I thought I would start stepping away from talking about a city’s landmarks.. When you search online for any city, there will be 1000 pages talking about the iconic landmarks and photos taken from every angle. Now don’t get me wrong..I love to see the landmarks..the sites that make a city famous..the churches and parliament buildings..the museums.. and I love to photograph them as well…

But I also look for places the locals hang out.. and in most cities, especially in warmer weather, that means the parks.. the green spaces..

and in Riga, that means along the canal..

Parks like Kronvalda and Bastion Hill … sitting on benches among the flowers and fountains in front of the National Theater

There are stone and wooden pedestrian bridges

Shady lanes and broad sidewalks

and, even, boat tours along the Riga Canal..

Parks and green space in Riga cover more than 30 hectares.. the fall colors were just beginning in September, and I can imagine the beauty of the changing leaves

So take the time to see the “Old Town” center.. experience the bars, restaurants, and all the wonderful and historic sights.. But spend a little time walking through the beautiful parks and shaded lanes too.. You will be glad you did..

Next we’ll take a little trip through the side streets and back alleys of Riga… stay tuned 🙂

Happy Travels!!

Photography as Art                               Travel with Steve