Back from Baku

The Unveiling

My week in Baku really flew by and I can't quite believe I am back in Edinburgh already.  I am feeling exhausted and rung out from my visit.

Baku was a really interesting place to be.  Firstly, Azerbaijan is a liberal Muslim country, so the woman are not covered up.  A woman can wear whatever she likes, from the skimpiest top to the highest heels; just so long as she doesn't smoke!  Which is fine by me, as nearly all the men seemed to smoke, I think the women of Azerbaijan will have the last laugh on that one!

The picture opposite is of a huge central statue in Baku.  It is of a beautiful woman removing her veil.  I absolutely love it and think that it is such an inspirational and important statue.  It stands in the middle of one of the main thoroughfares in Baku, for all the world to see her proudly uncovering her feminine curves without shame.

Buildings in Baku seemed to be going up at a phenomenal  rate.  The Eurovision Song Contest is coming to Azerbaijan in 2012 and the country was working at break neck speed to build hotels, venues and to smarten up, well, everywhere.  The Soviet era has left it's mark on Baku, but the beautiful neo-classical buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries are absolutely beautiful, with their ornate designs you would be forgiven for thinking you were on a Paris Boulevard when looking at them. 

The Azari people are also extremely welcoming, polite and friendly.  The service we received while we were in restaurants was second to none.  We had the best Asian meal ever in Chinar (http://ru-ru.facebook.com/CHINARBAKU if you fancy going next time you are in Baku). 

But, I have to admit that I did find it really stressful being with my parents and having no money, as a result I have come home feeling really uneasy and with a feeling of guilt hanging over me.  It was like reverting to being a child again and the balance of power was really uncomfortable for me.  I would much rather be able to be seen as an equal to my parents, rather than having to rely on handouts.  So while I tried to be polite and not show my discomfort, I do think the holiday would have been much happier for me if I could have paid my own way.  So, although it was a great experience, I think I would feel like a better person if I didn't accept any more gifts from my parents, at least until I can offer the same in return.