Azerbaijan🇦🇿
Azerbaijan, a nation with a majority Turkic and Shia Muslim population, is located in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia, at the crossroads of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. It is bounded by the Caspian Sea to the east, Russia to the north, Georgia to the northwest, Armenia to the west, and Iran to the south. Azerbaijan is known for its rich culture, history, and natural beauty. It is home to a variety of landscapes, from the snow-covered peaks of the Caucasus Mountains to the pristine beaches of the Caspian Sea. The country's capital, Baku, features ambitious architecture, including the iconic Flame Towers. The historical Old City of Baku, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Gobustan National Park, renowned for its rock carvings, are must-visit attractions.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid discussing the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict as it can lead to confrontations.
- Avoid driving at night due to poor road conditions.
- Avoid making derogatory comments about the government or the president.
- Avoid displaying affection in public if you're a same-sex couple.
- Avoid getting a taxi without a meter to avoid being overcharged.
- Avoid drinking tap water in rural areas.
- Avoid public demonstrations or gatherings as they can turn violent.
- Avoid any appearance of blasphemy or disrespect towards Islam.
- Avoid visiting disputed territories like Nagorno-Karabakh without researching and understanding the risks involved.
- Avoid wandering into poorly lit or deserted areas, especially at night.
Overall
6
Crime 🔫
7
Azerbaijan has a medium level of crime, with petty crime like pickpocketing and purse snatching being the most common. Major cities, like Baku and Ganja, have a higher crime rate than smaller towns and rural areas. Corruption, particularly in the form of bribery, is often encountered in police and customs procedures.
Terrorism 💣
8
The threat of terrorism in Azerbaijan is relatively low. While there have been isolated incidents in the past, most notably a bomb attack on Baku's main railway station in 2008, there have been no significant attacks in recent years.
War ⚔️
4
Azerbaijan has a history of conflict with its western neighbour, Armenia, over the Nagorno-Karabakh region. While the latest war ended in November 2020 with a Russia-brokered truce, occasional skirmishes still occur along the border, leading to a lower rating in this category.
Natural Disasters 🌊
9
Azerbaijan is relatively safe from severe natural disasters. The country does experience occasional earthquakes and floods, but they are typically not devastating. The most severe earthquake in recent history occurred in 2000, causing significant damage in the capital, Baku.
Medical Care 🏥
6
Medical facilities in Azerbaijan are adequate in major cities, but can be limited in rural areas. Private medical facilities are usually better equipped than public ones. Pharmacies are well-stocked, and most medications are available.
Tap Water Quality 💧
7
Tap water in major cities and towns is generally safe to drink, but it is advisable to drink bottled or filtered water to avoid possible stomach upsets. In rural areas, it is safer to boil water or consume bottled water due to less stringent water treatment methods.
Disease Burden 🤒
7
The disease burden in Azerbaijan is moderate. The country does not face significant threats from infectious diseases, and vaccination coverage is extensive. However, non-communicable diseases like heart diseases and cancers are becoming increasingly common.
Corruption 💸
2
Corruption is a significant issue in Azerbaijan. Despite the government's efforts to crackdown corruption, it continues to pervade many aspects of public life. Bribery, embezzlement, and nepotism are common, particularly in government institutions and law enforcement agencies.
Safety for Women ♀️
7
Azerbaijan generally safe for women. However, women should exercise caution when travelling alone, especially at night or in less crowded areas. Unwanted advances and harassment can occur, although these incidences are not very frequent.
Safety for Queer People 👬
2
Azerbaijan does not have strong protections for LGBTQ+ rights and societal attitudes toward the LGBTQ+ community are generally negative. Discrimination, harassment, and even violence against queer individuals can occur, particularly in more conservative regions.
Censorship 📺
2
Azerbaijan has widespread censorship, with the government exercising significant control over media and internet content. Journalists face harassment, imprisonment, and violence, and independent media outlets are rare. Social media and blogging platforms are occasionally blocked or censored.
Public Transportation 🚌
6
Public transportation in Azerbaijan is relatively safe and reliable, primarily in cities. However, standards of comfort and maintenance can vary, and accidents occur occasionally due to reckless driving.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Azerbaijan is generally safe for travel with common sense precautions. It is crucial to respect local customs and laws, avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics and religion, and stay away from areas with ongoing conflicts.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
Many countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and many EU countries, have embassies in Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Standard vaccines, as well as vaccines against Hepatitis A and Typhoid are recommended for travel to Azerbaijan.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Azerbaijan is home to various species of snakes, some of which are venomous. It is recommended to be cautious when hiking or venturing into rural areas.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Most nationals require a visa to enter Azerbaijan, which can be obtained online through the e-visa system.
💲 Currency
The currency of Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani manat (AZN). ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most places in cities.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in major cities. However, cash is king in smaller towns and rural areas.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
While work and travel opportunities are limited in Azerbaijan, teaching English, working in the oil industry or volunteering are possible options.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
Compared to Western countries, the cost of living and travelling in Azerbaijan is low. Accommodation, food, transportation, and sightseeing are all quite affordable.