"Currently working in Baku as an expat... " a Baku Travel Page by ecmerrel

I've been living here in Baku for the past year and, while it is a decent city and a tourist could visit and see everything in one day, it is not ideal for trying to work here as an expat. The cab drivers assume, because you are foreign, they can lie to you about how much a taxi costs (3 manat with tip, 4 if you are feeling particularly generous, but they'll lie and tell you 6). The waiters have NO IDEA what the words "customer service" mean. Mainly they just don't see any urgency in bringing your food out in a timely manner or giving you your bill, which can be a problem if you need to get back to work after lunch. The drivers are absolutely insane, honking constantly, driving on the wrong side of the road. And you take your life into your own hands when you try to cross the street. The Old City is worth a visit but the Caspian is heavily polluted and should be avoided at all costs, other than to walk along the promenade. The people, who seemed nice at first, seem more annoyed that we are in their country now that I have gotten used to my surroundings and pay more attention. The Russian Azeris and the ethnic Azeris don't like each other and neither of them really want foreigners working here, so there is this pervading feeling of underlying animosity when you walk around. No one is smiling. And my friend had his cell phone stolen right out of his hand as we walked to dinner near Fountain Square. Anyway, I did get out of Baku to go camping up near Lahij and had a fantastic time. The mountains were beautiful, it was quiet, and we had a blast off-roading on the old mountain roads through dry riverbeds and past flocks of sheep. I would definitely recommend it. All in all, it is a livable city, but sometimes you get sick of the attitude and wish you were someplace where the people actually wanted you there.

I saw "1001 Nights" at the ballet and really enjoyed it. And it is so affordable as well... I think we paid 5 manats per ticket. And the architecture on the inside of the building was stunning.

The streets are narrow which adds to their charm. The square around the Maiden's Tower is pretty and has some good restaurants around it. The restaurant on the roof of the Sultan's Inn has a fantastic view and I highly recommend it. Even if you aren't up for dinner, their bar is on an outdoor deck as well so just sit there, sip a drink, and enjoy the atmosphere.