Digital Nomad Life in Baku, Azerbaijan

"Expats in Baku can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending networking events. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats living in Baku," said one expat who made the move to Baku.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Baku is generally quite pleasant. The city is modern and cosmopolitan, with a wide range of amenities and activities to enjoy. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The city is also well-connected, with a good public transport system and plenty of international flights. The people are friendly and welcoming, and the culture is diverse and vibrant. Expats and digital nomads can find plenty of opportunities to network and collaborate with like-minded people. All in all, Baku is an excellent destination for those looking for a unique and exciting experience," said one person in Baku.

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Baku is to use online resources such as websites and social media. Websites such as BakuRent.az, BakuRealty.az, and BakuRealEstate.az offer listings of apartments, houses, and other properties for rent or sale in Baku. Additionally, social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter can be used to search for rental properties in Baku. Additionally, it is possible to find a place to live in Baku by asking around in the local community. Many people in Baku are willing to help newcomers find a place to live, and it is possible to find a place to live through word of mouth," said one expat in Baku.

"Expats considering retiring in Baku should be aware that the cost of living is relatively high compared to other cities in the region. It is important to research the local laws and regulations regarding visas and residency requirements. Additionally, expats should be aware that the climate in Baku can be quite extreme, with hot summers and cold winters. It is also important to research the local healthcare system and ensure that adequate medical insurance is in place. Finally, expats should be aware that the local language is Azerbaijani, although English is widely spoken in the city," said one person in Baku.

"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," explained one person living in Baku, Azerbaijan.

"Expats in Baku appreciate the city's rich cultural heritage, which is evident in its architecture, art, and music. They also enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, with its many restaurants, bars, and clubs. Additionally, expats appreciate the friendly and welcoming attitude of the locals, who are always willing to help out and share their culture with newcomers. Finally, expats enjoy the city's unique cuisine, which is a mix of traditional Azerbaijani dishes and international flavors," said one expat in Baku.

"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," said one person in Baku.

"Expats in Baku often find the language barrier to be one of the most challenging aspects of the local culture. Azerbaijani is the official language of the country, and many locals do not speak English. Additionally, the local culture is quite conservative, and expats may find it difficult to adjust to the more traditional values and customs. Furthermore, the city is quite expensive, and expats may find it difficult to find affordable housing and other necessities. Finally, the city is quite crowded and traffic can be a challenge to navigate," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Baku.

"Of not the culture but the place: the wind is overpowering and dries the skin terrbily; the food, especially for a vegetarian, offers little choice/variety. Bureacracy is cumbersome and mysterious--you need to know someone to get the proper paperwork to get things done," explained one person living in Baku, Azerbaijan.

"If you plan to stay in Baku for a while, you will need to apply for a residence permit. Depending on the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a temporary residence permit or a permanent residence permit. You may also need to apply for a visa, depending on your nationality," said one expat in 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 expat living in Baku, Azerbaijan.

"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," said one person in Baku.

"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Baku. It is considered impolite to show public displays of affection, so it is best to avoid kissing or hugging in public. It is also important to dress modestly, as revealing clothing is considered inappropriate. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of religious customs, such as avoiding eating pork or drinking alcohol in public. Finally, it is important to be aware of local customs when it comes to greetings, as handshakes are the most common form of greeting," said one expat who made the move to Baku.

"Healthcare services in Baku, are a mix of public and private facilities, with the public sector being the primary provider of healthcare services. The city has several hospitals, clinics, and medical centers that offer a range of services, including general medicine, surgery, maternity care, and emergency services. The quality of healthcare in Baku varies, with some public hospitals being outdated and lacking modern equipment, while private facilities tend to offer higher quality care with more advanced technology and better-trained staff. Many doctors and medical professionals in Baku have received their education and training abroad, and some are fluent in English, making it easier for foreign patients to communicate their needs. However, it is important to note that the overall healthcare system in Azerbaijan faces challenges, such as limited funding, inadequate infrastructure, and a shortage of qualified medical professionals. As a result, some patients may choose to seek medical treatment abroad for more specialized or complex procedures," explained one expat living in Baku, Azerbaijan.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Baku, often like the city's rich history and unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures. They appreciate the stunning architecture, including modern buildings like the Flame Towers and historical sites like the Old City. The low cost of living is another attractive feature, as it allows for a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. The local cuisine is also a highlight, with a variety of delicious dishes to try. The public transportation system in Baku is generally efficient and affordable, making it easy for expats and digital nomads to get around the city. Additionally, the city is relatively safe, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. On the other hand, expats and digital nomads may find the language barrier to be a significant challenge, as not everyone speaks English, and learning Azerbaijani can be difficult. The bureaucracy and paperwork involved in obtaining visas and work permits can also be frustrating and time-consuming. Air pollution is a concern in Baku, as the city has a high level of pollution due to its oil industry and heavy traffic. The weather can also be a downside, with hot and humid summers and cold, windy winters. Lastly, some expats and digital nomads may find the conservative nature of Azerbaijani society to be restrictive, particularly when it comes to socializing and dating. The limited availability of international products and services can also be a drawback for those who are used to a more cosmopolitan lifestyle," said one digital nomad in Baku.