Azerbaijan moves ahead with plan on massive hotel construction
By Amina Nazarli
The growth of tourism in Azerbaijan and increasing number of tourists has necessitated construction of more hotels in the country.
Aydin Ismiyev, Head of the Tourism Department at the Culture and Tourism Ministry said that the demand for hotels in the economy-budget segment has gone up, and there is a need for construction of not only 2- 3-star, but also for 4-star hotels.
Ismiyev, addressing a press-conference ahead of the 16th
Azerbaijan International Exhibition "Tourism and Travel" AITF2017,
said that 25 hostels and 92 apartments for tourists operate in
Baku, adding that all these facilities are private.
“Apartments and hostels are created by individuals in their own
houses, and are rented to low-budget tourists,” he said.
Tourism in Azerbaijan is an industry that generates over 2 million arrivals per year, and is one of the most promising economic sectors. The sector’s contribution to the national GDP is at the level of 4.5 percent.
Today, the country can accommodate about 40,000 tourists in its 535 hotels, which include a series of luxury hotels – Excelsior, Hilton, Four Seasons, Fairmont, JW Marriott, Kempinski – as well as several budget hotels for cost-conscious travelers.
The official went on to say that recently the number of tourists coming from Arab countries, Iran, Turkey and Russia increased. Compared to 2015, last year there was an 11.7 percent growth in the number of tourists, and the figure hit 2,242,780 people, according to Ismiyev.
“The number of tourists coming from Arab countries increased by 10-15 or even 20 times compared to other tourists. The simplification of visa regime is the main reason contributing to increase of the tourist flow. In addition, Azerbaijan is a Muslim country and this also plays a key role,” he explained.
Ismiyev also informed that according to the information, 80-85 percent of hotels rooms have been booked by the end of this April.
Azerbaijan is a gem between Europe and Asia and a place you will not regret visiting. This amazing country, also called the Land of Fire, is located in the South Caucasus region and has unspoiled natural beauty to complement its unique culture.
Tourists visiting Azerbaijan tend to be interested in every sphere – from historical and cultural sightseeing to leisure. Those who prefer to go unbeaten path, to explore less visited places and check national charisma will undoubtedly have an interesting experience in this small country in Southern Caucasus on the edge of Europe.
In addition to the natural and rural attractions, Azerbaijan has a rich cuisine, changing from region to region. ‘Tasting’ Azerbaijan means enjoying juicy apples, pomegranates, grilled meats, kabab, dolma, bozbash, all perfumed with the herbs of untouched woodlands and the spices of the Silk Road.
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Amina Nazarli is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on
Twitter: @amina_nazarli
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