Daugavpils: The Gem of Eastern Latvia

• HelloSveiki
  [svay-kee]
• GoodbyeUz redzēšanos
  [ooz rehd-zay-shah-nohs]
• YesJā
  [yah]
• NoNē
  [nay]
• Please/You're welcomeLūdzu
  [lood-zoo]
• Thank youPaldies
  [pahl-dyehs]
• Excuse me/SorryAtvainojiet
  [aht-vay-noh-yet]
• How are you?Kā jums klājas?
  [kah yooms klah-yahs]
• Fine. And you?Labi. Un jums?
  [lah-bee oon yooms]
• Do you speak English?Vai jūs runājat angļu valodā?
  [vai yoos roo-nah-yat ahng-loo vah-loh-dah]
• I don't understandEs nesaprotu
  [ehs nay-sah-proh-too]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEs vēlētos redzēt ēdienkarti, lūdzu
  [ehs vay-leh-tohs rehd-zayt ay-dyehn-kahr-tee, lood-zoo]
• I don't eat meatEs nēēdu gaļu
  [ehs nay-ay-doo gah-loo]
• Cheers!Priekā!
  [pree-eh-kah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseEs vēlētos samaksāt, lūdzu
  [ehs vay-leh-tohs sah-mahk-saht, lood-zoo]

• Help!Palīdzība!
  [pah-lee-dzee-bah]
• Go away!Aiziet prom!
  [eye-zyeht prohm]
• Call the Police!Saukt policiju!
  [sowkt poh-lee-tsee-yoo]
• Call a doctor!Saukt ārstu!
  [sowkt ahr-stoo]
• I'm lostEs esmu pazudis
  [ehs ehs-moo pah-zoo-dees]
• I'm illMan ir slimība
  [mahn eer sleem-ee-bah]

• I'd like to buy...Es vēlētos pirkt...
  [ehs vay-leh-tohs peerkt]
• I'm just lookingEs tikai skatos
  [ehs tee-kah-ee skah-tos]
• How much is it?Cik tas maksā?
  [tsik tahs mahk-sah]
• That's too expensiveTas ir pārāk dārgs
  [tahs eer pah-rahk dahrgs]
• Can you lower the price?Vai jūs varat pazemināt cenu?
  [vai yoos vah-raht pah-zeh-meh-naht tseh-noo]

• What time is it?Cik ir pulkstenis?
  [tsik eer poolk-steh-nees]
• It's one o'clockIr viens pulkstenis
  [eer vyens poolk-steh-nees]
• Half past (10)Pusdesmit
  [poos-deh-smeet]
• MorningRīts
  [reets]
• AfternoonPēcpusdienā
  [paych-poos-dyeh-nah]
• EveningVakars
  [vah-kahrs]
• YesterdayVakar
  [vah-kahr]
• TodayŠodien
  [shoh-dyehn]
• TomorrowRīt
  [reet]
• 1Viena
  [vyeh-nah]
• 2Divi
  [dee-vee]
• 3Trīs
  [trees]
• 4Četri
  [cheh-tree]
• 5Pieci
  [pyeh-tsee]
• 6Seši
  [seh-shi]
• 7Septiņi
  [sehp-teen-yee]
• 8Astoņi
  [ahs-toh-nyee]
• 9Deviņi
  [dehv-nyee]
• 10Desmit
  [dehs-meet]

• Where's a/the...?Kur ir ...?
  [koor eer]
• What's the address?Kāda ir adrese?
  [kah-dah eer ah-dreh-seh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Vai jūs varat mani parādīt (uz kartes)?
  [vai yoos vah-raht mah-nee pah-rah-deet ooz kahr-tes]
• When's the next (bus)?Kad ir nākamais (autobuss)?
  [kahd eer nah-kah-mah-ees ow-toh-boos]
• A ticket (to ....)Bilete (uz ....)
  [bee-leh-teh ooz]

Daugavpils, historically known as Dinaburg, was founded in 1275 by the Livonian Order. The strategic location on the banks of the Daugava River made it a significant military and trade center in the region. The original fortress built by the Livonian Order was crucial in defending the area against various invaders.

In 1561, Daugavpils came under the control of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. During this period, it became a prominent center for trade and culture. The city was known for its diverse population, including Poles, Lithuanians, Latvians, Jews, and Germans. This diversity fostered a rich cultural tapestry.

Following the third partition of Poland in 1795, Daugavpils became part of the Russian Empire. The city's name was changed to Dvinsk. Under Russian rule, Dvinsk developed as a significant industrial hub, with the construction of railways and factories contributing to its growth. The population swelled, and the city's infrastructure expanded rapidly.

World War I brought significant changes to Daugavpils. The city witnessed fierce battles and extensive damage. Following the war, Daugavpils became part of the newly established Republic of Latvia in 1918. The interwar period saw efforts to rebuild and modernize the city, with a focus on education and culture.

During World War II, Daugavpils was occupied first by Soviet forces and then by Nazi Germany. The city suffered immense destruction, and its Jewish community faced tragic persecution. After the war, Daugavpils was rebuilt under Soviet rule and became an important industrial center within the Latvian SSR. The Soviet era left a lasting mark on the city's architecture and infrastructure.

Since Latvia regained its independence in 1991, Daugavpils has undergone significant transformation. The city has invested in cultural heritage projects, restoring historic buildings and promoting tourism. Modern Daugavpils is known for its multicultural community, vibrant arts scene, and rich history, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.

Daugavpils is accessible via several modes of transportation. The closest international airport is Riga International Airport, located about 230 kilometers from Daugavpils. From Riga, you can take a direct train, bus, or rent a car to reach Daugavpils. The train journey from Riga to Daugavpils takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, while buses are also frequent and usually take around 4 hours. Car rentals are available at Riga Airport, providing flexibility for exploring the region.

Daugavpils has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses and trams, which are affordable and reliable. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks or directly from the driver. Taxis are also available, and mobile apps like Bolt can be used for convenience. For those who prefer cycling, there are bike rental services. Walking is another great option to explore the city center and its main attractions.

The official currency in Latvia is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available throughout Daugavpils, and currency exchange services can be found in banks and exchange offices.

Daugavpils is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places. Some neighborhoods, such as the area around the train station, may have higher petty crime rates, so it's best to stay alert.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which covers police, fire, and medical emergencies. Daugavpils has several hospitals and medical facilities. It is strongly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress smartly but comfortably. Casual attire is generally acceptable, but avoid overly revealing clothing, especially in religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and follow any specific guidelines. Public Transport: Do have your ticket ready and validate it upon boarding. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. A nod or a smile is also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and drinks. Don't refuse food or drink offerings, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Daugavpils like a local, visit the central market for fresh produce and local goods. Engage with the locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share insights about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Daugavpils Fortress, a significant historical site. For a unique experience, take a walk along the banks of the Daugava River or explore the city's vibrant art scene, including the Mark Rothko Art Centre.