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In the morning the taught us how their school works. it was different from what we have here in spain, with more breaks and more dynamic classes 🕺🏼

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Stop at the Lāči bread factory (rye bread and traditional Latvian products)

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We took this photo saying goodbye to our families for one week 💕

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When we arived to school we did some really interesting activities about the environment. While we were having fun doing the task, we also were learning more about what could we do to make global warning disapear bit by bit.

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Before going to see the cement factory we had a very interesting and enriching talk about the history of the only cement factory of Latvia. We were told how it was built and its growth throughout the years. It is one of the few companies which is still run by the company's founding family.

Whatismore, this factory is making all the possibles changes in order to pollute as less as possible the environment, they even what to try to reduce the CO2 production to the 95%.

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Knowing SCHWENK and its commitment to the environment 

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Knowing SCHWENK and its commitment to the environment 

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SCHWENK plant in Brocēni is proud to be the only cement plant in Latvia. Alongside the historical site, which started the operations in 1938 and was the key towards Broceni development as a city, since 2010 operates one of the most modern cement plants in Europe

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Arrival at the Laima Chocolate Factory Museum and chocolate workshop.

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After our visit to the cement factory, we walked to a hockey pavilion where we would be able to do ice skating for an hour. Althoguh some of us were not used to ice skating, it was an unforgettable experience were we could have fun, be relaxed and spend time with our latvians friends. Laugh was guaranteed, it reached all parts of the pavilion.

Afer ice skating for a whole hour, we were all hungry so we went to eat up in the upper part of the pavilion. We had had a very tasty luch everyone talking about the falls of the others and laughing about it.

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Everything was beautifully decorated and themed around chocolate. We took a photo in a mirror at the entrance before starting the tour. Oh! and our guide gave us candy and chocolate before we started😋😋

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We were exhausted when we finished ice skating but had an increible time there.

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Looking forward to the takeoff to Rīga

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We were separated at the airplane but we managed to try to be as closed as possible 🧳💺

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We had the opportunity to meet the pilot and to teach us the controls of the plane. An incredible experience.

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Breakfasting cold cuts and typical Saldus cheeses in a pleasant environment.

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We sent hall of the morning in school, we saw some of their classes and we did a very interesting activity (some Kindle of treasure hunt) to get to know the school and see it completely. After some activities to break the ice we went to the cantine to have some Lunch before continuing our trip through Saldus.

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Some of the very delicious food we had in the school.

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Doing the treasure hunt while getting to know the school.

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After having some luch, we continue our visit through the school, we saw the sport área and we were ave to go to a special place were students go in order to study better and understand with examples what they learnt in class.

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We took this photo at the sports field

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Some other photos of pur visit to the school.

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After our visit around the school we went to the town hall and we had a very interesing talk about saldus traditions, festivals, celebrations and how the town hall organise different activities.

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Some photos in the meeting room of the town hall

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Some of the views that we had from the town hall.

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The “U” in SALUDS typically stands for “Unity”, though its exact meaning can vary depending on the context. In programs or educational frameworks promoting health and well-being, SALUDS is often used as an acronym to cover key aspects of a healthy life, such as S for Society or Social, A for Nutrition, L for Achievement or Leisure, U for Unity, D for Rest, and S for Safety or Mental Health. Here, Unity emphasizes the connection and balance between the body and mind, as well as harmony with the community and environment, highlighting the integral approach to overall health.

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This is an emblematic place in saldus. It is a reprentation of a painting of the most famous painter in saluds. It represents people (his family and friends) going put of the church. It a very revolucionary because painters in that time didnt paint so simple situacions.

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They explained to us what the different types of chocolate were made of, and yes, white chocolate is considered chocolate.

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Teaches in the Kuldīga Observation Tower.

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Teaches in the Kuldīga Observation Tower.

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Enjoying wonderful aerial views of Kuldiga. In the panorama, we can see the Venta River and some Kuldiga buildings such as the Church.🫶🏼

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We didn't expect this, but they took us to make some chocolates to take home as a souvenir🤭

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Taking a walk around the city of Broceni, enjoying its green areas and the lake.

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This was our first stop. The tower is located in Pārventas park and it has 25m tall and an inclination of 12º what makes people compare it with the Leaning Tower of Pisa. It was inagurated on february of 2024.

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We climbed that tall tower to see the views. From it we can see: The city of Kuldīga, the Venta River, the Venta River Waterfall(famous for being the widest in Europe) and the City Park.

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These are different views we can also see from the tower

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Here are some of the photos we took with those incredible views of the city😍

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Trying traditional food in Kuldiga: A wonderful fish with potatoes and cheese.

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We relived the same photo we took during Erasmus when we were in Fuengirola in January.

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After our great photo session we went down to look for the waterfall

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The waterfall of Ventas Rumb is up to 249 meters wide. Although it's not very high, with a maximum drop of around 2 meters, its great width makes it a continental record. In spring, you can watch the spectacle of fish migration as they attempt to climb the waterfall.

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In this video we can see the width of the waterfall better.

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We recreated the pictureee

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This is the teleport, It is a representative figure of Duke Jacob Kettler, it is very important in the region and symbolizes a connection between the past and the present.

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This is a photo of the city council visited today, and it was built in the 17th century.

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This is the city's old gymnasium, built in 1876, famous for its red hue thanks to its bricks. It currently houses the Kuldīga School of Music and Art.

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Beautiful views of the Nativity of Christ Cathedral, the most Orthodox cathedral in Riga. It was built between 1776 and 1883.

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The picture shows the House of the Blackheads, a historic building located on Riga's Town Hall Square.

The original building was built in 1334 as a meeting place for merchants belonging to the Brotherhood of Blackheads. It was destroyed by bombing during World War II and rebuilt in 1999. The House of the Blackheads is an important venue for official events and receptions, and also houses an exhibition on its history.

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Passing by St. Peter's Church in Riga, built over a thousand years ago. It was declared a cultural heritage site in 1997.

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After eating, we went to visit Broceli, a town near Sladus. We were able to apreciate their green areas and admire its landscape.

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While we were visiting Broceli we came across a statue that has won a price in Broceli. We were able to admire it and how well made it was. Furthere more, the views behind the statue were amazing and we got stunned by them.

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Behind the statue we could see this increible park that had also a lake and we couldn't help it and we had to go see it. The calm that that place transmited was amazing and we even layed in the grass for a bit.

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It is amazing to be able to be in a park and ate the same time seeing this espectacular views. In summer this would be a perfect place to swim.

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We couldn't leave without taking a photo with this spectacular view behind us.

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Some other photos in the lake.

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Afer resting for a bit, in the evening we went to see a Latvian dancing class but we couldn't help it and in the end we joined the class too. Although we were all tired at the end of the class, we had such a great time that it was totally worth it.

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Even thoguh at the begining we were lost, at the end you were almost as good as the Latvians. ;)

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While we were walking we saw this store with organic and zero waste products🚯

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We went to the Needle Tower, and this was a photo we took at the top of the tower. To get there, we had to climb a large spiral staircase🌀

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The one below is a caterpillar dragline excavator for the construction and renovation of new trenches, canals, ditches and ponds.Model EO-3211D has been produced since the mid-1980s, when it replaced the model E-304, which was produced in 1960s.                                                                             And the one above is a caterpillar tractor that was manufactured arte-the viWar Il. Initially, it was produced on the basis of tanks andwas intended for various earth and agricultural works. This particular tractor is equipped with ditch digging equipment.In 1950s, collective farms were offered ditch ploughs KM-800, ЛКА-2. To puirthe ploughs, were used up to three large tractors C-80 (Stalinec), T-100.Initially, the location of ditches was determined by ditch plough brigades and brigadiers of collective farms, later there were developed projects. From 1951 to 1965, 377 270 ha of agricultural land in Latvia were drained with these ditch ploughs.In 1967, more modern equipment, multi-scoop excavators, appeared, and the construction of drainage began. 

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After going to Laima and eating, we took a walk around Riga. Here you can see all the coats of arms of the municipalities of Latvia and this work of art that was created within the framework of "Art in the public space" programme implemented by the philanthropists Boris and Ināra Teterev in colaboration with the city of Riga.

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We found some mirrors while we were walking and took some photos

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I went for a walk around Saldus with my parents and sister and they showed me different very beautiful places☀️🍂

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I went to buy gifts to take to Spain for my family and friends🫶🏻

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Our exchange week in Saldus, Latvia, has been an incredibly rewarding and enriching experience for everyone involved. Throughout this week, we have had the opportunity to discover a new culture, share meaningful moments, and strengthen our sense of community beyond borders. The hospitality and warmth of the Latvian families made us feel at home, allowing us to connect deeply with their traditions and way of life while also sharing our own.

Both teachers and students, as well as host families, have learned a great deal through this exchange, guided by the core values of the Erasmus program — respect, diversity, cooperation, and lifelong learning. This experience has not only broadened our horizons but also inspired us to continue building bridges of friendship and understanding across Europe. We return home with unforgettable memories, new skills, and the motivation to keep growing as part of this united and diverse European community.

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A wonderful experience where the teachers were able to experience the refreshing waters of the lake. Without a doubt, a magnificent opportunity to free our minds and relax our bodies.

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On Saturday morning, we went to a neighbour city and we visited the beach. It was very interesting to see how different some beaches are depending on the place where you are. It was a pretty windy day so we couln'd stay a lot of time there, however, the time we were there was fantastic.

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After being in the beach and doing some window shopping we went to eat at Hersburger, the typycal and most popular fast food resturant in Latvia. Although they do have Mcdonal's and Burguer King, those can't compare with Hersburger.

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We were able to enjoy a beautiful sunset on the way to Latvia. 😉

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After a long day together , we gave our host families a surprise. They were speechless.

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Before going to Tervete we stopped at the amazing Dobele Castle Ruins.

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The first historical record of Dobele dates back to 1254; however, at that time it was only a wooden fortress, destroyed during the Semigallian War of Independence (1279–1290) by the Baltic Crusades.

On this site, a new stone castle was built in 1335, around which a small settlement began to grow. The ruins of the fortress are still visible and are being restored as we can see in the pictures.

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Although we were unable to visit the inside of the castle, we enjoyed some wonderful views outside. How lucky were the former castle villagers living here !

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We were exciting and eager to get in . It was even more beautiful than it looked like !

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I couldn't have ended the week better than by going to a beautiful natural park just a few hours from Saldus. Its unique trees and vegetation made me feel like I was in a fairy tale 🧚‍♀️💫

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A few meters further, we reached a unique spot, where the sea and nature meet. This beach is popular with locals during the hot summer ☀️⛱

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After taking some pictures to never forget these days, we had lunch at a lovely cabin.

I proved a typical latvian meat with a square of potatoes and vegetales. It was delicious !

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It has been an amazing experience and we are looking forward to meeting these people again ❤️‍🩹

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The image shows a sculpture located in the Kuldīga Town Garden, Latvia. The park, known as Kuldiga Town Garden & Sculpture Park, is a free attraction in the city of Kuldīga. The garden is located on the grounds of the former Kuldīga Castle.

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The image shows Karosta Prison, a former military prison in Liepāja, Latvia, which now operates as a museum and hotel. Originally built as a hospital around 1900, it was converted into a military prison used by various political regimes, including Tsarist Russia, the German Nazis, and the Soviets. Karosta Prison was in operation until 1997 and was known for its harsh conditions, with no known successful escapes. Since 2003, the site has become a tourist attraction, offering guided tours and the chance to spend the night in one of its cells, participating in an experience that simulates the life of a prisoner. It is the only military prison in Europe open to tourists.

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This estructure is a bunker of Liepāja Artillery Battery No. 3, part of Liepāja Fortress in Latvia. Liepāja Fortress was built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to protect the Liepāja naval base. Artillery Battery No. 3 was one of several batteries in the fortress, and its ruins can be found along the coast. These concrete bunkers were built to house cannons and protect soldiers. Today, the fortress ruins are a popular destination for visitors exploring the region's military history.

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Liepāja is a port city on the western coast of Latvia, on the shores of the Baltic Sea. It is the third largest city in the country and an important regional capital in the Kurzeme region. The city is known for its vibrant musical culture, history, and wide, white-sand beaches. Liepāja Highlights: The City Where the Wind Is Born: This nickname reflects the constant sea breeze that characterizes it and is also the title of its anthem. City of Music: It is the birthplace of many Latvian musicians and hosts cultural events, including the old Liepāja Theatre and the modern Great Amber Concert Hall. Karosta: A former secret Soviet-era naval base now open to the public. The area is home to the Northern Fort and the Orthodox Naval Cathedral of St. Nicholas. Liepāja Beach: The fine sandy beach, next to the large Maritime Park (Jūrmalas parks), is a popular destination for locals and tourists. Electric tram: Liepāja has the oldest electric tram in the Baltic countries, operating since 1899. European Capital of Culture 2027: In recognition of its rich cultural offering, Liepāja has been designated the European Capital of Culture for 2027.

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The longest-lived school in the city of Saldus.

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We walked along the lakeside promenade and shared traditional sweets and snacks with students from Spain and Latvia.

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After a delicious snack we were able to enjoy a stunning sunset on the lake.

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A historic landmark in the neighborhood on the left bank of the Daugava. Established in 1898 and thoughtfully revitalized in 2022, the market redefines the traditional marketplace experience. Here local vendors come together with diverse cafes and bars serving cuisine from around the world and national heritage is celebrated alongside modern creativity and innovation.

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In the morning we went to Mazeikiai, the lithuanian city that is the closest to Saldus. We visitied a shopping centre that is known for having a miniature replica of the Eiffel Tower at the entrance.

Later, we walked around the city enjoying the views and then we went bowling. Me, my latvian partner and her mom had an amazing morning together! I am so grateful of getting to know another country besides Latvia.

🎳🗼❤️

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We finally landed in spain after being away for one week, we are gonna miss this trip ✈️

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Me and Monta went to Ventspils, a charming port city on Latvia’s western coast, is renowned for its well-maintained streets, colorful buildings, and vibrant cultural scene. Its beach along the Baltic Sea is a major draw, featuring soft golden sand, clean waters, and family-friendly amenities, including playgrounds and cafes. The coastline is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or long walks, while nearby dunes and pine forests add a scenic natural backdrop. Ventspils also hosts summer events, markets, and festivals, making the beach area not just a place to relax, but a lively hub of local life and leisure

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They gave us these bracelets to enter the paaark 🌺

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Tērvete Nature Park, located in the Zemgale region of Latvia near Dobele, is a 1,200-hectare protected area managed by Latvia’s State Forests. It’s known for its beautiful pine forests, river valley landscapes, and fairy-tale atmosphere inspired by Latvian writer Anna Brigadere’s stories. The park features themed zones like the Fairytale Forest and Dwarfs’ Town, with wooden sculptures, walking and cycling trails, observation towers, and family-friendly attractions. Established in 1958 and part of the EU’s Natura 2000 network, it’s considered one of Latvia’s most family-oriented destinations. Though damaged by a 2023 storm, restoration efforts continue, and most sections are open to visitors.

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A curious fact: 🦋 Some of Tērvete’s pine trees are over 300 years old, making them among the oldest in Latvia — locals say they’ve “watched generations of fairy-tale characters come to life.”

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They provide us with typical food 🍽️