A week in Azerbaijan

Old City Baku is one of the most beautiful old towns I've been to, which is also functional and modern, but retains its old world charm. Azerbaijan has a rich history over the last 3 millennia, with many a vast empire coming to annex these lands. This is largely due to its strategic location at the crossroads of the Silk Route, and of Europe and Asia. As a result, Azerbaijan's culture is an amalgamation of Turkic, Persian and Russian; but with its own Caucasus blend. Old City reflects this well, which itself is said to be over a millennium old.

I recommend staying inside Old City Baku, walking around it at night is a wonderful experience. In contrast, the newer parts of Baku have some wild modern architecture, largely paid for by oil and natural gas exports. In the middle, there's the Soviet-era places, which feel Eastern European but with Turkic elements. Nizami Street in particular is a highlight, a scenic pedestrian street. On the other hand, Baku has terrible traffic, another contrast to these eminently walkable streets.

There's plenty of attractions around Baku, though how much they interest you depends on what you're into. Many were really into the Gobustan mud volcanoes, but they were not much more than a curiosity for me. Ateshgah, the Fire Temple, was fascinating though.

Outside of Baku, the highlights are the Caucasus mountains that divide Europe and Asia, Azerbaijan being on the Asian side. In winters, there's heavy snowfall, and there are some popular ski resorts, but I visited in October just before winter. (Baku itself sees light snowfall in peak winter.) Still, the mountains were spectacular, particularly in the Shahdag National Park and the Candy Cane mountains. Transportation isn't great, so day tours are the best option.

I wouldn't say Azerbaijan is an essential destination, but it's a worthwhile addition if you're in the Caucasus region, Turkey or Central Asia.

As always, locations for each photo in the caption, and feel free to AMA!