Latvia

Those with a soft spot for Europe but who’d rather avoid the unsavory tourist surges should consider shifting their attention to a less likely travel candidate. Unexploited and remarkably intact, Latvia is a refreshing departure from the bustle that plagues many European hot spots while still serving up that necessary dose of vibrancy. Devoid of pretense, Latvia humbly welcomes its visitors to explore the country’s countless assets, including its medieval towns, ornate palaces, stone castles, and more. The size of this small coastal country greatly belies the extent of its attractions, which range from impressive Neo-Byzantine and art-nouveau architecture to sprawling beaches on the ice-blue Baltic. The pulsating energy of Riga, World Heritage Site and capital city, nicely offset the country’s tranquil components. Trekking through Latvia’s idyllic hinterland, ripe with unscathed architectural relics, is a trip through the country’s history.