Baku Visit

Last week we had our first outing to Baku.  Our guides were current Peace Corps Volunteers. We met at the local bus station and traveled to the big Baku bus station, where we transferred to a bus to the city center.  First stop, the Peace Corps office.  There is a lounge there for volunteers that I will be able to access once I'm sworn in. Then on to the train station that is across from the world's largest KFC.  I went in. It has two red curved staircases that go up to the second floor where you can get beer along with your fried chicken. No fried chicken for me today.

From the train station we went to the Metro and took Metro to the old city and then a bus to Martyrs' Lane, a memorial to Azerbaijans killed in during the struggle for independence. It is a very moving site. Last to Old Town.  I bought a scarf for my growing collection. I plan on going back to Baku and exploring more.

We went to a restaurant owned by two ex-pat couples.  It is a "Mexican" restaurant.  I shared a pulled pork sandwich and chicken nachos with a friend. Not exactly like home but familiar flavors.  I really like the food here but a taste of home is always welcome.

Wandered around for a hour then back to the bus experience for a trip back home.  We have to be off the roads between sites before dark.  I feel a little like Cinderella. My host mother was a little worried and called looking for me.  I had just turned the corner to home around 8:30.  It is both nice and a little odd to be watched out for this much.

I'm trying to add pictures, but for some reason the majority of the picture is being cut off.  I'll find someone to help me fix.

I will soon have regular access to the internet and hope to post more frequently.  Only three weeks to swearing in.  In four weeks I'll be at site.  I've been assigned to work with a local organization that provides health services to lower income individuals across Azerbaijan. The office is located in a suburb of Baku, so it will be easy for me to travel all over Azerbaijan.

Patti

This  blog does not represent the views of the Peace Corps