What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Baku. They wrote...
"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," wrote a member who made the move to Baku, Azerbaijan.
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"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," explained one expat living in Baku, Azerbaijan.
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Other Questions:
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- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Baku?
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- Will I be able to find a job in Baku?
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- What do people like (and dislike) about Baku?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Baku?
- What is the social scene like in Baku?
- What advice to expats in Baku have about housing?
- What are medical services in Baku like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Baku?
- Is the cost of living in Baku high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Baku?
- Why do people move to Baku?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Baku, newcomers to Baku would love to hear your answer to this question.
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.