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2009-06-30
A long history The closeness between the Baltic's and Central Asia isn't merely part of a capitalistic agenda. It goes much deeper. Many have cited solidarity among former Soviet republics as one of the foundations for successful partnerships between Central Asia and the Baltics. There has existed a Turkish presence in Latvia since the 1800s. Many Turks and Muslims lived in Eastern Latvia on land owned by Baron Nikolajs Korfs after the Russian-Turkish war in the 1870s. The Baron, to distinguish these people, gave them the surname of Turks. As of a 2003 census, there are 226 Latvians with this surname. Many more are buried in cemeteries in Cesis. Travel ties Airbaltic and Turkish Airlines have done much to foster the relations between Latvia and Central Asia. Business is b... Read more
Summer is here and what better time than now to head down to the beach to catch a few of the sun's fleeting rays? As all three Baltic nations border the Baltic Sea, choosing a beach can sometimes be a tricky task. At City Paper this season, we've done the legwork for you, so you have more time to ...
If there is one smell that can instantly transport you to the Baltics, its dill. The fresh herb is absolutely everywhere, and not just in the places you would expect (pickles, on salmon, as a garnish), but on pizza, sushi, soups and sandwiches. It's not just the location of the herb; it's also the...
It's no secret that Balts are beautiful. Carmen Kass, model for Dior and Victoria's Secret is originally from Paide, Estonia. Inguna Butane of Latvia is the current face of Escada. Giedre Dukauskaite, the face of Prada, is Lithuanian. How is it that this region produces such beauty? A part of th...
Riga's lively nightlife, beautiful women, art noveau facades and elegant Old Town quarter are typically seen as Latvia's major tourism draw cards. However, Latvia's dental sector - with its reputation for high quality and affordability, is increasingly attracting international tourists of a differ...
Visitors to Estonia and Lithuania this year will be surrounded by the sound of music; folk music. The equivalent of the Olympics, these celebrations take place only about every four years, bringing together tens of thousands of singers, dancers and spectators. This year marks Estonia's 25th song...
The Baltic States haven't been in the headlines this much since they came together to hold hands in an effort to spur the downfall of the Soviet Union. Unfortunately, this time it's not for such a positive reason. Whether it's a wide-eyed reaction to the Titanic-hit-the-iceberg economic...
Some tourists wonder what kind of construction is going on in the Cathedral Square, the very heart of Vilnius. The answer is simple: the building process of the Royal Palace goes on. In 2000, a group of Lithuanian intellectuals established the Royal Palace Restoration Foundation for the rebuilding ...
If the internationally lauded parade of blondes through the streets of Riga showed the world one thing, it was that Baltic girls have got style. It might not be the classic and polished chic of Western Europe, but the bright colors, sky-high heels and flawless hair of the Baltic ladies are nothi...
Latvia: 1) Balzams: No summer would be complete without a ice cold drink with a splash of refreshing Latvijas Black Balzams. This herbal beverage has a long history of healing properties and is good for colds and as a digestive aid. Mixed with soda water and currant juice, it's also a relaxing wa...
Bonfires, beer, dancing, jumping over fires and all-night-long parties are a central theme to Midsummer celebrations in the Baltics, marked annually across the region. In Lithuania the holiday is celebrated as Saint Jonas' Festival (or Rasos), while in Estonia it is known as Jaanipaev (John's Day)....
Estonia: July. 03, Episcopal Castle, Haapsalu:  The legendary German techno group Scooter will be coming back to Estonia to perform for one night in the 800 year old castle. Maybe the famous White Lady ghost will be in attendance as well. July. 04-08, Song Festival Grounds, Tallinn: ...