I've been in Baku for a few days. The first was spent wandering around the new town, through wide shopping boulivards with shimmering water fountains, in persuit of a pirate costume. In order to make the ferry crossing slightly less dull, we will be having a pirate fashion show. With a budget of a few dollars I have been scouring the local markets and second hand shops for bandanas, tops to cut up, pirate badges and trashy bracelets. We each picked out someone else to dress up, so later tonight, I may discover my outfit, as we board our ship. I stocked up at a supermarket and have a large bag of food and drink, incase we end up on board for days. 
In the evening we were treated to a stunning fireworks display over the sea front, as it was a national holiday. I had a brilliant view from my fifteenth floor hotel room.
Yesterday we had a local guide who gave us a walking tour of the old town. We saw some gorgeous architecture with ornate carvings and archways, as well as the Maiden Tower, which unfortunatly was closed so we couldn't climb it. We were also shown a few very atmospheric
caravanserais, with their stables and guest rooms converted into restaurants. Eventually we stopped for lunch, where I enjoyed the local dish of dolmas, meat and rice wrapped in edible vine leaves.
By the end of the afternoon I joined the crowds of locals, walking along the sea front in their best summer dresses. Bright colours are very fashionable here, especially yellow, with many friends wearing nearly identical tops. Couples and families seem to gather at the refreshing fountains, to talk and eat ice creams. There is also a permanent fair ground further down the promenade with remote controlled cars for children to drive around in. The whole city feels very cosmopolitan and upbeat, with its liberal attitude and well maintained buildings. I have enjoyed spending time here.
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