It is easy to understand the difficulties any local authority faces in reconciling the need for low fares on public transport with an equal need to keep down taxes. However, it is a pity that Riga seems to have completely ignored the potential for revenue that foreign tourists can offer here.
Why is that no Riga bus stop has any information in English? Why is public transport at Riga Airport banished to beyond the car park? Why are there no bus maps easily available?
It would be far-fetched to claim that fares paid by foreign tourists could replace the subsidy the city has to provide, but there is no reason for tourists not to make a substantial contribution. Riga should be proud of its public transport. Why keep it a secret?
Neil Taylor
Author, Bradt Guide to the Baltic Capitals
