Scot in Riga

Its is back - the Riga Shuffle

2012-02-04T12:28:00.010+02:00

With temperatures now hovering around -20c in Riga and -30c elsewhere in Latvia, the Riga shuffle is back !

For those not familiar with this it involves keeping your feet firmly planted on the ground and just "shuffling" along the ice covered pavements and roads. This technique permits the pedestrians to move along safely, as normal walking is almost guaranteed to ensure you end up on your back.

As ever with temperatures this low, the Daugava River is frozen over, but unlike in previous years there is no snow ! - just plain old fashioned ice. With the river frozen out come those foolhardy soles complete with fishing rods and gizmos to make holes in the ice - and there they sit awaiting the arrival of some poor unsuspecting fish. There must be some kind of sadistic pleasure sitting there freezing your backside off - in the hope of catching your dinner. But as they say it takes all sorts !

Now for those of you who saw that classic JackLemmon / Walter Mathua film - "Grumpy Old Men" - you will remember that when they went ice fishing they did so from the comfort of little wooden huts - but not Rigans - just a jacket and a wooly hat will suffice. They make them hardy in this part of the world.

This weekend sees the start of the Six Nations Rugby, and so it with fingers crossed that we hope we will be able to watch the games. With coverage exclusive to BBC, and the fact That they (BBC) have moved there satellite distribution, such that we can longer get the signal as we did last year. However the Kiwibar technical gremlins have been hard at work over the last few weeks and are confident that we will after all be able to watch all the games with English commentary. All will be revealed today ! - I will give the France v Italy game a miss, but will head out for the Scotland v England game, and then the Ireland v Wales game on Sunday.

This weekend also sees the Superbowl final, being screened at the ungodly hour of 1.30am on Monday morning - me thinks I will that a miss. Monday also sees Waitangi Day, ( you will have to Google it to find out what it is) - but as it is a New Zealand thing, it will be of course be celebrated at Riga's only Kiwibar. Courtesy of the New Zealand government a selection of New Zealand wines will be available alongwith New Zealand Vodka ??? - Now the latter should be interesting.

So to all Kiwi's - Happy Waitangia Day

Its a lot of New Years !

2012-01-25T13:05:00.002+02:00

Well here we are in 2012, unless you are Chinese in which case you have to wait until this week, but then again those of the Orthodox faith had to wait two weeks after the rest of us celebrated the New Year. No wonder the world has problems when we cannot agree which day it is !!.

Now as a long lost Scotsman, having departed from the homeland when I was 15 years old, I am somewhat bemused by all the talk of the proposed "independence" vote to take place in 2014, on the anniversarry of the battle of Bannockburn - the date selected no doubt to place an emotional tug on the heartstrings of those Scots who wish to vote.

For me I just do not understand the whole thing, what is Scotland going to be independent from ? - just a few years ago when Scotland got its own Parliament, whose new building cost over 5 times the original estimate - and whose taxation powers were limited to raising taxes or creating new ones. Personally I think it a complete waste of time and money, and is simply an ego trip by the SNP and Mr Salmond its delusional leader.

But enough of my personal gripes - And returning to the subject of Riga - well we have finally discovered Winter - with snow arriving last week, and temperatures forecast to drop to -15 degrees this weekend - so I am getting ready to step into my Winter warmers for the first time.

There is one small downside to all the snow - the pavement cleaners ! - every morning from about 5.30am there they are with an assortment of snow clearing tools, brooms, plastic shovels and the old faithful a broomhandle with a flat piece of aluminium attached to the end. The noise of them scraping the snow into great mountains of snow in wee hours of the morning ensures that no sleep is possible. As live right beside a bus and tram stops, and these must be kept clear otherwise passengers could not get on or off the respectives modes of transportation.

I guess it will only be a matter of time before the snow/ice roof cleaners will be performing there annual dance with death as they seek to remove the snow, befores it descends downwards to hit some poor unsuspecting passerby. For those new to Riga that why wherever possible people walk in the middle of the road!

This week sees the annual celebration of Australia Day, by the Aussies far from home, on the actual day - 26th January - a party will be hosted at the Kiwibar, whilst on Sunday, and for those brave enough - a cricket match will (may) be held, followed by beers and goodies at the Ala bar, hosted by young K........ ( Australian/Latvian - king of sausage rolls). So whilst we might be lacking the weather of down-under - the spirit lives on !

So to those you read this blog, or have just stumbled across it - I wish you a Happy and Prosperous New Year - for my part I will continue to enjoy life with all the trials and tribulations that it brings.

It is a Record !

2011-12-18T08:47:00.004+02:00

This blog is really intended for those who over the years have supported the "Smiley Fund" in its support of the Zvannieki Childrens Home(s).

This year our annual Christmas Dinner was hosted at the FG Royal Hotel ( formerly the Hotel de Rome), and with assistance of our resident chef extraordinaire S.... ( Scottish - and serious about food) we prepared a Christmas Food festival.

On the night we had some 58 people for dinner, and further 3 for a glass of wine, So between the dinner fee of Ls 30.00, the raffle and a surprise auction of a 3 litre bottle of Riga Balsam - our grand total for the night was Ls 2.380.00.

This grand sum was duly deposited in the Zvannieki bank account, and on Thursday evening at a function held by the British Chamber of Commerce, hosted at the British Embassy, P.... ( Banker in chief at Citadele Bank) presented to J..... C..... ( Canadian Latvian - Father of the home ) a letter from the Smiley Fund listing the participants in this years fund raising, alongwith the paying in slips, alongwith 15 Football shirts and Scarfs courtesy of Skonto Football Club.

So hopefully the money raised will provide for a few "extras" at Christmas time.

For those interested in Zvannieki please visit their web site www.zvannieki.lv

So to all those you participated in the Smiley Fund 2011 - many many thanks, and with a bit of luck we can repeat the event in 2012.

A picture Paints a 1000 words

2011-12-13T20:52:00.002+02:00

This picture says it all about life in Riga right now, Santa's all over the place ( at least last Sunday) - but no SNOW !!!

Well done to F.... (Australian bar magnate ) for finishing the gruelling 5km run - jog - walk

Tis the season to be silly

2011-12-12T11:13:00.003+02:00

What is going on in Latvia ?? - First of all the weather, when I first arrived in Riga in November 1995, it was -25 degrees and a thick covering of ice and snow blanketed the streets, but today it is +2 degrees with a weather forecast of 5 degrees and Sunny towards the end of the week.

It has tried once or twice to snow - but to no avail - so if this continues we are likely to have a snowless Christmas for the first time in 16 years - weird !

And speaking of the silly season, last night with a little help from Twitter, a rumour spread like wildfire that Swedbank was in trouble, which led to queues of people at ATM's getting there money out. Now I can understand the nervousness of Latvians about banks, given the history here, but as Swedbank are one of best capitalised banks in Europe, it was hard to give any creditabilty to these rumours. But it just shows the power of social networks such as Twitter - maybe that the reason they are called Tweets or should it be Twits !

On a more cheerful note this week, 14th December, sees our annual Christmas Charity dinner in aid of the Zvannieki Childrens home. This year it is being hosted at the FG Royal Hotel ( Which some of you will have known as the Hotel de Rome) - with Scott again as our chef.

This will be largest ever gathering of Smiley Fund supporters, with some 62 partipants - so it should be record in our annual fund raising efforts - I will update the blog with full details after the dinner.

For those interested in statistics, this year the dinner will consume 54 kg of turkey, 120 bottles of wine, 8 kg of Cristmas Pudding, 2 Kg of Mincemeat plus untold amounts of Potatoes, Carrotts, Brussell Sprouts - it all has the makings of a Grand Dinner !

Despite a lack of snow Riga has once again put on its finest Winter face, with decorated Christmas Trees spread across town, and the streets decorated with Christmas lights - all it needs now is a little snow - but that seems a little way off - pity !

So there you have it for this time - enjoy your week

Now you see them - Now you don't

2011-11-10T10:17:00.007+02:00

Can it really be months since I last updated this blog, well yes is the answer - lots of reasons, not least my health has not been as good as it should be - but put it down to old age !

However it does allowme once again to praise the health services here in Latvia, where else could I get to see a neuro surgeon, get a two MRI scans, two x-rays, an ultrasound scan, all within the space of two weeks, and all for less than 300.00 ls. Suffice to say the treatment seems to be working and with a bit of luck I will be back to normal soon.

However since last I wrote, a number of our village people have left, some for good and some for the winter. In the former catagory young T... ( Swedish - plays with trucks) has left for sunnier climes, albeit in one of the more dangerous parts of the world, but good luck to him in building a new Scania empire. However before he left he took a little time off in Sweden, bought a rifle ( As you do) went out into the woods and shot an elk.

In the latter catagory J... ( Australian - king of SIP) has left (again) for Australia, to build an empire of SIP factories. He promises to return next summer, I suspect for the last time, and who knows we might we see weddings bells ??

So what has been going on over the last few months, well we had the rugby extravaganza in New Zealand, which culminated in New Zealand narrowly winning against France. Needless to say I watched the final in the Kiwi bar, alongwith 100+ others, and can you believe there were more French men than New Zealanders. No idea where they came from, as I have never seen them in the bar before.

Speaking of Antipodean sports, we also had the annual Australian football festival, like last year I did not make it down at the start to join Australian ex-pats watch this maniacal game, however as usual there was vegemite on toast, sausage rolls ( made by a real Australian/Latvian) - K....... ( Ruler of the best "Folk bar" in Riga) and of course to wash this down loads of beer, all at 7.00am in the morning

The latter part of summer was glorious, and it was sad to see the removal of the outdoor terraces at the end of October, but safe in the knowledge that they will return in May.

We also saw the opening of (another) Irish bar - "Maloneys" - once again with young S..... (Ukranian - with poor song tastes). He is making a career out of opening Irish bars - first De Lacy's, then Donnegans and now Maloneys. First impressions are excellent, and with its location just off Livi Square, it is in a prime location - so I wish it well.

So Riga can now boast three Irish themed bars, the original Paddy Whelans, Donnegans and now Maloneys.

This weekend will see me once again head out to Jelgava, for Remembrance Sunday - its hard to believe that this will be 8th Year - so I can but hope that the current mild weather continues at least until then.

In celebration of New Zealands victory, a picture of one happy Kiwi, R.. (New Zealand - B & B master of Riga)
Do not let the size of the cup deceive you, in reality it is quite small, but then again so is R..!

Sometimes the best of plans can go wrong - recently friends of the film actor Clint Eastwood decided to help celebrate his birthday by hiring a sky writer to put a message above the Hollywood sign, but as you can see below he did not quite get it write (sic) !!

Thanks to C... (English - still rolling printers) for this contribution

And finally just to prove that I am still alive and kicking a recent pic of me outside the Kiwibar, taken on the day of Aussie rules final

And yes that is the official smoking zone !

Finally on this blogs theme, many of you will remember the Hotel de Rome, and the Otto Schwartz restaurant which sat atop it it - well it is no more ! Not sure why but I suspect some scullduggery - however it has re-opened as the FG Royal Hotel (more scull duggery ?).

However the good news is that they have agreed to host the annual charity dinner in aid of the Zvannieki Childrens home on the 14th December, and have handed over the kitchen and restaurant for our sole use, if any of you can make it - or would like to make a donation - get in touch.

Its new - Its trendy - its dangerous

2011-08-04T11:08:00.009+03:00

Fashion varies depending on which part of the world you live in - so I leave it to your imagination as which part of the world this attire is most appropriate - seen here with this latest fashion accessory is young T... (Swedish - will love playing in the sand with his trucks)

Now while it clearly keeps the upper body warm (??) - does not seem to do much for mans more intimate parts - personally if the need ever arose I think I would go for the "Iron Man" version.

Also it would seem that this location is great for getting a tan - temperature when this picture was taken was 52 degrees celsius !! ( in the shade)

To give you a hint as to the location, the cost of a "secure taxi" from the airport to City Centre is Euro 8000.00 !! - return - at least you hope there is a return journey !

PS - the car in the photograph is the taxi -complete with armour plating.

Speaking of trendy and dangerous - Riga pavements are now arguably the most dangerous in Europe - apparently no one has told cyclists that they are supposed to be on the road and NOT the pavement, and as it now seems to be the "in" thing to have a bicycle and clearly influenced by the driving habits of Latvians ( well a goodly number of them) - you really have to watch yourself as they cycle like maniacs, weaving their way through the pedestrians. - So beware.

Also this year we have seen an explosion in the tricycle "taxis" - these three wheeled contraptions, manned by out of work students, have taken over the streets of the old town, such that at times it is almost impossible to walk in the streets - especially around Livi square, and like their two wheeled cousins they delight in cycling like maniacs through the streets in the old town.

Last year they were a novelty -- this year they are a nuisance - especially as the students keen to earn a few Lats - have taken to hastling passersby - to take a ride.

Personally I think they should be banned - -and in there place the good old Rickshaw - being pulled by said students - that would reduce the numbers ! and at the same time improve the health of the rickshaw "pullers"

Finally on regards to the subject of new, this week saw me visit two new ( at least to me) locations in Latvia.

First on the agenda was Baron Munchausens Museum and Wood trail, near to Saulkrasti. For details check out www.minhauzens.lv - Set in beatiful parkland and with what I think must be longest wooden walkway in Europe, all 5.3km of it ! Being of sound mind I took the shorter of the two walks available - only 3.2km !

Then it was onto Birinu Pils - A beautifully restored Castle ( or is it a palace ?) and surrounding estate - it is only a few kilometers from Saulkrasti on the road to Sigulda - well worth a visit. Check it out at www.birinupils.lv.

Lastly I have ( for the moment) given up beer !!! - I know this will come as a shock to many of you - but it is all in a good cause - my health ! - So for now it is a healthy glass of water ( Sorry no spirits - no wine) - t'is sad I know - but I will hopefully return to my normal self in the near future - Cheers !!

Its been a while !

2011-07-29T14:43:00.017+03:00

Well as many of you have remarked it is some time since I updated this blog - no great excuse - just sheer laziness and in part the fact that thre has not been that much to comment on.

So what has been going on ? - well in June we saw he annual festival of Ligo and Jani - and as usual it was accompanied by rain - although to be accurate it did not not rain on Ligo evening - as usual I visited the Ligo fair and acquired the mandatory headgear - I dread to think of the amount of trees that suffer for this festival

Then later we had the arrival of F..... ( Australian - king of hostel world) father, who had not seen his son for over 10 years - but as you can see he is one for the ladies - just like his son !

He was an outstanding character - and I am sure he enjoyed his stay in Riga !

So that just about takes care of June !-other than to say the weather was wonderful.

July saw the return of J... ( Australian - absentee SIP king) after his six month + tour of Down Under, much to the relief of his beloved lady S....... (Russian - queen of hair).

Speaking of returns July also saw the annual Guinness binging contest hosted ( and won) by A... (English - used to work for Macaroni or something like that)

July also sees the possibility of loosing young T... (Swedish - likes to play with Scania trucks). Now I am not going to indicate where he is off to - suffice to say it is highly unlikely he will need this outfit where he is going - more like an armour plated suite !

In my new found role of film director at the Kiwibar - my first "moving pictures" are now published for the world to see - some of which can be viewed at http://www.kiwibar.lv/gallery/music or if you want check out YouTube and search for "scotinriga" - what else !

But for a quick look see below - you might recognise M..... ( Former barman at de Lacy's) - but he did have hair back in those days !

And finally next month August - the 5th to be exact - will see the 3rd anniversary of the closing of De Lacy's sowith grateful thanks to J..... ( Landlord supreme) and his Facebook page two photographs from the past

Well thats it for now, will do my best to update more frequently - be good !

Its sunshine all the way !

2011-06-06T11:08:00.003+03:00

For the last few days Riga has been at its best - clear blue skies and temperatures in the high 20's - and more to come - just see below - wonderful. Might even be the time to get the swimming trunks out - with a first visit of the year to the beach.

The weekend saw myself and young T... ( Swedish - with a penchant for trucks) visit the annual summer fair at the Open Air museum. All the usual Latvian fare, with nearly all the districts of Latvia represented - it was just nice to walk around the museum park and take in the fresh air.

It goes without saying that all the outdoor bars and restaurants were jam packed - as locals and visitors alike enjoyed the sunshine. Needles to say we also had the more of the British infestations to annoy all and sundry - but why waste time on them - when all else is good.

A quick word on the Blonde day Parade on sunday last - very disspointing in comparision with last year - the actual "parade" only took place by the river, unlike lastyear when they all strutted their stuff through the old town. No idea why the change - but hopefully they did manage to raise a significant amount for the childrens charities they support.

The top of the new Gallerija Shopping centre has now been converted from its winter ice rink, into four open air bar area's with outstanding views of Riga, and even has its own sunlounger bar area, where one relax over a (expensive) beer and bask in the sunshine. Well worth a visit !

Fot those with long memories you might remember the Mercedes dealership in the old town, well it has now been converted into a bar with I believe an English theme. Not sure if it has actually opened yet, but will check later this week.

The only other major happening ( at least to me) was that I "lost" all my hair - not that I had all that much to begin with. Suffice to say it was not by choice - but as I was advised, neccessary in order to allow a full examination of my skull. As it transpired all is well - and in the fullness of time my hair will resurface, and who knows perhaps fuller than before - but I have my doubts.

I have never in the past mentioned the political scene in Latvia, other than to mention how a country of 2.2+ million people can have over 24 political parties. But given the recent "political" turbulance in Latvia - with the current President not re-elected after he had a few words to say about the level of corruption and influence by some of Latvia's so called obligarchs ( he actually that the courage to name the names).

So now Latvia will have a new President - with less than 5% supprt from the population, and a referendum instigated by the current President, to take place in July to decide if the Seima should be dissolved ( Which it should in my opinion) - so hopefully the citizens of Latvia will vote YES - and then have the courage to vote out ALL the corrupt political parties and their so called leaders in new elections later in the year. This is my hope - but only time will tell - but the Latvian people deserve an honest Seima free from the political influence of a few. My last word on the subject.

Time now to go and enjoy the sunshine, and perhaps later in the day a beer or two.

A Special Day

2011-05-17T21:10:00.003+03:00

Some days are better than others, and so it proved on Sunday 15th May, when my youngest daughter A... (English ( but with Scottish blood) - a banking favourite) gave birth to her first son, and my third grandchild.

Weighing in at over 8lbs ( 3.63kg+) he arrived in the world late on Sunday afternoon, much to the delight of mother and Father - M... ( English - loves to save money on spectacles)

So to both Mum and Dad, along with proud grandparents, and Great Grandparent - welcome to the world young G..... F.... K...

So to my third grandchild I send my love and hope to see you soon

The Wedding

2011-05-01T11:40:00.013+03:00

Well with suppposedly over 2 billion people worldwide watching "the wedding" - and include myself in that number. Once again it showed that when it comes to putting on a show the UK takes the biscuit ( an old British saying !)

But as ever there were some doomsayers, amongst them young S..... ( New Zealander- dabbles in gaming machines) - who decreed that royalty was a waste of time, but then again he thought the same about religion.

Anyhow I fully enjoyed it !!

However I am indebted to a former village member B.... ( English - -supports Newcastle) for this "alternative video" of the wedding - again quite brilliant - enjoy

Well it now the first of May and the Spring sunshine is still with us, albeit with a chilly wind. Yesterday I had high aspirations to watch the first Heineken Cup semi-final at our favoured watering hole - but it was not to be. With a serious influx of stag parties, who had taken over the bar there was no option but to find an alternative where it would be possible to watch and listen to the game.

And there was ! (is) - Whilst I will refrain from mentioning its name ( you never know you reads this blog) - suffice to say it has an Irish theme to it, and it provides wonderful views over Riga if you step onto the nearby balcony.

It has huge TV screens and it helps that the new manager/barman T.. (English - Dad sails a lot) is a lover of rugby. So we have a haven safe from the visiting hords, as I am confident that none will aspire to rise to the heights of this Pub in the air !

So to all enjoy May day and I will give our favoured bar another try later today to watch the second Heinken Cup final, but safe in the knowledge there is an alternative.

Life is full of surprises

2011-04-23T11:38:00.002+03:00

As anyone who has read this blog, Every weekend I live in fear of the "cretin" invasion, so it was with trepadation that saw me last night head for the local hostelry. My initial fears seemed to be confirmed as I stood outside to see a large number of lads crowding the bar listening to a lone guitar player/singer.

However I did but but venture in - only to be seized upon by young F....(Australian - world best hostelier) to be assured that all was well. A little unsure I did order a beer and took my place at the bar, thinking my stay would be short.

How wrong can you be ! - some two hours later I was still there, and the reason - the guitar player/singer - he was truly awesome !

Transpired this young man (sorry did not catch his name) was from sunny Wales, and worked in hostel in Cardiff. His reportiore of sings seemed to never ending, although I have to confess apart from a song by the Proclaimers - I know almost none of them.

He enthralled the gathering, including a group of Scottish lads, who joined in at every occasion, his in between songs patter was brilliant, and he certainly know how to work a crowd.

Regretfully as he was leaving for Cardiff that night, he curtailed his session around 8.00pm, but was given a parting gift of a bottle of champagne (opened and chilled) taken to a taxi- to be escorted to the airport by two lovely ladies (not that kind !). All laid on by F.... ( he who was previously mentioned) - I think he would have liked him to stay.

The good news he will be back in September - so if you are around at this time make sure you get to hear him.

All in all it made a delightful Spring evening - and as today (Saturday) looks like being a stunner - I think it is time to meander down to Dome Sqaure and pass away the afternoon with a book and a beer.

Happy Easter to you all !

A new age dawns !

2011-04-18T12:48:00.006+03:00

Today saw me reach what is often referred to as a pensionable age or as our American cousins would call us "Seniors" - I attained the age of 65 !!

As we get older we sometimes begin to doubt our ability to "make a difference" in the world.

It is at these times that our hopes are boosted by the remarkable achievements of other "seniors" who have found the courage to take on challenges that would make many of us wither.

Harold Schlumberg is such a person:

THIS IS A QUOTE FROM HAROLD:

"I have often been asked, 'What do you do now that you're retired?'

Well...I am fortunate to have a chemical engineering background and one of the things I enjoy most is converting beer, wine and whiskey into urine.. It's rewarding, uplifting, satisfying and fulfilling. I do it every day and I really enjoy it."

Harold should be an inspiration to us all of pensionable age.

Now I am no chemical engineer, but having just celebrated my "coming of age" with a few beers I have no doubt that in the wee hours of Wednesday I took will undertake the miracle of chemical conversion.

So to those who were kind enough to send their best wishes -many, many thanks, and I look forward to keeping you uptodate with my reflections on life in Riga - which as best I can will always be positive.

For me every day is a new day to celebrate life, and with forthcoming birth of a new grandchild, I cannot wait to see what the future might bring, who knows maybe there is a company out there who values experience over age ?

Storks v Ryanair

2011-04-09T20:53:00.011+03:00

Well here we are Saturday 9th April, the snow has all but disappeared, the sky is clear (at least for today) and that I am afraid is the end of the good news from Riga.

So as the storks prepare to arrive, if they have not done already, so the other visitors who fly in have arrived in their hords via Ryanair - yes the Cretin season has arrived !!

Today our favoured hostel, was taken over on mass, even to the extent that the security gaurd was on duty at 5.00pm - a sign of the times me thinks ! and what said establishment was/is expecting. Needless to say we did not stay.

Even Donegans was awash with this human garbage - regretfully many from Scotland - but a saviour was in sight - yes once again the oldest pub in town supplied a refuge, in the apparently "secret" bar located in the part of the pub where cretins cannot aspire (climb) to - lets but hope it remains so !.

I am sure it is great business for those bars concerned, but as ever does nothing for us "locals" - I wonder if one day someone will actually realise that there is a business for locals - I will take bets that today not ONE local- Ex-pat/Latvian/Russian was anywhere near these establishments ( Apart from staff of course)- who would actually want to be anywhere near these invading cretins.

OK I definitely a part of the older generation, and have expressed my feelings re these cretins for many a year - but have they no respect for the city they are visiting ? That was not a question - because the answer is NO

Enough of my grumpy ranting - more good news - at least for food lovers - the said "secret" bar has a new menu, created by a Scottish chef - and it includes, and I kid you not - Real Porridge - Rhubarb Crumble with custard - AND Scottish Stovies ( I will leave you and Google to find out what the latter is - anyhow brilliant menu !

Enough for one day -perhaps my grumpiness has something to do with that fact that I have a COLD ! - Sinus blockage - and a cold sore ! - NA its the Cretins !

Finally re Storks v Ryanair - Storks fly in once a year, stay for a few months - have fun quietly in the countryside and then come back every year - Ryanair (cretins) arrive every weekend -never see the countryside- stay for maximum of 3/4 days - are never quiet - and have no memory of of ever been in Latvia and are unlikely to return (Thank god)

For more information on Cretins check out - http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=cretin

and for more information on Storks in Latvia check out - http://www.latvia.travel/en/white-storks-return-latvia-coming-days

April 1st and it is .......

2011-04-01T11:35:00.005+03:00

I mentioned yesterday that today was the first day in which the outdoor rerraces and bars could open, it also happens to april Fools day - at least accordingto tradition up 12.00am.

So clearly the Gods like to get in on the act - yesterday was a warm and beautiful day - but today it is RAINING - now thats what I call an April Fools day classic !!

But who knows maybe they will turn on the sunshine after 12.00 - but as it is 11.38 right I have my doubts !

Finally a thought for today

Some years back when mad cow disease the British government instituted a "tracking" system, so that they could track a calf from birth through to shop shelves, but now they cannot track down 125,000 illegal immigrants !! - could the solution be to give them all a cow ? (I know we have to find them first ! - catch 22)

The race is on !

2011-03-31T22:02:00.007+03:00

Well the 1st April is about to dawn, and the race is on to have the first outdoor terrace open, and if if my first impressions are correct the Kiwibar and and the Indian Raja will be if not the first certainly among the first to open - with a brand new decking - all will be revealed on Friday the 1st April !! - now is that an omen of doom or not - Aprils Fools Day ! But as well known the 1st of April is the official date for opening the terraced outdoor bars. - I wonder who picked the day

Today saw the first serious (what is the opposite of exodus ?) - anyhow incoming of seriously drunk stag group - needless to say from UK - having been banned already ( this was at 6.00pm) from a previous local bar, they made there way to the local hostelry - needless to say on their arrival I swiftly left - not a good omen for the weekend - on the other hand perhaps they will get arrested/mugged or even shot ! - even the the so called stag in a banana outfit - so no signs of originality there ! ( OK I do wish them to be shot - but a little mugging would be ok and arrested would be acceptable)

One interesting point - last winter in Livi square they erected Riga's answer to the London eye - needless to say with sub zero temperatures the uptake shall we say was minimal - so what do they do with temperatures on the up - of course they take it down ! - God only knows what it cost the owners - or did Riga council subsidise the whole thing - would not surprise me.

Much has been made of the recent input of Russian "investment" into the Latvian economy - and to my surprise I learned that the "No Problem" outdoor bar/restaurant in Dome Square alongwith its sister "Eglite" has been bought by a Russian investor - we can but wait and see how it effects the prices charged.

Likewise I also learned (Although this is only heresay) that a recent appointee to the Latvian Parliament (Seima) - cannot speak Latvian - only Russian - and as the only language of the Seima is Latvian - it does make you wonder how he can contribute ? - hey but welcome to a democracy !

But as Spring doth approach and the temperatures doth rise (today was beautiful) - I look forward to welcoming back all those of you who did but flee the winter months.

April will also mean that I have been in Riga for 15 years and 4 months - who would have thought when I arrived in January 1996 - just under a quarter of my life in Riga

Latvia in Space

2011-03-10T12:44:00.004+02:00

Well, well sometimes I come across some amazing, but relatively unknown facts about the goings on in Latvia, and today was no exception - Latvia has an Astronaut (Actually a cosmonaut) his name is Aleksandr Kaleri, who was born in Jurmula in may 1953 !!

OK he is of Rusian descent, but he does hold dual nationality Latvian/Russian

As we speak he is flight engineer of the ISS space station, but is due to depart this March

Todate he has made 5 EVA's totalling 25 hours 46 minutes spacewalking and has made over 7 "trips" into space with visits to MIR and ISS space stations.

Well done the Jurmula man !! for more information on him visit

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aleksandr_Kaleri

Bar Managers and Ice do not mix - Proof

2011-03-07T16:06:00.006+02:00

They say that every picture tells a story, so what to make of the picture below ? and what inspired him to take to the ice ?

But do you recognise this internationally famous person ? - well to save him any embarassment I will withhold his identity - but for those in the know he is from down under (which may explain his tentative ice skating) - and is somewhat associated with running a bar and hostel in Riga

I don't if this is a coincidence but a few years back another well know bar owner succumbed to try his ice skating skills - and to similar effect to similar effect - a coincidence ??

First clutch the side !! - but in this case that was not enough to prevent the inevitable

Also please note that in both cases they have their backs to the camera - I wonder if it was the same camera man ? and just to add to the coincidence both were skating (??) on the same outdoor winter rink, albeit in different locations.

So what else is going on in Riga, well with a wee bit of luck the dire winter temperatures are on the way up, and all being well we should be rid of the remaining ice and snow in Riga by the end of March. But as ever you never know it will not be the first time we have snow in April - but ever the optimist I hope not.

Anyhow this weekends sporting climax has to be the rugby Match England v Scoland on Sunday ( at least for me) - but given Scotlands track record this season- I will watch with trepadation - but as I said before - ever the optimist.

MobileTrivia

2011-03-02T14:41:00.002+02:00

I am indebted to young C.... (English - renowned club owner) for the following piece of information trivia - however in this case it might actually be useful.

There are a few things that can be done in times of grave
emergencies. Your mobile phone can actually
be a life saver or an emergency tool for survival.
Check out the things that you can do with it:

FIRST
Emergency

The Emergency Number worldwide for all Mobile Phones is 112.. If you find yourself out of the coverage area of your
mobile network and there is an emergency, dial 112 and your mobile will search any existing network in your area to establish the emergency number for you, and interestingly this number 112 can be dialled even if the keypad is locked. This works on all phones worldwide and is free. It is the equivalent of 000.

SECOND
Have you locked your keys in the car?

Does your car have remote keyless entry? This may come in handy someday. Good reason to own a cell phone:
If you lock your keys in the car and the spare keys are at home, call someone at home on their mobile phone from your cell phone.

Hold your cell phone about a foot from your car door and have the person at your home press the unlock button, holding it near the mobile phone on their end. Your car will unlock. Saves someone from having to drive your keys to you. Distance is no object. You could be thousands of miles away, and if you can reach someone who has the other 'remote' for your car, you can
unlock the doors (or the trunk).
Editor's Note: I didn’t believe this when I heard about it! I rang my daughter in Sydney from Perth when we went on holiday. She had the spare car key. We tried it out and it unlocked our car over a mobile phone!'

THIRD
Hidden Battery Power

To activate, press the keys *3370# (remember the asterisk). Do this when the phone is almost dead. Your mobile will restart in a special way with this new reserve and the instrument will show a 50% increase in battery life. This reserve will get re charged when you charge your mobile next time.
This secret is in the fine print in most phone manuals. Most people however skip this information without realising.

FOURTH
How to disable a STOLEN mobile phone?

To check your Mobile phone's serial number, key in the following digits on your phone: * # 0 6 #
Ensure you put an asterisk BEFORE the #06# sequence.

A 15 digit code will appear on the screen. This number is unique to your handset. Write it down and keep it somewhere safe. If your phone ever get stolen, you can phone your service provider and give them this code. They will then be able to block your handset so even if the thief changes the SIM card, your phone will be totally useless. You probably won't get your phone back, but at least you know that whoever stole it can't use/sell it either. If everybody did this, there would be no point in people stealing mobile phones.
This secret is also in the fine print of most mobile phone manuals. It was created for the very purpose of trying to prevent phones from being stolen.
Also -ATM PIN Number Reversal - Good to Know !!

If you should ever be forced by a robber to withdraw money from an ATM machine, you can notify the police by entering your PIN # in reverse. For example, if your pin number is 1234, then you would put in 4321. The ATM system recognizes that your PIN number is backwards from the ATM card you placed in the machine. The machine will still give you the money you requested, but unknown to the robber, the police will be immediately dispatched to the location.
All ATM’s carry this emergency sequencer by law.

This information was recently broadcast on by Crime Stoppers however it is seldom used because people just don't know about it.

I have not tried all of these, but (1) and (2) do work - and as for ATM fraud, well a bit difficult to check out, as if I tried to check it out and it works, and the police do arrive ( But how quickly ?) - I could be in trouble. But might be worth checking out with your bank, as I think this info was in regards to UK ATM's

Will get back to life in Riga in next episode - but for the moment the good news is that is getting milder !!

Eating Popcorn is Dangerous

2011-02-20T16:39:00.006+02:00

Last night an altercation took place at the large multiscreen cinema complex - "Forum Cinema" and I quote from the Leta news agency

"The conflict between two men, that ended with a fatal shooting yesterday afternoon in Riga's "Forum Cinemas" multiplex, was over loud popcorn eating, sources tell LETA.

An eyewitness informed LETA earlier that a shot rang out from the back of the theater as closing credits were rolling for "The Black Swan".

Two spectators - males, born 1968 and 1983 - had initially exchanged words about the popcorn at the beginning of the showing. Both were relatively calm as the movie continued, but the disagreement escalated as they got up to exit. The younger man then pulled out a gun and fired.

Fellow audience members called the police and rescue squad, while the assailant stood by. Police took him into custody, and an investigation is under way. Sources also told LETA that the detained man is a doctor's degree student at the University of Latvia School of Law. He is a Police Academy graduate, but has never served as a police officer. The right to bear arms (for self-defense) and restrictions thereof in legislation, are supposedly of particular interest to him.

So a warning too you all when next you are in Riga and visit a cinema eat your popcorn silently , otherwise you never know what might happen, Same with sweets with wrapping paper, or slurping your drink - in fact best you just sit quietly and watch the movie !

But for those of you you must eat your popcorn here is a few tips to avoid getting shot

How to eat popcorn quietly.

Popcorn and movies go hand in hand. (At least they do here in the U.S.) Unfortunately, there are a few people out there who manage to make more sound with their popcorn bags and their chewing than a Die Hard movie. Here's how to enjoy all the salty buttery goodness and still allow all the other folks in the room to enjoy all of the nuances the flick has to offer.

1. Some people like to "fluff" the popcorn when they are grabbing their next handful. They make repeated "clawing" gestures at the popcorn until the pieces feel "right" in their fingertips. Then, it's up to the mouth. This fluffing is wholly unnecessary. You can simply grasp a few kernels between thumb and fingers and in one motion move them straight to your mouth. The fluffing thing has enormous potential to make lots of noise.

2. The more you touch the bag with your arm or hands, the more noise it makes. Tilt the bag slightly to match the angle of your incoming arm.

3. Reach into the bag without touching it. With practice, you can make it all the way to the bottom of the bag while wearing long sleeves or even a jacket and never once rattle the paper.

4. When you take a huge bite of popcorn, people in the theater can actually hear the stuffing noises as you put it in your mouth. Take smaller bites. In this way, you can enjoy your popcorn over a longer period of the movie and your eating will go unnoticed by the viewing public.

5. Chew...with...your...mouth...closed. Anything else is disgusting.

And just to add a bit more of Riga weirder side of life - the other day I came across an ambulance impaled against a tram - transpired the ambulance driver was drunk !! - and this was 10.30am in the morning.

So in one week we have had a sharpshooter police graduate, a drunken ambulance driver - what next - a drug dealing fireman ??

Now this is more like it !

2011-02-14T17:07:00.008+02:00

As I have mentioned before the weather in January and early Febuary has been unseasonally mild, but as last week proved with another dumping of snow, you can never tell, and as you can see below it is about to get a wee bit chilly

Time for the thermals ( if I had any !!) - maybe time to get the tights back on !

Well last weekend the Six Nations Rugby was the centre of my attention, unfortunately Scotland after a good performance against France the previous week, were back to their normal self - in other words a total shambles againt Wales.

Thankfully there is a two week break before battle commences - and this time against Ireland, you were a trifle unlucky against France - I can but hope for miracles !

One question for you - how come England have three consecutive home games ?

The town was awash with cretins last weekend - fortunately this did not impinge on the rugby viewing- as the only sport they know (??) is football.

For those of you away at this time you will be delighted to know that last night the Kiwibar hosted a pyjama party - but as usual this was way past my bedtime - however I can confirm that the the ladies behind the bar were in their best Pyjama wear - surely a first for Riga.

Not sure how many people turned up in there pyjama's but as you can see below the ladies got into the mood ! - maybe the guys sleep in their trousers and jackets ?

And they even supplied a bed - for the romantics
(Pretty nifty night wear!)

Well today is Valentines Day - and all over Riga the girls have their flowers and the men have a jaded look - for me I think I will indulge in a Valentines day beer.

Oh What a Night !

2011-02-05T06:14:00.004+02:00

Not a great night for the Welsh , or indeed Reading Football Club supporters, but for one young man I suspect that this morning he is waking up with a serious head.

Franks Fun Hostel here in Riga has been voted the fifth best hostel in the WORLD !!! in the Large Hostel Category - this out of over 25,000 hostels worldwide - No mean achievement !!

So to F..... ( Australian - occasional beer drinker) and all his staff - Congratulations !

Welcome to the world

2011-01-28T23:16:00.002+02:00

It is pleasure that I can announce a new born baby, courtesy of A...(Bristolian-white goods merchant) and J...... (Latvian - penchant for Airlines) with a new born baby girl A..... ( Rhymes with Telia)

Born 17.31 - 28th January 2011 - 55cm and according to the sms I received 3820 kg !! - suspect this really means 3.820kg, or at least I hope so !

In any event congratulations to the parents and I wish A..... and her parents well

The world is good !

Times they are a' changing

2011-01-22T09:45:00.003+02:00

One of the constants in the pub scene in Riga, is that they are forever changing, last year saw an explosion in "Irish" themed pubs ( ok so was only two). Over the years we have seen many a pub close for reason or another - and last week saw another one - Alberts has closed down.

Although it was not a pub that I frequented, it did seem reasonably popular, particulary during the summer months - and it did have an outstanding location right in the heart of the Old City.

So whatever the reasons, it is always disappointing to lose a seemingly popular pub. There is "gossip" that it may re-open in another location - we can but wait and see.

January has been a strange month weather wise - in recent weeks the temperature has hovered around zero degress, seriously mild for this time of the year, in fact rather than snow we have been having rain. If the weather forecast is right, then it is all about to change, with temperatures as low as -25 degrees being forecast for next week, in fact as I write this it snowing - so perhaps we will be back to digging out the car - aahh such fun !

Now next week sees two "major" events, firstly Burns night on January 25th, followed by Australia Day on 26th January.

In the case of the former I will be "cooking" Haggis, Neeps and Tatties at the Kiwibar, which will be served with a shot of Kiwi Scotch whisky ( I jest not see below) . All Free of charge !!

The Haggis has been imported from Scotland - but again another sign of changing times - in days of old, a haggis was wrapped in either a sheeps gut, or more in recent times this was replaced by a plastic covering. In both cases cooking was done by boiling the haggis

But now in 2011 it comes in a "TIN" - can you believe it - Tinned Haggis, and to cook ? - pop it in the microwave !!

Quite Mr Burns would have to say - I dread to think.

So the Burns afficiendos - my apologies, but as I hope to serve up to 50 people on the night, it does make for easier cooking.

As for Australia Day, well again the Kiwibar will act as hosts - with servings of meat pies and beer (Zelta) - both discounted for the day. As ever the local Australian contingent will be out for their annual cricket fest in the snow, this year it is being held in the park behind the Russian Orthordox Cathedral at 2.00pm - Sunday 23rd January - with drinks at the Ala bar afterwards.

Finally - I just learned that Australia has finally appointed an honorary consul to replace our the long departed J.... (Australian/Latvian - with a penchant for gates) with a Mr Serges Treņins, - not sure if he has any Australian ancestry, other than the fact he runs a travel agency.

Personally I find it strange, particularly with so many Australian/Latvian person in Riga - but perhaps it is another sign of changing times !

New Year Frustrations

2011-01-07T13:40:00.004+02:00

Well here we are once again, with a New Year upon us, and after the Christmas Festivities and the New Year frolicking, it is again time to face the realities of the year ahead.

Whilst Riga has been basking in snow, snow snow and more snow, indeed as I write this I am watching out of the window a serious dumping of more of the white stuff upon us, Riga has apperently had over 64cm of snow since Christmas, and I should know as I have seen to be doing nothing but did my little car out of the damn stuff !! - but the upside is that it looks pretty.

This year is a major milestone in my life - I will reach 65 years in April ( The 19th if you want to send presents !) - and so I will qualify for my UK Government pension, but first of course one needs to apply for same.

So to start the ball rolling I contacted the pension centre in Newcastle, who first delivered the bad news - one cannot get ones pension paid into a Latvian bank account - no explanation - just a fact. However I was advised that to start thing moving I should go on-line and make my application.

Now one would have thought that this would a relatively simple form to complete, as after all the gods of government have following my every move since I was 16 years old - but no !!! - the form wanted every detail of my life, complete job history since I was 16, including salary and tax paid - they even wanted my address here in Latvia - but as they had written the letter to me advising me of my forthcoming pension - did they not already know that ??

I tell you unless you have recorded every detail of your life this form is nearly impossible to complete, and then at the very end they tell me that I have to send my birth certificate - don't they believe me I was born ??

Anyhow after nearly two hours online the form was ready apart from one small detail - a bank account, clearly I needed a UK bank acount, but guess what I cannot open one as I am not a resident of the UK !!! - and without one I cannot submit my application - but where there is a will there is a way, and with a litttle assistance from my daughter A....... ( she who works at a UK bank) - the problem was solved, and the form submitted.

However as much as I can fill out the form online, her majesty's pension service cannot use e-mail to communicate only snail mail - so lord only knows if my four months notice will be enough - time will tell.

And so begins my new Year - smothered in snow and UK bureaucracy !!

Well that my first instance of grumpiness for 2011 - I am sure there will be more in the months to come - however grumpiness may have its upside, to quote the Daily Mail "Being grumpy could soon become a desirable quality, as new research has found short-tempered people are likely to be more advanced on the evolutionary scale."

This was after a study by That esteemed institution Harvard University - mind you apparently the research was carried out on monkeys - hmmmmm

Otherwise all is quitewell in Riga, the pubs - Kiwi Bar, Donnegans and Paddy Whelans all having a busy new Year, although the latter is just recovering from havings its kitchen burn down, just before Christmas.

So as I head off to once more "play" in the snow, may I wish all of you who read my meanderings a very Happy and Prosperous New Year

Freezing Monkeys

2010-12-02T15:04:00.007+02:00

Now as winter descends upon (And the rest of Europe it seems) - I was reminded of the saying it is "cold enough to freeze the balls of a brass monkey"

And wondered where did this piece retoric originate from - have you wondered also ?

Well for those of you,who like me have inquistive mind -read on

In the heyday of sailing ships, all war ships and many freighters carried iron cannons.

Those cannons fired round iron cannon balls. It was necessary to keep a good supply near the cannon. However, how to prevent them from rolling about the deck?

The best storage method devised was a square-based pyramid with one ball on top, resting on four resting on nine, which rested on sixteen.. Thus, a supply of 30 cannon balls could be stacked in a small area right next to the cannon.

There was only one problem...how to prevent the bottom layer from sliding or rolling from under the others.

The solution was a metal plate called a 'Monkey' with 16 round indentations.

However, if this plate were made of iron, the iron balls would quickly rust to it.

The solution to the rusting problem was to make 'Brass Monkeys.'

Few landlubbers realize that brass contracts much more and much faster than iron when chilled.

Consequently, when the temperature dropped too far, the brass indentations would shrink so much that the iron cannonballs would come right off the monkey..

Thus, it was quite literally, 'Cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass monkey.'

So now who know !!

One in the "eye" for Riga

2010-11-29T14:54:00.004+02:00

Well it would appear anything London can do - so can Riga, albeit on a somewhat smaller scale !

With what seemed to appear out of nowhere, as I walked through Livi Sqare on Sunday, there it was Riga's EYE - see below

Sorry about the quality but I guess it was taken late in the afternoon (Many thanks to M....Swedish - Irish Bar officiendo) from whose Facebook page I "Borrowed" the picture.

Now given the current and forecasted temperatures, who exactly wants to climb aboard the open gondolas I am not sure, although one Extremist F....(Australian - with Kiwi pretensions) has already climbed aboard, after paying his Ls3.00 for a trip around - actually you get to go round three times for that sum.

So what with Feelings opening ( Or should I say re-opening) their "Outdoor bar" in Livi Square, with glass walls and a log fire inside - this just might be the place to see in Christmas.

The last three weekends have been a spectacle of rugby, and the Kiwibar has managed to show lamost all of the games, and the best bit - it was cretin free !!.

Not sure where they have gone but for the last few weeks it has been wonderfully quiet - and dare I say it, sfter the New Zealand game disaster, Scotland gained some respectibility with victories over South Africa and Samao (just) - Unfortunately just one game left Barbarians v South africa next weekend, and apart from Heineken Cup rugby, not a lot until Six Nations next year.

All has been quiet in Riga, at least for me , hence the lack of updates - but Winter definitely upon us -20C in country side last night and a little sprinkling of snow in Riga, and the festive lights and Christmas tree going up all over the place, it once again beginning to look like its ready for the festive season.

A couple of weekends ago following the Independence celebrations, Riga was awash with light displays covering many of Riga best know buildings.

And finally with Christmas fast approaching, Riga has once again taken it upon itself to remind the world that Latvia is the "home" of the Christmas tree, with first decorated tree erected in the Town Hall square some 500 years ago, if you want to learn more then check out the video on Live Riga website http://media.liveriga.com/en/ - likewise for a video of the Riga Light show.

But if you want more fanciful version read below

The people of Latvia have always loved to tell stories and uphold traditions. Over the centuries, autumn and winter evenings created a special environment for new stories to be made up. Myths flowed together with memories, and new traditions emerged. One legend has to do with the tradition of decorating Christmas trees began in Riga 500 years ago.

A well-known guild in Riga in 1510 was the Brotherhood of the Blackheads, which was made up of young tradesmen and ship captains. The Blackheads were very active in civic life. They supported various events and donated money to the church and the city.

As the Winter Solstice approached in 1510, the men of the brotherhood went into the forest to find the biggest fir tree that they could. They planned to set the tree on fire on the banks of the Daugava River, thus supplementing the age-old tradition of burning a log around the solstice.

The brethren found an enormous fir tree. When they got it back to Riga, they decided that it was too big to burn, because that would endanger surrounding buildings and people. The men returned to their building for a thorough debate about the matter, and the discussion lasted well into the afternoon.

Meanwhilelocal children found the tree on the banks of the river, wondered how it had gotten there, and agreed that it was a special tree, indeed. The kids were so excited that they began to decorate the tree with anything that came to hand. There were nuts and apples. Children unravelled their mittens for the colourful yarn. There were chains and crowns of dried berries and flowers. The children were so enthusiastic that they didn’t notice that the materials needed to decorate the enormous tree were increasing in quantity all by themselves! When it started to get dark out, the children said goodbye to the tree and ran home to get warm and to tell their families about what they’d found.

It was nearly dark when the Blackheads ended their meeting without a decision. One of the tradesmen went down to the river and saw, from a distance, the miraculous transformation of the tree. The decorations left by the children were covered in silvery frost, and the fir tree sparkled in the moonlight. The tradesman knew what to do. He brought his brethren to see the tree for themselves. They were amazed, and it was decided to install the tree in the city centre and decorate it for Christmas. This will be a Christmas tree.”

The tree was brought to the central market square of the city, where City Hall Square is now. It was raised to stand as if it were back in the forest. The decorations left by the children were supplemented with ribbons, toys and ornaments. The tree was blindingly beautiful. It was a celebration in and of itself.

When the men of the Brotherhood of the Blackheads began to add decorations to the tree, people came out of their houses and were surprised. They told each other that the fir tree had transformed itself miraculously, and soon enough the legend buzzed all around the town. People came running with decorations for the tree, and once the work was done, everyone was astonished at the tree’s beauty. “This is a Christmas tree – a gift which we should use to bring joy to each other at Christmas,” said one of the Blackheads.

Well, that’s the story. Christmas trees have lasted to this very day. Outside the House of the Blackheads, there is a memorial plaque commemorating the idea that Riga was where the first Christmas tree was decorated 500 years ago.

True or mythical ?? - makes for a good story,and gets the tourists in !

Finally a picture from the opening night at Donnegans - Good Pub, Good location, Good staff, check it out at www.donegans.lv

And then there was three

2010-10-28T22:13:00.006+03:00

Once upon a time we had four so called "Irish" bars - Paddy Whelans (The first) - Tim McShanes - The Dubliner - then of of course the infamous De Lacy's ( Long since since remembered) - but of these, Paddy Whelans is the only surviour.

But in the last few days a revival has taken place with two new "Irish" bars opening- one in the new Riga Galleria shopping centre and the second is Donegan's located in the old town, and last night I went to its opening , with Swedish and German owners, and with two of the arguably the best male bartenders in town S..... (Ukranian - still with the worst taste in music) and M..... ( Latvian - and now beardless).

First impressions were good, apart from one small gripe, but this is not unique to Donegan's - the toilets - way to small, with only one cubicle each for men and ladies. Probably the layout prohibited anything bigger - but will be interesting when our visiting cretins get there, as they undoubtably will. But other than that the bar and the layout were excellent, with the pub furniture locally made by the redoubtable N..... ( Latvian - Trash Musician)

So now we have three "Irish" bars and not an Irish man in sight, but then again we have a New Zealand themed bar owned by an Australian and an Englishman, so I guess it all makes sense.

You can check out the place at www.donegans.lv

Interesting night with free beer and Irish stew or Cottage Pie on offer -cannot speak about the Irish stew but he cottage pie was excellent. Live music courtesy of New Zealand musician, singing Irish songs - how cosmopilitan can you get !!

Interesting fact is that it is located directly across from where De Lacy's was located - so will be interesting to here what the "landlords" of De Lacy's make of the new pub and its weekend clientel - we shall but see.

But for the opening night it was a full house, including the new Irish Ambassador - but whatever the outcome, the "pub" looks and feels good, and I suspect it will be a welcome addition to the Riga pub scene.

The other "Irish"pub ( sorry do not know the name ) has opened in new Riga Galleria shopping centre - on the sixth floor not sure how that will work, but it is owned by the same person who owns the Belgium Bar in he old town, which over the years has proved to a sucess - so again we can but wish it luck.

So now Riga has three "Irish" bars - I wonder if the is an Irishman out there who would like to make it four ???

Passing Away

2010-10-15T18:15:00.003+03:00

It is with regret that I have to announce the passing of D..... O'..... ( English - with a dreams of accountancy).

He died on Sunday last, and I understand he was suffering from cancer for some time - I last saw him in June this year, and I did not appreciate his illness - certainly no outward signs.

A service was held today at the Riga Crematorium, attended by his partner, his son and his sister alongwith her husband.

It was a goodly turnout, with friends and colleagues in attendance, in addition to his immediate family, and afterwards we went to his favourite watering hole - The Barselona bar - now removed to Stabu iela - to drink a beer or two in his memory.

I think that now make four five visits I have made to the crematorium over the years - maqke you realise that life is not forever and to make the best of it whilst you are here - as you never know when the call will come

Summer songsters & Chilli Nights

2010-09-29T09:55:00.008+03:00

This blog is a bit of a catch upon events from the summer and last week

The Video below was taken in the summer on the deck at the Kiwi bar - when a Choir of Dutch menfolk, after a hard days singing decided too imbibe of a few beers and thereafter have an impromptu sing-in - in Latvian !!! You never know who or what might you find at the Kiwi Bar

Last week also saw the Annual Chilli Cook-in competition organised by the American Chamber of Commerce. The event itself is a charity raising event, in this case the Care Mobile of RMHC Latvija.

Now hear I have small grumpy moment.

To attend the event one had topay Ls15 if you were not a member and Ls10 if you were - Now can someone explain to me why you would have a differential price when the aim of the excercise is to raise money for a charity ?? - Why not just a flat fee for all and then you just might get a many more people to attend.

It not just the AmCham only a few weeks ago the BCCL organised a charity event and again had differential pricing - To me it makes no sense. OK for events organised where there is no charitable function.

In any event I did not attend, and if anyone out there is from either of these chambers then that is why I was a no show, alongwith quite a few others.

OK enough grumpyness - some of our village people did indeed attend

How much can you put on a plate ?

How much can you leave on a plate ?

Did he win something ??

He won something by a short neck

And a certificate to prove it !!

And when its all over finish with Margaritas !!

When is a draw not a Draw ?

2010-09-28T10:17:00.003+03:00

Here in the "village" we have over the years developed some weird and wonderful traditions, none more so than that which took place last Saturday. Namely the Aussie Rules Cup final.

In the past we watched this game at Sam's Bar, then De Lacy's, both now just memories from the past. But today the event was being hosted at the Kiwi Bar - now quite what the link is between a New Zealand themed bar and Aussie Rule Football is apart from F.... (Australian - shared owner of said establishment) - but no matter - its the event that counts

Can you believe that the clans gathered at 7.00am in the morning to watch the Aussie Rules final between Collingwood and St. Kilda( And yes I had never heard of them either !). With a crowd of some 100,000 at the match and about 40+ people at the Kiwi Bar, exitement was high - well at least for those who had any idea of the rules.

With U.. ( Australian-Latvian as self appointment cheerleader) supplying the Vegimite and A.... ( Australian-Latvian - master of Latvian souveniers) in charge of the toast onto which the Vegimite was spread, and with beers in hand ( I think they were working on Australian time) - the game was on !.

For my part I did not arrive until just after 9.00am - but with game lasting 100 minutes and divided into four quarters, ( Just one of the strange things about this game) the end was not expected until around 11.00am.

I wont even attempt to explain the scoring system, suffice to say at the end of the 100 minutes it was a 64 : 64 draw ( apparently only the second time in history). SO what to do - extra time ? - Penalty shoot out - NO its Aussie Rules - so we (they) have to do it all over again next weekend.

So no doubt the clan will gather again on Saturday, complete with vegimite and beers, and the question on everyones mind ( at least mine) what happens if it is a draw again ???? for the answer see below

What happens if the grand final replay is also a draw?
Ten minutes of extra time will be played, consisting of two five-minute halves. If the scores are still tied after that period, then another 10 minutes of extra time will be played. There will be a result next Saturday.

A Perfect Day

2010-08-14T12:53:00.003+03:00

Every now and then I get to step outside of Riga, to explore a little bit of the Latvian countryside, and so it proved on Thursday / Friday.

Invited by an old friend I.. (Latvian - ex-minister of state) to her family home in the countryside, near to the town of Dobele.

Deep in the countryside, with some 26 hectacres of land, a small lake, a real wooden sauna - great barbeque, good wine and beer - and good company - and of course great weather. Truly wonderful !!

So to all those involved thank you for a lovely time - good to get out of Riga and breath a little fresh air

Its Summertime !!

2010-08-12T14:32:00.008+03:00

Well this year has been one for the record books, since late May we have experienced one of the hotest summers on record,with temperatures in June, July and now in August up in the high 20's and indeed somedays in the low 30's. We have had a few hours of respite with a thunderstorm or two just to keep things fresh.

But do you here me complaining ?- not a word of it - winter will come soon enough.

So you might ask what has been going on in the village ? - I am sad to report that P..... (English - with a passion for serving Indian food in Irish pubs) has left us, but with a promise to return toward the end of the year. Likewise H...... ( New Zealand - part time barman) -apparently to continue his global travels, but as one goes so another one arrives, albeit a little shorter.

As can be seen below he has settled into his role as resident New Zealand barman at the Kiwi bar with remarkable ease. One barman to four barwomen (??) - what a job and worth travelling to Riga for.His name ? - N... ( New Zealander - with penchant for flat caps)

Is it me or is there twinkle in their eyes ???

Absolutely no idea who these guys are, but is not great to see smiling faces this side of the bar ! suspect the flowers are part of M.... (Latvian - Tallest barmaid in Kiwi) birthday celebrations.

As ever we have seen the summer influx of "cretins", but I ask you to guess the natures and nationality of these two "chaps" as they pose outside on the deck at Kiwi Bar.

They do strike a great pose - do they not - and they were well behaved

Now I know love is supposed to blossom in the Spring, but as you can from pictures below, it is alive and flourishing in the Summer

It is course J... ( Australian - loves playing with all things wooden) and his beautiful young lady S......... (Russian/Latvian - hairstylist par excellence )

Now on the subject of love, we have a wedding for one of our newer village people E. (American - plays with scanners) and his good lady O..... (Russian ( I think) they are planning to exchange their vows in Los Vegas - (In the chapel of love ??) - so to them I extend my best wishes for a long and happy life together.

Now back to the matter of who the "lads" were in the picture, well they were both grooms to be, the one on the left was Dutch and the one one the right I regret to say is Scottish !!!

Finally can I extend my thanks to R... (New Zealand - king of B & B in Riga) for the pictures in this blog.

Riga, Latvia - the Perfect Break

2010-07-14T15:22:00.002+03:00

Now we all know that over the years Riga has had some seriously bad publicity, particularly regarding the so called "stag" brigades that invade the city. So it was good to come across this article in the Daily Telegraph this morning - check it out !!!

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/latvia/7889270/Riga-Latvia-The-perfect-break.html

Only bad news in the the article, at least for our favourite bars was this comment

At all costs avoid…

Most of the Old Town's pubs: they're magnets for stag parties.

OOps we will need to let the DT there are some good barjs in the old town !!

Apologies to all blog readers for the lack of updates of late - this will be rectified this weekend - much to report

Its Dull, Its Raining, Its Ligo !!

2010-06-23T11:51:00.010+03:00

Well its that time of the year once again, when the vast majority of Latvians head for the countryside, for beer, homemade cheese and of course leaping over bonfires as midnight approaches. Riga is deserted and even the beer gardens are bereft, except for the odd tourist, and given the weather, sitting outside is only done by the brave.

Its a while since I have updated the blog, as believe it or not have I been somewhat busy, so a little catching up.

Anybody who has spent any amount of time in Riga knows that the place is continually changing and once again change is afoot - well not exactly change more an update at one of our frequented watering holes - Paddy Whelans. I learned today that in the not so distant future we be able to dine on Britains finest - a real roast carvery.

A former chef from the British embassy ( and Scottish to boot) is about to return to Riga and lend his skills to said establishment -We were given a sample of the delight and I have to say it was one of the best meals ever, before the roast we were treated to a real Scottish delight Lentil soup - wonderful - so if and when you get into town I strongly recommend indulging.

Now this is real food

Speaking of returns a young R.. ( English - with historical mythical pig connections) is apparently set to return to our shores to set up a new business - we can but wish him all the best.

Finally on the subject of returns I was visited by my youngest daughter A... ( English - with financial connections) and her husband M... (English - helps you see better) . Her last visit was over 10 years ago, so things had changed just a bit - but we were blessed with reasonable weather, so we did the tourist bit with visits to Jurmala, Sigulda, Rundale Palace and of course Riga Zoo.

Of course we also took in Paddies, Kiwi Bar the No Problem deck and for the first time this year the Thirteen Chairs outdoor bar and in the course of the latter I managed my latest night out, for many a year - actually twice !! - even managed to overdo my usual maximum of 3/4 beers - ah the influence of the younger generation - but for me a wonderful few days and I hope for them also.

Riga is about to be treated to some new trams, courtesy of Skoda, they look stunning and will allow for the first time the old and infirmed to get on without the need of helping hands, apparently by the end of the year some 14 of them will be trundling around Riga

Pretty spiffy Huh !!

And just to help the drink driving campaign over Ligo all public transport is free for 23rd and 24th June.

Of course I cannot go without mentioning the football world cup - and of course the performance todate of England - sorry performance is not the right word, as it implies some degree of enjoyment or excitement. However as the games so far have been played at 9.30pm local time I have found it be the best way to fall asleep, so far I have not made it beyond half time. Of course today is their (final ??) moment of destiny as they face Slovakia - a country which has a population smaller than Latvia. A win and they will be heroes - lose - well just speak to the French.

For those of you who would like to keep uptodate with what is going on in Riga a good place to start is http://www.liveriga.com - and finally our New Zealand oriented bar has now got a web site up and running - www.kiwibar.lv

Update at 21.30 on Wednesday - ignore my Title - the sun is shining and looks like a beautiful night in Riga - I am off to watch the Ligo celebrations at the riverside - goes on too 4.00 am, suspect I will not make that it far - will update on Thursday !!

A hero for our times

2010-05-19T21:15:00.004+03:00

I am indebted to young A...(Bristolian - harbour of all things white) for this piece of a technology nonsense.

To view this check out - cut and paste the following into your browser

http://en.tackfilm.se/?id=1274292457270RA60

- Hope you enjoy - makes me feel good

and to see A... version check out

http://en.tackfilm.se/?id=1274161965015RA60

weird what technology can do

Wood meets Thrash Metal

2010-05-15T13:26:00.010+03:00

Whilst Latvia lacks many things, one of them is not wood - get out of Riga and you are immediately surrounded by forests, and so it has transpired that an industry was born - wood felling, and with it an armada of trucks which make there way from these forests to the mills,whereupon it is transferred into planks and blocks of wood, much of which is then exported overseas, therein to be turned into finished wooden goods.

But you only have to visit any of the fairs in Riga and elsewhere to seee that their is a thriving local industry based on local wood, being turned into finished articles.
Now you may have read in recent blogs about a certain new bar in town, with New Zealand connections, well it transpires that ALL the wooden fittings, from the bar to the tables and stools were all made by a local company based in Jelgava - and I can tell you the quality is superb, and as it happens yesterday, with temperatures in the mid twenties !!, I came accross the main man behind the company N...... (Latvian - with a penchant for Thrash-Metal music ???).

Now if you want quality hand made furniture get in touch via e-mail at mebeles@urbix.lv or write to Urbix Ltd, Avotu Str. 12, Jelgava, Latvia, LV3002 or indeed phone +371-29775518 - you will not be dissapointed if the quality at the Kiwi Bar is anything to go by.

Here is the man, with his trusty sidekick - pointing at ......

the final finishing touch !!

final note on this new institution the outdoor balcony is open - so a beer in the sun is on - well it would be if the sun ever shines on the balcony - maybe in the morning, but not in the late afternoon - early evening.

On the subject of weather the last few days have seen the temperatures climb into the mid-twenties, with plenty of sunshine and a wee bit of rain. So with a little bit of luck later today I will take myself of to Dome square, book in one hand and a beer in the other - what more could I ask for ?

Well that will teach me no sooner do mention a beer in the sun, and it starts to rain !! - hopefully it will clear up for later.

If you have any interest in finding out what Thrash metal music is check out www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thrash_metal_music - does not sound like my kind of music, but then again as I lost interest in music in the early 70's and this gendre of music started in late 70's it has probably passed me by - thank god !

So there we are another week has passed by, and Riga is beginning to don it summer coat, the trees are sprouting their leaves, the grass is green and the blossom on the trees is there for all to enjoy -simply beautiful - and of course nearly all the outdoor bars and cafes are open for business

Down under comes up Top

2010-05-10T11:01:00.004+03:00

Well I suppose it had to happen, what with the new bar having an Australian owner but calling it after a New Zealand bird, that they would seek to give it a bit of "real" New Zealand flavour.

So what do you think the chances are of finding a New Zealand person, but with a European Passport, and who wants to work in a bar in Riga ?? If you had asked me pretty low - but what do I know !!!

So after spending only eight days staying in London after arriving from NZ, then finding a job advert as defined above - may I present Riga's newest bar person - H..... ( New Zealand, Irish passport - Scottish christian name) and a real Kiwi !

Does he remind you of Vinnie Jones ?

Anyhow to any of you planning a visit to Riga - the weather is C..p - overcast and chilly, and to think it is only 42 days to mid summer, and then it is all downhill to winter -spooky huh !

2010-05-04T14:10:00.004+03:00

Final word, or in this case pictures of Riga's newest bar - the Kiwi bar. It is still early days as it seeks to create its unique place in Riga - but suffice to say it is off to great start.

For my part I had one of the first pints of Charles Wells Bombadier bitter on Saturday, and last night I had the last one - seems the plague of all Riga's pubs - running out of beer that I can drink, has stuck again. But fear not whilst awaiting a re-supply Boddingtons will take it place - so all is well (I hope).

Again my apologies re quality of pictures, my camera phone is c..p !

Yep he is back and dressing the part alongwith his beautiful assistant behind the bar K...... (Mispelled her name in previous blog -sorry)

Pictures paint a thousand words in this case A...(Bristolian - permanent bar resident) showing K.....(Latvian - bar lady resplendent) pictures - via the internet - of the "Kiwi" food to offered - Personally never heard of Kiwi Indian cuisine

Finally of course F.... (Australian - man who has found his true place in the world) - now is his glass half empty or half full ?

I have just come across what I think is one of the best promo videos for Latvia - enjoy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvCXLacM2sU&feature=related

A new bar is born

2010-05-01T20:23:00.005+03:00

It is Saturday 1st of May 2010, a day to put into your diary, as once again a bar which may change our lifes has opened. After weeks of preparation ( well it appears 4.5 weeks to be precise) - the newest bar/pub has opened -The KIWI bar - courtesy of A... (Bristolian - King of slightly damaged goods) - F.... (Australian - King of Hostels) and with a great deal of help from I... (Latvian - King of bar creations) - and I have to say after a somewhat brief stay this evening it is looking good !

Wood is the overwhelming feel of the place - but in the best possible taste - a bar that is reminisant of a good if somewhat modern pub ( made apparently by a genius from Jelgava)

More TV's than you could wish for and of course the ever present computerised "Juke Box" - which personally I could do without - but then again I am somewhat of an older generation.

With young S... ( Ukranian/Latvian - a barman of note and still with poor taste in music ) once again back where he belongs - behind a bar - along a group new young Ladies to serve you - C.......( Latvian - possibly the shortest bar lady in Riga) - this place has all the hallmarks of success - Personally I wish it so

Ok they were still getting it ready

First drinks on the bar

Sorry about the quality !!

So to all those involved in this new enterprise I wish them well - and I have a sneeking feeling it will do well.

So to those you may stumble accross this blog - may I recommend that you pay a visit to te KIWI bar - you wil enjoy !!

trip down Memory Lane

2010-04-23T18:05:00.005+03:00

It's amazing what turns up in life, I have returned to my old Sony Ericsson P900 - at least for the next few days, and on inspection came across some pictutes taken last year.

As you will note they are of one of Australia's finest food connesiers, well at least when it come to hamburgers.

This is a man who would repeatedly visit the Hesburger bar in Old riga, for a unique dining experience - but with the sun out last year and the opening of the No Problem outdoor bar/restaurant he decided to taste the hamburger on offer to ascertain if it met his high standards. As much time has passed since those days I cannot remember his comments - but perhaps the pictures ay it all !

first get prepared -and do not forget the napkin

Then gently cut into the hamburger - mmmmmmmmmmmm

Finally - The tasting

Well we will never know as I obviously did not take any more pictures - perhaps the man in question will let us know if he ever reads this blog.

One can only hope that such good times and the weather will return soon, as today (Friday) has seen a brief return of snow !!

Well it now Wednesday 28th April, and Monday saw me and few others V... (Autralian - anybody need a builder ?) - V..... (Mexican - practices on pig eyes ?) - F.... (Australian - soon to be landlord) - A....(Bristolian - another about to be landlord) - S....(Irish - man about music) - and C....(English - prints a lot) - and we enjoyed what was the first warm and sunny evening in the square -Wonderful.

Regretfully since then it has stayed sunny but chilly -but hey ho - we can but hope for this weekend, when Latvia again will celebrate its independence.

Finally a word to S.....(Welsh - famous for his Thales of rugby) - trust the "nose" is better and the better half enjoys her nights. (This an in joke and should not be misinterpreted !!)

And to all of those wishing on an update on the "new" pub - it will informally open this Saturday ( or so I am promised) - with the official opening later in the week. Its name and location will be revealed later.

But a clue its name rhymes with qui ( French) but sounds like a down under bird

All quiet on Western Front

2010-04-18T15:53:00.005+03:00

Anybody looked up in the skies of late trying to see the this mysterious ash - but nothing - but the consequences are amazing - just look below

(click on image to see full image)

This was taken from www.flightradar24.com at 15.4 on Sunday 18th April - as you can see only two planes in the sky - and as I write Riga Airport is still closed.

Now I know this causing untold mayhem for all those who wish to fly, in the case of Riga either to get home, or indeed to get to Riga.

However there is an upside ( at least for me) -no cretins in town - however this is very self centred of me as Riga needs tourists, both good and bad - as they all spend money - so hopefully this will resolve itself in the near future - but at least for now there seems no end in sight.

Saturday did however have one highlight for me - a beer outside in the New Problem bar, and still at 0.95c. The sun did try and shine, and when the wind dimished it was really pleasant, but by 5.30pm it was seriously cold - so meandered back home, to some wine and dinner and of course warmth. One comment re No Problem, in comparison to last years the toilets are much smaller, only four cubicles for ALL - remember this place can accomodate hundred's of people.

Took a few (sorry about the quality) pictures in Livi Square on the way into Dome Square, and as you can see the bars are open - and this year Alberts has an outdoor area - for details see www.albertspub.lv

and just to show Riga is moving into its Summer coat, spot the first sighting of the reknowned Dancing Lady in the picture below !!

As you will noticed not exactly mobbed as yet, but it will - and even the bicycle taxis are back - ok one !

A have a major life changing on Monday - but you will have to check the blog later on Monday for details -but you will need to be eagled eyed to see what it is - so to all have a good week.

And finally to all blog readers who are Newcastle United supporters ( so that makes one) - congratulations !! - lets hope you can stay up in Premier League.

Final word on Winter

2010-04-10T12:29:00.003+03:00

A few blogs ago I mentioned one of the most beautiful winter scenes that I had ever come across, we all have seen the wonderful images of snow lying in the woodlands with the branches nearly breaking under the weight of snow.

Well this is somewhat different, during one of those seriously cold snaps ie -20+ , when suddenly overnight for what ever meteorological reason a heavy due formed on the trees, which then immediately froze leaving the leafless trees looking as if they had suddenly turned pure white. In truth my words cannot convey the beauty of it all.

Regretfully I never did manage to capture an image of this event, however thanks to the leading hostel in Riga -- Franks Fun Hostel - www.franks.lv or perhaps one of there guests - I have managed to retrieve one image - see below

Quite Amazing - just like a winter wonderland !

Back to now, and this weekend sees the return of the Heineken Cup, so with no Scottish interest, we will all be rooting for the Ospreys to qualify for the semifinals - we can but hope.

No great goings on this past week, but Riga is definitely beginning to put on its summer coat - and I here that the "No Problem" outdoor bar is hoping to re-open this weekend, I shall take a wander into town later today to check it out.

Message to J.... (Irish - he with poor taste in socks) - I have been frequenting your apartment, using my electrical skills to try and repair the hot water boiler - regret so far with no success - suspect you might be in for a bill to (1) replace thermostat or (2) at worse replace the boiler - have a nice day !!

A question of Irish

2010-04-05T20:20:00.004+03:00

During my walkabout a came across a strange connection between Latvia and Ireland - A TREE !! - not just any tree, but one planted by the former President of Ireland during her visit to Latvia - so the question all the ex- Irish Members of the Village people ( and anyone else who is interested)

what was the tree planted and where ?

A clue the fruit of the tree is great with a G & T, and the place is where you can see where Latvians fishing techniques were developed ???

Now what kind of fish would you catch with this ??

Apart from that Easter has ended with a temperatures over 18 degrees, and now it is back to hopefully a warm Spring and Summer ( I hope)

Trust you all had a great Easter break, and now it is back to the real world.

And finally may I congratulate the Alberts Pub for getting a beer I can drink, Boddingtons !! - many thanks to my roving pub goer J... ( Australian - Guinness is better on the first floor !) and as I close on Easter Monday - Reading have won at home, but London Irish are in danger of loosing out this season after the defeat by Wasps - but as ever we shall but see.

Back to serious rugby next weekend - any bets on Ospreys ??

PS All answers re above send via comments - first one with both correct answers will win a serious prize - which will be revealed on the next blog

Well its different !

2010-03-22T17:09:00.014+02:00

Well today ( Monday) I discovered a new rinkle in banking within Latvia, After collecting my "number" I duly waited to be served, as usual 6 desks, but only two open - and my desired task was to deposit some funds into my account. After waiting 3 minutes !! ( tis true) I finally stepped in front of the young Lady, explained what I wanted to do, and was advised that if she took my money I would be charged a commision to deposit the money, however if I used that automated machine for depositing cash ( notes only) there would be no commision.
So now Swedbanka ( ala Hansabanka) charge for putting money in, and taking money out if you choose to use the counter service.
No prizes for guessing which service I used !

Watched the rugby last weekend at the homestead of R..... (Irish - Manager of Irish loan portfolio) and his good Lady - Great night - As one of only two Scots in attendance, but surrounded by Irish, including the Ambassador - we watched a great game of rugby with Scotland gaining a narrow victory. Now that is different !

Then after a great dinner onto the England v France , with French finally victorious, and with it the Six Nations Championship - Magnifique ! - So a seriously long rugby day, what with Wales v Italy game earlier in the day

Also last week saw a new approach to the Freedom Monument - by car - A local driver somewhat p..s..d.decided to take a short cut but ended up driving up the steps a the rear of the monument - different and makes a change from the usual use as a pissoir.

We seem now to be at the end of the ice season - and with a little bit of luck, we may greet April with no snow - but as ever we shall but see !

This week also saw the colalition goverment collapse withe withdrawal of representatives of the Peoples Party from the goverment with the loss of four ministerial posts. But given that the "government" is made of four parties ( was five ) it hardly makes for a stable situation - but then what new in Latvia - but it is different from any other country in the E.U. - Can you think of any country with five political parties making up a "unity" government. But then again there are over 25 registered political parties in Latvia.

Gossip continues unabated re a new "pub" opening - latest is that I.....(Latvian - barwoman with diminished reputation) is going to open a new bar/pub in the old town, apparently just off Livi Square - as ever we can but wait and see. This gossip provided by I.... (Latvian - par exellence bar manager)
Heard from A.... (English - former telco man) is once again going to make his annual pilgrimage this year in July - so an early warning notice to bar owners in Riga - stock up on Guinness !

Well I started this blog a few days ago, but forgot to publish !! ( its age you know) - so an update on goings on as of today Wednesday.

Well my roving reporter J... (Australian - King of SIP) has just advised me that work has re-commenced on the "No Problem" outdoor bar in Dome Square- no idea if it is going as per last year, with single deck or the much vaunted multi-storie version with glass panels - will update when I get into town at the weekend. Also the outdoor bars are beginning to be erected in Livi Square and elsewhere in the old town - so Spring must be acoming !! - and with Spring another village member willl be back in town today B...... (Irish - clothing merchant) - so doubt he will be letting his hair down over the next few days, fortunately for me he is a late night merchant - so I will not be involved.

Finally a little quiz to test your lateral thinking - no cheating - so no looking down the page

Answer below (after the history lesson)

but while you think about this a little English History Lesson - read and learn
There is an old Hotel/Pub in Marble Arch,which used to have gallows adjacent. Prisoners were taken to the gallows (after a fair trial of course) to be hung. The horse drawn dray, carting the prisoner was accompanied by an armed guard, who would stop the dray outside the pub and ask the prisoner if he would like ONE FOR THE ROAD. If he declined, that prisoner was ON THE WAGON So there you go. More bleeding history.

They used to use urine to tan animal skins, so families used to all pee in a pot & then once a day it was taken & sold to the tannery. If you had to do this to survive you were "Piss Poor". But worse than that were the really poor folk who couldn’t even afford to buy a pot they "Didn’t have a pot to Piss in" were the lowest of the low. The next time you are washing your hands and complain because the water temperature isn't just how you like it, think about how things used to be.

Most people got married in June because they took their yearly bath in May, and they still smelled pretty good by June. However, since they were starting to smell brides carried a bouquet of flowers to hide the body odour. Hence the custom today of carrying a bouquet when getting married.

Baths consisted of a big tub filled with hot water. The man of the house had the privilege of the nice clean water, then all the other sons and men, then the women and finally the children. Last of all the babies. By then the water was so dirty you could actually lose someone in it. Hence the saying, Don't throw the baby out with the Bath water!
Houses had thatched roofs, thick straw piled high, with no wood underneath. It was the only place for animals to get warm, so all the cats and other small animals (mice, bugs) lived in the roof. When it rained it became slippery and sometimes the animals would slip and fall off the roof. Hence the saying It's raining cats and dogs.

There was nothing to stop things from falling into the house. This posed a real problem in the bedroom where bugs and other droppings could mess up your nice clean bed. Hence, a bed with big posts and a sheet hung over the top afforded some protection. That's how canopy beds came into existence.The floor was dirt. Only the wealthy had something other than dirt. Hence the saying, DIRT POOR.

The wealthy had slate floors that would get slippery in the winter when wet, so they spread thresh (straw) on floor to help keep their footing. As the winter wore on, they added more thresh until, when you opened the door, it would all start slipping outside. A piece of wood was placed in the entrance-way. Hence: a THRESH HOLD . (Getting quite an education, aren't you?)

In those old days, they cooked in the kitchen with a big kettle that always hung over the fire. Sometimes they could obtain pork, which made them feel quite special. When visitors came over, they would hang up their bacon to show off. It was a sign of wealth that a man could, BRING HOME THE BACON. They would cut off a little to share with guests and would all sit around talking and CHEW THE FAT.

Those with money had plates made of pewter. Food with high acid content caused some of the lead to leach onto the food, causing lead poisoning & death. This happened most often with tomatoes, so for the next 400 years or so, tomatoes were considered poisonous. Bread was divided according to status.
Workers got the burnt bottom of the loaf, the family got the middle, and guests got the top, or The UPPER CRUST.

Lead cups were used to drink ale or whisky. The combination would sometimes knock the imbibers out for a couple of days. Someone walking along the road would take them for dead and prepare them for burial. They were laid out on the kitchen table for a couple of days and the family would gather around and eat and drink and wait and see if they would wake up. Hence the custom of HOLDING A WAKE.

When reopening these coffins, 1 out of 25 coffins were found to have scratch marks on the inside and they realized they had been burying people alive. So they would tie a string on the wrist of the corpse, lead it through the coffin and up through the ground and tie it to a bell. Someone would have to sit out in the graveyard all night (the graveyard shift.) to listen for the bell; thus, someone could be, SAVED BY THE BELL or was considered a DEAD RINGER.

And that's the truth...Now, whoever said History was boring !

and the answers is -

Simples!!

Happy Easter !!

It is not Spring

2010-03-16T08:44:00.008+02:00

I really thought that by now Riga would be showing the first signs of Spring approaching, but Oh no -this morning I awoke to another serious downfall of snow, which had obviously been going on all night with about 10cm - 12cm covering the cars and roads, with a forecast of -14c for tonight - it looks as if this will have been one of the longest winters for a long, long time.

Our Mexican/Latvian doctor type person V..... seems to set on setting up a home menagerie, having aquired a turtle last year, he now is in possesion of a parrot, albeit a small one. Whilst waiting for him to collect said bird, I saw a car which has been clearly parked for the duration of the Winter, the pictures below give you some idea of the level of snow we have experienced in the last few months.

Spot the car

Ah - there it is !!

As ever I was out last weekend to watch the rugby, with Ireland outplaying Wales, but as for the Scotland v England - has anybody ever seen a poorer game ? - it was P..s poor - and I can but wonder what the Scots need to put a bit of fire in their bellies, if a game against the Old Enemy cannot do it. Lord only knows what the Irish are going to do to us next weekend. On the plus side of my sporting interest good to see that Reading are finally managing to string a few wins together -but dreams of a return to the Premier are I think many years away - if ever.

I did but wonder if their was a gathering of the Welsh and Irish Village people at the game - perhaps someone out there could let me know, as they seem to have disappeared from my radar

Back to Riga news - and one of the original ex-pats P.... (New Zealander- with a much travelled family) has now returned to the land of his birth, and is now in cahoots with the New Zealand government trying to sell New Zealand produce to India ! Lots of lamb for the curries !!

Also so back from sunny Florida is G..... ( or J.....) - (American/Latvian - property magnate) - only wish he could have brought some Floridian weather back with him.

Well tonight (Tuesday) I am off to St. Patricks day celebrations courtesy of the Irish Embassy, but as the official St. Patricks day is on Wednesday, not sure why Embassy is celebrating it tonight - but no doubt all will be revealed - but maybe it is because the the village lounge is offering Guiness all day for Ls 1.00 per pint ! - just a pity I cannot drink the black stuff !

This week did see a major discovery - can now ( well once again actually) watch all of the UK tv channels in amazing quality- indeed I am watching the Sky news at I write this. I am not going to publish details as when ever I did this in the past the service went down within days - but if anybody wants the details send me an e-mail and I will let you have the info. It is a wee bit complicated to set up - but well worth the effort

Good Huh !

Aaah the little things that make life in Riga a little more bearable - sad really.

Finally if any of you out there would like to keep an eye on what is happening in Riga check out this site for webcam views (NB not all of them are live all the time)

http://www.viewlatvia.com/webcamlatvian.html

UPDATE : Just heard from one of my many roving reporters ( see comment below) , that indeed J... (Irish - seller of gaming goodies) - J... (Irish - currency speculator) - J.... (Irish - former builder of note) and S.... (Welsh- now with a French connection) were indeed all in attendance at the Ireland v Wales game and subsequently indulged in a few drinks. Good to know that a few of the ex-village people are still in touch.

Conspiracy Theories ?

2010-03-01T14:31:00.008+02:00

Now that was an interesting weekend, was it not ? - France beat Wales - Ireland beat England, and as forecast here Italy beat Scotland - so that just leaves the French to wrap up the Six Nations - Sacre bleu !!

However there to watch the Irish game was a character from the past, the diminutive J.... (Irish - Riga publican of note) and in his company R... (South African - exbanker). Now was this just a coincidence ? or was there a deeper purpose behind them meeting - far be it for me to suggest otherwise - but as this was the first time I have ever seen R... in PW's - and as far as I can remember he was not a great rugby fan - so what could they have been talking about - old times ? as R... was of course an interested party in De Lacy's - Time will but tell - but the possibilities are interesting.

Final point re young J.... he has GROWN !! - of course not in a vertical direction, more in an all round fashion - married life is clearly suiting him.

Apologies re quality of pictures- blame the camera phone not me !

Of course they were not alone in watching the game also in attendance was J... (Australian - SIP king), A.... (English - white goods king), F.... (Australian - Hostel king), C... (English - Printer king) plus goodly selection of other ex-pats, to numerous to mention. And would you believe it I was party to a conversation which might indicate a new pub opening in the not so distant future.

At this time no names - as project is top secret ( So why do I know about it you might ask) - Watch this space.

For the moment we are having a respite from the downfall of snow, indeed the temperatures has risen, such that we are now likely to suffer from flooding - but as I write the sun is shining, the sky is blue - so at least for the moment all is well.

Those who visited Riga last year will remember the "No Problem" outdoor bar in Dome Square, well it had grand plans to nearly double in size for this year, but it seems the plans will have to be put on hold, as I hear that it will simply be the same as last year, which is not a bad thing as it was undoubtably the best outdoor bar in 2009. Unsure as to why the new building is not going ahead, but I suspect it has proved to be an expensive error.

Now in my last I mentioned about the danger from falling ice/snow/icicles from rooftops well as you can read from the article below -the danger is real. (Courtesy of Leta News Agency)

Three persons suffer serious injuries in downtown Riga today from falling ice

RIGA, Feb 26 (LETA) - Three persons - all women - suffered serious injuries today in three separate locations in downtown Riga from blocks of ice falling from rooftops.

Laura Bundule, spokesperson for the Emergency Medical Care Services, commented that evidently the weather has warmed up and ice is melting, therefore one must be wary not only of icy patches on streets, but must watch out for falling ice from above.

One of the accidents occurred on Biskapa gate Lane in Old Town. A block of ice plummeted on a 33-year-old woman, knocking her unconscious. She was hospitalized with neck injuries and a concussion.
A second one occurred on the corner of K.Valdemara and Dzirnavu streets, where a 70-year-old woman also suffered a concussion.

The third accident happened on Terbatas Street, but the 35-year-old victim refused to be hospitalized despite the fact that medics suspected that she too had suffered a concussion.
The total number of persons known who have suffered such injuries in past days is now 11.

As you can see from the above the icicle on a building close by me have nearly doubled in size in the last week

wibbly wobbly way

2010-02-19T13:27:00.004+02:00

Now with temperatures rising slightly, and Riga still creeking under the snowfall of last week, despite the best efforts of Riga Council to remove the snow to outside the city - the great danger to human life is not from slipping on the roads and pavements but from above !! - With the roofs covered in snow and icicles dangling from the gutters - the safest bet is walk in the middle of the road - however as this is even more dangerous than walking on the pavements, given the driving habits of many Latvians.

However just as we snow sweeper upperers, outside each and every building clearing the snow to make even bigger piles of snow beside the road - so we roof based sweeper downers - you with only the basics of safety equipment - usually just a rope tied around there waste and tied (I assume) to some fixed thingy on the roof, they brush and shovel the snow back onto the recently cleared pavement. Now if you are lucky they will roped off the pavement area below, thereby preventing innocent passerbys from getting clunked with snow - however one can be unlucky !!

But what of the icicles - well as the phot blow show all you need is someone brave ( foolish) enough to stand at the very edge of the roof with a long pole and "bash" away at the icicles. This one time you definitely do not want to walking underneath

Like the sweeper upperers, I wonder what these guys do the rest of the year ?

I will only make a brief passing to last weekends rugby - SUICIDE WISH !!!! - watched the Wales V Scotland game at Alberts, alongwith J... (Irish - newly installed as games machine entreprenuer). Had not seen him for months and C.... (English - Printing Guru) alongwith a group of paralitic young British soldiers. Have decided that rugby should be reduced to 70 minutes after the fiasco of the last 10 minutes.

The papers claimed it was a great Welsh recovery - No it was not it was a typical Scottish gameplan, as we seek to retake the wooden spoon from Italy - just lull the opposition into a false sense of security by allowing them to draw level, and at the same time just to make it more "interesting" reduce the team to 13 men - then with 80 minutes up go for a looser by kicking the ball straight back to the opposition - so they can score the winner - absolutely brilliant strategy as we seek again to capture the wooden spoon. I cannot wait to see what strategy we employ against England and Italy in persuit of the mythical wodden spoon.

Left Alberts alongwith J.... (Irish- former cigarette king) to head for PW - to watch the France v Ireland, and lo and behold another Irish figure from the past M..... (Irish -Latvian Bank saviour) and his son. The upstairs was busy to we sat in the back room to watch the game - had to feel sorry for the Irish contingent as unlike Scotland they had no "real" loosing strategy - they just were outplayed.

One our numbers F.... (Australian - hostel/blackberry fanatic) has had to go to hospital with a hernia problem - but he is back out but was seen drinking only coke !!

So there we have it another week in Riga has gone by - more snow is forecast for this weekend - but hopefully not as bad as last week.

Finally - and this could only be from Australia - an application for Iphone users that has real purpose - enjoy !

Regretfully I have to advise all yoy Iphone users that Apple have removed this application from there download store

It is SNOWING !!

2010-02-04T17:10:00.007+02:00

T'was on a Monday night and all the world was quiet ( now where have I read this before ?) but overhead the clouds were gathering, and lo on Tuesday morning the world - well at least in Riga - was transformed into chaos. depending on which report you read between 18cm - 50 cm of snow had been dumped down on us. Now I am no good with metric - but all I can say is that when I stepped outside the snow was half way up my legs. No chance of moving the car - No snow shovel.

Now this is not mine - but you get the idea

Now the overall result of this downfall was that it brought Riga to a near standstill, and had it not been for the help of G.... (English - Chelsea fanatic and suffers from verbal diarrhea) and his good Lady who armed with shovels and Ice picks helped to dig the car out and clear a way out of the yard where the car was parked. That however was just the beginning as few if any of the backstreets had been cleared - in fact as I write this I have still to see a snow plow - but they must be about as some of the main roads have clearly been cleaned.

Swords of Ice

But the snow is now piled 2-3 meters high on either side of the roads, and I read that as of yesterday, over 6,500 cubic meters of snow had been removed - but to where I wonder ??

Driving in Riga is a nightmare ( but then it always was)- the upside is that the temperature is only about -2-5, and where the snow is undisturbed ( ala the parks) it looks beautiful)

Anyhow if any of you there plan to visit Riga in the next few days bring good boots or shoes, as in the Old Town it is covered in snow.

Now speaking of the Old Town last night saw one of M... ( Swedish pub owner) host his monthly ex-pats dinner. Now I have to confess I rarely attend these function, but last night was a little bit special - A Jamaican theme dinner - courtesy of S...... ( English - another Chelsea man - and former man at Hotel Latvia).

And he produced a stunner. He is now chef at Alberts, and has totally renovated the menu to really high standard and all at reasonable prices, which along with a recent redecoration, I have to confess it is really looking like a pub, and given the atmosphere of last night could well take the place of our long lost De Laceys, if it keeps this standard up. Only problem for me is that they do not have beer that I like. For those interested as to what the Jamaican meal on offer for Ls 10.00 was - here it is

A choice of

1 Pint of Aldaris Zelta

1 glass of Hot mulled wine

1 glass of Jamaican rum punch

Buffet dinner

Jonny cakes

Bananas in bacon

Chicken and pumpkin stew

Jerk pork

Jerk chicken

[Don’t worry I will not make them the real strength]

Escoveitched fish [peppers, vinegar, vegetables]

Rice and peas

Salads

Banana and ginger bread

Cinnamon custard

Not bad - and loads of it so M... and S..... - Well Done !!

Now this weekend sees the start of the Six Nations Rugby - where to watch -Well Paddies has only got S4C - so no good for the Irish Game nor indeed the Scotland game on Sunday - but possibly through the wonders of the internet we might be able to connect a Laptop to one of the TV monitors and if the steaming holds up we can watch the games on BBC1 - alternative is again thanks to Alberts and M.... ( Swedish techie king + Dreambox) we can watch all the games via an Italian channel - or at least so we hope !!! - we shall but see what works best. No longer the same atmosphere as in years gone by, with all the Welsh and Irish contingent sadly departed. Anyhow my forecast is that Scotland are the surprise champions this year ( about the same chance as Reading getting promotion) - but all being well we shall see some good rugby. Just learned Paddies they have managed to get France2 channel back and working - so we should be ok for all the games.

Now speaking of bars - some may remember the original Stella bar in Lacsplace - well it has been reopened under the name "Bombadier" and needless to say it selsl Bombadier bitter - have not as yet managed to get round there - but have also learned that young S..... ( Remember De Lacy's ?) is back behind the bar - hopefully his taste in music has improved - will try and get round there this week and let you all know

and finally - and it could only be in Ireland

A Tale of two Turkeys

2009-12-27T13:26:00.015+02:00

I know, but once again I have to apologise to worldwide readers for the time it has taken to update the blog. However I do claim mitigating circumstances (1) My photographer - C.... (English-now dabbling in ink & stuff) was seriously late in delivering the photographs and (2) there was not a whole lot to write about. However in the end of the year episode I am delighted to say that once again we have managed to hold a Christmas Party to raise a few pennies for the Zvannieki Childrens Home.

Were it not for the assistance of J... (American - Cigar smoking, whisky drinking - good ole Southern boy), E. (American - king of the scanners) and our very own wonder chef P.... (English- is seriously into rubbish) and indeed M... (Swedish - holds fort at Alberts) - it would never have happened - but more of this later.

First let me rewind the clock to November - Remembrance Sunday

Now here I have apologise for the lack of photographs - entirely my fault -did not know how to work the camera !!

But as Remembrance Services go - this one was poor - C... (English - photographer to be) and I duly timed our arrival as per usual-10.30m- with service scheduled to start , such that the minutes silnce could be held at 11.00am. Not this year however, indeed as we arrived the "service" had nearly finished and the minutes silence was held at around 10.45am. No sign of British Military presence, of course no ambassador - as we do not have one ! - no sign of the Earl of Carlisle - So all in all a poor show, at least in comparison to years gone bye.

But now onto a much happier note, the Christmas Dinner - however even this grand event was not without its mishaps. As before the turkey(s) were ordered from the "usual" source in Riga meat market - however when they were due to be collected a few days before the dinner on the 10th December - no sign of the lady supplier at the market - PANIC !! - all and sundry were involved in tracking down a turkey of suitable proportions, with the strict instructions that it had to be female, as the male bird has little or no breasts ( We all knew that right !) - Finally a humongous 40+kilo turkey was tracked down in Lithuania ( There is a comedy here somewhere) and transported back to Riga - only to find - IT WAS MALE!! - so back to Plan A - revisiting the Riga market and lo and behold there was the lady complete with female turkeys - so we took one - The dinner was on !

The night was different in respect - females were allowed - anything to get the numbers - but if anything it added to the night, and to quote F..... (Australian - hostel guru) " It was the best one yet"

As ever we held a raffle, with over 30 "prizes" ranging from crystal wine glasses to Canadian Ice Wine. PW Tea shirt to Branded beer glasses, and to ensure Fair Play the draw was made by the Irish Ambassador and the lovely wife of the Canadian Ambassador

And what of the Lithuanian turkey I here you ask ? - well on the Friday morning it was duly transported along with the food leftovers to St. Saviours church - to be made into soup, for their Saturday morning soup kitchen.

So all that helped make this happen, and who made such great contributions I thank you, and Hope that in 2010 we can make good on the promise to hold a barbecue at Zvannieki.

E........ (Canadian- knows the Canadian ambassador intimately)

Spot the Irish Ambassador

Ambassadorial sit in

Is this love ?

Or is THIS love ??

No - This IS love !!

Back room Boys

and of course the imperial Chef and helpers

Because of the uncertainty when we started to organise the dinner the vicar - Juris Calitis, did not attend, and so the money raised was a total surprise and if I may quote his e-mail on learning of the dinner " David, you bring me wonderful news and we are so happy to receive this wonderful effort on behalf of the children " So hopefully the SMiley Fund of 2009 will indeed bring a little extra smile to the childrens faces this Christmas.

If anybody out there would like to make a contribution, either contact myself or send money direct to the Zvannieki account - whose details are :

Zvannieku majas" account is LV32UBAL1100122973001 (The org. reg. number is 40008070557) and the bank is Latvijas Kraibanka AS.

As I write this Christmas has passed, and the New year awaits us, and so all readers of ths blog - I wish you success, prosperity,but above all Happiness in 2010.

If you are wondering about the picture of the cat, this is my live in companion !!

B....dy Cold

2009-12-16T23:07:00.003+02:00

I know I have been remiss in updating the blog, but I promise do update in near future, as during November we had the annual Remembrance Service ( a Farce) and believe it or not we did hold the AnnualSmiley Fund Dinner this year, but owing to the fact that the official photographer - C... ( English with a lack of camera dongle) has not managed to get the pictures to me, it will have to wait until he gets them to me.

In the meantime for all of those of you have departed these shore thought you might like to know how the weather is - so here it is - Bl..dy Cold !!!

So to young J... (Australian - SIP king) who heads back to Australia tommorow - see what you will be missing.

Personally it might be time to get the tights back on !!

All Change

2009-10-26T12:57:00.008+02:00

Last Tuesday saw the farewell drinks for our soon to depart Australian/Latvian J.... ( he with upstanding hair). Given the departure of so many of the village people a good turnout was achieved - see pictures below.I cannot believe how quickly the year has gone by, and in a couple of weeks it will once again be time to visit the British War Memorial in Jelgava, but this time I suspect it will be a journey alone - and for the first time no British Ambassador will attend. This is due to the fact that the previous Ambassador had to return to the UK, due to the ill health of his wife, and no replacement until April 2010. No idea why - I would have thought the Foreign Office must have a host of ambassadorial candidates - maybe I should apply ?

Speaking of Ambassadorial candidates with the departure J..... ( See above) who will act in the interests of all those Australian's here in Riga, as apart from his mainstream business he was of course the the official Australian representative in Latvia - again we can wait and see. But I will give you a clue he in one of the pictures above !!!

Last weekend saw some fascinating Rugby Games - but unlike in previous years only three people to watch the games - me, J.... ( Australian - just SIPing along) and C.... ( English - newly established printer guru). Thought the Irish teams are doing remarkably well !!! - who would thought Glasgow and Edinburgh would trounce Connacht and Munster - no doubt reality will strike later, and what can we say about our favourite Welsh team - The Ospreys - not a lot - sorry S....( Welsh - sadly missed rugby pundit).

So what of Riga you may ask ? - well as in every year Riga is in period change - from the wonders of summer, sunshine - outdoor bars - cheap beer - to the joys of a winter wonderland - but in the middle this dull, dour greyness is creeping over. Frankly it is a bit miserable - however just to keep us cheered up, this week has seen two "major" events.

Firstly we had our world famous meteorite land, which ultimately proved to be marketing stunt by Tele2, to promote Latvia in the news in a positive manor for a change ??? - then yesterday saw Riga come to complete standstill for the best part of 4 hours - why because some young presumably mentally deranged man climbed to the top of the Vansu bridge because he claimed he wanted a better view of the city - but as the authorities decided to close the bridge the end result was total gridlock in the city - absolutely nothing was moving.

Finally some of you may remember my attempts to set up an online book market to sell my old collection of books, which has proven to not be one of my best marketing endeavours - well if I had a problem what about this guy ?

And then there was one ( and a bit)

2009-10-09T10:51:00.003+03:00

Well as suspected this week ( yesterday) saw the demise of the last Stars Bar in Riga, with previous one in Lacsplace closing some months ago. So for those of us who remain we are but left with the old faithful Paddies.
Of course there is also Alberts , but unfortunately at least for me they no longer sell my flavour of beer.

It is interesting to note that Paddies was the first pub I was ever in in 1995, and now it appears it will be the last, and in truth of late it was (is) the only pub that felt like a Pub - So Riga has seen over the recent times the closure of De Lacy's - Dickens - Star (Stella) chain of three - I suspect Riga now has the lowest number of "Pubs" in the Baltics. So perhaps for those astute and financially endowed persons now is the time to give serious consideration to opening a competitive Pub in Riga - I think we need one.

Now speaking of dissapearing things - does anyone know what happened to young C.... (English - dealer of sorts) - he has just disappeared - me thinks therein lies a tale. Likewise this month (29th) sees the departure of J.... ( Australian/Latvian - consulate superb) - so if any of you who new him would like to wish him farewell, I am sure he would be great full for a call or e-mail.

Many of you will remember T.. ( American - famed for his hearty laugh and weird candles). Well much against the advice of all he is off to America with his beloved lady S.... (Russian - also into weird candles) to get married. Indeed as I write it may well already have happened. One of the many benefits ? he will gain is an instant family - and for her part she will permitted to reside in the US of A - not sure who is getting the better deal. However notwithstanding my personal misgivings I wish them both well, and trust they prove us all wrong.

This weekend sees the return of Heineken Rugby, so for the small group of us left with an interest in rugby it will a return the village lounge to watch and hopefully enjoy. It is sad to think that not so long ago we had enough people ( 20+) to host a completion to forecast the highest number wins, now at best we would have three people.

Riga and Latvia are again making news, but let me give to two pieces of relatively good news.
(1) Riga will launch in partnership with Air Baltic a Ls 5m marketing campaign to promote tourism in Riga - called "LIVE RIGA" - let us but hope it successful - and
(2) Finally Riga City council is to crack down on the rip off bars and clubs, as of 3rd October police can shut them down - we can but hope it works

Both stories can be found at http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/tourism/

So there we are disappearing pubs and people, and it looks like this forthcoming Remembrance Sunday I will be making the journey alone, and on the subject of journeys alone - young A.... ( Australian/Latvian - king of Latvian souvenirs) is off to roam the mountains of Lebanon this weekend. He expects to walk around a thousand kilometers !!! Apparently this is annual thing for him to renew his energies - to him I take my hat off and wish him well - it will be interesting to hear his tales when he returns.

To deck or not to deck ?

2009-09-23T11:20:00.004+03:00

There can be no doubt that one of the major success stories of this summer has been the "No Problem" outdoor bar in Dome Square - and given the exceptional summer we have had, I can safely state that it became the place for what is left of the village people to congregate, and enjoy a beer and watch the world go by (ok and the women as well !). But I fear that with the onset of Autumn and its imminent closure (11th October I think) , linked to serious drop in temperature, allied to a little rain, it is once again time to think of where to park our rears over the winter months - and it looks as if we have but one choice, a return to the village lounge.

However "No Problem" will re-open in mid December ( or so we have been advised) but this time with an enclosed and presumably heated interior, also the grapevine tells me that for next summer it capacity will be increased by way of building a "second" floor ( not sure where or how) - clearly a sign that financially it has been an outstanding success. It will be interesting to sit outdoors but indoors over the winter months with minus temperatures all around.

Speaking of the village people one of our long term members is about to depart these shores and return to the land of Os - will not mention his name as not sure how many people actually know, but if I say "gates" then those of you in the know will guess the identity. Sad to see another one go, but a sign of the times.

This weekend sees that annual sporting ritual from Down Under - Aussie rules final. This a time when every Australian in Riga crawls out at an ungodly hour ( 7.00am) to watch this piece of sporting mayhem ( well at least to the uninitiated) - In the past we have watched this game at De Lacy's, then more recently at "Franks" but at the time of writing not sure where it will be hosted this weekend, indeed not even sure if we can watch it at all as it appears SKY no longer covers the game and as best I can find out ESPN are the only ones showing the game, and not sure if anyone here gets that channel. - So perhaps another piece of local colour will dissapear.

Speaking of colour with Autumn now approaching, the tress are once again displaying their stunning Autumnal colours, before once again bring the leaf sweeper upperers into action, walking through the various parks it is a joy just to look upwards and enjoy the show of nature.

One of the quirks in old Riga, is the apparent stupidy of the police. It appears that any signage ( and I do mean ANY signage) must be approved by the Riga City council, this includes shop signs, displays in shop windows and to the amazement of the village lounge proprietors the blackboard signs indicating menu's, sporting announcement etc. So this week ALL such signs have disappeared - Now I can somewhat undertand shop signs, etc but notices ??? - so its ok to have strip clubs all over the place, but shops, bars etc cannot announce to customers of attractions to be found inside. No wonder this country / City is in trouble.

Indeed one of more entrepreneurial village members A....(Australian/Latvian) with a penchant for designing and manufacturing custom Latvian souvenirs, has also ran foul of this "rule". His misdemeanor was to place two bicycles at each end of his street where his shop is pointing towards his little shop. net result of thus activity - well todate Ls3,000 in fines, with a good possibility of more to come !!

Net result of this - shop will close at end of this month, landlord will lose out on rent, Country will loose out on PVN income ( ok- not a lot), and visitor to Riga lose out on a very good and unique set of souvenirs, all made in Latvia.

Now I know rules are rules, but I would have thought that a little common sense should prevail, or maybe it just reflects the mentality of those that govern our lives here in Latvia. Obviously it is ok to have a McDonald's directly opposite the countries most famous national monument, but it is not ok for small enterprise to promote it wares. Or is it a case of who you know and how much you pay ?

Well to those ex-village members out there trust you are all well, it would be nice to here from you - perhaps one day we can have a reunion ?

PS - If there are any Irish/Scots/English out there who (a) have money and (b) know how to run a real pub - please get in touch - we NEED YOU !!!

challenging times

2009-08-12T13:28:00.007+03:00

The last few weeks have been to say the least "challenging" - what with moving apartments, getting the cat settled in its new surroundings, and of course the somewhat bleak situation in Latvia. ( Like it is not bleak elsewhere !) so my apologies for not exactly keeping the blog updated

But the good news is that during this time the weather has been simply stunning - day after day brilliant warm weather, which has allowed for some perfect evening to sit outside in Dome Square, have a beer, and enjoy some of the best music around, with a different group each night. So to all of you in UK and Ireland - what can I say.

It would be fair to say that the new outdoor bar in Dome Square is proving to be an outstanding success, both in terms prices -- 0.95 centimes for a beer and quality of food and service. If you remember L....... (Latvian - waitress superb) from De Lacys, then she is working there. There is even talk that part of it may stay open during the winter with the aid glass wall panels and a strengthened roof. If this proves to be the case it will give the indoor pubs a run for there money.

Alberts is still alive and well, but one thing is very noticeable in all the pubs, a complete lack of ladies - all of them seem like just "manly". Of course the real reason is that unlike the early days of de Lacys - none of them really make women feel comfortable, whilst all of the outdoor bars are evenly matched between men and women clientel. A lesson for for the others to follow perhaps - as in autumn and winter where do they go to socialise ?

Since my last entry we have seen a visitation from our former landlord supreme J.... ( Irish - lacking a backside), accompanied by his wife and child. Needless to say I did not see him - but I do ask if it was mere coincidence that at the same time a fellow Irish type person was also in town - M...... (resurrected banker) - time will but tell............

Speaking of the Irish - J...... ( Irish - with poor taste in socks) may well be visiting these shores in late September or early October - will be nice to see him back in town.

If anyone knows what is happening to our former Irish village members, or if they are reading this and would like to give me an update, it would be appreciated.

But however difficult the challengies we are all facing one way or another, it is important too have a laugh and keepp smiling, so now courtesy of J.... ( Australian - just sips along !) - well it made me laugh

Airport security event
Customs Official : 'May I know your name?'
Passenger : 'Batman'
Customs Official : 'What's your name!?'
Passenger : 'My name is Bat-man'
Customs Official : 'Trying to be funny? What's your surname?'
Passenger : 'Super-man'
Customs Official : 'So you're telling me your name is Batman Superman?'
Passenger : 'Yes'
Customs Official : 'Arrest this guy...

When they had him in custody, he was asked to show his identification card:

And also possibly the best name ever

(must be the moustache)

I knew it the minute I put on the blog that the weather is - has been stunning - I read that for the next 7 days it is going to rain !!!!! - last time I do that.

For those at work or play who fancy watching a movie on line for free- check out

http://www.justin.tv
or
http://www.movics.org/index.php

Enjoy -- links courtesy of avery busy Australian executive - who for obvious reason I cannot name

And finally I would like to say a big thanks to the blog readers using NTL.com ( Neath) and techniumvpn.co.uk (Swansea) for their unflinching efforts in checking out the blog - you are true scotinriga diehards !! ( thanks A & S)

Hope to be back soon with some good news

Calling Saldus

2009-07-11T20:39:00.003+03:00

Ever since I started this blog I have received many comments, some good some not so good. Some have indicated who they are, or at least used a name by which I can recognise who the originator is.

However of late I have received a number of so called "Anonymous" comments from Saldus in regards to my breakfast (1) and Alberts Pub (4). Now whilst none of these have been malicious, they are less than complimentary.

So to Mr Anonymous of Saldus, unless you are prepared to put your name to your comments, be advised that I will immediately delete any future comments.

If you have nothing positive to say, regarding people who in these difficult time are doing there best in trying circumstances may I suggest you keep your views to yourself, and do not use my blog as means to expressing your personal opinions.

As to my own view of Alberts Pub, well whilst it is farshort of being the perfect pub, at least those behind it are prepared to offer their best efforts,and apart from the fact that the beer choice is on par with any other Riga Pub, there Fish & Chips are par execellance !!

Whats in a name ?

2009-06-19T14:32:00.005+03:00

Now this should have been a world exclusive, but as my internet connection has been down these last two days - then it is no longer so - pity

Anyhow to the news, as I mentioned a few weeks back a new Pub is opening, actually as of yesterday it has opened. Owned by M...(Swedish web man) and staffed by I..... ( Latvian - ex de Laceys, Stella/Star) + other former Paddy Whelans bar type person(s)had its official opening last night at 7.00pm.

Located in what was the Stella Pub in Dome Square, it has been decorated in rustic red, including the toilets, which many of who will remember for there colorful graffiti - Multiple television screens and all new tables and chairs. Being the first night it was a little chaotic, however it did have my favourite beer, but to be honest it seemed a little lacking in pub atmosphere.

It was bit like stepping into a new house, everything is there but it lacks a lived in look.

Clearly over time this will hopefully change, and it will develop its own character - we will but see.

As for the name Alberts, well it transpires he was the first bishop of Riga and indeed founded what we now know as Riga - history lesson to follow

Albert of Riga or Albert of Livonia (Latvian: bīskaps Alberts; German: Albrecht von Buxthoeven; c. 1165 in Bexhövede, a part of Loxstedt – 17 January 1229 in Riga) was the third Bishop of Riga in Livonia. In 1201 he founded Riga, the modern capital of Latvia, and built the city's cathedral in 1221.

Albert headed the armed forces that forcibly converted the eastern Baltic region to Christianity, in the nature of a crusade that was undertaken while the Fourth Crusade was sacking Constantinople.

Albert and his brother Hermann were members of the powerful Buxhoeveden family from Bexhövede, now a part of Loxstedt, Lower Saxony. Because of this he has also been known as Albert of Buxhoeveden (or Bexhövede, Buxhövden, Buxhöwde, Buxthoeven, Appeldern).

Albert was a canon in Bremen when his uncle Hartwig, Archbishop of Bremen and Hamburg, named him Bishop of Livonia (today Latvia and southern Estonia), provided that he could conquer and hold it, and convince the pagan inhabitants to become Christians. The patent was granted March 28, 1199, and by the beginning of spring 1200 he embarked with a Baltic fleet of 23 vessels and more than 1,500 armed crusaders. He had the support of the Hohenstaufen German King, Philip of Swabia, and the more distant blessing of Pope Innocent III.

Together with merchants from the Baltic island of Gotland, Albert founded Riga in 1201, where a small community of Hanseatic traders from Lübeck held a tentative trading encampment. He successfully converted many Livs under their leader Caupo, offering them protection against neighboring Lithuanian and Estonian tribes; Albert also converted some Latvians later on. The conquest of Livonia in full occupied almost three decades of his life.

Albert created a military order, the Livonian Brothers of the Sword, and began to build his cathedral in 1215. King Philip made him a Prince of the Holy Roman Empire, with Livonia for a fief, and thus Albert became a "Prince-Bishop". In 1225 King Henry VII of Germany confirmed the title of Prince for Albert and his brother, Hermann. Albert declared his diocese independent of Bremen, and later Riga was raised to an archbishopric.

A first-hand account of Albert is in the contemporary Chronicle of Henry of Livonia (Henricus Lettus').

Albert died in Riga in 1229, but, as a Catholic Bishop, left no descendants. He was venerated as a Catholic saint until the Protestant Reformation. The present-day "von Buxhoeveden" are descendants of his cousin Johannes von Buxhoeveden. Albert's brother Theodoricus is the progenitor of the family de Raupena (de Ropa, known today as "von der Ropp") that founded manors in Livonia and Courland.

A street in Riga, Alberta iela ("Albert Street"), is named after Bishop Albert. It is known for its Art Nouveau apartment buildings, many of them designed by the architect Mikhail Eisenstein.

Not sure what he would thought about having a pub named after him.

The weather for much of this week has been overcast, however the threatened bad weather had failed to materialise, indeed as I write the sun is shining and the annual Ligo Fair in Dome square is basking in the sunshine with all sorts of Latvian goodies for sale, including being to buy what looks like half a tree which you must wrap around your head on Ligo. I know Latvia has acres of forest, but at this time of the year they must take quite a hit.

and finally take a look at these images, taken buy one of many roving reporters - thanks A.... ( English - with south western accent)

See Anything strange ?

Anything Yet ??

Got it yet ?

Now you are getting it

Now you have got it - but the real question is what are they putting up ? and how did they get down ?

As ever Riga will be deserted next week with Ligo and Jani - so lets hope the sunshine stays and we get hot days and warm nights - but history tells us otherwise.

Boys will be "girls"

2009-06-08T17:32:00.005+03:00

Now there are many strange sights to be seen in Riga, particularly at the weekend, with the arrival of the stag parties from the UK. But in my new found role as the Riga Breakfast King, I saw last weekend up close and personal, at least for me one of strangest.

First of all who have to picture my arrival at F..... Fun Hostel, ready and willing to cook breakfast for all and sundry. But there at reception ( which is quite small) and overflowing into the bar area, were what appeared at first sight a group over 20 ladies, the vast majority dressed in pink, but two in clearly their wedding dresses.

But as the picture clearly shows the "ladies" were in fact robust young men, but decked out in what was clearly a coordinated fashion statement, that PINK was in.

They then all trooped out to "do" Riga, now bear in mind this was about 10.30am in the morning, so God only knows what the members of the public thought of this group of deranged persons as they made there way through the old town.

Needless to say they did not indulge in in one of my famous breakfasts, but they did return to watch the Lions rugby game.

Now you ask, where would such a group hail from ?, surely from an urban area where dressing in such attire would not impinge upon there manly image. So we can rule out all the Celtic nations, or can we ? given that it is the Celtic nations, or at least some of them, with Scottish and Irish wearing Kilts in their national dress. So could they be English - regretfully I have to advise our long lost and sadly missed Welshman S..... ( retired cat flap maker) that they all hailed from Wales, and not any part of Wales, Port Talbot !!!!!!!

Now to be fair they were well behaved, and as they said just having a good laugh - mind you this was at 4.00pm - what they were like at midnight when visiting the Riga night clubs - -may well be another matter.

I mentioned some time ago that the village lounge was being "modified", thanks to J... ( Australian SIP king) I show below the current state of affairs, in the rear of the building. It is claimed that they will "terrace the new larger and open rear - we shall but see. But with the disappearance of toilets on the first and second floors, there are some seriously wasted "patrons" having to make there way to the third floor to relieve themselves.

Having experienced some glorious weather two weekends ago, the weather of late has been rubbish, and so the joys of being able to sit out in the sunshine and enjoy a beer in one of the squares will have to wait until sun finally makes an appearance.

Finally a story forwarded to me by J... (Australian - see above) - Has a ring of truth about it. - Enjoy !!

INTERESTING HISTORY LESSON

Railroad tracks. This is fascinating

Be sure to read the final paragraph; your understanding of it will depend on the earlier part of the content.

The US standard railroad gauge (distance between the rails) is 4 feet, 8.5 inches. That's an exceedingly odd number..

Why was that gauge used? Because that's the way they built them in England , and English expatriates built the US railroads.

Why did the English build them like that? Because the first rail lines were built by the same people who built the pre-railroad tramways, and that's the gauge they used.

Why did 'they' use that gauge then? Because the people who built the tramways used the same jigs and tools that they use d for building wagons, which used that wheel spacing.

Why did the wagons have that particular odd wheel spacing? Well, if they tried to use any other spacing, the wagon wheels would break on some of the old, long distance roads in England , because that's the spacing of the wheel ruts.

So who built those old rutted roads? Imperial Romebuilt the first long distance roads in Europe (andEngland ) for their legions. The roads have been used ever since

And the ruts in the roads? Roman war chariots formed the initial ruts, which everyone else had to match for fear of destroying their wagon wheels. Since the chariots were made for Imperial Rome , they were all alike in the matter of wheel spacing. Therefore the United States standard railroad gauge of 4 feet, 8.5 inches is derived from the original specifications for an Imperial Roman war chariot.. Bureaucracies live forever.

So the next time you are handed a specification/ procedure/process and wonder 'What horse's ass came up with it?', you may be exactly right. Imperial Roman army chariots were made just wide enough to accommodate the rear ends of two war horses. (Two horse's asses.) Now, the twist to the story:

When you see a Space Shuttle sitting on its launch pad, there are two big booster rockets attached to the sides of the main fuel tank. These are solid rocket boosters, or SRB's. The SRB's are made by Thiokol at their factory in Utah . The engineers who designed the SRB's would have preferred to make them a bit fatter, but the SRB's had to be shipped by train from the factory to the launch site. The railroad line from the factory happens to run through a tunnel in the mountains, and the SRB's had to fit through that tunnel. The tunnel is slightly wider than the railroad track, and the railroad track, as you now know, is about as wide as two horses' behinds.

So, a major Space Shuttle design feature of what is arguably the world's most advanced transportation system was determined over two thousand years ago by the width of a horse's ass. And you thought being a horse's ass wasn't important? Ancient horse's asses control almost everything... and
CURRENT Horses Asses are controlling everything else.

A trip down memory lane

2009-05-27T15:19:00.012+03:00

Well long time no blogging, and the reason is simple life in little old Riga for me this last few weeks has shall we say been "challenging" However as we now burst into summer, and with outdoor cafes and bars now all alive and well, indeed with some new ones on show I thought I would take a trip down memory lane on behalf of the those village people who have long since departed these shores. The photographs are my little trip from Alunana iela into the old town and back via the Freedom monument. Many of you will need no explanation as to where the various shots are, but where I felt a little comment was needed I have added same.

Congress Nams

over the canal bridge

into Dome Square 13 Chairs converted into 150 chairs !

The NEW terraced bar with beer at 90 centimes a pop if you go to the bar yourself, otherwise DOUBLE if served by waitress/Waiter !! - Wondering about the fire engine ?

Looks and is pretty good, absolutely beautiful when the sun is out

Still desolute !! - very sad

Velvets has reopened without being re-furbished, apparently ran out of money

Wondering what they are talking about ? - well it appears that P.....s ( Senior marketeer) sent a few Irish lads around to S.....s ( Indian restaurant guru) last weekend and they how shall I say "misbehaved" and were "asked " to leave !!

From Pub to Hi fashion store to shut - all in six months ! - what the Dickens is going on ?

Livi Square

back thought the park via Freedom monument ( And McDonalds - sorry but I was hungry

Want to know how many wedding this year ? count the padlocks - hundreds !

The only fountain working this year ! - I suspect because it sits in the canal and can use canal water, all the others need a fresh water supply and domestic water is now expensive in Riga

and finally............

You may need to click on the picture to read the poster for a new show in Riga - but I wonder who the genious was that came up with a title like that. Do not think they would be allowed in UK.

If you are wondering about the fire engine in Dome Square, believe it or not it is a stage !! - Every the musicians climb up on top and play their music - well it is different. and just for the record they are good - the downside is they play the same music every night.

Finally one little bit of gossip - but true, there will be a new Pub opening in the very near future, located in Dome Square, and with a lady we all know and love behind the bar. No names at this time - but keep watching when all will be revealed.

Finally I now have a new nickname - Riga Breakfast King - do not even ask why !!!!!!! - and one last point of note to the team that play in zebra strips based in England's North East - do not blame B..... ( English - 35 years in pain) - he has absolutely nothing to do with the demise of the team this year - or at least that's his version of the situation as can be seen from his recent comment left on the blog. As for me can it really be a coincidence that a team that has never been out of the top flight of English football suddenly get relegated the same year as he returns to the UK and then actually goes to live and work in the same city - hmmmmmmmmm - does make you think.

Is it just me ?

2009-04-16T09:53:00.014+03:00

We all know about the financial madness that is/was sweeping the world, but have you noticed that there are other weird things going on. Now these weird things do not get a great deal of publicity, but they do indicate that there is a growing number of happenings around the world givings signs of change and unrest - for example - down in sunny Wales.............

Dispute between Neighbours - this a true story

A town councillor in Wales - Mark Easton, had a beautiful view of the mountains until a new neighbour purchased the land below his house and built a new home. The new home was 18 inches higher than the planning department had approved, so Mark, mad about his lost view, went to the local council to make sure they enforced the roof line height. The new neighbour had to drop the roof height at great expense to himself.

Recently Mark called the planning department and informed them that his new neighbour had installed some vents on the side of his new property.

Mark did not like the look of these new vents and asked the planning department to investigate. When they went to Mark's home this is what they found

The local authority said the vents can stay as there is no planning law referring to vents

And then yesterday in Benoni ( where the h..ll is that you may ask ?)

Now can anyone explain how Afghanistan managed to get a cricket team together ? where do they play ? and how do they get the cricket helmets over the towels they wrap around their heads ? and if they have to prey to Mecca four/five times a day, does that mean they have prayer breaks instead of tea and lunch breaks ?- Oh and just for the record earlier this week they beat Ireland - next thing it will be the Afghanistan curling team !

As an aside details of the Afghanistan Cricket board can be found at http://www.cricinfo.com/link_to_database/NATIONAL/ICC_MEMBERS/AFG/

and it is interesting to note one of the boards aims in promoting cricket in Afghanistan is , and I quote "The aim of the ACB is to get all Afghanistan Men to choose cricket bats instead of guns" to which I am sure the Scottish team must be eternally grateful - just think what the score would have been if they had chosen guns !!

Now we all know that there are some weird place names in the world, but this one has to be near the top of the unreal list

Now for those of you expecting updates on the goings on in Riga, then as you might gather not a lot is going on. Last weekend saw a feast of good Rugby and reasonable weather which permitted me for the first time this year to sit in the park, and quietly read a book, and as I write the weather is bright and sunny if a just a little chilly.

The outdoor bars and cafes are springing up all over the place , and just opposite to where I live a new Italian restaurant has opened. In a previous incarnation it as know as The Diplomat, then The Chez Bar, but now it is Rossini's. Not exactly the best time to be opening a restaurant, but I can butt wish them luck, as they have spent the last two months seriously refurbishing the interior.

Still no sign of life from the trees, no buds - no blossom, at least not in Riga.

On bit of news re the village lounge, in the very near future, the rear of the building, both upstairs and downstairs will be torn down, likewise the very rear of the building, which housed offices. The reason I am told is that the owners have permission to remove the rear buildings, as it is only the "front" of the building which is protected. So presumably at some time they will build a new building, but for this summer it would appear there will be huge open courtyard, bearing a close resemblance to a building site I suspect - but we shall see.

Of course this now means that there will be no toilets on the ground and first floor, but as I write new toilets are being built on the second floor, previously sealed behind the red door. So for anyone using the ground floor bar, they had better give themselves plenty of time to climb two flights of stairs !! - I suspect we might well see a few "accidents" on route.

And finally it is my birthday next Sunday so all charitable donations will be gratefully accepted, ,and I am totally open to surrender my pride and let you buy me a drink ( or two !)

The "B...." is back in town

2009-04-06T09:44:00.006+03:00

It must be spring !! - the outdoor bars are opening - the sun is shining and young B....(English - teacher of language) is back in town or at least for a few days. Now a resident of Newcastle and apparently teaching Arabic youths to speak English or is it Geordie ? He is looking surprisingly well but is obviously determined to pack as much into his brief stay as is possible - and not just alcohol !

This is the earliest that I can remember for the outdoor bars to open, but in Livi square there at least four open, with the biggie under construction, and in Dome square 13 chairs has suddenly become 113 chairs. So hopefully the sunshine will last through until the Easter weekend.

Now you may wondering why I am not showing pictures of these happenings - well unfortunately some months ago I was "burgled" and apart from taking my wallet. mobile phone, they also took my camera - so no pictures until I replace, as the one phone I have left takes only low quality pics.

As ever it is kind of weird to be talking about Easter, when there is not one sign of Spring to be seen, the trees are still bare, there is spring flowers in the gardens, and the grass is still a dirty brown colour. But no doubt before April is out we will catch sight of the first blossoms appearing.

A small but significant step was made in recent weeks with the discovery that we can indeed watch the UK tv channels, albeit via your computer - by registering with www.ukproxyserver.com (sorry it costs money £9.99 per month) one can obtain an UK IP address, which then permits you to watch a number of UK channels. So for at least one technically challenged individual P..... (English - king of waste management) he can now keep uptodate with Eastenders (sad I know) as well as watch his beloved horse racing. For those of you already in the UK then all you have to do is point your web browser at www.tvcatchup.com and voila tv on the pc !! - and to think the whole purpose of the revelution of compuetrs in business and at home was to make us more productive in our work and private lives. So now we can watch tv on our PC's - whatever would John Logie Baird think.

On the same subject why do cable & satelllite TV broadcasters insist on making available radio stations as one of the channel selections ?? - Do you know anyone who switches on their Television and listens to the radio ??

PC's to watch TV
TV's to listen to the radio

The world is going mad !!

In this age of the internet suddenly we have become addicted to sending to all and sundry our latest in jokes. Well I am indebted to a lovely lady in Wales A....(Welsh - long suffering wife of never to be forgotten cat flap maker) for sending me this gem. Personally I think this should be issued to all cretins arriving from UK (or anywhere for that matter) and that they obliged to where them thoughout there stay in Riga. They no doubt will think that they are being amazingly funny and original whilst we as onlookers can see what they really are P....s !!

Now just for the record whilst my disdain for many of the visiting brits is well known, it only fair to say that in recent times they have noticable by their absence, and even those who I come across seem "reasonably" well behaved, but then again what happens in Riga after 8.00pm is and always has been a complete mystery to me.

And finally I am delighted to olet you know that the British Embassy in Riga has finally admitted that I exist. I have received an invitation to attend the embassy to celebrate St. georges day on april 26th !!!!!! - what happened to St. Andrews Day ?? - or should we simply rename the embassy as the ENGLISH EMBASSY

So to all of you there have enjoyable easter - not to many chocolate eggs

News about News

2009-03-14T12:36:00.004+02:00

For many of us living in Riga part of our daily life is in checking via the internet the various news channels sites available to us, likewise what would a day be like if at least once a day we did not access our favourite newspaper site be it local or national just to check what is going on at home and in the world.

However getting news, at least in English as to what is going on in Latvia or indeed the Baltic's has at least for now been near impossible. Even the English language Baltic Times web site is always somewhat out of date as it only publishes weekly.

So it was with some surprise that I discovered a web site covering the events in all the Baltic States with factual reporting and is updated on an hourly basis.

So for those of you who wants to get the facts check out

http://www.baltic-course.com/eng/analytics/

Now as we all know the world is in deep s..t - but just to give a taste of the goings on in Latvia here are a two of the headlines at the Baltic-Course web site

Apartment prices in Riga dropped by 52% in February over year

In February 2009, compared to February 2008, new car registrations in Latvia decreased 76.2%

So all good news there then !!

Now this weekend sees the penultimate rounds of the six nations rugby, with Wales meeting Italy, Scotland v Ireland and then on Sunday France v England. So hear is my forecast

Italy beat Wales !!
Scotland murder Ireland
France annihilate England

However returning to reality I suspect only one out of the above has a chance of proving to be true. So I will watch the Wales game at home courtesy of SC4 and of to the village lounge to watch Ireland v Scotland courtesy of France TV2. But can someone please explain to me why the Scotland game starts at 5.00pm GMT (7.0pm in Riga) - or is this simply to cater for the TV rights of the broadcasting companies.

Books Again

2009-03-11T10:18:00.002+02:00

In my undying efforts to spread the reading habit to all ( and make a few Lats in the process !!) I have set up a new web site

https://sites.google.com/site/englishbooksinriga/

It will also allow those of you have excess books to put them up for sale (with a little commission for me)

Anyhow spread the word to those who live in Riga

Books Galore !!

2009-03-10T13:08:00.005+02:00

So what can I tell all of those you still with great frequency check out the blog for any update I cannot believe I am still getting approximately the same number of visits as before. Mind you I have to thank NTL and TECHNIUMVPN.CO.UK for the frequency of there visits - strangely both based in Wales on in Port Talbot area and the other in Swansea. I wonder who they could be ??????

Life in Riga at least for the moment is singularly quiet, and for the last week my internet connection has been down !! Izzii have a great customer service person - if and when you can actually get a hold of him !!!!!!!

However we did see the return of young C.... (English- retired beach bum) - apparently life in England was not to his liking, and so he has once again set foot into the Riga life, with a possibility of a more permanent stay - we shall but see.

Our Mexican dilettante has once again had a switch in career, from aspiring to become a licensed doctor, he has now decided to become a licensed Ophthalmologist. Apparently this will only take three years, but given V..... track record of late - I suspect this may be short lived, however I wish him all the best.

Last weekend saw a brave try to change locations to watch the rugby Wasps v London Irish - first of all we thought to try the Stars pub in Lacsplace - but this was filled with locals watching Ice Hockey - so onwards and forward to Stars pub in old town - but no Wexford and no Velvet - so leaving J... ( Australian - SIP specialist) to his Guiness, I forelornly returned to the Village lounge - only to find that the most obnoxious, loud, ignorant Texan-American was back in town - and had taken over the upstairs.

So I quietly gave in and had three beers in the back room and watched the rugby in perfect peace. I had thought that this piece of American s..t had returned back to his homeland for good, but as they were working on the new American Embassy, I can only assume they have returned - hopefully for as short a time period as possible.

Now in an effort to take advantage of my extensive book library, I have decided to set up a little book shop, where for a modest amount you can buy my books, and if you so wish if you bring them a back then you can get a discount on any new purchase. Total number of books initially will be around 200+. I would love to say this was my idea, but I have to give credit to our Mexican Barman/doctor/Ophthalmologist etc etc for the idea - we shall but see how it works out - and at worst it will help my clear up some space at home.

The weather is somewhat of a flux, with frequent snow showers, but temps are staying above zero, and what is really nice is that once again I can wake up to daylight.

Very little news to report on ex village members - in fact none - other than that our Welsh wizard of cat flaps has succeeded where all others have failed, and is now working for - and say this quietly a French company - and this after France beat Wales - see in these desperate times no time for principles !!!

The former Irish brigade are visible by there silence - nothing P... (Libya - administrator in chief) - J.....(Ireland - finance entrepreneur) J... (Ireland - Builder of food chains) nor indeed J.... (Ireland - king of the undersea buses)

And finally a bit of good news and I quote from Leta News Agency

"Annual inflation in February decreased to 9.6%"

What it does not say is that in January it was 9.8% !! - but in these troubled times better a step down rather than up

Riga is a Riot

2009-01-20T10:30:00.006+02:00

Well it has been a while since the blog was updated - and why you might ask ? Well when I started to blog it was to reflect life here in Riga, and over time it also came to reflect on what was known as the village people. Well in the case of the latter they are no more.

This week will see the departure of D..... ( American - English teacher) and his love;y wife S.. (English - English teacher) . They are heading back to the UK to begin life anew. Also this week sees the departure of P..... (Irish - with low alcohol tolerance) as he heads for the delights of Libya !!.

So who is left ? well me J.... (Australian SIP king) A.... (English - white goods king), F..... (Australian - lord of the hostel) and P.... (English - ruler of waste), V..... (Mexican - understudy bar tender), V... (Australian - under worked builder) and J.... (Australian - he who needs gates) and that's about it !

So in reality there is little to write about as to the goings on here in Riga as frankly there is not a lot going on.

We did see a little excitement last week with an anti government demonstration in Dome Square, which subsequently led to some ugly scenes in Smilsu iela, with a group of young thugs with there new found ability to express there democratic rights, deciding to smash a few windows, overturn some police cars and set light to some fires. Somehow I managed to miss the whole business as I passed through Dome Square and down Smilsu iela some 30 minutes before the trouble started.

However the whole thing simply reflects the dire state of things in Latvia, and this allied to inept (corrupt ?) government does not bode well for 2009.

For the first time since I came to Riga my thoughts are turning to seek pastures new, but where ? as the whole world seems to be in a poor state of health.

Sorry if all this sounds depressing, and maybe it is because of Winter, but at least for the moment Riga holds no great attraction right now.

Anyhow to those who have been kind enough to inquire as to my well being and to bemoan the lack of blogging, may I wish you a Prosperous new year for 2009 - and be assured when this wave of depression passes by, I will hopefully be able to again return to more cheerful observations on life in Riga

What can you buy for 2 Lats ?

2008-11-10T12:06:00.005+02:00

With prices spiraling out of control all over the world, and with recent comments from our illustrious leaders of the Latvian Government that was well in the Latvian financial sector, it was with some surprise ( to me at least) when it was announced on Saturday that Parex Bank had collapsed, and that for the princely sum of 2 Lats the government had purchased 51% of the shares. However as you can see from the LETA news agency the Bank of Latvia President does not think there are any other banks in similar position - Hmmmm we shall but see

No other banks under threat - central bank chief

RIGA, Nov 9 (LETA) - Bank of Latvia President Ilmars Rimsevics told reporters last night after the Cabinet's emergency session on the fate of ''Parex banka'', that there is no information that any other bank in Latvia is experiencing similar woes. As reported, by paying LVL 1 to each of the bank's owners, the government decided yesterday to take controlling interest in the bank. As reporters were told last night by Finance and Capital Market Commission Chairperson Irena Krumane, clients had lost trust in the bank and they had begun to withdraw their deposited money. Rimsevics added here that there was no information that the bank's shareholders themselves had withdrawn their deposits and/or savings.

The good news from all of this, particularly if you are car enthusiast is that there will probably be two Maybachs up for sale

Last weekend was relatively quiet as long as you were not in the village lounge, as the rear room was taken over by a group of Welsh type persons giving there vocal support to the Welsh Rugby team playing against South Africa. Prior to the game starting, whilst watching the Arsenal v Manchester United game, there favourite chant seemed to be

You can stuff the football up your A...e (think anal !),

and there instructions to the Welsh rugby team certainly gave the English language a whole new resonance. Did not do to much to enhance the Welsh image abroad. Apparently they were from Pontypridd ( not sure if that is the correct spelling )

On the domestic front the birds are back inhabiting the trees overnight and crapping upon all and sundry underneath - as I have asked before where do they crap in the summer ??

It is with regret that I a must advise that the Christmas Party is definitely off - so if anyone out there want to make a donation just send the money to the bank account or give it to me and I will deposit it in the account. Pity - but a reflection of the times.

Sunday saw us once again head for the cemetery at Jelgava to honour those British Army and Naval [personnel who died duting the first World war. It was unseasonably mild - as J.... (Australian - ditherer in chief) and C.... (English - womaniser par excellance) took about place for the ceremony. As ever it was moving and again saw the return of Earl of Carlisle. This is man who is there every year, but I cannot work out does he live in Latvia or does he fly over just for the occasion - dose anybody out there know ?

In keeping with tradition on our return to Riga we heading to the village lounge to toast the fallen, but on this occasion as the upstairs was not open, we sat downstairs and had the worst tasting beer I have had for long time, so we swiftly departed to the Star pub across the road and enjoyed a couple of pints before retiring back to our respective abodes.

Now on the subject of the village lounge the "management" seem to be expanding there product offerings as can be seen from the poster below, they are now MORE than just a pub !!!

Now quite what parachuting, shooting and quad bike racing has got to do with running a good pub escapes me, so put that together with lap dancing nights, it strikes me that the key elements of a good and successful pub, namely good beer, friendly service and reasonable selection of food is taking second place to these various "activities". But do not be misled by the poster as none of the staff seem to know anything about these activities - so I guess it is down to P.....

I will take a bet that not one of the staff or management has had any training in running a cellar. When was the last time you saw anyone cleaning out the pipes ? Now it may well be that they carry out all of the bar maintenance prior to actually opening, but I suspect not as none of the bar staff seem to know what I was talking about when asked. Sorry about this prolonged whinge but a pub is a pub not an entertainment centre. - Enough said - as I will still be going there until such times as someone actually opens a real pub in Riga.

If you would like to keep uptodate with all the "activities" then check out there web site www.pub.lv

Tails of two Catties

2008-10-24T10:22:00.005+03:00

Once upon a time in a far off town of Oliane worked a man from the distant country of Wales. In his factory he kept his many slaves working all day and night in pursuit of making his fortune. The slaves toiled under arduous conditions making miniature plastic doors to allow feline animals to escape from their wicked masters.

Now in order to check that these doors or cat flaps as they were commercially known it was necessary for the factory owner to breed a multitude of cats. These cats were then set the task of testing the flaps to make sure they worked properly, however it sad to say that many times they malfunctioned locking the cat out from its home, simply to wander the street of Oliane looking for the magic magnet which would let them back in.

When two good knights heard of the cats plight they decided to rescue as many of the newly bred kittens as was possible. The knights names were D.... (Scottish executive type person) and R..... (Latvian - reluctant bar tender).

With cunning and daring they crept into the factory and with great courage snatched two of the poor kittens, thereby saving them from years of cat slavery testing these plastic flaps.

Now in keeping with all good tales of the good and the wicked, when the local populace learned of the evil goings on in his factory he was banished back to Wales never to return, except when he could get a cheap Ryan Air flight - but never to be allowed to return to his manufacturing of the insidious cat flaps.

And what you may ask became of the two rescued kittens well as you can see below they are living happily ever after, just like in all good tales !

It is with regret that I have to advise all that the Christmas Party for 2008 is officially cancelled due to a lack of numbers, however if any of you out there would like to make a donation please do so the Zvannieki bank account listed at the side of this blog - if nothing else this year if we can raise a little money then we can either just donate the cash or as we have in past years treat them to a few Christmas goodies.

But a piece of good news to close B.... (English - noted for his satorial elegance) has won his dream job as a teacher in Newcastle - so just when the Newcastle fans thought it could not get worse ?? - Any my best wishes to him and his new role - likewise I trust his arrival will give his team reason to improve.

Going - going - GONE

2008-10-17T12:12:00.009+03:00

Well yet another party to "celebrate" the departure of one of the village persons, but as you can see from the pictures below the actual number of village people who can attend the little celebrations is getting less and less. Nonetheless with J..... ( Irish - purveyor of tales of the sea) taking the chair and buying the drinks for the assembled I trust he had a farewell to remember. As I had to leave early I will no doubt learn later as to when the actuall party came to an end. For his part he was of the opinion that he was NOT going to have a late night, but why do I have this feeling that reality was somewhat different - we shall but see !

Quality not Quanity

A lovely couple ??

Does this man look happy or not !!

So whatever and wherever his next role in life takes him I (we) wish him every success, and he has promised just like a bad penny that he will return !!

Riga is now beginning to put on its Winter hat, as the leaves are descending from the tree in droves, and despite the best endeavors of our street/park sweeper upperers, they continue to make the street and pavement a wee bit slippy. Added to that the weather of late has been how shall I say depressingly Grey and wet, which I have to say adds a touch of doom and gloom to life in the city.

However just when you think life cannot get any worse, there is always a story of a poor unfortunate which makes you appreciate how lucky one is - for example take this from todays UK papers

Whoops! Rare American bird touches down in England 'for first time'... and then gets run over and killed by car

It took a 3,000-mile detour, after getting blown off course en route to South America, before alighting in England's green and pleasant land.

But, sadly, the arrival of the American Common Nighthawk, which has never been seen before in this country is not a happy one.

The rare bird appears to have landed and then been promptly run over by a car in the Isles of Scilly, off the coast of Cornwall. It was found by birdwatchers dead at the roadside.

Tragic end: The body of the American Common Nighthawk, spotted for the first time in this country, after it was run over by a car. Below, a specimen in full flight

Enlarge

So it seems even for the birds life can suck - and you will note there is no mention of the poor motorist and what happened to him/her.

So I guess my advice to all is stick to where you know, and do not venture into strange habitats, this advise is particularly relevant to the cretins visiting Riga.

This weekend sees the 2nd round of the Heineken Cup, so I suspect it will be feast of rugby on Saturday and Sunday, but the big question is where to watch The village lounge or or new Star pub ??

and another one !

2008-10-15T12:51:00.002+03:00

The village is disappearing, as I learned last night that another one of our village people is departing these shore.

Our treasured Irish person J.... ( sailor with weird sock fetish) is leaving this Friday to return to his native land. Now all of this is very sudden, but if anyone out there in Rigaland ( is there anyone left ?) would like to bid him farewell then he will be at the village lounge on Thursday evening.

Also be aware that our annual Christmas dinner is in danger, as of today we have less than 7 confirmed attendees, I will be sending out an e-mail this weekend to all concerned, but to those planning to fly in I suggest you hang back from buying your air ticket.

LA LA Land

2008-10-10T12:51:00.005+03:00

With all he financial woes going on in the world, with exception of Latvia of course, at least according to our erstwhile politicians, it will come as no surprise to anyone that certain sections of society are clearly having some difficulties, and nowhere is this more evident than back in the good Old United Kingdom.

In the last few days these stories have hit the headlines

Butcher told to stop chopping meat because it is too loud

A traditional butcher has been banned from chopping meat in the morning because residents complain he makes too much noise.

By Lucy Cockcroft
Last Updated: 6:31PM BST 09 Oct 2008

Mr Clapton argues that because the council own the freehold of the building it is liable for the cost of soundproofing work Photo: EASTNEWS

Brian Clapton, 51, was ordered to stop preparing the meat between 6am and 8am on weekday mornings and 9am on weekends because tenants in flats above his shop were unhappy with the chopping sound early in the morning.

Mr Clapton had run his business, Brian's Meat Store, for 13 years without any problems, until he was told in November 2007 to soundproof the premises or cease slicing in the early hours.

He has now been taken to court for refusing to obey a Barking and Dagenham Council order.

He appeared at Barking Magistrates' Court in Essex on Thursday to face four charges of breaching a noise abatement notice.

Mr Clapton argues that because the council own the freehold of the building, which has been a butcher's shop for 50 years, it is liable for the cost of soundproofing work.

Speaking ahead of the case, Mr Clapton said he had no choice but to prepare meat in the early morning and will be forced to close if he loses his case.

He said: "We start early because we are a traditional butcher's.

"The council has ordered me to soundproof the building but this is their property and I am their tenant so as freeholders they are responsible for making these changes.

"I will not be doing anything but continuing to work hard, pay my taxes and rates and try to earn a honest living."

The noise abatement notice was served after residents living above the shop complained. Landlady Sue Grimble claimed a number of tenants left due to the loud chopping sounds at unsociable hours.

Mr Clapton pleaded not guilty to four counts of breaching a noise abatement order in August.

and the next

Woman given £12k a month for home

The family moved into the property in July

A woman is receiving more than £12,000 a month in housing benefits so she and her children can live in a seven-bedroom house in west London.

The woman, who is from Afghanistan, approached Ealing Council in July when she and her children became homeless.

They were placed in a privately-owned seven-bedroom house off Horn Lane, Acton, as the council had no properties that size.

The authority said it has a legal obligation to help them.

'Fair play'

Following changes in the law, the council was forced to pay well over the average market rate for the property.

Local lettings agent Rajesh Kathuria, from RSK Homes, said the average rent commanded for a seven-bedroom property on the road would be between £2,000 to £2,500 a month.

This is quite an extreme case

Spokesman for the Department of Work and Pensions

"That should be quite a reasonable price according to my experience," he said.

Jawad Saindi, one of the sons, said the family were pleased with their new home.

"I think the property value is quite high, basically we were lucky to get this house," he said.

A council spokesman said the case exposed the "absurdities" of the housing and benefits system.

"The sums of money involved in this case will offend people's feelings of 'fair play', especially as so many are having difficulties paying bills at the moment," said Councillor Will Brooks.

"The story highlights some of the absurdities of the housing and benefit system. "

'Extreme case'

In April, the government introduced the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) which established national rules about what type of accommodation is appropriate and how much rent can be paid to landlords.

The change enables tenants and landlords to find out the maximum amount of LHA available before an agreement is reached.

"We believe that urgent changes are needed to the LHA and in particular for the publication of maximum rent levels to be ended," said Mr Brooks.

"This would enable all councils to be able to negotiate more competitive rent agreements without being undermined."

The Rent Service - an executive agency of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) - advised that the council pay the landlord £12,500 a month, partly because under boundary changes Acton is placed in the same category as the more affluent area of Westminster.

A spokeswoman for the DWP said: "This is quite an extreme case. This is one of probably only a handful of cases like this particular to London."

She said the government were currently reviewing the boundaries.

and finally

Gardener ordered to take down barbed wire to protect thieves

A gardener who fenced off his allotment patch with a single strand of barbed wire to protect it from thieves has been ordered to take it down in case intruders hurt themselves.

Last Updated: 2:53PM BST 09 Oct 2008

Bill Malcolm, 61, was told to "remove it on health and safety grounds" by the local council, which owns the allotments.

He erected the deterrent after thieves struck three times in four months, stealing more than £300 worth of spades, forks, hoes and wrecking his potato patch in the process.

But officials instructed Mr Malcolm to remove the waist-high wire from his plot at Round Hill Allotments in Marlbrook, Worcs.

He said: "It's an absolutely ridiculous situation, all I wanted was to protect my property but the wire had to go in case a thief scratched himself.

"The council said they were unhappy about the precautions I had made but my response was to tell them that only someone climbing over on to my allotment could possibly hurt themselves.

"They shouldn't be trespassing in the first place but the council apologised and said they didn't want to be sued by a wounded thief.

"I told them to let the thief sue me so at least that way I would know who was breaking into my allotment but everything I said fell on deaf ears.

"It seems as though they are so wrapped up in red tape, they are unable to help me.

"The barbed wire was a single strand and ringing my property only. It was just three foot high and wasn't as though I'd dug a moat filled with piranha and erected six foot iron railings."

A spokesman for Bromsgrove District Council responded: "With regard to the barbed wire, when this is identified on site, we are obliged to request its removal or remove it on health and safety grounds to the general public, as this is a liability issue. This is a requirement enforced by our health and safety department."

She advised allotment tenants with security concerns to contact the local police.

So there we have it Noisy butchers are banned, as is protecting your property, but it is OK to pay £12,000 a month to house a bunch of Afghans !!! - and some in Latvia have the temerity to suggest Latvia is going to the dogs !!!!

Stella(r) Times

2008-10-06T15:14:00.004+03:00

As I have mentioned before there has been a remarkable decline in the both the number and standards of pubs in Riga in recent months, and this weekend saw another set of changes - none of which are for the better.

First a minor one - You can no longer go to a Stella pub in Riga, no they have not shut down, simply changed their name - To Stars ??? - Why you may ask, well no one seems to know, but as that is the only change then I doubt if anyone will notice the difference.

Not so at our village lounge, as I told you a few weeks ago, in an effort to attract additional custom they introduced lap dancing in the upstairs back lounge, but and this a BIG but, we were all told that (1) it would not interfere with any sport and (2) that it would only be held after 10.00pm in the evening.

So what did I find on a Sunday afternoon, yes you have guessed it - lap dancing in the late afternoon. Apparently a group of Liverpool supporters had reserved the rear lounge to watch Liverpool play, but not satisfied with just football, they had also requested an Indian buffet dinner, to be accompanied by Lap Dancing !!!

No prizes for guessing my response, I walked out, as I had and do not have any desire to enjoy my pint with a bunch of Liverpool supporters lavishing over their Indian food whilst watching a lap dancer.

Personally I think the management have lost the plot, as the only reputation they are earning is a bad one. Now it may well be that I am a tad oversensitive to these goings on, but it will be interesting to see if next weekend with the beginning of the Heineken Cup, if we suffer the same fate.

If the management of said establishment read this be aware your staff think it was a crap idea to permit this on a Sunday afternoon. A private party cannot be avoided if it is good for business, but does it if have to have a b....y Lap Dancer ?

My final words on the subject, the Management stated that they would not advertise such events - so I suppose that's why they produced these business cards !!!!

On the subject of lunacy, outside many buildings in Riga there is a notice indicating that you are not permitted to smoke within 10 meters of the building, so can someone explain why immediately outside the main door of said buildings there are ash trays come litter bins ????

Is it me or is the world going to s..t ???? - I think I need to take a happy pill

Rimi Prama

2008-09-22T13:50:00.010+03:00

Now as anyone who has gone shopping at a Rimi store in Riga knows, the parking spaces are divided into normal and those for the disabled. In the case of the latter they are in any event used by those whose only disability is that they are to to lazy to walk far, and so park in the "disabled spaces", which are invariably closest to the store entrance.

But now the Rimi has gone one better, by creating parking spaces for giant prams !!

Now as yet I have not actually seen any of these giant prams, but given that they take up the same space as that used for cars - they must be bl..dy huge !!! - and lord only knows what size the babies must be ??

Now once again I have to report on the upcoming departure of one our village people, young C.... (English - a would be beach bum). It would appear that the lure of Manchester is too strong, ( does Manchester have any lure ??) - so within the next few weeks he and his young lady will depart to seek his fame and fortune in the land of Gordon Brown. I wish him well - but suspect he leaves with a heavy heart. But on this occasion I can report that as one village member departs so another is about to make his return. Many moons ago a person of Scottish origins and with a questionable taste in hats left with the promise that he would return. Well it would appear that date is not far off. He has indicated that in October/November he will return to set up up his new business here in Riga, and that from the beginning 2009 he will be here on a regular basis. So to I.. welcome back !!

Now on the subject of things Scottish this little video ditty was sent to me by our erstwhile J... (Australian - hoping for an erection soon ! - of houses that is !)

Aaaahh The joys of youth and insensitive mothers !

Nowadays it seems that writing this blog takes more than a few days, so since I started writing this at the weekend and it is now Wednesday, I can update all that the outdoor cafes - bars are fast disappearing - the latest being in Livi Square, so with bust a few days until their licences run out, I suspect by the end of next week they will all be gone, and that is a sure sign that Winter is approaching. One noticeable absentee this year has been the dancing she, that's the one that "dances" in ever diminishing circles, likewise the bearded artist, who I have to confess I have never actually seen draw a caricature of anyone, but it was always nice to see him sitting there on his little stool, cigarette in mouth and clearly pondering on the worlds (or his) problems.

This weekend sees the annual congregation of all Australians in Riga to watch the Aussie rules football final between Geelong and Hawthorne, and I am advised that Geelong are the favourites - so to all who may wish to watch this spectacle then I believe it kicks off at 7.30am local time, and the place to be is F..... (Hostel of world repute). For those like me who have no idea of the rules then I suggest you visit YouTube and watch this video www.youtube.com/watch?v=TA4gmMvye5M where all will be revealed. Beer and Vegemite toast will be on offer if it is anything like last year.

So with Riga basking in a late burst of sunshine I am off to visit the local park, complete with book and soak up the fading rays of this evening.

Poles apart

2008-09-12T10:37:00.006+03:00

Now as we all know in recent time we have seen the demise of a number of the local drinking establishments - in part due to the ridiculous rents being asked in the Old Town, but equally the reality is that they are suffering from a lack of clients.

Now in an effort to buck this trend the management of the village lounge have come up with an "interesting" experiment - Pole Dancers !!! Now I am not sure exactly what kind of clients this new attraction will attract - but given the bad publicity Riga has earned in recent years with its so called sex tourists, I am not sure that endeavor will add to Riga's reputation. However it has to be said that you cannot blame the management for trying to bring extra trade, as in the past week the average number of people in the lounge has rarely been above 3-4, at least during the hours that I visit, which of course is in the early part of the evening. Regretfully it will not attract any of the locals - but if helps the coffers and permits it to continue trading - then I guess we will have to live with it.

I have been assured that said dancing around the pole will only take place late in the evening, and only at the latter part of the week and at weekends.

Now on a another subject - namely Newcastle United. Those of you with any vestige of interest in football will know that in recent weeks the club has been in a state of disarray over the resignation of their beloved manager, who is apparently treated like a god, even though in all his time(s) at the club he not won a single trophy. Now it may only be a coincidence, but as you know one of our ex village members B..... (English - teacher par excellence) was and is a devoted supporter of said club. He recently achieved his life ambition by gaining a job in Newcastle. Now far be it for me to suggest such a thing but could it be more than a coincidence that no sooner has he settled in at Newcastle and gone to watch at least one game, then WHAM Keegan is gone and the club supporters are threatening to savage the owner ????

Also a question "Where have all the Irish Gone ?" - It is nearly two weeks since any sign of our Irish village people were seen - Have they all gone back to the home of the little people ?

Mind you there was a Irish invasion at the weekend, when about 30+ of them arrived upstairs in the village lounge to watch the Liverpool v Manchester United game, and I have to say what a week behaved bunch they were. Mind you they were of a mature age ! Speaking of games watched the Australia v New Zealand game, which had us all guessing right up to the end, but New Zealand eventually triumphed in what was a great game to watch. However the Aussies with whom I watched the game with took defeat well.

It is now a few days since I started this blog, and I can report that the pole dancing seems to be somewhat of a success, and is pulling in the punters, including one of our very own V.... (Mexican-Latvian - voyeur of the strange) who I am sure was there in a purely medical capacity, in order to provide assistance to any of the male fraternity overcome with excitement or indeed the dancers should they impale themselves against the pole.

Now if some of you out there think such frivolities should not be going on in what is claimed as an authentic Irish Bar can I direct you to www.misspoledanceireland.com where you will discover that such dancing is in the fine tradition if Irish dancing !! Indeed I have even discovered that there is a Pole Dancing World Championship !.

Now fior those of not educated as to what delights await you in the land of pole dancing check out the video below- Enjoy !!

All done in the best possible taste ! - personally having watched the video I cannot see what all the fuss is about

More Tattle than Tittle

2008-09-02T10:47:00.004+03:00

Well my faithful readers as you might gather from the lack of postings Riga is seriously quiet right now. Little or no cretins to moan about - no real activity at Zvannieki, but hopefully the latter might change this week, as I expect to visit there alongwith that rare bread of persons in Latvia - an electrician.

Elsewhere one of our beloved village people has been a smidgen unwell whilst on holiday, personally I put it down to the socks he wears - but I understand from our local Doc - V , that he is now on the road to recovery and may soon return to the fold in the next week or so. If anybody out there would like to send him a speedy recovery from his ailment - then just think what he would treasure most !

On the domestic front the said cat has grown, and I can now state without fear of contradiction that it is male and has been named Nielson (do not ask why)

Riga with its fast diminishing number of so called Irish pubs, now can lay claim only have one type of Irish - Guinness !! - A few weeks ago saw the disappearance of the cider Strongbow, and last week saw the disappearance of my tipple - Wexford - not just from the village lounge but from every pub in Riga !1 The country is going to the dogs !!

Is there no one out there you can put the money together and get a decent pub up and running - PLEASE !!

It is also fair to say that Autumn is nearly upon us, as with the return to school of Latvia's child like persons, so the weather is reminding us with ever lower temperatures that Winter is not so far away. Speaking of Winter I can re-cnfirm that our annual Christmas party will be held on Thursday 18th December at the same location as last year and with the same chef - P..... (Waste disposal guru) - so to those can make this date please put it in the diary and if possible let me know. I will be sending out an e-mail to all of last years particpants later in October. Also be remonded that we need goodies for the raffle and the auction - the more unusal the better !!!

One thing I have noticed in recent days is a number of the outdoor cafes are removing their chairs and tables from outside - perhaps a sign that the number of tourists is also diminishing.

Now young J... (Australian - budding house panel builder) has suggested that we make a little trip up river in October - so if anyone is interested let he or I know - perhaps our last chance to have a village outing before the onslaught of Winter.

Hair today - Gone Tomorrow

2008-08-20T13:34:00.008+03:00

Well after years of cultivation -- (Actually 5 months) -- I have singularly failed in my ambition to have hair long enough to form a pony tail. All my hair seemed to want to do was curl up. However as last weekend saw the christening of my grandson, and safe in the knowledge that my daughters would not approve of dad looking like a make believe hippy, it with great reluctance I took myself of to the barbers last Thursday to have the locks removed. Now I have previously described in intimate detail the prolonged agony that Latvian Barbers ( sorry hairdressers) go though just to cut your hair.

1. First wash
2. Towel dry
3. Gently cut hair by using hands, scissors and comb
etc.............etc

Well this time I got into about 1 minute of starting when I a took aside the young lady and showed her the electric hair cutters and told her to get on with it. So instead of 30 minutes of nonsense trying to style hair which would ultimately at best 1/4 inch long - it only took five minutes and I was out. So there is was - GONE ! but just to prove that I nearly achieved my goal a picture of my longest hair ever, as you can see all the way down to my shirt collar.

So my weekend was spent in partially sunny England, and Sunday saw the Christening of my (our) grandson - M.. ( Opposite of Min). A wonderful day, however as his parents have deserted southern England for Southern Wales, I trust that he does not become totally immersed in Welshness - just look what it did to S.... (Welsh - fax machine destroyer).

Now as anyone who knows me I never or at least rarely have a moan. But I have one question for the idiots who run Gatwick Airport - what in Gods name possessed you to start charging for luggage trolleys. Do you really expect every arriving passenger to have a £1.00 coin in his/her pocket ????? - because my friends if you do not then no trolley for you !!!!.

Was there really a great plague of stolen trolleys, or as I suspect more likely BAA simply fired the people you normally collect the trolleys and return them to the trolley stations, as now the already suffering passengers now have to return the trolleys to said stations - just like a supermarket - which is basically what airports are no a days. Apparently BAA is going to be made to sell some airports thereby breaking up its effective monopoly of airport ownership in the UK. The quicker the better say I.

Now speaking of nonsensical things I came across these Milliganisms :

Theres is an Irish Diver on a wreck at the bottom of the sea. Voice from ship says
"Are you down there Mick ?"
"Yes"
"Come up right away"
"Why"
"The ships sinking !"

Milligan on Rugby

Ireland had won the Triple Crown and decided to give the team new a new captain, Ciaran Fitzgerald a former army officer. He called a meeting of the team and they all called out "Aw jeez, Ciaran, come in . Have a jar" He said "No , lads. first things first". So he opened his Adidas bag, and took out a ball :
"Now this thing here is a Rugby ball".
And a voice from the back said
"Jaysus Ciaran . Your going to fast for us

and finally his infamous poem

I've got a three legged dog,
His name is Rover
Whenever he barks
He falls over !!

I have to confess Riga and any village gossip is extremely quiet, and the ongoing dissapearance of vilage people, it is becoming harder to get content for this blog, so until such time as there is sum semblance of seriusnews I am going to focus once again on the goingds on in Riga.

So on that note farewell until the next time !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

fy cyfaill

2008-08-08T12:08:00.017+03:00

This blog is in the main dedicated to our lone Welsh type person, who has now departed these shores to head back to sunny Wales.

No one knows quite why, but as Latvia suffers from a lack of sheep, and seven years without sheep is a long time, then this may be the reason why.

So what can I say about S.... (Welsh - with bad taste in shirts) - Well I could write a book, but I will not, I could write a poem - but I cannot - so I think the best that I and many others in the village can say is -

I (We) will miss him !!

I have it on good account that he will return in the not to distant future, and his presence will be felt at the Zvanniekii Christmas dinner in December.

Notwithstanding the fact that we held a farewell party only a few days ago, on Tuesday evening at the village lounge a few of us congregated to bid a farewell toast to S and his good lady A.... (Welsh - little person - big heart).

The following photographs give you an idea of the debauchery that took place.

The Group

Take a deep breath

Three men and a bag !

Two men and a bag

Do not ask -!!

A new profession perhaps ??

Stand tall lovely boy !
( must be said in Welsh accent)

See thats better !

With his departure Rugby on a Saturday afternoon will not be the same - just quieter

Osprey - Osprey - Osprey - Osprey !!!

And speaking of change, one of our village people has succumbed to that most noble of institutions - Marriage.

Young D.... (American - language teacher - is that a contradiction of terms ?) and his good lady S.. (English - cyclist supreme) tied the knot in far off America ( why ? - did they not want to invite any of the village people ?).

However to both of them my best wishes for a long and prosperous future

Sausages and Lamb

2008-07-27T15:13:00.010+03:00

Saturday afternoon came with blue skies, warm sunshine, as we all trooped out to A.... (Bristolian - qualified badger killer) house to host a celebratory party on the imminent departure of one of long serving village members S..... (Welsh - apparently suffers from random memory loss).

With strict instructions to be on time - 3.00pm - I duly complied along with the said S...., A..... (Welsh - long suffering spouse), his two children and young C..... ( English - would be beach bum).

The setting was perfect, and as was to be discovered later in the afternoon, the food was brilliant - but of course we had to start the proceeding off in traditional style - beers all round.

So with children ensconced in the swimming pool ( ok - plastic paddling pool !) and the men doing what men do best- drinking beer and talking absolute rubbish. However one gem did as ever emanated from the lips of V..... (Mexican/Latvian - holder of the key to useless information) - Apparently Water melons and Viagra have something in common - the both relax the muscles ! - So on this highest of authorities, a new medical break though for men, why waste money on the blue pill, when you can eat water melon and get the same result. For those of you in need, and try this out - let me know.

This was probably the largest gathering of village people in recent times, and I suspect that the rubbish bins will testify to the amount of beer, wine and food consumed - and to all of those of you could not make it, then Mr. S.... ( Welsh - with a shirt to die for ) - will still be around for a few more days yet. Regretfully the his cider consumption will be seriously curtailed as the village lounge is about to run out, indeed as I write it may well have run out !

Now speaking of consumption it would be fair to say that guest of honour did himself proud at the party,as was proven when later in the day he could not remember that he has telephoned for a taxi. He was quite convinced he had not, and his alcohol content had not influenced him one bit - me thinks not !

His little speech was how can say - Emotional - did I detect a little cry from the heart ?

So a day to remember, and I am sure tales from it will be told for a long time to come - however the time is not quite come to say farewell. To A.... (Bristolian - Barbecue King) and his good Lady Y...... (Latvian - hostess with mostest) - huge thanks from us all for hosting a great party !!

For those Irish readers you will be delighted to know that P..... (Irish - soon to be Gaddafi sidekick) - he did on this occasion to consume a few more beers and wine than usual, even if he was the only one to be drinking beer from a glass.

Oh - and the sausages and Lamp chops were illegally imported all the way from Wales, but I will for the sake of the guilty party(s) not publish details of this highly organised sausage/lamb smuggling ring gang members.

However at the party the culprits were caught on camera, and certainly they do have the hardened look of meat smugglers - so watch out next time you are travelling - they could be sitting right next to you !

Gone - but not forgotten

2008-07-24T10:22:00.009+03:00

Yesterday saw he departure of one of the long standing village members B..... ( English - noted for his sartorial elegance). His departure means we have lost one of the real characters within the village people. Noted for his love of Newcastle United, which of course we never held against him. He shared a love esoteric films with S.... ( Welsh - another soon to be ex village member) particularly those spoken in some weird foreign language but with sub titles.

So to B..... , we wish you well in whatever you get up to next, and we shall await with baited breath for your return in December for Annual Christmas dinner.

Another face from the past returned to the village lounge this week, regretfully I cannot remember her name, but for those of you who were in Riga around 1996, you may remember this face as she was one of the young ladies who graced upstairs at Paddies in those days, and as you can see she has not lost the knack of puring a Guinness !!

This weekend sees a grand party to celebrate or should that be commiserate the upcoming departure of S.... (Welsh - subtitle speed reader). The party being held at A... ( Bristolian - would be mole killer) home - so as the weather forecast says it will be sunny and warm, it should be another grand day out.

Still no pictures from our wayward New Zealander R.... of last weekends Song Festival, but as soon as I get them I will publish.

But finally and in fond remembrance of B.... - a pictures to gladden the heart of all the fair maidens of Riga - pictures that exposes what an amazing body B... had kept hidden from us all these years - a world exclusive , but ones which I hope will bring a smile to the face of the man

A Timely Reminder !!!!

2008-07-16T12:53:00.004+03:00

On behalf of A... ( Bristolian - seller of white goods) - an urgent reminder.

As you all know S..... (Welsh - would be singer) is shortly departing these shores, and so to wish him on his way A.... has offered to host a wee party at his house on Saturday 26th July. To that end he has sent out an-email to the likely culprits who would wish to attend - but to date he has had only two replies, and one of them was from S.....

So can I ask all of you who have received the e-mail - REPLY !! - If you are technically deficient, all you have to do is open the e-mail, click REPLY and enter how many of who will attend - then press SEND - If you fail to do this today then I will publish all non respondents names address and color of socks.

Lets give S.... the send off he deserves - as long as he promises not to sing

Now thats what I call a party

2008-07-16T10:56:00.009+03:00

As many of you will know last saw the five yearly Latvian Song and Dance Festival being, which culminated on Saturday evening with Song festival to end all Song festivals S ! - A choir some 18,000+ strong and over 2000 dancers - with an audience of over 40,000 people. All of this held at Riga largest outdoor stadium in Mezaparks.

I was lucky enough to have on of the tickets ( they were like gold dust) and duly arrived at the site around 8.30, with the concert scheduled to start at 9.00pm. However due to the thunderstorm earlier in the day, that actual concert did not get underway until around 10.00pm as the stadium area had been flooded, and required the Riga Fire brigade to pump out the area where the audience were seated. I must confess I only found out this later,as I could not see any signs of the flooding, and in any event we were entertained by a large group - 800+ of brass bands from 9.00pm.

But at ten the concert began, and all I can say is that for the next three hours I sat in pure amazement at the spectacle. Whilst I did not understand one word that was sung, the sound and sight of this massive choir was just amazing or to use a over used word "Fantastic "

With the concert ending at around 1.00am on Sunday morning, then the party really started with the biggest "sing in" I have ever witnessed, with audience participation the choir and dancers took to the stage and sang there hearts out with some of the most popular Latvian songs, both old and new.

I finally departed the stadium around 4.30am on Sunday morning - with the sounds still ringing in my head. I understand the party did not end until 6.00am, and even then the participants were ready for more. This was or so I am told the first time that this "sing in" had been held at the end of the festival, but I suspect it wil not be the last.

Sitting with me were R... ( New Zealander - B & B king) and his good lady D... (Latvian - artist of note) - and hopefully he will send me some of his pictures which show the event in full colour.

The next festival will be in 2013 - god willing I will be still around to attend.

Now last week saw one of the village members celebrate his 40th birthday - known to all as Doc, V...... ( Mexican/Latvian - owner of useless facts) - so somewhat belatedly - HAPPY BIRTHDAY !
This week sees the arrival of Guiness drinking champion, and former village member A... ( English - karioki champion) - so with closure of some of his previous drinking haunts, I suspect the village lounge will see a rapid increase in its Guinness sales.

Now the next item I am indebted to a friend of B... ( English - Teacher to the world) Now this is a world exclusive, and for the first time, and hopefully the last - Mr S..... ( Welsh - singer - I think not) . So if you are not offended by a lack of musical talent, and can remember that infamous song from the movie Jungle Book - I present - S...... the singer !! ( Apologies for the quality but it was filmed in secret)

If you would like to check B... ( maker of secret movies) then have a look at his blog http://willsimpson.blogspot.com/ The musical accompaniment was courtesy of another of B.../ friens M... (Scottish - George Formby protegee).

Last week also saw me suffer from a brain failure when in a moment of total weakness I accepted an offer from that S...... Welshman to take on a young kitten, recently born to one of his factory cats. There is no rational reason why I would want a cat, but there we are I now have one, as does young R.... ( Latvian - lounge bar person). Now it has to be said he/she is an engaging little thing - but as you might gather at this time the sex of said kitten cannot be determined, at least not by me. I wanted a male cat, I was told I had a male cat - but at this time there is no physical signs that I have got one - so right now he/she has no name !!

Anyhow meet thingy !