I think my mind is finally made up. I need to visit both Riga and Chisinau on my journey. I am looking for decent apartment but I must say I want to find as economical as possible with out putting anyone in jeapordy. Anyone have any good leads for me to find apartments for one week stays. I have done the web thing but would like to know of any that the gentleman here have had good experiences with. I am finding it very funny that airfare is twice as much to Chisinau as Riga anyone have any good info on a service between Riga and Chisinau? Thanks in advance as I need all the help I can get!
While in Riga - I looked into booking a flight to Chisinau with the intent of seeing my lady. It was simply from Riga to Chisinau, then from Chisinau to Heathrow in London to connect with my already booked flight. Cost? By pulling every trick I could find - including a very discounted flight on a small prop plane operated by Blatic Air from Prague to Chisinau - nearly $1,000 (and my round trip ticket from the midwest to Riga in the first place was just over $1,000).
Yes I am finding it strange I can fly from Kansas City to Riga for around $850 but for the same trip to Chisinau it is almost $1850. I think I can get a ticket for the usual 40-50% less through priceline but still it seams to be a huge difference for the same amount of miles. But hey when did the airline make for any logical experience. I am sure it has something to do with the carriers but I think it is outrageous of course...lol. Did you find much in the way of lodging in Riga. Best so far is around $40 per night but I am not familiar with the area. It says it is in old town. I am going crazy though with two to choose I am finding it very difficult to make the choice. I still think maybe I will have to make two trips. It seams at least it would be just as cheap. Then I could spend more time with each and maybe find out for sure what is up. Thanks Jet I do apreciate it.
Shaggy, the reason Chisinau is so expensive is because there are only a few flights a day, not many people going there and little competition.
Try flying to Bucharest(Romania( and then getting a train.about 5 hours and 30 Euro's.
I can certainly help with an apartment, please advise for how long and what sort of budget you have
Thanks tradman. Yes I wondered what was up with that. Do you need a visa for Romania?
Yes I am finding the women there very westernised and many very strong minded...lol. I guess I am some kind of latvian stud or something as I have many writting me from there. There is really only one that I think is my type the others as you say are high maintenance...lol.
As far as budget I do not want to live in the getto but at the same time to me the place I stay is not that important. I would rather have my money for other things. I am hoping for something I can fix my own meals if I want and was hoping for under 50 US a night. Again I am not one to need much other than a place to sleep and a quiet place to get to know that someone. 2nd Bedroom might be nice just to give the option of being a gentleman...lol. As far as time I would say 1 to 2 weeks. Most likely 2 weeks as I think I am going to make seperate trips. Just think it will cut down on the explainations and hassles.
How is Moldova otherwise... It would seem to me the cost of living there is less than Riga. I must admit that I am betting Moldova is going to be my best bet as well but I am trying to take my time and be sure.
You need a visa for for Romania Shaggy, but obtainable at the airport for $10us dollars. My fiance found me a nice apartment to stay at last time. well equpped, in the centre of the city, not exactly pretty on the outside but very nice inside. I think it was only 35 Euro;s a day.
What can I say for Moldovans, well I have been very worried about my girl being home all day while I work for 12 days, came home the other day to find she had been out to the shop, bought some knitting needles and some wool, and had proceeded to knit a scarf and gloves for myself, her and her daugter....how traditional:-))
cost of living, well a very good meal out(trying to convert to dollars as pound very strong at the moment) $15 per head, 200 cigarettes $5, taxi's very cheap and if you want to risk a maxi taxi, then anywhere aroubd Chisina for maybe 50 cents
Wow a scarf I can believe but gloves that must be a feat! You are making us all jealous Trad! Thanks for the info! If you would not mind sending me the info on the apartment sometime I would appreciate it.
Bit difficult to send a brochure, but I can give you spec, apartment belongs to her former boss(woman) and should you need it, I can arrange it and someone to meet you there and show you around.
You would obviously need to be a bit trusting, but I am only offering as a favour, nothing in it for me.