A country on the up financially Azerbaijan is country of vastly different terrain, with the lowlands taking up the majority of the country and the Great Caucasus Mountains occupying the North. This majority-Muslim country is not currently renowned for huge amounts of tourism, but a burgeoning oil industry is seeing more and more well-off foreigners taking up residence in the country – mostly businessmen with vested interests in the fuel market, but the region is becoming popular for more ‘regular’ tourists and the property market is showing signs of taking off.

As a country sandwiched between numerous other nations, Azerbaijan has experienced what most other countries in that situation have over the centuries – occupation, invasion and experiencing only a few periods of independence in its lifetime. Two huge influences on the modern culture of the region came from the Selijuk Turks and the Ottoman Turks, who shaped language and customs, then later from the Iranians, who brought the Shia Islam faith to the country, which still stands strong today. The late 19th century saw an oil boom that changed the nation – Baku especially – attracting international investment. The country’s close ties with the Soviet Union saw Azerbaijan incorporated into the Soviet Bloc in 1922, and when the autonomous province of Nagorno-Karabakh was created in 1924 the seeds for future discontent with Armenia were sown. A period of relative stability and peace followed through the majority of the 20th century until 1988, when tensions around the disputed region came to a head, and with Communism on its last legs and confusion reigning conflict broke out, and when Azerbaijan gained independence in 1991 things became even worse, with thousands losing their lives in the conflict. A ceasefire was engineered by Moscow in 1994 and this still stands – if uneasily – to this day. Recent history of the country has seen an impetus on exploiting the natural oil reserves, and a proposed pipeline through Georgia is expected to see the economic situation of the nation grow vastly. Whilst tensions with Armenia are still unresolved, both countries have established a working relationship with each other, and amidst allegations of government corruption things look to be getting better in the region.

Azerbaijan is an interesting country to visit for all. Whilst it is a mainly Islamic state, religion is held as a personal matter and items such as alcohol are available. Tourism is on the increase in the region and the economy is looking up. Property investors are starting to look to the region in larger numbers, especially thanks to the oil boom, and more Western businessmen and women are making their way to the country with each year. It isn’t the most traditional of investment spots, but it’s certainly an interesting one.

The standard of healthcare in Azerbaijan is poor, and though a reciprocal agreement is in place meaning British citizens receive free treatment for serious injuries and illness, it is highly recommended that treatment is obtained elsewhere. Full health insurance is recommended. Medical supplies are seriously limited, even the most basic of items, so a supply should be brought into the country – though it should first be checked that items can be legally imported.

Mobile phone coverage is good in the main towns and cities, though it cannot be guaranteed in rural areas. Landlines are of a poor, though workable standard. Internet access is widespread through the country.

General banking hours in most areas are from 0930 to 1730, Mondays to Fridays. Shopping hours are normally from 0900 to 2000 Mondays to Saturdays.

A smart suit and a handshake will go down well in business meetings, along with the exchange of business cards. Whilst Azerbaijan is a majority Muslim country, religion is viewed as a personal matter and foreigners are not expected to adhere to any strict religious views – though, of course, common courtesy should be presented. Gift-giving is very regular in Azerbaijan, and a foreign visitor may feel quite overwhelmed with the generosity of a host – it is recommended that small gifts are brought into the country in case reciprocation is necessary.

Tips are expected by waiters, car park supervisors and restaurant doormen, and taxi fares should be agreed upon before commencing a journey.