Although the majority of Azeris are nominally Shia Muslims, alcohol is widely available. Wines and brandies are produced locally, Russian vodka is popular, and imported spirits represent a form of conspicuous consumption. Several restaurants, late-night bars and nightclubs have opened in Baku in the last few years, catering largely for the foreign business community and wealthy local business people. Popular bars include Chaplin, Finnegan's and Lancaster Gate . Concerts, theatre, opera and ballet are a source of local pride and very popular.
Prices here are likely to be negotiable.
Any carpet or other artefact made before 1960 is subject to an export tax and must be certified for export by the Ministry of Culture. Items purchased at official art salons or tourist shops will already be duly certified. This is not true of goods sold at markets or by private individuals. Visitors to Azerbaijan may find themselves the recipients of an unexpected bounty in the form of gifts of flowers, food and souvenirs. Local women, particularly in rural areas, tend to be extremely retiring.