Exotic, vibrant, a historical mix of many great cultures. The capital city of Baku offers much to many. The Old City of Baku dates back to at least the 12th century and perhaps much older. Situated on the Caspian sea, it is surrounded by a modern, pedestrian-friendly, cosmopolitan city with old-world charm. A couple of hours drive, and you are in the beautiful Caucasus mountains, sharing a border with the Dagestan Autonomous Republic of Russia. With a rich history that includes Persian, Turkic, most recently Russian, and then Soviet rule. Now officially the Republic of Azerbaijan, it seems to have chosen many of the good parts from its culturally varied past. A strong emphasis on education and literature is apparent in its many Universities and monuments. Statues abound as tributes to its many talented and revered literary greats like Nizami, the Persian poet and philosopher. The people are friendly, speaking Azerbaijani or Azeri, Russian with a handful speaking English. The food is delicious, and in general, very affordable, even inexpensive if you choose wisely. Tea or Cay (chai) is ubiquitous and seems to be drink non-stop, all day long. With sugar cubes, often one placed in the mouth, and the steaming hot tea is sipped slowly over the sweet cube. Cakes and other sweets also are ever-present. So enjoy it when you are invited for tea and offered filling snacks, cakes, thin lavash bread filled with herbs or pumpkin, or other treats are offered. And don’t be surprised if the tea is soon supplemented with some flavored vodka, chased with spicy pickles!
