Baltia Air Lines

In 2010, Baltia Air Lines plans to inaugurate non-stop service between New York’s JFK airport and Riga. A grand inaugural gala is planned for the occasion. In addition, Baltia intends to develop its European hub of operations in Riga.

City Facts

With a population of one million, Riga is the capital of Latvia as well as its cultural and academic center with 12 major theaters, 8 higher education centers and many research institutes.

Founded in 1201, Riga is also the primary gateway of commerce and transportation to the Baltic States. Located on the scenic banks of the Daugava River at the Gulf of Riga, the city is the major commercial port on the Baltic Sea coast that remains navigable year round. Established as a center for high-tech industries, such as electronics and machine building, Riga has also developed over the years into a major banking center for the region.

On the cultural front, Riga is the home of many spirited and joyous national festivities, including its 800-Year Anniversary which was celebrated in August 2001. Walking through the city, you’ll feel like you’re traveling back in time. Its prominence in the Baltic region is reflected in its ancient, well-preserved Gothic architecture. Today, you could park a car (only one) in the same “garage” where Peter the Great actually parked his carriage when he stayed in Riga. Plus, such notable Americans as Barishnikov, Godunov and Thal come from Riga, as well as the world-renowned conductor
Maris Jansons.

Riga is truly an elegant European City, consisting mostly of “Art Nouveau” style buildings. Its sophisticated charm and many wonderful parks, shops, restaurants and cafes have made it a favorite, world-class destination of tourists and business travelers alike.

Latvia

Latvia is one of the three Baltic States that also include Estonia and Lithuania. The people of Latvia are well educated, skilled, and known for a very strong work ethic. They are commercially oriented and love to travel. The country also has a vibrant economy with a stable currency.

The Baltic States enjoy a high standard of living. When you compare such amenities as telephones per household and automobiles per capita, Latvia's standard of living actually exceeded Japan's (even during the Soviet era). Before that, Latvia and Switzerland shared the highest standard of living in all of Europe.