Kristiāna and Richard at the XXV Latvian Song and Dance Festival. Photograph: Simon Jones/Culturpology

In July, I had the pleasure to spend a weekend with Time Twin Kristiāna and her friends and family in Riga and nearby parts of Latvia, learning about Latvian national identity and culture and experiencing the awesome Song and Dance Festival. Kristiāna is marketing manager for Bergs Bazar, a historical pedestrian village-like enclave combining residential, commercial and retail activities.