What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Riga. They wrote...
"The languages. They're tough. This winter was very cold/snowy but being a Minnesota girl, just took a few weeks to remember this is what I grew up in even though I'd done the last 4.5 years in the tropics! It was beautiful too even with the mounds of snow. Just dress warm," commented one expat who made the move to Riga, Latvia.

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"Expats in Riga often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. As Latvian is the official language, many locals do not speak English, making it difficult for expats to communicate and integrate into the local community. Additionally, the local culture is quite conservative, and expats may find it difficult to adjust to the more traditional values and customs. Finally, the weather in Riga can be quite extreme, with cold winters and hot summers, which can be a challenge for expats who are not used to such temperatures," remarked another expat in Riga, Latvia.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Riga?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Riga?
- Will I be able to find a job in Riga?
- What is life like in Riga?
- What do expats in Riga appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Riga?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Riga accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Riga like?
- What are healthcare services like in Riga?
- What are medical services in Riga like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Riga?
- What are emergency services like in Riga?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Riga?
- How are local medical facilities in Riga?
- As a foreigner living in Riga, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Riga, newcomers to Riga would love to hear your answer to this question.