Hotel & City Breaks: Mogotel Hotel Group and Marriott International are bringing Latvia’s first Four Points Flex by Sheraton to Riga Old Town, opening in October at 49 Vaļņu Street after a phased renovation of the former Wellton Riga Hotel & SPA. Travel Planning & Visas: Thailand is tightening entry rules from Sept. 15, cutting visa-free stays for many nationalities from 60 days to 30 (with some categories at 15 days), including for Indian passport holders. Rail Baltica Update: A joint procurement for Rail Baltica regional trains by Elron, Vivi and LTG Link failed—no compliant bids were received, so the operators will clarify documents and relaunch a new tender. Latvia in the Spotlight: Intrepid Travel’s 2027 “Not Hot List” includes Liepāja, pitching it as a less-crowded Baltic alternative for travellers seeking beaches without the overtourism pressure. Safety & Travel Risk: Latvia’s MFA says Chinese authorities confirmed 33 missing Latvian nationals were in China (likely on the Tibetan side) and asked for DNA samples for comparison. Border & Enforcement: Latvian authorities report a suspected people-smuggler case after border guards in Jēkabpils region detained a Polish driver; three people without valid travel documents were found and criminal proceedings were launched. Culture & Learning: SFA students visited Latvia for a business course and cultural immersion, touring Riga’s Old Town and Art Nouveau areas plus sites in Bauska, Turaida, Cēsis and Līgatne. Food for Thought: A travel guide offers practical tips for “picky eaters,” including how to plan meals and reservations across the Baltic region.