A Memorable September in Riga, Latvia: Travel Tips for Mental Health

Exploring Riga: A Journey Back in Time

Last September, my husband and I visited Riga, the charming capital of Latvia. This city, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, is a hidden gem in the Baltic region. From wandering through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town to experiencing the local cuisine and lively markets, Riga offers a unique blend of medieval charm and modern sophistication. Here are the highlights from our four-day trip:

  1. Walking in Old Town (Vecrīga): The heart of Riga, with its winding streets and historic buildings, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. We spent hours just wandering around, soaking in the old town vibe and admiring the different houses. It felt like a journey back in time.
  2. Riga Dome Cathedral: This magnificent cathedral, with its stunning architecture and rich history, is a must-see.
  3. St. Peter’s Church: We climbed to the top of the tower for a panoramic view of the city, which was absolutely breathtaking.
  4. Freedom Monument: A symbol of Latvia’s independence and a significant historical landmark.
  5. Riga Central Market: Housed in old Zeppelin hangars, this market is a sensory overload with its fresh produce, meats, and local delicacies.
  6. Akropole Alfa: The biggest shopping center in Riga. You need to get good souvenirs for your children while traveling without them. We took a bus there and enjoyed seeing Riga outside of the Old Town.
  7. Jūrmala: We took a train to this beautiful seaside town, admired the old villas, and explored the remnants of Soviet-era architecture. The beach is beautiful and offers a peaceful retreat from the city. Biking from Riga to Jūrmala (approximately 30 km) is also an option.

Culinary Delights and Cozy Stays

Riga is full of nice coffee houses and restaurants. If you love beer, this is the place for you. One night, we chose a relaxed restaurant serving Latvian food and culture named Folkklubs Ala Pagrabs. The atmosphere was cozy, the food was delicious, and we even enjoyed some traditional Latvian music. For coffee, we enjoyed visiting Costa Coffee, a popular Latvian chain.

We stayed at a beautiful small boutique hotel called Hotel Le Chevalier Relais. Its charming decor and central location made it the perfect base for exploring the city.

Mental Health Considerations for Travelers

Traveling can be an enriching experience, but for those with mental health issues, it requires careful planning and consideration. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip:

  1. Plan Ahead: Research your destination thoroughly. Knowing what to expect can help reduce anxiety. Make a list of places you want to visit and activities you want to do.
  2. Smaller Hotels: Choose a smaller hotel for a more personalized and quieter experience.
  3. Travel Off-Season: Consider traveling out of tourist season. September in Riga was ideal—less crowded and more peaceful.
  4. Short Travel Times: Keep your travel time short. Our flight from Helsinki to Riga with airBaltic (affiliate link) took only 1.5 hours, and the bus ride from the Riga airport was short.
  5. Daily Planning: Pick one must-see activity for each day. This allows you time to rest when needed.
  6. Managing Busy Places: Consider how you handle busy places like airports. I always bring a sleeping mask and earbuds, so I can find a quiet spot and relax.
  7. Health Services: Identify mental health services and resources available in the area you’re visiting. Keep a list of local hospitals, clinics, and emergency contacts.
  8. Medication: Ensure you have an adequate supply of your medication for the duration of your trip, plus a little extra in case of delays. Carry a copy of your prescription.
  9. Routine: Try to maintain a routine similar to your home environment. This includes regular sleep, meals, and exercise.
  10. Self-Care: Listen to your body and mind. If you need to rest, take a break. It’s okay to skip a sightseeing trip if you’re not feeling up to it.
  11. Travel Companions: If possible, travel with someone who understands your mental health needs and can provide support.

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My Personal Experience

During my trip to Riga, I made sure to balance sightseeing with self-care. I was surprised how much I enjoyed the trip and was able to do and see quite a lot. Traveling with my husband was also great. I recommend traveling once in a while without kids, as it allows you to concentrate better on your own well-being. My active time was always from morning until approximately 3 pm. Then we returned to the hotel, and I relaxed and often slept for a couple of hours. Then it was time to get ready for dinner. New places and experiences are important even when you feel tired, anxious, or depressed.

Conclusion

Now, I know traveling with mental health considerations can be tricky, but it’s totally doable. The key is to plan ahead, listen to your body, and don’t be afraid to take breaks when you need them. Riga was the perfect destination for me, but I’m sure there are plenty of other amazing places out there that could work too.

If you have any questions or need further tips on traveling with mental health considerations, feel free to leave a comment below. Safe travels!