Riga is a good place to buy local crafts, alcohol and
foodstuffs, but imported goods are very expensive. One of the best
souvenirs to buy is amber, for which Latvia is world famous. Look
out for amber set in silver jewellery; A&E and Tornis are two
well regarded boutiques. Other good buys are woollen jerseys and
hats with distinctive Baltic patterns, the local liqueur Black
Balsam, and World War Two memorabilia. Bargaining is not expected
and unlikely to be successful. A great shopping experience is a
visit to the huge Central Market, located in five cavernous
pavilions. Everything from fresh fish, fruit and honey, to cheap
clothes and pirated CDs can be bought here.
