So Tell Us About Baku – For The Celts On Tour

Baku Bhoy tells us all about what the city of Baku offers for the travelling Tims

Azerbaijan (The Land of Wind and Fire) is a country of contrast and contradiction. Covering 9 climate zones from the South Caucus Mountains to the dusty desert of the Caspian Coast.
A Muslim country Azerbaijan has a rich history as a pivotal trading nation on The Silk Road to China and has been renowned for its religious tolerance throughout the centuries. This tolerance is still evident in modern day Azerbaijan.
Baku the Capital sits on the northern tip of the Absheron Bay and is home to a population of 2.2 Million people. It is a vibrant culturally diverse City which greets visitors with open arms offering a welcome to all.
Baku Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with some parts within The City Walls dating back to the 7th Century. Restaurants, bars street traders and carpet sellers jostle for the tourist’s attention.
The contrast with the rest of the expanding City is marked, as fuelled by oil revenues iconic buildings, designed by the world’s leading architects are being constructed in record times.
Stretching away from the Old City is The Bulvar which is lined with Pavement Café Bars, Restaurants, landscaped gardens and modern street sculptures. You are likely to sit in an establishment that has both a Tea menu and a vodka menu as there is a strong Russian influence from the Soviet Era. This is where most of the locals would promenade after sunset and the whole area is very family orientated.
The other end of the Bulvar area is known as Port Baku home to a significant expat community with bars and restaurants.
Away from the Bulvar the main bar area is in and around Fountain Square which has large open piazzas and wide promenades. There is a very lively expat scene in the bars and clubs with live bands and international beers the order of the day.
A friendly reception awaits in Mexican home of The Baku Celtic Supporters Club which is providing traditional match day entertainment, food and refreshments to tempt the most discerning palate. (Beer, pizza and chicken wings probably) and all travelling supporters are welcome.
There are also bars at the stadium selling mainly Efes Turkish beer.
The main thing to be aware of is that like all Eastern European Countries you must be wary around the local police who stand no nonsense. There will be a heavy police presence at the game and this is normal but it will seem threatening to supporters not used to police intimidation. (Green Brigade look away now).
I have found Baku to be one of the safest places I have worked in but usual caveats apply. Don’t wander around pissed and on your own at 3 am in the morning. Don’t startle the locals etc.
The taxi drivers will try to rip you off. No trip around town should be more than 10 manats (£ 7.00). Beer is 5.50 (£3.55) manats for Stella and most meals around 15-20 manats £10-15. £1.00 = 1.5 manats roughly.
There also some exceptional restaurants in Baku but expect to pay similar prices to UK.
Temperatures during the day are hitting 40*C so peely wally Scots like me should load up on factor 50. If out sightseeing essential to carry water as heat becomes oppressive.
It was 35*C at kick off time last night and reports of pitch in a shocking state due to dry weather. We are sure the  travelling support will just have to enjoy the ambience of Azerbaijani culture .