A-Ž of Latvia - H

H is for Hare Krishna and Hokejs (Ice Hockey)

Latvia has only been a free republic for a tad over 20 years and Latvians are still trying to find their identity and place in the world. Locals often aren't very good at creating something new which is uniquely 'Latvian', many would rather just take something from elsewhere and run with it without adding any unique touch (with many commendable exceptions, of course). The locals love anything exotic or different, like fixie bikes (I saw less over a weekend in London than I do in a walk around the block in Riga), sushi, Eastern religion and anything even slightly whiffing of esoterica. Krishnas dance and chant through the streets here, oblivious to the fact that we in the West kinda got over that fad decades ago. But I would notice that, wouldn't I, I'm a Libran after all.

Ice Hockey is considered Latvia's national sport. It's a pity they're success is not as great as their passion for the sport. At least the Lithuanians can be proud of their international basketball success; Latvians have produced a few NHL players, beaten Russia twice, and, well, that's about it (I may get a puck to the chin for writing this).

A-Ž of Latvia - Ģ

Ģ is for Ģenētika (genetics) and Ģērbties (to dress)

I'm calling bullshit on Latvians who call themselves 'pure-blooded'. An uncle of mine told me once – tongue-in-cheek but probably on the money – that Latvians are so good looking because all the best noblemen and soldiers from invading forces raped their women. There definitely is a 'Latvian look', but it certainly isn't from any pure Latvian origin.

Don't dare walk across the road to buy your milk and bread in your flip-flops and tank-top in Latvia, sniggers and smug grins from the locals ensue. Latvians are always self-consciously dressed. Probably another symptom of collectively low self-esteem.