Latvia Travel Safety

Road safety

The highway system is generally good, but poor lighting poses risks to pedestrians, cyclists and motorists. Secondary roads may not be paved. Winter driving can be especially dangerous since roads are not always cleared of snow. Beware of fog, snow and ice while driving. Poor driving standards, aggressive drivers and heavy traffic create hazards.

Public transportation

Bus service is generally comfortable and reliable. Trains operate throughout the country.

Taxis

Taxis are a reliable means of transportation. Use only officially marked taxis, such as Baltic Taxi, Lady Taxi and Red Cab.

Women's safety

Latvia is generally safe, women travelling alone should maintain personal security awareness. Avoid dark or non-tourist areas at night. Instead try to be around larger crowds, whether they are fellow tourists or local citizens. Women, particularly foreigners may be subject to unwanted male attention and catcalls in certain places. Be vigilant if approached by strangers seeking assistance and exercise common precautions throughout your travel.

Fraud

Avoid invitations by strangers to visit local bars. This is usually a ploy to overcharge customers for drinks. Discussions about overcharging may lead to threats of violence and security guards may force you to pay. Credit card fraud is a concern. When using your card, ensure that it remains in view and retain your transaction copy along with the carbon paper, should there be one.

Crime

Car theft is common, particularly in Riga. Never leave personal belongings unattended in a vehicle, and use secure parking facilities, especially overnight. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs in Riga, especially in the old part of town, in the market area and around the main railway station. Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in parks and poorly lit areas.

Terrorism

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities and there is a potential for other violent incidents, which could target areas frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. Continue to exercise normal security precautions.

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as these items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

LGBT

Although the laws of Latvia do not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. Latvia is building a tradition of tolerance towards homosexuality, but there are still isolated incidents of homophobic related crimes. LGBT travellers should be aware of local sensitivities, particularly when visiting rural areas.

Illegal or restricted activities

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences or heavy fines. Drinking alcohol in public could lead to detention and a fine.

Driving

An International Driving Permit is recommended. Headlights must be on at all times and the use of seat belts is mandatory. Vehicles should be equipped for severe conditions and must be fitted with winter tires between December 1 and March 1. All vehicles must have a first-aid kit and emergency travel equipment (e.g. warning triangle, fire extinguisher). The use of cell telephones while driving is prohibited, unless they are fitted with a hands-free device. Penalties for drinking and driving are severe. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.02 percent for drivers with less than two years of driving experience and 0.05 percent for others. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines or jail sentences. If you are involved in an accident, do not move the vehicles until authorized to do so by the police.