Brilliant Baku

Our first trip to Azerbaijan

Our first experience of a colder climate but bright blue skies accompany the bitter wind! Statues abound at every block and in front of every other building, mostly of men who had contributed to the city and culture, especially literature, over the centuries. Also lots of modern art works in all the squares, of which there are plenty, all connected by wide boulevards. The people come out in the evening to stroll along the boulevards, shop, eat in the many restaurants or have hookah and coffees. It seems very European in lifestyle, but in the day there is a contrast of dress codes:the young and trendy with the latest European fashion, some alty and even a couple of punks. The older more conservative generation dressed in suit jackets or leather jackets and caps or hats. Baku is a real real melting pot of cultures and peoples from surrounding countries: Russia, Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan and even some hints of the Mongolian empire as well as the indigenous people of Azerbaijan. English is not spoken or understood.

Baku is a city of contrasts. There is an amazing mix of old architecture including renaissance style, so much so that you sometimes think you are in Paris, and new ultra modern large glass structures of different shapes. Other times you could be forgiven for thinking you are on a set from Star Trek – very futuristic. Beautiful and fantastic! But you are constantly reminded of the ancient culture that this place is built on.

The people are very helpful and friendly, initially there is a sense of uncertainty, but once you start talking, the barriers are removed, and, again, we find that the people will go out of their way to help and are very kind.