My journey to Baku
Don’t underestimate the beauty of Transcaucasia. Reveal the best of Baku with Elvan Efendi.
EE
Elvan Efendi
Wed, 08 Jun 2022
Did you know that if it weren't for Azerbaijan, there wouldn't be a Nobel Prize? Yes, the fortune of the Nobel brothers came from the oil deposits of Azerbaijan. This money became the basis of the Nobel Prize fund.
Azerbaijan, or rather its Absheron peninsula, is better known as one of the ancient oil producers. However, the beauty and culture of the Transcaucasian country remain invaluable for many. The citizens of post-Soviet countries may believe that there is nothing much to see because the cities and people are similar to themselves. But they are wrong, Azerbaijan has its own zest.
Baku is a beautiful city. Spring and summer are the best seasons to visit. As Emin sings, "Let's run away with you for the summer in Baku!". Enjoy the silence and the breeze of the Caspian Sea while walking along Primorsky Boulevard. If you are more of a party person, I recommend the noisy and hectic atmosphere of the "Torgovy", a meeting place for young people.
On the streets of Baku, you can see a mixture of ancient history and modernity. The great contrast between the buildings of different eras creates a unique impression.
Some of the best sights include the oldest park, the Philharmonic Garden (Orig. Filarmoniya Bağı), the Old Town (Orig. Iceri Seher) with its majestic fortresses and the wonderful Maiden Tower (Orig. Qız Qalası) which conceals many legends.
Modern architecture also impresses with a variety of architectural forms and lines.
The Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center and the Flame Towers (orig. Alov qülleleri) are a separate spectacle and a must-see.
People in Azerbaijan are sincere and open. Poems could be written about their hospitality. Wherever you go, you will feel at home, as every event starts with a cherished cup of tea.
An interesting fact is that the people of Azerbaijan are very fond of tea drinking. They even quench their thirst with hot tea in the scorching heat.
Oh, yes, the most important thing is Azerbaijani cuisine. You will make a big mistake if you leave without tasting dolma from grape leaves, shah pilaf, camel kutabs, khinkali and much more.
This list goes on, but I think that I've already said enough, and you already want to buy a ticket and visit Azerbaijan as a gourmet. The restaurant business in the country is very developed. There are a large number of restaurants with a range of different cuisines for you to choose.
You can enjoy traditional breakfasts in the Kiçik Qala area, which is located in the Old Town. My family and I personally prefer such restaurants as "Qaynana" and "Salam Baku". You will especially enjoy tea with various types of jam (from nuts, white cherries, dogwood and figs). You can also taste authentic cuisine in Xengeland (the best Khinkali and Hyangyal), Qazmaq, Nergiz Restaurant, Dolma Restaurant. If you want to taste Russian and Ukrainian cuisine, you should look into the "Marivanna". A family restaurant with a cosy antique interior. And for dessert, you can run into everyone's favourite "Syrovarnya" for delicate cakes or "Lviv Chocolate House", where you can immerse yourself in the world of chocolate. My friends and I like to pamper ourselves and arrange a cheat meal day here.
Shopping is also available in Baku. Take a look at the Old Town for souvenirs, if you want to buy Azerbaijani jewellery or a unique Kalagai shawl, I would advise Butali (@butaliofficial). No girl can leave there without buying something. As for the usual shopping centres, I prefer to go to 28 Mall, Ganjlik Mall or the brand new Deniz Mail.
Oh yes, I almost forgot, if you are a fan of quests and like to solve riddles, I advise you to visit Portal Games (@portalgames). They have interesting games and realistic scenery.