integral part
spring/summer 2008
GATEWAY RIGA
35
DISCOVERY
Zoo opened its doors to the public.
At that time it housed 267 animals.
The same year George Armistead
completed his extremely successful
12-year stint as mayor.
Before the outbreak of the
Art Nouveau buildings were constructed as the rich and well
healed left the pollution and traffic
of central Riga behind.
During World War I the zoo was
seriously neglected, and in August
Sadly,
the best
district
in Riga was
to become
its most
terrible
Photos: Justin Walley and the Latvian Tourism Development Agency
Second World War, more than 100
1917 it was closed. In its place a
camp was built for children from
low-income families.
When peace returned to Latvia the
capital developed at pace and by the
1930s had one of the highest standards of living on the continent. As
Mežaparks
Riga's most sought after district,
'Kaiser Park' developed at pace.
Hundreds of Bauhaus and Art Deco
Home to the Latvian song festival and many
of Latvia's millionaires, Mežaparks is also a popular
summer and winter time hangout.
When Scotsman George Armistead
became the mayor of Riga in 1901 he
embarked on a personal mission to
improve the facilities and services in
Before
the outbreak of
the Second
World War,
more than
100
Art Nouveau
buildings
were
constructed
the Latvian capital. One of the projects he became involved in was the
development of a garden city district
for Riga. Many of the country's leading Jugendstil architects were soon
hard at work in the new Kaiserwald
district, and a tramline was constructed linking the centre of the city with
its green and pleasant suburb. That
very same tramline operates today,
over one century later.
As part of the development project, plans were put in place for a
zoo in 1908. Four years later, Riga
36
GATEWAY RIGA
spring/summer 2008
spring/summer 2008
GATEWAY RIGA
37
In August
2005,
the country's most
popular
band,
Brainstorm,
played to
a record
crowd of
40,000 fans
here
and connections to match, returned.
in their thousands every weekend
The Soviet era left many of the dis-
during the winter and summer
trict's fabulous houses neglected and
months to stroll and nose through
falling apart, but, no matter; the
the gates to see how the 21st centu-
original plans at the beginning of
ry rich live. The festival grounds are
the 20th century to create a green,
a popular venue for big summer
rich man's suburb had been well
concerts. In August 2005, the coun-
executed and it was only natural for
try's most popular band, Brainstorm,
the new generation to move in dur-
played to a record crowd of 40,000
ing the 1990s.
fans here. In July 2008 Mezaparks
Today, Mezaparks has some of
will be the focal point for the 2008
the highest real estate prices in the
Latvian Song Festival. (See our fea-
Baltic region and is home to
ture on page 4)
retired business people and a sprin-
Mezaparks is also popular with
kling of plush embassy residences.
water sports enthusiasts in the sum-
A sustainable development plan is
mer, as well as the bobble hats and
in place, which includes equal
mittens of ice skaters during the
rights for all citizens of Riga to
Baltic winter.
have access to public recreation
buildings filled the tree-lined avenues.
rich man's suburb.
built in the out of the way and
the Latvian Popular Front was formed.
space such as Lake Kisezers.
n't be Mezaparks without shashliks
Gerchard von Tizenhausen is said to
Sadly, the best district in Riga was
have been responsible for about 40%
to become its most terrible: In March
was used to house German convicts,
its fortunes turn full circle as once
more than 250,000 visitors per year.
atmospheric evenings in mid-summer
of the residential buildings in this
1943 a Nazi concentration camp was
and by the following year it func-
again those with sacks full of cash,
Meanwhile, Riga residents turn out
when the sun never seems to set.
slightly hidden Kaiserwald. Initially, it
tioned as the main concentration
camp in Riga with around 12,000
inmates. By September 1944 all of its
inmates had either been executed or
moved to Poland, as the Red Army
approached Riga.
After the war, Mezaparks returned
to some sense of normality, but was,
to some extent, forever tainted by
Today,
Mežaparks
has some of
the highest
real estate
prices in
the Baltic
region
the horrific events of the 1940s. Riga
Zoo reopened its doors and the wellconnected returned, but the area fell
into slow decay in many senses.
Mezaparks became a kind of surreal curiosity with its obscenely
large houses, quiet lake, well kempt
parks and deserted forests. Huge,
private houses did not fit in with
the social ethos of communism;
instead, Mezaparks became a recreational area, a place to stroll and
relax on occasion.
On October 7, 1988 the first large
anti-Soviet demonstration was held in
Mezaparks song festival grounds, and
38
GATEWAY RIGA
spring/summer 2008
With independence Mezaparks saw
And most of all, Mezaparks would-
The zoo still functions and attracts
and cold beer on those warm,
DESTINATION GUIDE
Coming soon
Danube Island is alive in summer with dozens of kilometres of sandy and
grassy beaches. It even boasts its own festival, described as 'Europe's largest
open-air party. This year it runs from June 13-16. Other dates for the diary
this season include the Vienna Festival (May 9 - June 15) and the Vienna
City Marathon (April 27).
Euro 2008 Vienna
Seven matches will be played at Vienna's Ernst Happel Stadium, concluding
with the final on June 29. All 31games will be shown at the many public viewRathausplatz and Ringstrasse-Heldenplatz will be transformed into a fan zone.
Photo: © WTV / Heinz Angermayr
Photo: © WTV / Claudio Alessandri
Live art, love life
Vienna match schedule:
As the tourist book says “Vienna is old… and yet Vienna is new”. This grand old city
of Empire is a living museum. It is also a happening, cosmopolitan capital city
offering top class arts and entertainment; a world-class shopping and dining mecca
that is due to host the 2008 UEFA European Championships this summer.
Sunday
8 June
18:00
Austria | Croatia
Thursday
12 June
20:45
Austria | Poland
Monday
16 June
20:45
Austria | Germany
Friday
20 June
20:45
Quarterfinal
Sunday
22 June
20:45
Quarterfinal
Thursday
26 June
20:45
Semi final
Sunday
29 June
20:45
Final
A place for the night
Das Tyrol boutique hotel in the Museum Quarter offers top class facilities
and service slap bang in the middle of the city's Museum Quarter, with top
brand clothes shops, restaurants and bars all within a few tiny footsteps of its
One of the joys of wandering a
should not be missed.
little extras you could wish for. Das Tyrol also has a sauna and steam room
placed on this beautiful city during
ful old world café such as Café
June as hundreds of thousands of
Konditorei Sluka, found on a for-
is without the gothic towers of
football fans from all over Europe
gotten corner of Rathausplatz.
St. Stephen's Cathedral. Non-vertigo
descend upon Vienna.
Relaxing with a freshly blended
sufferers should contemplate the
the countdown boards around the
city play testimony. Those supporters lucky enough to be hanging out
in the Austrian capital this summer
will find a city of coffee houses,
restaurants, fashionable boutiques
and bustling sidewalk cafés. Millions
A Vienna
coffee
house is
undoubtedly
one of
the great
timeless
highlights
of central
Europe
coffee, a slice of Viennese cake and
a newspaper within the four-walled
sanctuary of a Vienna coffee house
is undoubtedly one of the great
timeless highlights of central
Europe. With 800 of these wonderful establishments in the Austrian
capital, you'll have no problem
finding your own, quiet contemplative corner of classy living.
Vienna wouldn't be the city it
Vienna
wouldn't be
the city it is
without
the gothic
towers of
St.
Stephen's
Cathedral
Getting there
Austrian Airlines flies directly from Riga to Vienna. For more information
check out the airline's website: www.austrian.com
adrenaline buzz of the 343-step narrow spiral staircase to the top.
Back down at ground level,
MuseumsQuartier is one of the top
ten largest cultural complexes in the
world. And if this doesn't tickle
your cultural fancy then there is
always the Berlin-style creative pulse
in the form of avant-garde exhibitions at the Kuntshalle.
more will visit the city during 2008
The Vienna State Opera, which
There are a quite unbelievable
with no interest in Europe's biggest
performs almost 300 evenings per
20,000 shops in the city, 600 of
sporting event. They will also be
year, is one of, if not the greatest,
which can be found along the two-
here for the city's famous museums,
opera houses in the world; while the
kilometre-long Mariahilfer Strasse. The
unique cuisine with its roots in
Habsburg splendour of Schonbrunn
pedestrian zones of Karntner Strasse,
Bohemia, Hungary, the Balkans and
Palace, a UNESCO World Cultural
Grabben and Rotenturmstrasse are
Austria, and top class hotels.
Heritage site, is Vienna's most visited
also shopoholic heaven.
spring/summer 2008
and old world breakfast buffet dining.
Photo: © WTV / Willfried Gredler-Oxenbauer
anticipating this event for years as
GATEWAY RIGA
front door. Classy rooms come with plasma screens, body lotions and all the
back street is discovering a delight-
It's not as if the city isn't pre-
40
attraction. Its 17th century delights
Yes, the spotlight will be firmly
pared. Vienna has been eagerly
Photo: © WTV / Gerhard Weinkirn
Photo: © WTV / Heinz Angermayr
ing places around the city.
spring/summer 2008
GATEWAY RIGA
41
Photos: Austrian Airlines
AIRLINE IN FOCUS
The leader in the east
agreements and exciting new routes
In 2008,
the airline's
Eastern
European
route
network
covers
a total of 45
destinations
in 24
different
countries
42
GATEWAY RIGA
spring/summer 2008
We fly for your smile - and in June
around the world for its high levels
2008, for the 'Football King` as well!
of quality and friendliness. This is as
We are already hugely looking for-
true of Business Class as it is of
ward to the European Championship
Economy Class.
and the arrival of the enthusiastic
more than 10.8 million passengers.
Aircraft of various types and sizes
fans, who will want to visit Austria
and the football matches."
Austrian is to partner the city of
allow operating the airplanes (average
Vienna during the tournament,
age just 8.4 years) on given segments
which is being held from 7 to 29
optimally. Departure and arrival times
June 2008. By taking responsibility
are coordinated following well-struc-
for an area of some 200 m2, Austrian
network extended from Moscow
tured banks so as to offer ideal
Airlines will play a prominent role
across Central Asia to the Pacific.
national and international connections
on the fan mile at Vienna's
at the Vienna hub, where transfer
Rathausplatz and present a colourful
times average just 25 minutes.
and exciting programme to all foot-
Closer to home, there are now
have cemented that reputation. With
three partners in the Austrian Airlines
its new destinations of Bourgas,
Group, serving 130 destinations
Tallinn and Astana, the Austrian
worldwide: Austrian, Lauda Air and
Airlines Group has opened up anoth-
Austrian arrows. The focus of
er three key parts of Central and
Austrian is on scheduled traffic,
Eastern Europe. In 2008, the airline's
Austrian arrows specialises in regional
Eastern European route network cov-
business, while Lauda Air completes
ers a total of 45 destinations in 24
the Group programme with its activi-
different countries.
ties in the charter flight segment.
Furthermore, with the signing of
the European Championship sites.
further still. Austrian is valued
In 2006, the Austrian Group carried
Prior to the last year or two Austrian Airlines already had
a reputation as being the Pan-European market leader in this region.
Now, recently signed cooperation
ly working to improve its services
The top priority for Austrian
last year's partnership agreement with
Airlines is to fulfil passenger require-
Russian airline alliance AiRUnion,
ments to the very highest standards.
Austrian has seen its extensive route
Which is why the airline is constant-
It's
certainly
going to be
a summer to
remember
for Austria,
its people
and its
increasingly
popular
national
carrier
In June of this year the UEFA
ball enthusiasts.
European Championships comes to
The airline has also created a
Austria. A fact that certainly hasn't
special Euro'2008 design for use on
been lost on Austrian Chief Executive
one of its medium-haul Airbus
Officer Alfred Ötsch: "Just as a pas-
A320 jets. It's certainly going to
sion for football brings people
be a summer to remember for
together, Austrian Airlines connects
Austria, its people and its increas-
people from the most diverse coun-
ingly popular national carrier.
tries and continents. As an 'Unofficial
Fan Line', we shall be carrying
Contact details:
enthusiastic fans from all competitor
www.austrian.com
countries safely and comfortably to
For reservations: (+371) 67507700
spring/summer 2008
GATEWAY RIGA
43
Photos: One day in Latvia / vienadiena
ART
Half a million
images of Latvia
Twenty years ago two men had an idea to document
a day's account of life, love and sorrow in Latvia
through the camera lens.
44
GATEWAY RIGA
spring/summer 2008
The team of photographers
Back in August 1987, Janis Krumins,
descended upon each region, town
Gunars Janaitas, Ints Kalnins and
and village in Latvia. They turned up
around 70 of the best photographers
on the factory floors of Valmiera and
from what was then the Latvian
cobbled streets of Balvi.
Soviet Socialist Republic and beyond
The thousands of negatives, which
began work on a photo album enti-
included the mundane and the
tled “One day in Latvia”
absolutely bizarre, were to be devel-
Over the space of 24 creative
hours on August 28 1987, more than
30,000 photographs were taken docu-
oped, documented and the best of
them then published in a book.
For reasons of poor finance (no
menting every imaginable part of
hard currency to get the book
everyday Latvian life.
published in Finland) and perhaps,
spring/summer 2008
GATEWAY RIGA
45
who knows, undisclosed political
and Latvia's top 60 photographers
some people and places had long
doing on 31 August 2007. This
sensitivity, the book never became
came together in August 2007 to set
since passed away into the memory
whole project assembled around half
reality. Instead, the rolls of nega-
about emulating the project of the
and the history books;
a million images in total, an achieve-
tives along with a not-insignifi-
late Soviet years. The hairstyles and
cant-collection of notebooks and
clothes had definitely changed, as
politicians; poor old ladies are now
The people behind “One Day in
audio cassettes from that day were
had much of the photographic
millionaires; and deserted pieces of
Latvia” are currently working on a
put in a collection and stored
equipment, but the enthusiasm of
waste ground had twenty years later
book and plan to hold an open-air
away in the Riga History and
the photographers was as great as it
become prime real estate awaiting
exhibition in Riga's Dome Square on
Maritime Museum.
had been in the days of
the construction of 25-floor glass
May 1, 2008.
Gorbachev's Perestroika.
monuments to capitalism.
Twenty years on, a team of 160
eager photographers, including a
Pulitzer Prize winner from Hungary
46
GATEWAY RIGA
Communists had since become
Many of the original photographic
The Latvian public were also invit-
subjects were recaptured by the lens:
ed to send images of what they were
spring/summer 2008
ment of immense proportions.
For more details:
www.vienadiena.lv
SPORT
the Summer Olympics for themselves
after four of its nationals starred in
the historic tournament success.
Ironically, despite the success of
famous players such as Maigonis
Valdmanis and Valdis Valters it is perhaps a Latvian female basketball player, born near Daugavpils, who is the
most famous Latvian basketball player
of all time. Uljana Semjonova won 18
European Championship winner's
medals, 2 Olympic Golds and 3
World Championships medals.
Semjonova was also one of the tallest
women in the world at 2.12 metres.
A newly independent Latvia
returned to the international stage in
1992 but sadly the national men's
side has not been able, in the corresponding years, to match the performances of yesteryear.
Now, so often overshadowed by
its Baltic neighbour Lithuania,
Head and shoulders
above the rest
Photos: Latvian Basketball Federation
Latvian basketball remains much more than just a sport in Latvia.
basketball to disappear into relative
were spirited away to the US NBA
Basketball might still be considered as
obscurity during the long Soviet
league with the promise of fame and
Latvia's national sport just surpassing
occupation of this country but,
riches - a process which has tended
the nation's well-known passion for
instead, Latvia's best club side, ASK
to weaken the national side rather
ice hockey, motor sports and, in
Riga, became one of the top teams
than strengthen it (thanks to high
more recent times, football.
in the entire Soviet Union. As well
profile withdrawals due to club com-
as winning the Soviet league title
mitments) - Latvian players often
tion and famously won the first
several times during the 50s and
made up the core of the Soviet
European championship in 1935. (It
60s, Riga were crowned European
Union Olympic Basketball team.
then hosted the second champi-
Champions three years on the trot
onship in 1937)
from 1958-60.
Latvia has a long basketball tradi-
You might have expected Latvian
48
GATEWAY RIGA
In the days before Latvian players
spring/summer 2008
Latvians starred in the '52, '56 and
'64 teams. Moreover, in 1960 Latvian
practically took the silver medal at
In 1960
Latvian
practically
took
the silver
medal at
the Summer
Olympics for
themselves
FORTHCOMING EVENTS
FEBRUARY
MARCH
Holiday on Ice Aladdin
Don Quixote Ballet
February 1 / Arena Riga
www.makroconcert.lv
March 1 / Riga Opera House
www.opera.lv
Sergejs Lazarevs
Contemporary Drama Festival
www.bilesuserviss.lv
March 1-30 / Riga
www.drama.lv
Les Liaisons Dangereuses
Carmen Opera
February 9 / Riga Opera House
www.opera.lv
www.opera.lv
www.fbi.lv
league, the participation of Latvian
pendence team was the 2001 side,
title in May 2007.
teams in the Baltic Basketball League
inspired by Kaspars Kambala, which
Championships.
All is not lost however as Latvian
club basketball experiences an
upsurge of interest.
A newly
independent
Latvia
returned
to the international
stage
in 1992
further strengthened the Latvian pub-
highly likeable Curtis Millage has
lic's love of their national sport.
country to play abroad. And while
Curtis Millage (ASK Riga)
likes of ASK (The letters originally
Armands Skele (Barons/LMT)
stood for Armijas Sporta Klubs),
Sandis Valters (ASK Riga)
Riga, who now play their games at
Ventspils and Barons has helped
Uvis Helmanis (BK Ventspils)
the brand new 12,500-seater Arena
stimulate interest in the domestic
A.J. Bramlett (ASK Riga)
Championships title seven years running between 2000-2006 before ASK
50
GATEWAY RIGA
spring/summer 2008
Tosca Opera
MAY
Berlin Philharmonic Concert
Gabrielle
March 6 / Arena Riga
www.makroconcert.lv
February 16-17 / Riga Kino Studija
www.rideit.lv
May 2 / Riga Opera House
www.opera.lv
Latvian Festival for Adventurous Music
Ride It - Winter Jam 2008
Shakatak
March 11 / Riga Congress House
www.makroconcert.lv
May 9-10
www.skanumezs.lv
The Fountain of Bakhchisaray Premiere
Chris De Burgh
March 11 / Arena Riga
www.positivus.com
Latvian League all-star
team 2007 season
healthy competition between the
Ventspils won the Latvian
April 20 / Riga Congress House
www.megaart.lv
April 26 / Riga Opera House
www.opera.lv
February 14-17 / Kipsala Hall
www.erots.lv
helped reverse the trend whereby all
of Latvia's best players have left the
Blues Caravan Concert
Erotic Festival
and European Cup competition has
imports such as the enigmatic and
April 18-28 / Riga
www.ballet-festival.lv
February 14 / Klubs Essential
www.essential.lv
May 16 / Riga Opera House
www.opera.lv
Riga Museum Night
Madame Butterfly Opera
www.opera.lv
May 18 (TBC) / Old Riga
www.nuitdesmusees.culture.fr
International Step Dance Festival
May 25 / Riga Congress House
Chris Rea
www.chrisrea.com
Photos: Gabrielle - Makroconcert; Chris Rea - Martins Rudzroga and Positivus
finished eighth in the European
The presence of star international
International Baltic Ballet Festival
Richard Wagner Opera
Armin Van Buuren & Blake Jarell
www.untitled.lv
Riga Stadium, stole their domestic
www.opera.lv
www.opera.lv
Korn
Dima Bilan
Latvia's most successful post-inde-
LNO Choir
Raimonds Pauls "Singing Festival"
APRIL
February 24/Arena Riga
www.arenariga.com
Rusalka Opera Premiere
www.opera.lv
Lord of the Dance
February 28 / Skonto Hall
www.makroconcert.lv
Bimini Animation Festival
April 1-30 / Riga
www.bimini.lv
“And the word became film…”
Film Forum
April 3-10 / Riga
www.stunda.lv
Latvian football season kicks off
April 5 / Nationally
www.lff.lv
Paul Van Dyk
Snow White Ballet
www.jetforce.lv
www.opera.lv
Information correct at time
of going to press.
The Gastronome Seafood Restaurant specializes in the finest preparation of the
widest array of fish and seafood in Riga.
Customers are able to pick and choose any
HOT SPOTS
of the products offered on display to satisfy
their tastes. With delicious scents and
flavours Gastronome's open kitchen grill
teases even the most selective of appetites.
Through much experience, Gastronome's
chefs are masters of delicately accentuating
Fellini
that most seafood should simply be threat-
This Italian club-restaurant is an
ened with heat and celebrated with joy. In
ideal place to enjoy an Italian-style
addition to the restaurant's culinary excel-
ambience. At our place, you can savor
lence, clients can also enjoy the soothing
sophisticated cuisine, as well as our
sounds of live musical accompaniment at
generous wine-list. Our restaurant is
the Gastronome restaurant in Reval Hotel
well-suited for business meetings, social
Piramı̄da
Latvia.
events, and romantic dinners.
Reval Hotel Rı̄dzene Restaurant
Special offers, business lunches and
Working hours:
12:00 - 24:00
Aspazijas bulv. 36/38, Riga LV-1050, Latvia
tel + 371 67225411, fax + 371 67216140
metropole@metropole.lv | www.metropole.lv
culinary treasure offers fine dining and
an extensive menu.
excellent international cuisine in an inti-
gourmet menu available.
GASTRONOME seafood restaurant
Reval Hotel Latvia, Brı̄vı̄bas iela 31, Riga
tel for info and reservations: +371 67772391
e-mail: restorans@revalhotel.gastronome.lv
www.gastronome.lv
Piramı̄da is for those who are seeking
METROPOLE HOTEL
Situated under the glass pyramid this
Marijas iela 13, Riga, Berga Bazaar
tel +371 67284801
mate and elegant ambiance in the heart
of Riga`s business and financial district.
The executive chef's creative and
fresh approach to cooking is reflected
GASTRONOME seafood restaurant
Interior and delicatessen center mc2,
Krasta iela 68a, Riga
tel for info and reservations: +371 67019634
e-mail: restorans@mc2.gastronome.lv,
www.gastronome.lv
The restaurant is open daily
from 7:00 till 23:30
Business lunch A la Carte
from 12.00 till 16.00
in our international cuisine menu concentrating on the key elements of each
dish and enhancing their unique
flavours and textures.
Reimersa iela 1, Riga, LV 1050, Latvia
(Reval Hotel Rı̄dzene)
tel +371 67324433
ridzene.restaurant@revalhotels.com
www.revalhotels.com
HOTELS
Gastronome
seafood restaurants
ripened aromas, leaving clients knowing
HOTEL CENTRA
Audēju iela 1, Riga, LV-1050, Latvia
tel +371 67226441, fax +371 67503280
hotel@centra.lv | www.centra.lv
Restaurant La Boheme
When La Boheme first opened
in Riga's Art Nouveau District in 2006,
in quickly established a reputation
in the gourmet bracket with its selfstyled 'upscale lifestyle café and fine
HOTEL BERGS
dining restaurant'. Named after Puccini's
Steiku Haoss
Restaurants designed in western style let customers
opera, La Boheme has a little something
Restaurant Bergs, decorated in a con-
for everyone. Sophisticated food is as
Elizabetes iela 83/85, Riga LV-1050, Latvia
tel +371 67770900, fax +371 67770940
reservation@hotelbergs.lv | www.hotelbergs.lv
enjoy an unforgettable trip through the Wild West.
Restaurant Reykjavik
temporary style, has been thoughtfully
delicate as the background smooth jazz
Enjoy one of the 17 different steaks prepared right in
In the Reykjavik restaurant, you can
designed to provide guests with possibili-
and light classical music. There's also
front of you accompanied by a glass of mellow wine
enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner. You
ties of calm and intimate retreat in the
a 'special treat' gourmet menu served per-
or refreshing cocktail and finish off with an appetiz-
have a great opportunity to taste deli-
business centre of one of the most excit-
sonally by executive chef Māris Jansons.
NAU lounge restaurant opening in
ing desert. When the horse is hitched up and you
cious meals and a wide range of drinks
ing city parts. The modern interior is
If you are one of these people that
February - a place where the Italian sense
have enjoyed a good meal, it's time to stretch your
in a pleasant atmosphere, which is
accented with African colours and design
enjoy fine dining in a classy setting, but
of life meets the philosophy of the East. A
legs to the rhythm of a line dance together with our
enriched by the sounds of our piano
elements. The restaurant has a nice glass
the snobby pretentiousness that sometimes
cutting-edge lounge restaurant located in
waitresses and the best Latvian country music groups.
player in the evenings.
veranda with views of the hotel courtyard
comes with the territory puts you off, then
the well-known Berga Bazaar working until
HOTEL LAINE
Restaurant "Reykjavik" offers:
and beautiful fountain. There, on our
La Boheme could well be the answer to
2 o'clock at night. A restaurant serving
BUSINESS DINNER only 4.50 Ls
summer terrace, our guests can enjoy the
your prayers.
organic and tasty Fusion food coming
Skolas iela 11, Riga, LV 1010, Latvija
tel +371 67289823, fax + 371 67287658
info@laine.lv | www.laine.lv
Audēju iela 2, Riga
tel +371 67225699
Working hours: Mon to Fri 10-01, Sat, Sun 12-01
(weekdays 12:00 - 16:00)
Tērbatas 41/43, Riga
tel +371 67272707
Workign hours: Mon.,Tue.,Wed. 10-00, Thu., Fri 10-01,
Sat 11-01, Sun 11-00
www.steikuhaoss.lv
GATEWAY RIGA
calm and leisurely life of Bergs Bazaar.
NAU lounge restaurant
from Asia and Italy, it takes off its apron
Restaurant Bergs under the leadership
and turns into a smooth, stylish lounge-
Three-course special menu;
of chef Kaspars Jansons provides our elite
restaurant at night. You can sample high
Coffee, tea, water or juice.
clients with exquisite cuisine and distin-
quality sea food enjoying the DJ's calming
guished service.
lounge music on Thursday, Friday and
Dinner includes:
Meistaru iela 25, Riga
tel +371 67222419
Working hours: Mon to Fri 11-01, Sat, Sun 12-01
52
Restaurant Bergs
J.Alunāna iela 2A, Riga
tel +371 67321938
fax +371 67321920
info@laboheme.lv
Parking free of charge.
Saturday nights.
Ķı̄psalas iela 20, Riga
tel +371 67608000
fax +371 67608001
reception@islandehotel.lv
Elizabetes iela 83/85, Bergs Bazaar, Riga
tel +371 67770957
fax +371 67770940
restaurant@hotelbergs.lv
www.hotelbergs.lv
Marijas iela 13, Riga,
Berga Bazaar
tel +371 67284801
MONIKA CENTRUM HOTELS
Elizabetes iela 21, Riga, LV-1010, Latvia
tel +371 67031900, fax +371 67031901
monika@centrumhotels.com | www.centrumhotels.com
53
Otto Schwarz
Someone once said, “there are some
restaurants which are so unique that
they become legendary and part of history”. As you gaze over one of the
most extensive wine lists in the Baltics,
Hotel de Rome
be sure to enjoy the fantastic views of
Raibais Balodis (Colourful Dove)
HOT SPOTS
Authentic medieval restaurant
Located in the quaint surroundings of
Kaļķu iela 28, Riga LV 1050, Latvia
tel + 371 67087600, fax + 371 67087606
reservation@derome.lv | www.derome.lv
the Freedom Monument and the park
Open daily for breakfast
below. Restaurant Otto Schwarz is an
Paddy Whelan's
Irish Pub & Sports Bar
Welcome to the medieval times.
the Konventa Seta in Riga's old town, this
Start your journey to the medieval
stylish restaurant offers a wide variety of
times in the heart of the Old Riga Town
international dishes. The decor of Raibais
in Latvia.
Balodis is designed to complement its
Breakfast buffet
romantic interior. It is also an ideal place
Lunch and dinner 12:00 - 23:00
both local and imported beers and ciders.
Live piano music Tuesdays - Saturdays
We have an extensive menu with not only
Relax in the glimmering lights of
candles.Try the favourite dishes and
to enjoy a relaxed, vast and unlimited
drinks of King Philip I, Duke Charles
buffet breakfast.
from 6:30 till 10:30 am.
Lunch and dinner
excellent place for business lunches and
private dinners.
Riga's first Irish pub, established in
from 12:00 till 11:00 pm.
Kalēju iela 9/11 (Hotel Konventa Seta), Riga
tel +371 67087501
7:00 - 10:30
19:00 - 22:00
1994, offers a total of 18 different kinds of
traditional Irish dishes, our Indian chefs are
proud to offer Indian home-style cooking
of Burgundy and Margaret of York.
Kaļķu iela 28 (Hotel De Rome), Riga
tel +371 67087600
Listen to the Ancient Wall and
at affordable prices as well. Here you can
the Old Well whispering the secrets
Restaurant Vive le Figaro
sit back and relax in this kicked-back
of the Order of Knights Templars.
Restaurant "Vive le Figaro" is located
atmosphere and watch live sporting events
Find your medieval treasure.
in the heart of Riga with magnificent
on either a large screen or any of the
Find your philosophers stone.
views to St. Peter's Church, the
numerous flat screen TVs on both floors.
Find your Grail.
Blackhead's House and the Daugava
When legendary Irish singer Shane
River. This fine dining restaurant offers
MacGowan from the Pogues was in Riga,
customers exclusive international cuisine
this is where he came for a Guinness and
and sophisticated service, which one can
a whiskey. This is the place to be if you
rely on, as well as live music. "Vive le
wanna be, with the friendliest staff you'll
Figaro" with its exquisite white hall, crys-
ever see. There is also a small smoking
area upstairs on our second floor.
Rozēna iela 1, Riga, tel +371 67220356
info@rozengrals.lv
www.rozengrals.lv
RIGA BLACK MAGIC
D'vine Bar
tal hall and western-style hall is an
Wonders reveal my secret room
The modern design and very special
excellent place for business meetings,
Magic is here, in the everyday gloom
lighting elements create a unique atmoswines and spirits, as well as trendy Tapas,
Welcome to my Alchemy Coffee-Bar.
tasty salads, main courses and delicious
During the day you can enjoy wondrous desserts and unique
drinks made with my famous Riga Black Balsam created in 1752.
But as midnight approaches, Magic awaits you here in my
Secret Room.
Things suddenly begin to have their own life, ancient ghosts,
floor the D'vine Lounge can be found,
in Europe.
which is an excellent place for various
The Express Restaurant offers:
business events, presentations, banquets,
• 100 various cold dishes as buffet;
wine degustations and private parties.
• Holiday meals and banquets;
Mon - Thu 12.00 - 24.00
• Music every night;
However, why would Ireveal all my secrets?
Fri - Sat 12.00 - 01.00
• Banquets at your place.
Come and see for yourself.
Sundays - closed
Waiting impatiently for you,
D'vine lunch
A.Kunze.
Mon - Fri 12.00 - 15.00
KOLONNA HOTEL BRIGITA
Saulkalnes iela 11, Riga LV-1058, Latvia
tel +371 67623000, fax +371 67623190
reservationbrigita@kolonna.com | www.hotelkolonna.com
Recreation Centre, which is one of the
largest and most beautiful log buildings
Open:
Kr.Barona iela 37, Riga LV 1011, Latvia
tel + 371 67312323, fax + 371 67316953
hotel@kbhotel.lv | www.kbhotel.lv
paddy@hostit.lv, www.pub.lv
Grēcinieku iela 26, Riga
tel +371 26699966
Working hours:
Mon to Fri 11-23, Sat, Sun 11-01
deserts from the open kitchen. On the 3rd
alchemical transformations: creation of the Riga Black Balsam and…….
KB BED & BREAKFAST
Grēcinieku iela 4, Riga
tel office +371 67210249,
1st floor +371 67210150, 2nd floor +371 67210254
romantic dinners or private parties.
phere where our guests can enjoy good
Ladies and Gentlemen,
HOTELS
Rozengrāls
Express Restaurant
Use this opportunity to enjoy
REVAL HOTEL ELIZABETE
Opening April 2008
Elizabetes iela 71/73 Riga, Latvia, LV 1050
tel +371 67772345, fax +371 67772332
latvija.sales@revalhotels.com | www.revalhotels.com
You are welcome from
12:00 am - 11:00 pm.
a wide range of cold delicatessen, exquiKaļķu iela 10, Riga
tel +371 67222877
info@since1752.lv
www.since1752.lv
54
Elizabetes iela 55, Riga
(Reval Hotel Latvija, entrance from
Elizabetes and Brı̄vı̄bas street corner)
tel +371 67772217
www.revalhotels.com
GATEWAY RIGA
spring/summer 2008
site hot dishes, LIDO cakes and desserts
in the romantic atmosphere offered by
the Express Restaurant at the LIDO
Krasta iela 76, Riga
tel for info +371 67504420,
tel for booking +371 67700000,
www.ac.lido.lv
ISLANDE HOTEL
Ķı̄psalas iela 20, Riga
tel +371 67608000, fax +371 67608001
reception@islandehotel.lv
55
RIGA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
improving its buses to minimize the
movement of passengers by foot.
Departing passengers will be directed
HOOK UP
TO THE INTERNET
AT THE AIRPORT
take advantage of the Sidewalk
access to the Internet is available
Express Internet café, which has
ness for the Schengen shift was
for everybody who happens to be
two locations in the airport with
checked in early September by an
passing through, from businessmen
seven workstations in each.
EU expert commission who gave the
to students. Business-class passen-
Sidewalk Express is a leading
airport the all-clear. This was a
gers can use the Internet in the
Internet access network in
check-up to see how things had
Solo Club, where four workstations
Northern Europe, providing access
improved following a preliminary
are located. Owing to the airport's
to the worldwide web in many air-
inspection in 2006.
cooperation with the biggest
ports in Finland, Sweden, Norway,
telecommunications operator in
Denmark, Germany and the UK, as
satisfied,” recalls Juris Kanels, vice
Latvia, Lattelecom, Wifi is also
well as in railway stations, stores
president of Riga International Airport.
available throughout the airport
and shopping centres. A Sidewalk
“Their report said that the results
terminal.
Express Internet access card is valid
Riga International Airport's readi-
“The EU expert commission was
were positive - Latvia is ready.”
It was the commission's decision,
RIX JOINS
SCHENGEN AREA
The Baltic region's leading airport
is due for some changes as it joins
the EU's Schengen area.
A series of necessary new construction and reconstruction projects
less Internet will need to purchase
the airport coverage via all of
a service code card. It is available
mentation of Schengen rules at
Latvia's main mobile network oper-
at shops in the airport where a
necessity now that Latvia is part of
borders. Besides the new members,
Central and Eastern European air-
ators is available. LMT and TELE 2
“Lattelecom Wifi” label is present.
the Schengen Agreement, which it
the Schengen area includes 13 coun-
ports to the end of March in order
network subscribers can use the
The code can also be obtained by
joined on 21 December 2007. Like
tries in the EU plus Norway and
to coincide with the beginning of
mobile network high-speed dial-up
calling 9004111 or by sending an
the other airports of Central and
Iceland.
the airlines' summer schedules.
access, as well as other types of
SMS to the telephone number 1188
service connection, for instance
with the text “wifi”.
Eastern Europe, RIX itself is sched-
Essentially, preparing the airport
uled to begin the implementation of
for Schengen is being made accord-
HSDPA, EDGE and GPRS. BITE, the
Schengen zone rules and procedures
ing to the regulations of the Latvian
partner of the global mobile net-
Internet access point in the airport
at the end of March 2008.
Border Guards, an institution under
work operator Vodafone in Latvia
terminal near the chemists. And at
the control of the Latvian Interior
and Lithuania, offers the same
the airport café Coffee Nation
Ministry. However, under the guid-
quality Internet access that
there are Internet-connected com-
ance of the border guards, it is the
Vodafone customers are used to.
puters available.
The European Union's border and
The
EU expert
commission
was
satisfied.
Latvia
is ready.
biggest-ever expansion when Latvia
becoming a major intercontinental
together with Estonia, Lithuania,
transit hub a reality. One of the tar-
Malta, Poland, Hungary, Slovenia,
gets that the airport's management
Slovakia and the Czech Republic -
has been aiming to achieve is its
all of which joined the EU in 2004
readiness to join the Schengen area
- acceded to the area. Initially they
of European countries where border-
abolished border controls for road
reserved for Schengen passengers.
less travel is a reality.
communications passport checks per-
The activities of the border guards,
Ryanair, Europe's leading low
formed at airports will be cancelled
meanwhile, will be concentrated in
cost airline, has added another
in March 2008.
the newer northern part of the ter-
route to Riga Airport. Starting this
The border-free area was estab-
minal where passengers from non-
January Ryanair will fly direct to
minal extension which allows for
lished in the Luxembourg village of
Schengen countries will be served.
Milan Bergamo Airport. This will
the separation of passengers flying
Schengen where, in 1985, Germany,
Arriving passengers from non-
to and from Schengen and non-
France and the Benelux countries
Schengen countries will be directed
Ryanair, who expect to bring in
Schengen countries. This division of
signed an agreement on the gradual
to this part of the airport mainly by
excess of 1 million passengers to
passengers into separate flows is a
erosion of checks at their common
bus - the airport has invested in
Riga in 2008.
56
spring/summer 2008
GATEWAY RIGA
Those who wish to use the wire-
centre, meaning that throughout
passport-free Schengen zone saw its
- an EUR 8 million, 10,000 m2 ter-
become a unified communication
in any of these Internet cafés.
European Union, to tie the imple-
Airport to make its dream of
has, in fact, already been completed
Riga International Airport has
a political one taken by the
are helping Riga International
This major development phase
not have a laptop with them to
At Riga International Airport,
of the terminal they need.
after March 30
using the Solo Club and who do
access the wireless Internet can
by signs and personnel to the parts
History
Those travellers who are not
There is also a pay-as-you go
airport that is providing the infrastructure necessary for operations.
The current line of control in the
southern part of the terminal will
be dismantled. This area will be
RYANAIR LAUNCHES
NEW ROUTE
TO MILAN!
be the 12th destination serviced by
spring/summer 2008
GATEWAY RIGA
57
GERMANWINGS
TO LAUNCH FLIGHTS
FROM RIX IN MAY
The German budget airline
Germanwings will start operating
from 2 May on the route RigaCologne, flying three times a week
MAGIC 3 MILLION
Three years ago, Riga International
Airport gained press coverage
at home and abroad for serving
a total of 1 million passengers.
Last year, a total of almost 2.5 million
was counted. Then, towards the end
of 2007, the magic number reached
3 million.
A grand total of more than 3.16
The three-millionth
on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
Riga on an easyJet flight from
passenger
These are the first direct flights
Berlin, to an unexpected reception
Gita Neilande
between the two cities. Tickets are
of flowers and prizes.
together with
available now on the company's
As a gift, Gita received a set of
Transport Minister
Ainārs Šlesers,
homepage www.germanwings.com.
This is the first time Germanwings
suitcases and a LVL 300 (EUR 430)
Chairman of the
Riga International Airport gift token
Board of Riga
has operated flights from Riga
to buy tickets to any direct destina-
International Airport
International Airport. The addition of
tion reachable from Riga.
“For the airport and for me per-
Krišjānis Peters
and Director
of the communica-
sonally, this event is important as
tion department
a new milestone has been reached,”
Mārtiņš Langrāts.
the airline means that 16 airlines are
currently operating from Riga.
Germanwings, which flew 7.1 million passengers in 2006, was founded
said Riga International Airport
in October 2002 as a German budget
million passengers flew in and out of
Chairman of the Board Krišjānis Peters
airline, with administrative offices in
Riga International Airport in 2007.
as he greeted the lucky passenger.
Cologne. It now has more than a
Such intensive growth over the last
Many more routes are due for
thousand employees and operates 27
three years has not been matched by
launch from Riga in 2008, particular-
Airbus A319/A320 aircraft. Turnover
any other major airport in Europe.
ly from airBaltic and low-cost airlines
in 2006 reached EUR 560 million.
Ryaniar and easyJet. Last November,
All Germanwings flights in Europe
port, welcomed passenger number 3
airBaltic, which is working hard to
have prices starting from EUR 19
million counted within a single year
expand its network of flights towards
including airport taxes.
for the first time in its history on 10
the east, opened a Riga-Tashkent
December. It saw its 2 millionth pas-
route. It plans to launch more new
senger within one year on 17
routes in summer 2008 to the
October 2006 and passed the 1 mil-
Armenian capital city of Yerevan and
lion mark for the first time on 13
to Almaty, the biggest city in
December 2004.
Kazakhstan. The airBaltic network
RIX, the Baltic region's leading air-
Gita Neilande from the Latvian
already offers nearly 20 destinations
town of Tukums was the lucky
in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Georgia,
number 3,000,000. She arrived in
Moldova and Azerbaijan.
Production
Check-In Media SIA
Mūkusalas iela 45/47,
Rı̄ga, LV 1004
Tel: +371 67228509
+371 29208200
Magazine reg. nr.
000703023
Editor-in-Chief Justin Walley
Contributing writer Anatol Stephens, Neil Mathieson
Art director Inese Laizāne
Managing Director Māris Jēkabsons
Advertising and Sales Enquiries: maris@gateway-riga.com
Tel: +371 29208200
Editorial: justin@gateway-riga.com
Comments and opinions: opinion@gateway-riga.com
General information: info@gateway-riga.com
Website: www.riga-airport.com
Gateway Riga is the official airport magazine for Riga International Airport.
It is distributed three times in 2008. Circulation: 20 000. 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 Media 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 Kroonpress, Estonia.
Special thanks for help and/or providing photos: Aiva Rozenberga, Janvars Mikus, Morten Joergensen, Positivus Music, Alona Chushenko, Latvian
Basketball Federation, Aleksandra Baranova, Barny Edis, Andis Zilans, Ilva Sproge, Gunars Peize, Kaspars Sprinkus, Inga Brasla, Reinis Kucers, Vladislavs
Alohins, Karina Stogova, Mykkanen Pavi, Ineta Lukjanska, Edward Charnock, Kelvin Hooke, Oskars Briedis, Enars Plinta, Latvian Toursim Development Agency,
Martins Ritins, Magnus Nordberg, Peeter Koppel, Vienadiena, Makroconcert.
Gateway Riga would like to help the following people and organizations for organizing our trip to Vienna: Austrian Airlines, Vienna Tourism Board,
Jutta Hintersteininger, Das Tyrol Hotel, Miguel Pinto, Ines Weissensteiner and Ineta Lukjanska.

Ma¯rtin¸sˇRı¯tin¸sˇ - Riga International Airport

Transcription

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