The meeting ground between Europe and the Middle East, Azerbaijan is sandwiched between Russia to the north and Iran to the south. It also borders Georgia to the north-west, Armenia to the west and the Caspian Sea to the east. The smaller Nakhchivan Exclave is nestled between Armenia, Iran and Turkey. Azerbaijan is politically allied to Russia but culturally intertwined with Turkey. This sets the stage for Azerbaijan as one of the more interesting countries in the world.
Azerbaijan is known as the Land of Fire – and it is easy to see why. From the oil refineries in the Caspian Sea to the famous mud volcanoes in central rural areas, Azerbaijan is a country that is forged in and is evolving through fire. The fact that the Land of Fire is such an unusual, exotic mix of Turkic, European and Middle Eastern probably explains why it’s becoming an evermore popular destination with students from across the Middle East and neighbouring Russia.
Azerbaijan – Quick Facts & Figures
Capital Baku Language Azerbaijani, (Russian)
Population 10.1million Area Size 86,000km²
International students 26,000 Academic Year September – May
Currency Azerbaijani Manat Calling Code +994
Time Zone GMT+4
Azerbaijan is also becoming more popular as a tourist destination. From its expansive national parks, to the ancient, stone-built Old City of Baku, to the calm, warm water of the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan packs a lot into a somewhat small area.
The country is also one of the safest and most stable in the region. It has a low crime rate, good relations with its neighbors – bar Armenia – and also benefits from a strong economy. Azerbaijan is among the wealthiest ex-Soviet states. However, there is a breakaway region: Nagorno-Karabakh (more on that elsewhere in this guide).
Azerbaijan is a country that’s in touch with its traditions and cultural heritage. Traditional singing events, dances and parades often take place. Traditional Azeri food complements these events. Azerbaijan is an exotic country. Its links with its traditions is just one of the reasons why.