Where Can I Travel In Azerbaijan?

By Author: Amar Shah
Total Articles: 215
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The strategic position of Azerbaijan lying partly in Eastern Europe and partly in Western Asia makes it a convenient getaway destination for visitors from the two continents. Azerbaijan is the most populous country in South Caucasus bordered by the Capsian Sea to the east, Iran, Armenia, Georgia and Russia. Most of her population of about 8 million people are Muslim and Arabic is the official language.

Though relatively unpopular, Azerbaijan has a lot to offer her visitors in her diverse landscapes that include a beautiful coastline, mountains to the north, lush valleys to the south and an extensive semi-arid desert area lying in between. Getting into Azerbaijan is facilitated by air transport with the country served by the Baku Bina International Airport located 16 miles east of the capital Baku. This is the main entry point for all visitors coming by air in Azerbaijan. It is also possible to get in and around by water, rail and road.

Azerbaijan boasts of a largely developed culture with major Turkic, Persian, Russian and Islamic influences. Once you get into this beautiful country, will you realise how a rich ...
... destination it is. Azerbaijan's three mountain ranges are major attractions and they include the Greater, Lesser Caucasus and Talysh Mountains. All of them combined occupy 40% of the country. Lakes and rivers are other natural attractions here. The country is home to thousands of rivers all draining into the Caspian Sea. Sansu is the country's largest lake while Kur is the longest river. The Yanar Dag Mountain near Baku known as the fire mountain will treat you to unique sights of blazing fires visible day and night, originating from underground natural gas.

Azerbaijan's history is undeniably interesting too. In the cities and towns as well as throughout the country are ancient monuments such as mosques holding so much history. The Iceri Seher, an old city of Baku has numerous of old mansions and mosques. Ganja, Azerbaijan's second largest city has a lot of historical sites too as do Lankaran, Mingechivir and Sumqayit, some of other Azerbaijan's popular cities.

You will be overwhelmed by the many interesting activities that you will indulge in. These include hiking and climbing mountains, swimming, wind surfing, water rafting and other exciting water sports as well as strolling leisurely along the country's sandy beaches in the country's coast. You will get an opportunity to experience the country's rich culture and cuisine which has Turkish and central Asian influences. Western restaurants are numerous around the country serving diverse international cuisine besides the country's national delicacies that include Lhlya kebab prepare from minced lamb pressed onto skewers, piti, a muton and chick pea soup among others. Though largely a Muslim country, alcohol is not restricted and constitutes of the national drinks here together with wines and tea.

In Baju, there are a good number of nightclubs for lively night entertainment while concerts, theatres, operas and ballet are cheap entertainment options awaiting you. Do not leave Azerbaijan before sampling her beautiful craftswork like the Azeri carpet at the carpet weaving centre at Nardaran as well as silk and ceramics available at the Sharg Bazary market in Baku.

Hotels are the main accommodation options with the best located in the capital, Baku. There are a number of hotel chains operating here including Hyatt, Meridian and Radisson.