Travel Advice for a Tour of Azerbaijan: All You Need to Know
Azerbaijan is a beautiful country, and amongst many exceptional things, the place offers serenity and vibrance at the intersection of Asia and Europe. The beauty this place has to offer is a feast for the eyes. The country provides the perfect conglomeration of ancient towns and modern culture that’s just waiting to be explored.
If you’re planning to visit the country, there are some requirements that you need to keep in mind. Prepare yourself as you embark on a journey of discovery around Azerbaijan and witness sights of old mystique and legend. The mosaic of cultures on offer is one of a kind, and the breathtaking vistas are a sight to behold.
The Travel Advice You Need Before Visiting Azerbaijan:
Here are a few things that you need to keep in mind when it comes to visiting Azerbaijan.
1. Travel Visas
The first thing you must figure out is the travel visa requirements. If you travel from India, you can get visas easily and with minimal effort.
You can apply for an Azerbaijan visa here for a quick and seamless process.
It usually takes about three days to get a visa. Some basic documents like government-issued identity proof and passports are needed to process the visa without hassle.
2. Azerbaijan Weather
The next important factor you need to think about is the weather during your visit. If you have any ailments and can’t experience too much of the cold weather, avoid visiting during December and January when the country is typically coldest.
The best time to visit Azerbaijan is April to June and September to November. The weather will be pleasant, and you can indulge in a wide range of amazing outdoor activities.
On the other hand, if you love the winter months and want to witness the snowfall, then the cold months could be a fantastic option!
3. Currency and Money
Did you know that Azerbaijan's currency is called the Azerbaijani Manat?
You can get some from the airport or the local currency exchange providers in your area. You should have some of the native currency because hotels and restaurants throughout the country often don’t accept international credit and debit cards.
The capital cities and many of the other towns and cities have the services you would expect such as ATM’s and currency exchanges. However, if you are visiting remote areas, you might not have access to the same facilities, so it’s important to have a reasonable amount of the local currency.
4. Safety
Azerbaijan is a safe place to venture to; you shouldn’t have any problems whether you travel alone or with your family and friends. To be even safer, the best thing you can do is invest in travel insurance. This will ensure that you have assistance readily available in case of any emergencies. It’s also best to keep your luggage in check, particularly if you travel on public transport.
The people here are friendly and are generally happy to help if you ever need anything. The country is well developed and has the government and security services that you would expect; As such, you will easily find embassies for various countries that can assist you if an urgent matter ever arises.
5. The Language
When traveling to a new place, knowing a few common phrases is always beneficial. The official language of the country is Azeri, which is a Turkish dialect.
The people here don’t speak much English, so you might struggle if you don’t have a few key phrases from the Azeri language to hand. Hire a well-versed guide in your language and the local language so you can avoid any communication gaps.
6. Taxi Scams
When traveling to a new country like Azerbaijan, it’s important to stay up to date on the local happenings so that no one can charge you unfair amounts for goods and services.
One thing you must be aware of is taxi scams. In this instance, the best way to avoid these scams is by not taking a taxi from the stand, specifically the one right outside your airport or hotel.
They often end up charging a lot more money than is fair and often charge even double or triple the reasonable amount. You should opt for providers like Uber or even Yandex where prices will be much more reasonable. They usually have a very transparent pricing system, enabling you to get the best prices.
If you plan to travel around Baku city, you’re often best opting for public transport. It’s generally safe and gives you a much more reliable commute option. You will also have the option to travel via the metro, which is affordable, quick, and favorable.
7. Food Options
If you are someone who is traveling to Azerbaijan for the very first time, you’re in for a brilliant gastronomical experience. A wide range of food options are available, and as this is a Muslim country, the meat is often Halaal certified.
The wide range of exotic vegetables is also a perfect option for those who don’t consume meat. The street food in Azerbaijan is pretty amazing as well, and you need to try out the iconic Kufta Bobash, Piti, Dushbara, Dovga, Qutab, and Lavangi.
Conclusion
Azerbaijan is an extremely vibrant country; the country is a delight especially if you’re visiting for the first time. If you don’t know much about the area you’re visiting, hiring a professional tour guide to take you through iconic spots is often best. The food, clothes, and most importantly, the people of Azerbaijan are such that you’re in for a truly unforgettable experience.
If you love nature and want to experience true serenity, then this place is an ideal location for you. All you need to do is book your tickets and plan your next trip to Azerbaijan today!
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