Azerbaijan: A Country Worth Visiting And Living In?

Azerbaijan, officially the Republic of Azerbaijan, is a transcontinental country straddling Europe and Asia. It is a former Soviet Union country with a rich history and culture, known for its medieval walled inner city of Baku, its delicious cuisine, and its status as an upper-middle-income nation with a high literacy rate. However, it has also faced criticism for its human rights record, freedom of speech restrictions, and corruption. With its beautiful landscapes, blend of traditions and modernisation, and diverse natural resources, Azerbaijan presents a complex picture when it comes to determining whether it is a good country.

Is Azerbaijan safe to visit?

Azerbaijan is considered relatively safe to visit, with a medium overall risk rating. However, it is important to remain vigilant, especially when it comes to petty and violent crimes, such as pickpocketing and mugging, which are on the rise. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind when visiting Azerbaijan:

• Stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places like bus or train stations and public transport. Keep your valuables close and don't flash any expensive belongings.
• Be cautious when consuming drinks in bars or nightclubs due to reports of drink spiking and scams targeting men. Avoid accepting food or drinks from strangers.
• Avoid insulting the ruling Aliyev family or speaking negatively about the government. There is evidence of widespread corruption and a lack of respect for democratic processes, so it is best to avoid discussing politics.
• Stay away from the border regions with Armenia, particularly the Nagorno-Karabakh region, due to ongoing conflicts and the presence of landmines.
• Be cautious when driving or crossing the road due to poor road conditions and erratic driving. Avoid driving at night as the roads are often poorly lit, and there are many potholes and bumps that can cause accidents.
• Refuse to pay bribes if asked. While bribery and corruption are common, you have the right to decline, and it will likely be respected.
• Be wary of fake police officers who may target foreigners and issue fake fines or demand bribes. Offer to go to the nearest police station to resolve the issue.
• Dress modestly, especially in rural areas, to respect local cultural norms.
• Purchase travel insurance to protect yourself in case of emergencies, accidents, or theft.
• Enroll in a travel advisory program, such as the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), to stay informed about security updates and receive assistance in emergencies.
• Stay alert in locations frequented by foreigners and avoid demonstrations or large gatherings.
• Monitor local media and adjust your plans accordingly.

By following these precautions and staying informed about the latest travel advisories, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Azerbaijan.

Is Azerbaijan safe for solo female travellers?

Azerbaijan is generally considered a safe destination for solo female travellers. The capital, Baku, is particularly safe, with a good level of police presence, clean streets, and well-lit public areas. The people of Azerbaijan are also known for their friendliness and hospitality, and the country has a strong culture of respect for women. However, it is always important to maintain a high level of situational awareness and take standard safety precautions when travelling alone in any country.

Crime and Safety

Azerbaijan is considered relatively safe when it comes to violent crime, which is rare. However, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching can occur, particularly in crowded places and tourist areas. It is important to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, and take common-sense precautions such as keeping your valuables secured. Additionally, there have been reports of scams and frauds targeting tourists, so it is important to be cautious when dealing with street vendors, taxi or cab drivers, and even people pretending to be police officers.

Transport

Public transportation in Azerbaijan is generally safe, with buses, trams, and metros being commonly used by locals. However, you should be prepared for crowded conditions, especially during rush hours, and keep an eye on your belongings to prevent theft. Taxis are also prevalent and affordable, but it is recommended to use official taxis with clearly displayed registration numbers for added safety.

Cultural Considerations

When travelling in Azerbaijan, it is important to be respectful of local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting more conservative rural areas outside the cities. While the country has a strong cultural respect for women, there may be traditional aspects where it is looked down upon for women to be out alone after 9 pm. However, this may not apply to foreign women, and solo female travellers have reported feeling safe even when out alone at night.

Government Advisories

When planning travel to Azerbaijan, it is important to check the latest travel advisories from your home country. For example, as of November 2023, the United States, Canada, and Australia have all advised exercising a high degree of caution when travelling to Azerbaijan due to concerns about terrorism, border tensions, and the threat of conflict in certain areas.

Overall

While Azerbaijan does have some risks, it is considered a relatively safe destination for solo female travellers. The country offers a wealth of cultural and natural attractions, and its people are known for their warmth and hospitality. By staying vigilant, aware of your surroundings, and taking standard safety precautions, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to this fascinating country.

Is Azerbaijan safe to travel for families?

Azerbaijan is a fascinating country to visit, with its mix of Soviet-era architecture and ancient history. The capital, Baku, offers amazing architecture and traces of the country's ancient history. The country also offers geographical variety, with mud volcanoes and the curious fire phenomena in the surrounding desert area, and rural villages surrounded by orchards in front of the Great Caucasus Mountains.

However, it's important to be aware of potential dangers when travelling to Azerbaijan, especially with family. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Overall Risk

Azerbaijan has an overall medium risk. While it is relatively safe to travel to, both petty and violent crime are prevalent, so it is advised to remain vigilant at all times, especially when crossing the streets. It is important to watch out for scams and pickpockets, especially in crowded places such as bus or train stations and on public transportation.

Transport Risk

Transport in Azerbaijan is generally reliable and safe, but there have been reports of issues with taxis overcharging riders. It is recommended to negotiate the fare in advance. The roads in Azerbaijan are often in poor condition, with potholes and a lack of lighting, making driving at night challenging and potentially dangerous.

Natural Disasters Risk

Azerbaijan is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, seasonal floods, and landslides. There is also a risk of man-made disasters, including industrial accidents and transport accidents.

Terrorism Risk

There is a threat of terrorist attacks in Azerbaijan, which could target civilians, including foreign nationals. It is important to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings at all times and avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, as they are illegal and could result in a swift response from the authorities.

Women Travellers Risk

Women travelling alone in Azerbaijan should exercise caution, especially after dark. It is generally advised that women should not be out alone after 9 pm and should avoid poorly lit and deserted areas.

Family Travel

Travelling to Azerbaijan with family can be a rewarding experience, as children are highly regarded in Azerbaijani society. Locals will often be friendly and helpful towards families, and there are plenty of family-friendly attractions and accommodations. However, it is important to be aware of potential delays and long travel times, especially when travelling outside of major cities. It is recommended to stick to Baku and its surrounding areas when travelling with young children to avoid lengthy and uncomfortable journeys.

In conclusion, Azerbaijan can be a safe place for families to visit, but it is important to stay vigilant, be aware of potential scams and crimes, and avoid areas with political tensions or conflicts. By taking necessary precautions and staying informed, families can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Azerbaijan.

Is Azerbaijan safe to live in?

Azerbaijan is considered a relatively safe country to live in, with a crime index of 31.82 and a safety index of 68.18. Violent and property crimes are low, and visitors and locals report feeling safe travelling during the day and at night. However, there are some risks to be aware of when considering a move to Azerbaijan.

One notable concern is the issue of corruption and bribery, which is prevalent in the country. Azerbaijan has been criticised for its human rights record, with reports of restricted freedom of speech, media censorship, and the prosecution of political opposition parties. The country has also faced accusations of authoritarianism under the ruling New Azerbaijan Party and the Aliyev family, who have been in power since 1993.

Another safety concern, particularly for women, is the issue of unwanted male attention and harassment. Women are advised to travel with a male companion at night and to avoid accepting gifts from strangers. Additionally, there have been reports of drink spiking and scams targeting both men and women in bars and clubs, especially in the capital city of Baku.

The country also faces challenges with its healthcare system, with a very low level of medical care outside of the capital. Most healthcare facilities are concentrated in Baku, and those travelling or living outside the city may find healthcare services to be insufficient or non-existent.

When it comes to transportation, Azerbaijan has a relatively good track record in road safety, ranking 143rd worldwide for the lowest number of road accident deaths. However, the road infrastructure itself is poor, with many roads in dangerous conditions, especially at night due to inadequate lighting.

Natural disasters are also a consideration, with Azerbaijan facing a moderate risk of earthquakes due to its location in a seismically active region.

Overall, while Azerbaijan presents some safety concerns, these can be mitigated with reasonable caution and awareness of the local culture and potential risks.

Is Azerbaijan safe for LGBTQ+ travellers?

Azerbaijan is a majority Muslim country, which often means challenges for LGBTQ+ travellers. While same-sex sexual activity has been legal since 2000, there is a stark absence of progressive LGBTQ+ laws. There are no specific anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ+ individuals, and same-sex marriages or civil unions are not recognized.

Overall Safety

Azerbaijan is considered very safe when it comes to crime rates, and it is officially a secular nation. Despite having a Muslim majority, most Azeris are quite relaxed about religious customs. For example, most drink alcohol, most eat pork, and it's rare to see women wearing the hijab.

While there is no official gay scene anywhere in Azerbaijan, there remains a vibrant, albeit underground, LGBTQ+ community that is very much alive and proud. The locals are known for their hospitality and curiosity, and are more interested in sharing their culture than prying into personal lives.

Baku

The capital city of Baku has a more cosmopolitan and tolerant atmosphere compared to rural areas. Here, you can enjoy the vibrant nightlife and visit historical sites while blending in with the diverse crowd. However, it's essential to remain cautious and respectful of the local customs and societal norms.

Public displays of affection between same-sex partners are likely to attract unwanted attention, so it is advised to err on the side of caution and avoid them.

Gay-Friendly Spaces

While there are no official gay bars or clubs in Baku, a few spaces are known for their welcoming atmosphere to the LGBTQ+ community. These include the Kefli Wine Bar, Room Baku, the Loft Speakeasy Bar, Jolly Joker Club, and FOMO Club.

Grindr and Other Apps

Grindr is available in Azerbaijan, but the experience can be challenging due to many users' discretion or fear of revealing their identities. For a broader range of connections, consider using Hornet, which is also popular in Russia and other ex-Soviet countries.

Connecting with Gay Travellers

To connect with other gay travellers in Azerbaijan, apps like Grindr and Hornet are a good starting point. Additionally, consider staying with a gay local through platforms like Misterbnb, which offers LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations.

Practical Information

When travelling to Azerbaijan, it is important to note that a visa must be applied for online, and it is recommended to print a copy to show upon arrival. The currency is the manat ($1 USD is approximately AZN1.7), and ATMs are widely available. The international telephone code is +994, and the plugs are similar to European two-pin plugs, so adaptors may be needed for travellers from countries like the UK, USA, and Australia.

While Uber does not work in Azerbaijan, alternatives like Bolt and Uber AZ are available. However, taxi drivers at the airport may try to charge higher prices, so it is advised to be prepared for this.

Azerbaijan may not have the progressive LGBTQ+ laws of Western countries, but with the right mindset and precautions, it can be a rewarding and safe destination for LGBTQ+ travellers. The country offers a mix of history, culture, and stunning landscapes, making it a captivating destination for those navigating the intricacies of this fascinating nation.

Frequently asked questions