Azerbaijan, officially the Republic of Azerbaijan is the largest country in the Caucasus region located at the crossroads of Western Asia and Eastern Europe. It is bounded by the Caspian Sea to the east, Russia to the north, Georgia to the northwest, Armenia to the west and Iran to the south. The exclave of Nakhchivan is bounded by Armenia to the north and east, Iran to the south and west, while having a short borderline with Turkey to the northwest.
Area: 86,600 sq. km (33,400 sq miles).
Time: GMT +4..
Currency: Azeri New Manat ( AZN ).
Country telephone code: +994.
Internet: Access is widely available in Baku and other main towns..
Fax: Services are widely available especially at international hotel..
Climate
Azerbaijan is the region with unique geographical and climatic characteristics, as 9 out of 11 existing climate zones are present in Azerbaijan. The climate varies between subtropical and moderate. Most of the rainfall is in the west part of the country
Language
The official language is Azerbaijani which belongs to the Turkie language family, Besides, Russian and English are widely used in the country.
Religion
According to the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan religion here is separated from the state. All religions are equal before the law. Although various religious confessions function in Azerbaijan, Islam has the dominating position,85% of the population is Shia Muslims and 15% Sunny Muslims. Besides, Idolatry, Zoroastrianism, Judaism, Christianity and other religious movements are spread in the country.
Transportation
The convenient location of Azerbaijan on the crossroad of major international traffic arteries, such as the Silk Road and the South-North corridor, highlights the strategic importance of the transportation sector for the country`s economy. The transport sector in the country includes roads,railways, air and maritime transport
Cuisine
The traditional cuisine is famous for an abundance of vegetables and greens used seasonally in the dishes. Fresh herbs, including mint, cilantro ( coriander ) , dill, parsley, leeks, green onion and watercress are very popular and often accompany main dishes on the table. Climatic diversity and fertility of the land are reflected in the national dishes on the table. Climatic diversity and fertility of the land are reflected in the national dishes which are based on fish from the Caspian Sea and local meat (mainly mutton and beef). Saffron-rice plov is the flagship food in Azerbaijan and black tea is the national beverage.