In Azerbaijan, a cultural haven awaits
Getty
Nestled along the coastline of the Caspian Sea, Baku is a city where 12th century alleyways meet gleaming skyscrapers. Azerbaijan's capital offers a perfect blend of culture and modernity; with the city's allure prominent within its juxtapositions—one moment you're walking through the cobblestoned streets of the ancient Old City, and the next you're gazing up at Zaha Hadid's architectural masterpiece. A place where space and time appear to intersect.
The city pulses with a rich cultural rhythm of tea houses filled with the aroma of saffron, contemporary art galleries tucked within Soviet-era facades and locals who are as proud of their traditions as they are of their nation's rapid growth. This oil rich city has a little bit of the Middle-East, a little bit of Europe and of course a little bit of Asia, making it a hidden gem for any avid traveller.
You'll get to dive deep into the Azerbaijani craft, heritage and culture through the city's fascinating museums and historical sites—whilst also enjoying a rejuvenating hamam experience at a local bathhouse and unwind along the breezy Caspian Sea coast. Below, find a curated list of recommendations for where to go, eat and stay in Baku to experience the best of this rising cultural hotspot. Courtesy of Azerbaijan Travel
1 / 8 Old City
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Old City or Icherisheher is Baku's medieval quarter. Spend your day exploring the ancient mosques, caravanserais and the iconic Maiden Tower. Further inside the ancient city, you'll find the Shirvanshah Palace—a religious fortress that was home to the rulers of the Shirvan dynasty—and explore its great hall, mosque, bath house and Shah's burial vault. Beyond the monuments, you'll find vendors setting up their stalls against the sandstoned walls, selling handwoven carpets and silverware. Getty
2 / 8 Azerbaijan Carpet Museum
Shaped like a giant rolled carpet, this three-storey waterfront museum is not just an architectural marvel—it's a deep dive into the nation's long-standing love affair with carpets. Inside, get lost amongst the national garments, traditional ceramics and thousands of Azeri carpets. Courtesy of Eurasia Travel
3 / 8 Shikhov Beach
Just ten kilometres from the heart of Baku, Shikhov Beach is known for being one of the most beautiful beaches in Azerbaijan. Take part in the various water activities offered along its shores, from jet skiing to windsurfing, or explore the party scenes at the beach clubs. Head there at dusk for a breathtaking view of the setting sun whilst sipping a glass of local wine. Courtesy of Four Seasons Baku
4 / 8 Four Seasons Baku
For a stay in the heart of the city, Four Seasons Baku overlooks the Caspian Sea on one side and the Old City on the other. Expect luxurious suites, world class service and an impeccable breakfast spread. Plus, its prime location means that you're mere steps away from the city's museums, markets and nightlife. @museuminnbaku
5 / 8 Museum Inn
Nestled within the walls of the Old City, this quaint restaurant is a hidden gem for tea lovers. Upon stepping inside, you'll find antiques, works of local artists and traditional handwoven carpets adorning the place. Sip your morning tea with some rose jam or pakhlava—all while enjoying the breathtaking view of the city's historic core. Getty
6 / 8 Nizami Street
With its neoclassical and baroque style buildings, Nizami street instantly transports you to a European city—specifically Paris. Named after the famous 12th century Persian poet Nizami Ganjavi, this street is the heart of Baku's social scene. Known for its bustling high end and local shops, restaurants and cafes, it's a perfect spot for tourists to enjoy the city's modern atmosphere. By evening, Nizami street comes alive with nightlife, with an array of bars and clubs for the choosing. Courtesy of Azerbaijan Travel
7 / 8 Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre
Designed by the renowned Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid, the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre is a masterclass in modern architecture. Its flowing, wave-like curvature stands out in Baku's majestic skyline. Inside, the centre hosts art exhibitions, concerts and an exhibition on Azerbaijani history and heritage. @hamambath
8 / 8 HamamBath
To truly experience Baku the traditional way, indulge in a rejuvenating visit to a local hamam. HamamBath is a modern and luxurious hamam experience that's just a fifteen minute drive from central Baku. Step into a warm marble chamber and enjoy a traditional scrubbing ritual, followed by a cup of soothing tea. A perfect place to sit back and relax after a tiring day exploring the city.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Vogue Singapore
2 days ago
- Vogue Singapore
Post-shower routine essentials for men on-the-go
Getty You have commitments to keep, meetings to ace, and moments to own. That doesn't mean your self-care should be overlooked. The perfect opportunity to power up your day or unwind your evening is that moment right after you step out of the shower—with grooming essentials designed to refresh, soothe, and sharpen your appearance. From restorative cleansing formulas to scent profiles that linger long after you leave the room, these effective products are tailored for men who demand efficiency without sacrificing panache. The best post-shower routine begins with a cleanser that doubles as a shaving cream. Follow up with a balm that cools and hydrates, leaving a subtle yet refined trail of scent. To stay a cut above the rest, incorporating ritualistic elements such as facial massage tools that sculpt and stimulate will boost your skin's vitality. And never neglect your body; exfoliating serums can transform skin into a balanced, healthy surface that looks and feels as smooth as your complexion. When night beckons, all that's left to do is seal the moment with a bold fragrance that commands attention with spicy, smoky layers. This is grooming for the modern man who moves quickly but still upholds a commitment to making a lasting impression. No fuss, no frills, just power, precision, and confidence distilled into every drop and swipe. Self-care doesn't need to be complicated. It's all about harnessing the right tools. Below, Vogue Singapore's handpicked curation of products that elevate your skin and prepare you for whatever comes next. Courtesy of Shiseido 1 / 5 Cleansed slate Rejuvenate yourself by way of the powerful Face Cleanser from Shiseido Men, $45 at Sephora . An ideal staple for your morning—and evening—shower given its efficient, multi-use formula, the nourishing wash cleanses skin of impurities and oil to unveil a wholly reset complexion. Better yet, the cleanser also doubles as a shaving cream, offering a smooth glide and protective properties for the skin's barrier courtesy of antioxidant-loaded tsubaki seed extract. An energising choice for the second nature, get-up-and-go routine by morning—and washing away the day for a relaxing wind down by evening. Courtesy of L'Occitane 2 / 5 Seeking comfort A moisturising balm with an edge. L'Occitane's L'Occitan After-Shave Balm , $52, is formulated to soothe and protect freshly shaved skin while leaving a refined scent trail. Crisp lavender notes mingle with the spicy warmth of burnt wood, pepper and nutmeg, lending a rugged sophistication. Further enriched with shea butter and birch sap, this lightweight balm calms irritation and restores moisture. Added glycerin boosts hydration and helps to maintain the skin's barrier, leaving the complexion soft, supple and refreshed. Courtesy of Sisley 3 / 5 Chisel and clarify Sculpt with seamless style and superior precision. The sleek gold of Sisley 's Ginkgo Gua Sha, $185 at Takashimaya and Metro, will elevate any post-shower skincare routine. Here, performance meets presentation as the massage tool's cooling Zamac is designed to offer relaxation while enhancing the efficacy of anti-ageing skincare products. Adapting to the contours of the face, its refined shape allows for simple movements that smooth and stimulate. Put into practice and expect to see lifted, redefined contours of the cheekbones and jawline. A unique spherical tip also enables you to, quite literally, tap into energy points and harness their power. Courtesy of Viktor&Rolf 4 / 5 Heat up For the night ahead, veil yourself in noir-tinged spritzes of Viktor&Rolf 's Spicebomb Dark Leather, $180 for 90ml at Isetan, BHG, Takashimaya and Tangs. Perfumers Carlos Benaïm and Jean-Christophe Hérault forged this fragrance in a bold fusion of leather and spice. Like an illicit touch in the dark, it awakens the senses with an incendiary hit of black pepper and nutmeg before leaving you with murmurs of smoky incense and cinnamon. It's the pepper on top of your prelude—spicy, unforgettable and the perfect finishing touch. Courtesy of The Ordinary 5 / 5 Body talk Our miens may be subject to most skincare attention, but that's not to say the body should be neglected. Ease in with The Ordinary 's Salicylic Acid 0.5% Body Serum, $30 at Sephora. Carrying the brand's hallmark, fuss-free approach, consider this your ultimate solution for targeting blemishes. The lightweight serum gently exfoliates, clearing dirt and debris from pores while preventing the build-up of sebum. Its potent concentration of salicylic acid works to even out skin tone and texture, while minimising pores' appearance for a balanced, healthy-looking complexion. Incorporate into your routine, and suddenly body care becomes as effective as any facial regimen. Pre-order your copy of the Vogue Man 'Gold' issue online or pick it up on newsstands from 13 June 2025.
Vogue Singapore
3 days ago
- Vogue Singapore
In Azerbaijan, a cultural haven awaits
Getty Nestled along the coastline of the Caspian Sea, Baku is a city where 12th century alleyways meet gleaming skyscrapers. Azerbaijan's capital offers a perfect blend of culture and modernity; with the city's allure prominent within its juxtapositions—one moment you're walking through the cobblestoned streets of the ancient Old City, and the next you're gazing up at Zaha Hadid's architectural masterpiece. A place where space and time appear to intersect. The city pulses with a rich cultural rhythm of tea houses filled with the aroma of saffron, contemporary art galleries tucked within Soviet-era facades and locals who are as proud of their traditions as they are of their nation's rapid growth. This oil rich city has a little bit of the Middle-East, a little bit of Europe and of course a little bit of Asia, making it a hidden gem for any avid traveller. You'll get to dive deep into the Azerbaijani craft, heritage and culture through the city's fascinating museums and historical sites—whilst also enjoying a rejuvenating hamam experience at a local bathhouse and unwind along the breezy Caspian Sea coast. Below, find a curated list of recommendations for where to go, eat and stay in Baku to experience the best of this rising cultural hotspot. Courtesy of Azerbaijan Travel 1 / 8 Old City A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Old City or Icherisheher is Baku's medieval quarter. Spend your day exploring the ancient mosques, caravanserais and the iconic Maiden Tower. Further inside the ancient city, you'll find the Shirvanshah Palace—a religious fortress that was home to the rulers of the Shirvan dynasty—and explore its great hall, mosque, bath house and Shah's burial vault. Beyond the monuments, you'll find vendors setting up their stalls against the sandstoned walls, selling handwoven carpets and silverware. Getty 2 / 8 Azerbaijan Carpet Museum Shaped like a giant rolled carpet, this three-storey waterfront museum is not just an architectural marvel—it's a deep dive into the nation's long-standing love affair with carpets. Inside, get lost amongst the national garments, traditional ceramics and thousands of Azeri carpets. Courtesy of Eurasia Travel 3 / 8 Shikhov Beach Just ten kilometres from the heart of Baku, Shikhov Beach is known for being one of the most beautiful beaches in Azerbaijan. Take part in the various water activities offered along its shores, from jet skiing to windsurfing, or explore the party scenes at the beach clubs. Head there at dusk for a breathtaking view of the setting sun whilst sipping a glass of local wine. Courtesy of Four Seasons Baku 4 / 8 Four Seasons Baku For a stay in the heart of the city, Four Seasons Baku overlooks the Caspian Sea on one side and the Old City on the other. Expect luxurious suites, world class service and an impeccable breakfast spread. Plus, its prime location means that you're mere steps away from the city's museums, markets and nightlife. @museuminnbaku 5 / 8 Museum Inn Nestled within the walls of the Old City, this quaint restaurant is a hidden gem for tea lovers. Upon stepping inside, you'll find antiques, works of local artists and traditional handwoven carpets adorning the place. Sip your morning tea with some rose jam or pakhlava—all while enjoying the breathtaking view of the city's historic core. Getty 6 / 8 Nizami Street With its neoclassical and baroque style buildings, Nizami street instantly transports you to a European city—specifically Paris. Named after the famous 12th century Persian poet Nizami Ganjavi, this street is the heart of Baku's social scene. Known for its bustling high end and local shops, restaurants and cafes, it's a perfect spot for tourists to enjoy the city's modern atmosphere. By evening, Nizami street comes alive with nightlife, with an array of bars and clubs for the choosing. Courtesy of Azerbaijan Travel 7 / 8 Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre Designed by the renowned Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid, the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Centre is a masterclass in modern architecture. Its flowing, wave-like curvature stands out in Baku's majestic skyline. Inside, the centre hosts art exhibitions, concerts and an exhibition on Azerbaijani history and heritage. @hamambath 8 / 8 HamamBath To truly experience Baku the traditional way, indulge in a rejuvenating visit to a local hamam. HamamBath is a modern and luxurious hamam experience that's just a fifteen minute drive from central Baku. Step into a warm marble chamber and enjoy a traditional scrubbing ritual, followed by a cup of soothing tea. A perfect place to sit back and relax after a tiring day exploring the city.
Business Times
4 days ago
- Business Times
Beyond just suits, Benjamin Barker sells the concept of communities
[SINGAPORE] Having made a name for itself in classic suits, Singapore menswear brand Benjamin Barker has expanded into casual staples, and is building collections inspired by common interests. 'The underlying thing is, men bond together with interest groups. Like soccer, all the guys get together, so that's where you see communities like that (come) together,' said Nelson Yap, the founder and chief executive officer of Benjamin Barker. Such interests – music, sports and cars – are the inspiration behind the collections in the Benjamin Barker Recreational Club (BBRC) series, launched at the end of 2023. These offer sports-inspired menswear, with more breathable and lightweight pieces. This is a further development from the brand's Covid-era diversification, when pandemic curbs meant a rise in working from home – and thus for casual wear rather than suits. In 2020, Benjamin Barker launched a casual range of 'elevated essentials' that were still fitted, but were 'understated and subtle' with no logos or loud prints. The focus was on comfort, a good fit and sustainable production. At first, the casual range contributed about 20 per cent of the group's revenue in Singapore, with the rest coming from formal wear. Now, the casual line contributes around half of the group's revenue. A NEWSLETTER FOR YOU Friday, 8.30 am SGSME Get updates on Singapore's SME community, along with profiles, news and tips. Sign Up Sign Up Post-pandemic, the company began offering seasonal, capsule collections of curated pieces, with the first two centred on records and vinyls – named BB Record Club – and running, with the BB Running Club collection. The plan is to release a new capsule collection every two seasons – that is, every half a year. Subsequent collections will include BB Racing Club and BB Racket Club. The clothing lines in these collections are inspired by their respective themes. For instance, BB Running Club will feature socks and bandannas, while BB Racing Club will have racing jackets. Yap said that the BBRC collections are driven by 'nowness' – what the team views as cool and contemporary. 'I think the key is: 'What are men looking for?'' he said. 'We always go back to that as our No 1 principle.' Telling stories Complementing BBRC is a series of features on designers, tailors and manufacturers in the fashion industry, around the central theme of 'what drives men'. These individuals hail from around the world, from past brand partners to acquaintances Yap has met in Benjamin Barker's 'trunk shows', where it invites designers from other countries to offer custom services to its customers. So far, the series has showcased the stories of Nathan Hellard, who owns the French linen brand Maison Hellard, and Yuki Igarashi, owner of Japanese formal menswear brand Lecteur. 'What I love is to explore what drives men,' said Yap. 'What drives them to do what they do, behind what people see.' Their journeys in the fashion industry are chronicled in blog posts and short video documentaries – shot by Yap himself, with a small team – in which they don Benjamin Barker clothing. The documentaries are released in line with BBRC collections. Apart from showcasing the passion of each subject, the documentaries also give Yap the opportunity to revisit his own lifelong passion for film-making – something on which he pressed pause while building up his brand. Back in university, he was a film student in Australia. 'I like to evoke emotions using visuals,' he said. The reason why he wants to tell these stories today is to inspire men, and tell them to pursue their passion. With future plans for features filmed in Italy and South Korea, Yap hopes that these stories reach a global market. 'We want to build our brand overseas,' he said. 'We have built the foundation in Singapore. We feel like it is stable and strong enough.' The brand has 15 stores islandwide, which Yap considers a 'sweet spot'. The number of outlets has not reached saturation, so sales are not compromised. From 2022 to 2023, the group's total revenue doubled as it opened seven more stores throughout Singapore during the pandemic, giving Benjamin Barker more opportunities to foray into foreign markets. Going overseas Now, the group's main focus is on expanding overseas. It has 12 outlets spread across Australia, Cambodia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam, with two more outlets opening in Malaysia this year. Apart from in Malaysia, all its overseas outlets are franchises. Usually, Benjamin Barker receives requests from overseas franchise managers to set up shop there – though not all requests are accepted. 'Our company is very lean, so we really have to focus on where we make the biggest impact,' said Yap. Though the brand offers a mix of formal suits and casual wear in Singapore and Malaysia, the other overseas franchises focus more on formal wear, due to demand in those markets. At the end of 2025, Benjamin Barker is heading to East Asia, expanding its catalogue to include autumn and winter collections for the northern climate. This is a first for the brand, which has been focusing on breathable pieces for the warmer South-east Asian climate. By 2026, Benjamin Barker is set to have more stores overseas than in Singapore. Yap hopes that the overseas expansion spurs the group's revenue to grow by 5 to 10 per cent by the end of 2026. Expanding Singapore's catalogue Meanwhile, the brand is working on expanding its catalogue for local stores. At the end of 2024, Benjamin Barker acquired Sacco, a jacket brand that focuses mainly on lightweight travel jackets for the summer season, made from a special Italian fabric. Yap sees Sacco as being aligned with Benjamin Barker in terms of menswear, with well-fitted classic pieces that are rooted in comfort. Separately, Benjamin Barker is collaborating with a South Korean illustrator to produce Ivy Boys – a casual graphic T-shirt collection that is illustration-based, and inspired by the Ivy League style. Collections from both collaborations are set to be released this year.
