AZERBAIJAN - Shamakhi

Shamakhi is an ancient Azerbaijan city and is the historical center of the region of Shirvan. The city is populated since 5th century BC and between the 9th – 16th century, it was the capital of Shirvan Empire. The capital of the province of the Russian Empire was also in Shamakhi until the devastating earthquake in 1859 where it was moved to Baku.

AZERBAIJAN - Baku Downtown City Tour

Baku is the capital city of Azerbaijan and it is also the largest city in the world located below sea level. I’ve explored the Old City of Baku. It’s time to explore the modern city Baku really is.

AZERBAIJAN - Ateshgah (Fire Temple) & Yanar Dag (Fire Mountain)

Azerbaijan’s emblem is the fire symbol and it is named “land of eternal fire” for good reasons. It used to be so rich in oil and gas, that oil was oozing out of the ground naturally and natural gas fire blazes continuously in several places.

AZERBAIJAN - Baku Old City Tour

Azerbaijan is one of the countries in the Caucasus region. This country was once incorporated into the Soviet Union until it proclaimed its independence in 1991. Around 95% of the population are Muslims. It is one of the birthplaces of oil industry. Its rich oil and natural gas largely contribute to the country’s fortune.

QATAR - Souq Waqif, Doha

Souq Waqif is located in the old part of Doha and is considered the Old City Centre. Souq Waqif’s translation from Arabic word is the standing market. Souq Waqif is a place where people in Doha to gather, have a good meal or just for a walk while enjoying the surroundings. This market dates back a hundred years, where people will bring their sheep, goats and wools to trade. The one you currently see is a rebuilt one, where it was redeveloped to look like a 19th century souq with mud buildings. It is now one of the main tourist destination in Doha.

The distinctive curled minaret of Fanar, Qatar Islamic Cultural Center is hard to miss while in the Souq.