Quba-Khachmaz Region: The Jewel of Northern Azerbaijan

• HelloSalam
  [sah-lahm]
• GoodbyeSag ol
  [sahg awl]
• YesBəli
  [beh-lee]
• NoXeyr
  [khayr]
• Please/You're welcomeXahiş edirəm
  [khah-heesh eh-dee-rem]
• Thank youTəşəkkür edirəm
  [tuh-sheh-kur eh-dee-rem]
• Excuse me/SorryBağışlayın
  [bah-guhsh-lah-yuhn]
• How are you?Nə var?
  [nuh vahr]
• Fine. And you?Yaxşı. Sən?
  [yahkh-shuh. sahn]
• Do you speak English?İngilis dilində danışa bilərsiniz?
  [een-gee-lees dee-leen-duh dah-neesh-ah bee-luhr-see-neez]
• I don't understandAnlamıram
  [ahn-lah-muh-rahm]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseZəhmət olmasa menyunu göstərin
  [zuhm-het ol-mah-sa meh-nyu-noh gohs-teh-reen]
• I don't eat meatMən ət yemirəm
  [muhn aht yeh-mee-rehm]
• Cheers!Şərafa!
  [shuh-rah-fah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseÖdəmək istəyirəm, zəhmət olmasa
  [uh-deh-mehk ees-tey-yee-ruhm, zuh-met ol-mah-sa]

• Help!Kömək!
  [kuh-muhk]
• Go away!Get!
  [get]
• Call the Police!Polisi çağırın!
  [poh-lee-see chah-gee-ruhn]
• Call a doctor!Həkim çağırın!
  [heh-keem chah-gee-ruhn]
• I'm lostYolunu itirərəm
  [yoh-loo-noo ee-tee-reh-rehm]
• I'm illXəstəyəm
  [khes-te-yem]

• I'd like to buy...Almaq istəyirəm...
  [ahl-mahq ees-tey-yee-ruhm]
• I'm just lookingSadəcə baxıram
  [sah-deh-jeh bah-kuh-rahm]
• How much is it?Neçəyədir?
  [neh-cheh-yeh-deer]
• That's too expensiveÇox bahadır
  [choh bah-hah-duhr]
• Can you lower the price?Qiyməti azaldabilərsiniz?
  [kee-meh-tee ah-zahl-dah-bee-luhr-see-neez]

• What time is it?Saat neçədir?
  [saht neh-cheh-deer]
• It's one o'clockBirdir
  [beer-deer]
• Half past (10)Onun yarısı
  [oh-noon yah-ruh-suh]
• MorningSəhər
  [suh-hehr]
• AfternoonGünorta
  [goon-or-tah]
• EveningAxşam
  [ahkh-shahm]
• YesterdayDünən
  [doo-nehn]
• TodayBu gün
  [boo goon]
• TomorrowSabah
  [sah-bah]
• 1Bir
  [beer]
• 2İki
  [ee-kee]
• 3Üç
  [ooch]
• 4Dörd
  [durrd]
• 5Beş
  [besh]
• 6Altı
  [ahl-tuh]
• 7Yeddi
  [yehd-dee]
• 8Səkkiz
  [suh-keeze]
• 9Doqquz
  [dohk-kooz]
• 10On
  [ohn]

• Where's a/the...?...haradadır?
  [hah-ruh-dah-duhr]
• What's the address?Ünvanı necədir?
  [oon-vah-nuh neh-cheh-deer]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mənə göstərə bilərsiniz?
  [muh-ne guhs-teh-reh bee-luhr-see-neez]
• When's the next (bus)?Növbəti (avtobus) neçədən gedir?
  [nuhb-beh-tee ahv-toh-boos neh-cheh-den geh-deer]
• A ticket (to ....)Bir biletlə (....ya)
  [beer bee-let-leh (yah)]

The Quba-Khachmaz region has been inhabited since ancient times, with archaeological evidence pointing to early settlements during the Bronze Age. The region's fertile lands and strategic location near the Caspian Sea made it a vital area for early human habitation. Excavations have revealed artifacts such as tools, pottery, and remnants of ancient dwellings, providing a glimpse into the lives of the early inhabitants.

In the 18th century, the Quba Khanate emerged as a significant political entity in the region. Founded by Huseyn Ali Khan, the khanate played a crucial role in the political landscape of the South Caucasus. It became known for its strong military and strategic alliances, particularly with the Russian Empire. The Quba Khanate's influence extended beyond the region, impacting trade routes and local governance.

The Qechresh Forest, located near Quba, is not only a natural wonder but also holds historical significance. It served as a hiding place for local resistance fighters during various conflicts, including the Russo-Persian Wars. The dense forest provided a natural refuge and played a crucial role in the survival and strategies of local warriors.

Krasnaya Sloboda, also known as Red Village, is a unique settlement in the Quba-Khachmaz region. It is one of the few all-Jewish towns outside of Israel and the United States. Established in the 18th century, the community has preserved its traditions, culture, and religious practices over the centuries. The town is known for its synagogues, Jewish schools, and vibrant cultural life.

During the Soviet era, the Quba-Khachmaz region underwent significant industrial development. The establishment of collective farms and industrial enterprises transformed the local economy. Key industries included agriculture, food processing, and manufacturing. The Soviet influence also brought about changes in infrastructure, education, and social services in the region.

Following Azerbaijan’s independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, the Quba-Khachmaz region experienced a period of transformation and growth. Efforts to revive traditional crafts, promote tourism, and develop infrastructure have been central to the region's modern identity. The blend of historical heritage and contemporary development makes Quba-Khachmaz a fascinating destination for travelers.

Quba-Khachmaz Region is located in the northeastern part of Azerbaijan. The nearest international airport is Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku, around 170 kilometers away. From Baku, you can take a bus or a taxi to reach the region. The bus journey typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car for a more flexible and comfortable trip.

Within the Quba-Khachmaz Region, you can find various transportation options. Local buses and minibuses (marshrutkas) operate between towns and villages. Taxis are also available and relatively inexpensive. For a more personalized experience, renting a car is a convenient option, providing the freedom to explore the region at your own pace.

The official currency in Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, such as hotels and some restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller shops and rural areas. ATMs are available in major towns, but it's wise to withdraw enough cash before leaving Baku to ensure you have sufficient funds.

Quba-Khachmaz Region is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always important to exercise standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is advised.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The region has local police stations and medical facilities. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in the towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes and cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Quba-Khachmaz Region like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Azerbaijani goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Qechresh Forest for a serene nature experience and the Tengealti Canyon for breathtaking views. For a unique cultural experience, attend a local festival or event.