The country is divided by the Republic of Armenia into a smaller western part in the Lesser Caucasus and a larger eastern part, stretching from the Greater Caucasus to the Mugan, Mili and Shirvan Steppes and bordered by the Caspian Sea in the east. Due mainly to the presence of international oil companies, the standard of accommodation is changing rapidly and there are now at least two 5-star hotels.
Azerbaijani food combines Turkish, Georgian and central Asian elements with lamb as the staple dish.
If dining with a local host, visitors should be aware that going to restaurants is treated as much as an opportunity for competitive toasting as to eat and talk.