Tour of Azerbaijan

Tour of Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan, officially known as the Republic of Azerbaijan, is a transcontinental country situated at the boundary of Eastern Europe and West Asia. Here are some key details about this fascinating nation:

Geographical Location:

Borders: Azerbaijan shares its borders with several countries:
To the east, it is bounded by the Caspian Sea.
To the north, it borders Russia (specifically the Republic of Dagestan) and Georgia.
To the northwest, a small part of the Nakhchivan region also borders Turkey.
To the west, it shares borders with Armenia and Turkey.
To the south, it is adjacent to Iran.
The southern Caucasus Mountains dominate its landscape.

Capital and Largest City:

The vibrant city of Baku serves as both the capital and the largest city of Azerbaijan.
Baku is located on the western coast of the Caspian Sea and boasts a mix of modernity, rich history, and cultural heritage.

Historical Context:

During the 19th century, it became part of Qajar Iran until the Russo-Persian wars led to the cession of Caucasian territories to the Russian Empire.

Independence and Modern Era:

In 1918, the Azerbaijan Democratic Republic declared its independence from the Transcaucasian Democratic Federative Republic.
It became the world’s first secular democratic Muslim-majority state.
In 1920, it was incorporated into the Soviet Union as the Azerbaijan SSR.
The modern Republic of Azerbaijan proclaimed its independence in 1991, shortly before the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
Notably, the ethnic Armenian majority in the Nagorno-Karabakh region formed the self-proclaimed Republic of Artsakh after the First Nagorno-Karabakh War in 1994.

Must-Visit Destinations:

Baku: Explore the Old City, visit the Heydar Aliyev Center, and marvel at the iconic Flame Towers.
Shaki: Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Silk Road, discover the exquisite Khan’s Palace, and savor local cuisine.

Natural Attractions:

Yanar Dag: Witness the mesmerizing mountain of fire that perpetually burns due to natural gas deposits.
Absheron Peninsula: Known for its mud volcanoes and beautiful beaches.
Azerbaijan offers a unique blend of modern city life and natural beauty, making it an intriguing destination for travelers.

Some traditional dishes in Azerbaijan for travelers to try when they visit Azerbaijan

When exploring Azerbaijan, the rich culinary heritage is a must-experience. Let’s delve into 17 traditional Azerbaijani dishes that will tantalize your taste buds:

Plov (Pilaf):

Description: Plov is one of Azerbaijan’s most iconic dishes. It’s a rice-based delight, prepared in various styles.

Variations:

Dried Fruit Plov: Combines rice with dried fruits.
Mutton Plov with Onion: Features tender mutton and aromatic onions.
Chilov Plov: A bean-based plov with fish.
Chicken Plov: Chicken and rice cooked to perfection.
Shirin Plov (Sweet Plov): A delightful sweet version.
Signature Touch: The long-grain rice is steamed with saffron, creating an enticing aroma. A golden crust called gazmag forms at the bottom, made from flour, butter, eggs, and yogurt.
Historical Significance: Plov has been a staple in Azerbaijani cuisine for generations.

Shah Plov (Khan Ashi):

Description: Shah Plov is a hearty rice dish crowned with a crust of fried dough. The crust, made from flaky lavash, sets it apart.
Toppings: Customize with chicken or meat, roasted chestnuts, nuts, dried apricots, prunes, raisins, and various seasonings.
Occasions: Ideal for weddings, parties, and special events due to its ability to stay warm for hours after cooking.

Dolma:

Description: Dolma means “stuffed” in Azerbaijani. It’s a traditional dish found across Eastern Europe and Mediterranean cuisines.
Ingredients: A flavorful mix of meat, onion, rice, peas, and spices, wrapped in grape leaves or stuffed in vegetables like tomatoes, sweet peppers, or eggplant.

Dovga:

Description: Dovga is a yogurt soup enriched with herbs, rice, and sometimes chickpeas.
Flavor Profile: Tangy, creamy, and herb-infused.
Perfect for: Hot summer days.

Qutab:

Description: Qutab is a thin, savory pancake filled with minced meat, herbs, and spices.
Cooking Method: Grilled or baked.
Serving Style: Often served with yogurt or sour cream.

Piti:

Description: Piti is a lamb stew cooked in individual clay pots.
Ingredients: Lamb, chickpeas, chestnuts, and aromatic spices.
Serving Ritual: Break the crust and mix the ingredients before savoring.

Baklava:

Texture: Crispy, flaky, and syrup-soaked.
Indulgence Level: High!

Sheker Churek:

Description: Sheker Churek translates to “sugar bread.” It’s a sweet, buttery pastry with a unique twisted shape.
Flavor: Buttery, mildly sweet, and often flavored with cardamom.

Dushbara:

Description: Dushbara are tiny dumplings filled with minced meat, served in a flavorful broth.
Tradition: Often enjoyed during family gatherings.

Badimjan Dolmasi:

Description: Stuffed eggplants filled with a mixture of minced meat, rice, and herbs.
Cooking Method: Simmered until tender.

Remember, these dishes not only satisfy your hunger but also offer a glimpse into Azerbaijan’s rich culture and history. Bon appétit!

Preparation for a trip to Azerbaijan

If you’re planning a trip to Azerbaijan, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you prepare for an unforgettable adventure:

Visas and Arrival:

E-Visa: Most travelers need to apply for an E-Visa before visiting Azerbaijan. It’s a straightforward process, but having hotel bookings and a rough itinerary beforehand is helpful.
Arrival: You’ll likely fly into Baku International Airport, which boasts a brand-new terminal. The airport is approximately 30 kilometers from the capital city center. Taxis are readily available for the transfer.

Getting Around:

Baku: If you plan to stay in Baku and explore nearby areas, public transport and taxis are convenient. Avoid renting a car due to Baku’s sometimes nightmarish traffic.
Day Trips: For day trips around Baku, consider using public transport or hiring a driver.

Budgeting:

Affordability: A week-long trip to Azerbaijan is surprisingly affordable. Accommodations, meals, and experiences won’t break the bank.
Currency: The local currency is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN).

Food Exploration:

Must-Try Dishes: Sample traditional Azerbaijani cuisine, including plov, dolma, qutab, and baklava. The flavors are rich and diverse.
Local Markets: Explore local markets for fresh produce, spices, and unique food items.

Best Time to Visit:

The weather is pleasant, and festivals often take place during these seasons.

Packing Essentials:

Clothing: Pack layers for varying temperatures. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Adapters: Bring power adapters suitable for the local sockets.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sunny days.

Safety and Health:

Health Insurance: Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Tap Water: Stick to bottled water to avoid any health issues.
Emergency Contacts: Note down local emergency numbers.

Cultural Etiquette:

Dress Modestly: Especially when visiting religious sites.

Exploring Beyond Baku:

Sheki: Visit this charming town known for its Khan’s Palace and Silk Road heritage.
Gobustan: Explore the ancient petroglyphs and the Gaval Dash mud volcanoes.
Quba: Discover the scenic beauty of this region.

Enjoy the Surprises: