Denise

Am going to Latvia for a business trip in a week but have no idea if there are ATMs (read that as at 1997 there were 2) and whether Visa or MasterCard credit card is accepted. I love to hear from anyone with any information about the country at all especially Riga or Valmiera. Thank you! -- Is it true your PIN needs to be only 4 digits here too?

Erika

<BR>I just returned from a month in Latvia. I didn't use any of the ATMs, but there were quite a few attached to all the banks. I saw lots and lots of folks using them. Yes, they are 4-digit numbers, as I understand it. If you have any other questions, please feel to email me, either directly or on this posting. I love Latvia. First, its my heritage, and secondly, it is one of the prettiest countries. Plus, it is not yet overrun with tourists. Makes a great destination. Riga is being totally restored, and make sure that as you wander, look up. So many friezes, statues etc on the facades and on the rooftops. Check out the <BR>In Your Pocket website. Great info on Latvia.

Denise

Thanks for your reply. I have checked out the website and it's great. Do you know if Visa is accepted there? I'm a bit nervous about this trip so it's nice to hear from someone -- thanks again.

Erika

<BR>Denise, don't be nervous. Nothing to fear. While some of the locals told me to watch my purse, I have never had a problem. I wandered about Old Riga late into the night, and was never bothered, except by street vendors on occasion. It's truly lovely, and I hope you enjoy. The worst of your problems will be that most don't speak English very well. Other than that, I can't think of any difficulties you will encounter. By the way, where are you staying in Riga? I will be able to give you some better info if I know where you will be. Old Riga is not very big, and most of the "action" is centered around there. Evenings are spent strolling, or at an outdoor cafe, drinking beer (or whatever) and people watching. I have been to Latvia 3 times in the last 5 years, each time for a month. I have watched it rejuvenate - from the dull grey of the Soviet era. Still more to do, but it's getting there! Great history, dating back to the 13th Century. Oh yes, VISA is accepted in many of the stores, hotels and some of the restaurants. Mastercard as well. But not like it is here. Most everything is cash there. Any other questions??

Erika

Oh, I forgot to mention: if you are carrying cash and wish to convert it, make sure that all the bills you plan to change are 1992 and later....(up to 1998). No marks, tears, rips or other signs of wear. They will take a percent for them, and will only exchange at a bank, and losing money on each dollar isn't worth it. <BR>

Denise

Erika, Yes, am staying in Riga on the weekends and travelling to Valmiera during the week. I'm Canadian so don't have too many American dollars (especially at today's rate of exchange) but have been issued a check for expenses and figured I'd get travellers checks. I really am looking forward to it -- I'm just a bit cowardly travelling alone! Once there, I'm sure all will be great. Thanks again. Denise