Let's study Russian in Latvia (Europe)!

Feb. 4, 2013 - PRLog -- To study Russian in Latvia? Yes, for sure! Russian Language School Durbe says that Latvia is a great place to study Russian and the proof of this is the growing interest of foreigners who choose Latvia and Russian language courses in this beautiful country.  
 So, lets find out where is Latvia!  Latvia is situated in the North of Europe with an easy access from Scandinavia, the UK, other places in Europe and the rest of the world. Moreover, since 2004 Latvia has been a member of the EU, so here you can feel yourself safe and at home. Citizens of more than 60 countries (Canada, US, Brazil, Mexico, Australia)  including all the EU citizens do not require a visa to come to the course.
Russian language in Latvia. Almost half of Latvia's population is native Russian speakers and most of the population speak Russian fluently. The history of Russians in Latvia is quite long - about a thousand years. It started when Russian merchants came here for an access to the Baltic sea and thus control over Latvia. In the year 1941 Latvia became a part of the Soviet Union where the only official language was Russian. In spite of the fact that Latvia gained its independence in 1991 and the Latvian language became official,the Russian language hasn’t lost its importance in everyday communication, thus ensuring a good language practice for foreign students. Undoubtedly, many people go to learn English in Malta where it is heard and spoken no more than Russian in Riga. Here in Riga you can enjoy Russian culture, go to the Russian Drama Theatre, enjoy Russian cuisine, see the orthodox churches and if you come in summer time - visit lots of Russian festivals taking place in Jurmala and it will take you only 30-40 minutes to get there. Riga grants ideal environment for Russian language learners: you speak during your lessons and breaks, socialize during evening activities and, of course, with your Russian-speaking hosts. Newspapers and magazines, radio and TV channels, menus, cinemas and theatres... you will get all this in Russian.
Capital of the Baltics. The most attractive city for Russian language study in Latvia is undoubtly Riga. With the population of nearly 800,000 people Riga is one of the largest cities in the northern Europe ,although few would ever guess by looking at a map. The quaint beauty of the Old Town, the splendor of the City Centre architecture, the winding stretches of parkland and the nearby beach resort Jurmala are sure to charm everyone. As soon as you come, you will find a typical European city with a lot of brand shops with its guaranty of security and comfort. Moreover, Riga is the largest centre of education and science. This is confirmed by a variety of cultural events, international exhibitions, scientific conferences and seminars that take place in Riga every year. There is always something for everyone. Visitors receive intimate and relaxing atmosphere. Smiling people enjoy evenings in the Old Town pubs, beautiful women stroll around the city. All people are open-minded and will help you if you try to communicate in Russian. Whether it is business or pleasure, Riga has something for everyone and- what's best- you will have it all to yourself. Art nouveau and medieval architecture are always visible, quality restaurants abound and bars and clubs often stay open indefinitely as long as you have the cash to keep the taps flowing. You will enjoy the wonderful moments and at the same time master the Russian language.
What do students say?According to the above mentioned school students’ feedbacks, main reasons for choosing to study Russian in this country were: the visa-free regime for citizens of EU, USA, Canada, Japan, Korea and many other countries (so, its easy to travel and you don’t need to waist time and money applying for a visa), secure and comfortable atmosphere for tourists, excellent service at affordable prices, beautiful architecture and a seaside resort with 33 km of white sandy beaches  and, of course, a great opportunity for any kind of entertainment and recreation. An average lenght for Russian language course in Latvia is 2-3 weeks for European students and about 3-4 weeks for students from more distant countries like US, Canada, Japan, Arab Emirates. Although Russian language schools offer several types of accommodation options, the most popular is still Russian Host family accommodation option. This is an ideal choice for students who wish to experience Russian daily life and practise the language in an informal atmosphere. Come and become spoiled by delicious food made by hospitable Russian families!
Pay attention to a quality. Choosing the right school for language study is a very important moment. Students should always take into consideration a local (for example to check if a school is recognized by the Ministry of Education and Science of Latvia) and preferably – an international (for example Eaquals or IALC )  recognition of educational establishment. By the way, there is only one school in Latvia and Scandinavia what received an international accreditation Eaquals (Quality in Language Learning). Small classes, let’s say with no more than 8 students in a group, is of course a big advantage – this ensure rapid study process and much more visible progress in a short time period! Speaking about the courses offered by language schools, the most popular are General and Intensive Russian, Business/Executive Russian and Individual lessons.  According to RLS Durbe words, strong demand is gaining a special program for the teachers of Russian language ‘’Teacher Development program’’ – this course is for non-native and native speakers of Russian teaching at primary, secondary or vocational schools and universities or language centres for adults. What is more, Latvia is a great destination for a group cultural immersion experience – the program gives an opportunity to school’s and university’s groups to study Russian and explore Riga and Latvia during organized activity program. So, dear teachers - why not to plan your next educational trip to RigaJ?
There are so many interesting things to say about Latvia, we can speak hours about this wonderful country, but as Russians say: It is better to see once than hear a hundred times! So, let’s study Russian in Latvia!