Where did you go?
Kiran Malik: Baku.
What made you go here?
KM: We went to celebrate my friend’s 40th birthday.
What did you pack?
KM: As it was a birthday with a two-day itinerary, I packed accordingly. I also checked the weather app to see if I need a coat or a cotton jacket that would work.
What was favourite meal/restaurant?
KM: All the red meat dishes at the Qaynana Restaurant in old town were delicious.
What was the biggest highlight of your trip/most memorable moment?
KM: Spending the day in old town and exploring the cobblestone streets with friends.
Favourite shopping destination?
KM: I didn’t shop but there were plenty of high-end brands.
Some sights worth seeing?
KM: The Old City , Baku Boulevard, The Palace of the Shirvanshahs, Carpet Museum, Little Venice, Flame Towers, Bibi-Heybat Mosque, and the Fire Temple.
What are some spots for a night out?
KM: Chinar, Madrid bar, Unbar and chayki.
Travel essentials?
KM: Outerwear (such as a jacket )is a must as the weather changes drastically.
Any travel tips you would like to share?
KM: If you want to properly see Baku then get ready to walk as you won’t enjoy the place as much while driving.
Secondly, I would recommend buying a very generous and affordable data pack at the airport.
Also, you have to build an appetite for meat as it’s delicious and don’t forget to spoil yourself at one of the Turkish hammams – I highly recommend the Four Seasons hotel for that as I had one of the best experiences.
TEXT: MEHR KASSIM
PHOTOGRAPHS: COURTESY OF KIRAN MALIK
