Arrived via Frankfurt at 2am, so a slightly late breakfast before heading out for a walk on the Boulevard, as our organised tour with Intrepid starts the next evening.

Baku is the capital of Azerbaijan, whose wealth is from oil and gas. Invaded by the Arabs and many other countries and finally the Russians in the 1920s, before becoming independent in 1991.

Took a walk down part of the fabulous 16km Boulevard overlooking the Caspian Sea. Unbelievably clean and not many people around, early on, other than some runners taking part in a charity run. Subsequently found out that it was a public holiday weekend, celebrating Victory Day over Facism, so later in the day lots more people around.

Headed up on the short and only funicular railway to Upland Park with views of Baku. Baku is a real mix of old and new, including the Flame Towers and a huge variety of styles. It also has lots of steps, walked over 5 miles, most of which were steps!

Headed back to our hotel for the evening meet up with our tour group, to find there were only 7 of us. Headed to a local restaurant for a traditional meal. Wonderful selection, lots of aubergine, but all fresh and tasty, especially the crispy aubergine all washed down with the local beer.