Digital Nomad Life in Azerbaijan
Summary: Azerbaijan is becoming increasingly popular as a destination for digital nomads. The most popular cities for digital nomads in Azerbaijan are Baku, Ganja, and Sheki. Digital nomads like living in Azerbaijan because of its low cost of living, its vibrant culture, and its excellent infrastructure. A digital nomad can live comfortably in Azerbaijan on a monthly budget of around $1,000. This budget can cover accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment. The culture of Azerbaijan is a mix of traditional and modern influences. It is a predominantly Muslim country, but it is also home to a diverse range of ethnicities and religions. Azerbaijani culture is known for its hospitality, its vibrant music and dance, and its delicious cuisine.
How do I meet people in Azerbaijan?
When we asked people living in Azerbaijan about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Azerbaijan often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, visiting cafes and restaurants, or joining social media groups. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join expat-specific organizations, such as the International Women's Club of Baku, which provides a platform for expats to connect and share experiences," said one expat in Azerbaijan.
What is life like in Azerbaijan?
When we asked people living in Azerbaijan what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Expat and digital nomads in Azerbaijan can enjoy a unique cultural experience. The country is known for its diverse landscapes, from the Caucasus Mountains to the Caspian Sea. Expats and digital nomads can explore the country's vibrant cities, such as Baku, and experience its rich history and culture. The cost of living in Azerbaijan is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads. The country also offers a wide range of activities, from skiing in the mountains to exploring the ancient city of Sheki. Expats and digital nomads can also take advantage of the country's excellent healthcare system and enjoy the hospitality of the local people," said one person in Azerbaijan.
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Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Where should I live in Azerbaijan?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Azerbaijan is to search online for rental listings. There are many websites that offer listings of apartments, houses, and other types of rental properties in Azerbaijan. Additionally, you can also search for rental listings in local newspapers and classifieds. Additionally, you can also contact real estate agents in Azerbaijan who specialize in rental properties. They can provide you with more information about available rental properties and help you find the perfect place to live," said one person in Azerbaijan.
What do I need to know before moving to Azerbaijan?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Azerbaijan, they said:
"Before retiring in Azerbaijan, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, Azerbaijani, as it is the official language of the country. It is also important to research the cost of living in Azerbaijan, as it can vary depending on the city and lifestyle. Additionally, expats should be aware of the local laws and regulations, as well as the visa requirements for staying in the country. It is also important to research the healthcare system in Azerbaijan, as well as the availability of medical insurance. Finally, expats should be aware of the cultural norms and customs of Azerbaijan, as well as the climate and weather conditions," said one person in Azerbaijan.
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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Azerbaijan?
"People enjoying the many parks and fountains--makes you forget that the place is bascially a desert. People are very kind and helpful when asked. Those who have studied English are bold about using it--which is unlike other places and can be very helpful. Public transportation is quite good, and inexpensive," said one expat who made the move to Baku.
"Expats in Azerbaijan appreciate the country's rich cultural heritage, which includes a variety of traditional music, dance, and art. They also enjoy the hospitality of the local people, who are known for their warmth and generosity. Additionally, expats appreciate the country's diverse cuisine, which features a variety of dishes from the Caucasus region. Finally, expats enjoy the country's stunning natural beauty, with its majestic mountains, lush forests, and crystal-clear lakes," explained one foreigner living in Azerbaijan.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Azerbaijan?
"Racism, superiority complex coupled with ignorance, a very disturbed religious zealotry that defies belief, constant yelling and arguments everywhere, corruption, unprofessional work environment. My first landlord broke into our apartment at 11PM because she felt she had the right to walk in whenever she wanted. Our next landlord wanted a full inspection every month. My current landlord calls my being here "letting me live at his house". There are no binding contracts even through an agent, and no concept of personal space or private property. Other than the main areas of the city which are kept immaculate, the "real" city is the world's largest trash can with no clean-up crew. I have never seen people tear up their own apartment building and neighborhoods like this, not even in the poorest countries of Africa or South America," explained one expat living in Baku, Azerbaijan.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Azerbaijan for a while?
"If you plan to stay in Azerbaijan for a while, you will need to obtain a valid visa. Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a long-term visa or a residence permit. You will also need to provide proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay in Azerbaijan, as well as a valid passport. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of health insurance and a valid return ticket," explained one expat living in Azerbaijan.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Azerbaijan?
We asked people in Azerbaijan if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"No, I've been pretty good! I do forget to serve bread at meals sometimes (Azeris can't eat a meal without bread), but nothing major," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Baku.
"I have been told that being a vegetarian is "Against God". I have been told because I smoke that I am a terrible mother (I have no children). I came to work one day with a cold and was openly asked if I was pregnant, and if I was not, why not? I am too old not to have children. I have been told that there is something wrong with my brain because I do not have children. It is "Against God" that I do not have children. Why doesn't my husband force me to have children? All inappropriate, hurtful, sexist and closed-minded," explained one person living in Baku, Azerbaijan.
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Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
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What are healthcare services like in Azerbaijan?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Azerbaijan, they replied:
"Azerbaijan offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and preventive care. The public healthcare system in Azerbaijan is generally of good quality, with a wide range of services available. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay for some services. Expats in Azerbaijan can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. In addition, there are private healthcare providers in Azerbaijan that offer more comprehensive services, although these services may be more expensive," said one member in Azerbaijan.
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Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
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What are the pros and cons of living in Azerbaijan?
"Expats and digital nomads living in Azerbaijan appreciate the country's rich culture and history, as well as its stunning natural beauty. They also enjoy the low cost of living, which makes it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. Additionally, the country's friendly people and welcoming atmosphere make it a great place to live. On the other hand, expats and digital nomads may find the language barrier and lack of English-speaking locals to be a challenge. Additionally, the country's infrastructure is still developing, which can make it difficult to access certain services," commented a person living in Azerbaijan.
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Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
Expats interested in International Health Insurance should take a minute to get a quote from our trusted expat health insurance partner, CIGNA.
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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