Azerbaijan, officially called the Republic of Azerbaijan with the capital Baku, is a fascinating country with a rich natural resources, ancient history and traditions, cheerful people. It is a land with a spirit of different cultures and civilisations. Azerbaijan is a diversified country with three main geographical features: the Greater Caucasus mountains on the north; the Caspian Sea shoreline, forming a natural boundary to the east, and the large flatlands at the centre of the country. The weather is strongly influenced by the geography of the country – wet clime and cold winters in the mountains; sub-tropic climate with some Caspian breeze on the lower-altitude regions on the south-east; and dry, semiarid steppe in the centre and on the east. The Republic of Azerbaijan covers an area of approximately 86, 600 square kilometres, including autonomous regions of Nagorny Karabakh and Nakhichevan. The major ethnic group comprises of Azerbaijanis with Russian and Armenian minorities with the official Azerbaijani language. Absolute majority of inhabitants are Muslim.

History

The advantageous geographical position, rich natural resources and favourable climate conditions made Azerbaijan always very attractive not only for new settlers but also for aggressive tribes and empires such as Persians, Greeks, Romans, Mongolian hordes, Arab Caliphate, Ottoman Turks or Russia. For long centuries, the area of today’s Azerbaijan was characterised by flourishing trade and agriculture. During the history, the cultural identity has been significantly affected by different ethnical influences, leaving here indelible traces in the form of architecture, arts, religion, traditions. Since the first centuries AC until the 18th century, Azerbaijan was under the authority of muslim great powers, and the acceptance of Islam made a great change in the history of the country. In the middle of the 18th century, Russian Empire extended its influence to the regions of south Caucasus and took the whole territory under its control. Until 1991, Azerbaijan was under the thumb of Russia, except of a short period of time after the 1st world war when it formed the first democratic republic in the Muslim East - Azerbaijan Democratic Republic. In 1991, after the disintegration of the Soviet Union the country restored its independence. Nowadays, the aim of the country consists in the intensive development directed on setting up the favourable conditions for business progress, attraction investments in the country, development of high technologies and consolidation of financial and bank systems.

Nature

The unique and magic nature of Azerbaijan fills everybody with enthusiasm. High mountains of Caucasus on the south provide a magnificent view. A multitude of forests and rivers, the cool land-houses the summer or the refreshing beaches on the Caspian shoreline on the east are the right places for the perfect holiday. If you are a nature fan, the green woods, the grey rocks and diverse flora are a real paradise. The magnificent nature of Azerbaijan is also known by its healing power. The most of mud-volcano are located just in Azerbaijan and their healing effects are currently used for diverse medical purposes. The earth-oil is due to its special consistency famous all over the world and is also used for various medical treatments. For the visitors there have been number of spa established.

Culture

In times of old, Azerbaijan was a central part of the Great Silk route and it is located on the crossroad of Asia, Europe, East and West. Cultural identity was strongly affected from long-standing outside influences (mainly from the Islamic world). Inhabitants that lived here thousands years ago left many traces in the form of drawings on the rocks or ancient buildings. Rocks, rock walls, monuments, temples since the times of Zarathustra, mosques or palaces will surely attract not only adventurer but also anybody who is interested in the history. The uniqueness of the East consists in its palaces and baths. The typical architecture of the eastern towns will make you curious. In Baku, you can reveal the variety of architectonic styles. Therefore is Baku often denoted as a ‘museum of arts’. If you would like to take up with the traditional culture there are theatres, operas, concert-halls or museums available. And as soon as you need a relaxation, you can drink azerbaijan tee in the traditional chaykhanas. The azerbaijan cuisine is especially appealing and it will surely satisfy each gourmet.

Travelling

When visiting Azerbaijan, you will arrive to the Heydar Aliyev international airport (formerly Bina), which is the busiest in the Caucasus. To get to the city centre, you can use a taxi service (taxis outside the airport building are much cheaper than those in the customs area), take a bus, exploit the hotel courtesy cars or rent a car. In Baku, you can exploit subway, bus, tram or trolley-bus services. These are cheap, although the quality and reliability of services may vary. Do remember that to take 'trolley 11' is local jargon for walking. Be also prepared for the security control of your luggage. It is also possible to flag down a taxi or any passing car – it is important to agree a price before getting in (ladies should avoid taking taxis on their own any time). To travel across Azerbaijan, the most recommended option is to lend a car. However, one must drive very careful due to the poor conditions of the communications and the non-standard driving habits of domestics. It is also possible to travel by bus or to take the train.

Accommodation

In Azerbaijan, the guests are very honoured and the warmth and excellent services of Azerbaijanis far-famed all over the world. The hotels are dispersed over the whole country and they offer professional service, comfort and refreshment. In the case, you would rather like to stay in the nature, there are first-class refreshment centres and cottages to disposal. The services of a highest quality are a matter of course.

Shopping and entertainment in Baku

The national currency is Azerbaijanian Manat (1 manat = 100 gopik). The availability of products in Azerbaijan, especially in Baku has increased dramatically in recent years. Before you start shopping, arm yourself with plenty of manats, some shops accept US dollars. The main shopping area in Baku begins at Fountain square with many restaurants, fast foods and bars. You should not miss ‘Baku Entertainment Center' on F. Bayramov Street, with a very good restaurant, swimming pool, health clubs, bowling and several shops.

Do not forget...

Azerbaijan waits for your visit. Many visitors have been excited about this fabulous country, and you will also experience the unforgettable holiday. But one must be really careful – once you see the land, you will never want to take leave from here. In this case, the Azerbaijanis will always welcome you with the warm smile and open arms.