Every O.A.T. trip we take includes a “Day in the Life” component. The purpose is to provide an immersive, culturally authentic experience by allowing us to step into the daily rhythms of the local community. It’s O.A.T.’s way of ensuring our travels aren’t just about the places we visit, but also about the people we meet and the connections we make along the way.

In the past, we’ve worked on a kibbutz in Israel, made cheese and pottery in a Croatian home, and baked bread on a farm along the Nile River. Here in Latvia, our “Day in the Life” took us to Goat Farm Līcīši, one of the country’s earliest and largest goat-breeding and dairy enterprises.

What a joy it was to spend a day in this welcoming rural setting along the Misa River! Our host, Liga, guided us through the farm and introduced us to its 80 goats.

We learned about goat-farming practices, fed the animals, and sampled fresh goat milk, kefir, and a wonderful variety of cheeses made on-site.

We also helped prepare lunch and even made our own jars of marinated feta cheese to take home.

Around the dinner table, conversation turned to the realities of running such an enterprise. Liga shared the challenges she faces, from navigating government regulations to marketing her products, as well as her efforts to develop a business plan for new glamping accommodations along the river.

Her family plays an important role in the farm’s success: her parents remain actively involved, and her brother Augustus—who helped throughout the day—is an aspiring artist. Liga also entertained us with amusing stories about her mother’s visit to the United States as a Latvian agricultural representative.

This truly was a memorable day. Not only did we learn about the practicalities of farm life, but we also gained insight into the values, challenges, and joys of daily life in Latvia. We were especially impressed to discover that, amid all her responsibilities, Liga is also completing her PhD thesis—due in just two weeks!