Currency: The Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). The manat is pegged to the US dollar at approximately 1.70 AZN to USD 1. Baku is card-friendly — most restaurants, hotels, and shops accept Visa and Mastercard. Outside the capital, carry cash. ATMs are widely available in Baku; less so in rural areas. Exchange bureaux at the airport have poor rates; better to change money in the city centre.
Language: Azerbaijani (Azeri) is the official language, a Turkic language closely related to Turkish — if you speak Turkish, you will get a long way. Russian is still understood by many people over 40, particularly outside Baku. English is increasingly spoken in Baku's hotels, restaurants, and tourist sites, but rarely in the regions.
Phones and internet: SIM cards from Azercell or Bakcell are cheap and widely available. Coverage is good throughout most of the country. Baku has fast 4G; rural mountain areas have gaps.
Safety: Azerbaijan is generally safe for tourists. Petty theft exists in crowded places as in any city. The border areas with Armenia remain off-limits — landmines are a real risk in some former conflict zones, particularly in the Karabakh region. Follow official guidance and do not wander off marked paths in these areas.
Health: No particular vaccinations are required for most travellers, though standard precautions apply. Tap water in Baku is technically treated but locals and most visitors drink bottled water. Medical facilities in Baku are adequate; outside the capital they are limited.
Electricity: 220V, European two-pin plug (Type C/F).
Photography: Azerbaijanis are generally relaxed about being photographed, but ask first. Avoid photographing military installations, border areas, or anything that looks official — this applies especially near former conflict zones.
Religion and culture: About 97% of Azerbaijanis are Muslim, mostly Shia in the south and Sunni in the north, but the country is officially secular and practice is relatively relaxed. Alcohol is freely available everywhere. Dress modestly when visiting mosques. Hospitality is a strong cultural value — if you are invited for tea or food, accept.