I took the bus up to Riga on Wednesday night, Dani (an italian friend) was also going to Riga to catch a flight so we kept each other company. It was only a 4hour bus ride. It continually amazes me how close together everything is over hear. Riga is beautiful. The same winding streets and beautiful churches as in Vilnius, but everything here has been renovated and dolled up for the tourists. Old town is flanked by the river on one side and a beautiful park on the other. I wish that I could put up some photos for you of St. Peters or the Dome cathedral. They really are lovely. I will try to find some on the hostel computer if I can. :) I managed to get a hostel right in the center of the old town and have had a lot of fun exploring. Of course it is still freezing, and my face is all puffy from the cold. My friends in Aura recommended that I look up this Latvian choreographer Olga Zitluhina while in Riga. After many trials and tribulations (and the help of at least 6 people) I managed to find her studio and take her class. I haven't had a good class in a long time, so it was definitly worth the long search. I really like her movement style, although it was rather difficult on my knees because of all the floorwork. And it was really nice to talk to some latvian dancers about the state of contemporary dance here and in the US. I would have been able to join them for a contact improv jam tonight as well, but I already purchased tickets to Giselle at the National Opera. But I can take her class again on Saturday before I fly out. Also, she might have some performances in the new baltic dance festival in Vilnius when I get back from my travels, which would be great! After taking her class I am very curious about her choreography!