If you plan to stay in Latvia for a longer period of time, it is useful to pick up some Latvian as it may be difficult to get along without it outside the tourist areas. Especially as older people seldom understand English and speak only Latvian and Russian.
Language Schools in Riga
The National Integration Centre offers Latvian courses free of charge, but there is a waiting list. There are several providers of paid language courses:
- Public Service Language Center
- International House Riga-Satva
- Skrivanek Baltic
- Lingua Riga
- Alius Lingua
- Baltic Media
Private Lessons
Several of the schools above also offer individual language lessons. Alternatively, you can learn the basics on your own, for example, with the help of books or free online materials such as the ones prepared by the Teach and Learn Latvian project.
Language Exchange
An exchange partner is an excellent resource for practicing a new language with a native speaker. As an added bonus, language exchange partners can help you understand the culture of the area and inform you of local happenings. Questions about gift giving, festivals, nightlife, and greetings can be addressed without worry. In the best case sceneries, an exchange partner is not only your ambassador, but a friend. Find a tandem partner through EasyExpat's forums.
Update 26/08/2015
Babbel is an international success with millions of active subscribers and ranked as the world's #1 innovative company in education.
Why Babbel?
Learn and review on your own schedule: Mobile, tablet or desktop compatible, with lessons about 10-15 min.
Expert-made courses: Learn the basics or focus on topics like travel, culture, or business.
Start speaking right away: Learn to speak a new language naturally and conversationally.
Every learner is different: Each course is based on your native language and personal interests.
Remember everything: Babbel employs proven cognitive techniques that move new vocab to your long-term memory.
Refine your pronunciation: Practise speaking and improve your pronunciation with speech recognition technology.
Try Babbel for free today
Registration with Babbel is completely free of charge and the first lesson in every course is FREE to try (Depending on the language you choose, that's 30-80 free lessons!).
If you want full access to Babbel's courses, simply choose a subscription that works best for you. Buy with confidence: 20-day money back guarantee!