Latvian views on kissing?

Question

What are the Latvian views on kissing? Is kissing the cheek acceptable towards a friend, or as a greeting? What about kissing a hand? Is it seen in the same way as most, as a sign of greeting and great respect? Or are any of these only acceptable in a couple?

Answer 1

Latvians are a particularly uptight race but kissing close friends on the cheek is generally acceptable amongst the younger generation nowadays.  

Answer 2

Why would you need to kiss a cheek or a hand? That's kind of strange. It's not how people normally behave in Northern countries. Especially if you meet a person very first time. Public displays of affection are generally not viewed as tasteful behavior. Sometimes though man would kiss a hand to women. But it's not a common thing to do.

It may be normal where you are, but please do not do it to a Latvian.