Azerbaijan, the self-proclaimed “Land of Fire”, is a country that has undergone an incredible transformation from a post-Soviet war-torn era to an oil-rich Formula 1 and Europa League prosperous nation. It is a labyrinth of contrasts and a crossroads of ancient historical empires. Situated in a relaxing port on the Caspian Sea, the cosmopolitan city of Baku has spectacular 21st century architecture around its historic, UNESCO-listed center. In the adjacent semi-desert, there are unexplained fire phenomena and mud volcanoes. The Greater Caucasus Mountains stand majestically behind the timeless rural settlement, just a three-hour drive away.
After long neglected by tourists, Azerbaijan is now attracting tourists thanks to the country’s new visa requirements, cheap accommodation and dense variety of stunning landscapes. Asia and Europe are at odds with often unforeseen sights within this exhilarating range, breathtakingly beautiful, culturally diverse places.
amazing scenery
The Talishe Mountains of Azerbaijan and the Lesser Caucasus Mountains of Georgia and Armenia each have their own unique splendor. Idyllic fields, vineyards and forests, as well as dry semi-deserts, rocky canyons, and even some stunning beaches, may all be found at lower elevations. Modern ski resorts are open in all three countries, while Georgia offers rafting and paragliding, in addition to the opportunity to climb Mount Kazbek and other cliffs. Explore the various caves of Armenia or the hinterland of the Caspian Sea in Azerbaijan, where there are mud volcanoes and even water on fire.
The area is dotted with ancient forts, monasteries, cathedrals and ruins. History buffs can distinguish the Bagratids from the Bolsheviks, and the region’s big cities have some great museums, gorgeous galleries, and a strong theatrical heritage. Enjoy it all while admiring the hospitality, delicious cuisine made with organic ingredients, and revived wines from the birthplace of viticulture.
Greater Caucasus
The Greater Caucasus, a large mountain range that separates Russia from the South Caucasus, stretches from the Black Sea to the Caspian Sea, with a series of spectacular peaks, flanked by verdant river valleys and incredibly lovely villages, the most beautiful in the region. Breathtaking scenery. Ruined forts, watchtowers and historic churches are often found in picturesque heartbreaking locations, along wonderful walking and cycling trails that wind their way through the mountains. While day hikes are great in every country, Georgia’s Svaneti, Kazbegi and Tusheti regions are located high up in the Greater Caucasus and are particularly well suited for more in-depth village-to-village hikes.
Azerbaijani tea culture
In Azerbaijan, there are several traditions, some of which vary from region to region. An ancient custom in the country is to serve tea to tourists. Azerbaijanis usually don’t add sugar to tea, but add a piece of sugar to the tea, bite off a piece, and drink the tea. Tea and a variety of jams, sweets and fruit desserts are served before the main course and are seen as a sign of hospitality.
Lemon is a necessary part of the coffee table, and hot tea is served in a mug or Armudi pear-shaped glass. Armudi glass showcases the tea ceremony. The process of boiling water is crucial to brewing tea. Fresh samovar tea has a unique flavor and aroma because a samovar is a metal vessel used to boil water. In Azerbaijan, you will find tea at all ceremonies, whether it’s a wedding or a funeral. Whether the tea is sweet or sugar-free, options are revealed!
The intersection of Europe and Asia
Despite being a very small region, the South Caucasus contains extremely diverse nations, ethnically separated secession republics, and everything else in one space. At these crossroads of civilizations where Europe and Asia meet, over the centuries, a proud and unique local culture has absorbed Russian, Iranian, Turkish and Central Asian influences. Despite the rapid changes in the three years following the collapse of the Soviet Union, social attitudes here remain traditional and the family network still reigns supreme.
The improving tourism infrastructure of the South Caucasus may seem unremarkable, but visit these ancient regions before they lose their rugged charm.
