The Latvian way to fix the economy? Hot blondes!

The world is in a global economic meltdown, but Latvia is suffering a bit more than most other nations – their economy is expected to shrink by 16% this year.

Some countries have introduced financial measures to get things back on track, others have been forced to simply sit back and wait for the worst to blow over.

Latvia is not one of them – their economic stimulus package is brilliant, and involves declaring May 31st “national blondes day”

The event was organized to cheer up the nation, and raise money for a charity. The event started with a parade, and other activities included a golf tournament, fashion show and an evening ball.

I’d say this is the kind of event that every country should consider. Perhaps May 31st could become a worldwide blondes day. Even if it doesn’t fix the economy, it certainly will spice things up a little.

Word for the Travel Wise (12/17/06)

After going through some of the language archives I just realized I forgot to include a very useful link in the Latvian lessons that can help not only with the exploration of Latvian, but many other langs as well. BBC Languages Quick Fix has a section for Latvian with audio on all the very basics. This is one of my favorite links and I have referred several people who want to learn more popular lingos to their pages. If you haven’t yet – please check it out!

Today’s word is a Latvian word used in Latvia:

paldies – thank you

To learn Latvian online for free you’ll need to be resourceful. Start with this Latvian Institute website full of info on the country and a short page dedicated to the lang and some common words which include axe, broom, pea, and beard. The Latvian tourism site has few, but far more useful in terms of greetings. If you’re more about face-to-face language practice head to the American Latvian Association’s annual meeting in April. As always find out who on My Language Exchange would be willing to help.

Past Latvian words: cirvis, dzintars, mugura

Word for the Travel Wise (10/17/06)

It’s been a while since I had a Latvian word and with winter right around the corner I’d like to suggest travel to the town of Sigulda. Known as a minor health resort and winter sports center it sounds as if you can get a very good back massage which should be much after spending a day on the bobsled run. See Lonely Planet’s short description of Sigulda.

Today’s word is a Latvian word used in Latvia:

mugura – back

To learn Latvian online for free you’ll need to be resourceful. Start with this Latvian Institute website full of info on the country and a short page dedicated to the lang and some common words which include axe, broom, pea, and beard. The Latvian tourism site has few, but far more useful in terms of greetings. If you’re more about face-to-face language practice head to the American Latvian Association’s annual meeting in April. As always find out who on My Language Exchange would be willing to help.

Past Latvian words: cirvis, dzintars