Azer-By-Where?

Heydar Aliyev Center, Baku, Azerbaijan

With just two days to decide before leaving for Europe last August, I accepted this 3 month teaching job in Azerbaijan. When I tell people where I was, it usually doesn't register.  So here's a map.  Surrounded by Russia, Georgia, Armenia (with whom they have an ongoing conflict), Turkey, and Iran, and bordered on the East by the Caspian Sea.

http://www.ancient-origins.net/ancient-places-asia/early-temples-and-monuments-alban-people-ancient-azerbaijan-002593

The government of Azerbaijan has invested a great deal of money into building a modern city capable of attracting tourists and businesses.  Besides the Heyday Aliyev building shown above which was designed by Iraqi-British architect, Zaha Hadid, and which spells out the name of the former president when viewed from above). My other favorite in Baku are the Flame Towers, a set of three towering structures designed to resemble flames.  These towers are made to light up at night as if aflame.  Baku, the city of fire.  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ourEyrXDrg

Last, but not least, was my job in Baku.  Working with teachers and students from Khazar University.  

Some of my lovely teachers/students at Khazar University
http://www.khazar.org