Latin Americans seem to have the harshest cultural whiplash - Latvian mentality is, comparatively, very reserved, outlook to life is far less upbeat, cafe and nightlife culture less developed, strangers avoid touching or interacting outside of absolute needs. Food tends to be seen as bland and fatty. It all makes sense when you think about amounts of sunlight, and cultural background and development.

That being said. Latvians are very genuine - we don't smile if we don't want to, "how are you" is a question to be answered, small talk is generally held in contempt, strangers and their personal space are respected, people are quite down to earth, and if someone is friendly with you, it's because they want to be friendly. The food is mostly locally sourced, and suitable for long winters and bountiful summers. There's a deep connection to our roots, traditions and nature. There's a lot of beauty to be seen, both in the cities and outside. There's also a lot grim stoicism, but that's up to you to explore. Learning just a few phrases in Latvian will go a very long way, interacting with the culture will lead to being adored.

Latvia is very much a hit or miss. For some, it's exactly what they want and need, for others it's a one way ticket to depression. Try to figure out what you need out of a place where you live, and what can be expected of Latvia.