Ever been to a place that you thought would be “meh” but was “amazing”? That’s Baku.
I really need to get back here and see more. I thought it wasn’t going to be very interesting and was only there 2 days. That wasn’t enough.
The architects for Baku are clearly going to the same schools as the architects for Doha, Oman. That’s for sure. Super modern, really interesting buildings.
These were views from inside a taxi, so not the best pictures, but the buildings are awesome.
My hotel was funhouse-maze-like.
Also, props to the Boulevard Hotel from Marriott for an AMAZING breakfast. You could stay for a week and not try all the options on the buffet.
The old city is fantastic. I had no idea it existed, nor that it would be so amazing. Also, I loved all of the Lada cars still around on the streets.
The old fort area was awesome. I got there late, so it was locked up. I just took pictures from the outside. There was an awesome vibe around the area, as well.
I saw on the map a “Little Venice” and decided to check it out. “Little” was an understatement. “Unimpressive mockery of Venice” might be a better name. I could probably jump the canal.
Baku’s most famous site is the flame towers. At night, they light up, and the displays are not only moving but changing. I saw the national flag, people waving the national flag, and flames.
Here are some videos of it.
Nearby was the carpet museum. It was closed, but I wouldn’t go anyway. Doesn’t sound very appealing, I just liked the fact that the building is shaped like a rolled up carpet.
From here, I walked through the park along the main avenue, which was definitely the rich part of town. Tons of fancy shops, 4 Seasons hotel, etc.
I walked until I was exhausted then caught a taxi back to the hotel to pass out.
Up early, breakfast buffet, and out to explore.
The architecture…it’s awesome.
It was gray and drizzling, so there weren’t many people outside. However, the city was beyond impressive to me. Like Doha, it’s another city that wants to be more than what it is currently. Tons of oil money, lots of building and development (especially in tech jobs). Baku blew my mind.
I waited as long as I could then went to the airport.
The passport control agents when arriving and when leaving spoke impeccable, accent-less English. “I hope that you have enjoyed my country and will come back again soon.”
“Trust me, I will.”
This entry was posted in asia, Azerbaijan, Baku
