Minister urges to develop tourism in southern region
By Amina Nazarli
Azerbaijan has received the largest influx of tourists from Iran this year.
Many Azerbaijanis are living in Iran and the lack of a language barrier, the existing good neighborly relations, inexpensive transport links -- all together make it possible to attract Iranian tourists to Azerbaijan.
The number of Iranian tourists visiting Azerbaijan increased by 30 percent in January-September 2016, according to Culture and Tourism Minister Abulfaz Garayev.
He was addressing the meeting "State & prospects of tourism development in the southern region" in southern region of Masalli on October 24.
A significant part of the tourists visiting Azerbaijan during this year’s Novruz celebrations were citizens of Iran. Their number was significantly higher than that fixed in 2015. The country received a great flow of Iranian tourists during summer months as well.
Experts believe that Iran is a new base not only for the tourism sector, but also in terms of attracting investments, that’s why the country must do everything to promote neighbors with tourist potential of Azerbaijan.
This October, the Iranian airline Mahan Air reported to launch regular flights between Tehran and Baku starting October 31, which is supposed to increase the number of Iranian tourists.
At the meeting, the minister also focused on the unequal development of tourism infrastructure in the region by eliminating unevenness of tourism development in its southern region.
Garayev mentioned the number of hotels provided by regions including Lankaran - 17 hotels, Masalli – 15, Lerik – 4, Astara, Yardimli and Bilasuvar – by two, and in Jalilabad, Jalilabad, Salyan and Neftchala by one. For now, three hotels operate in Astara, while two in Lankaran and Yardimli respectively.
Southern region of Azerbaijan is one of the brightest and most beautiful regions of the country. Exquisite architecture, a wonderful climate and magnificent landscapes are the hallmarks of this region.
Lankaran, Masalli, Lerik, Yardimli are the most popular and beautiful destinations of many tourists.
Masalli is a promising region for medical tourism, thanks to its beautiful Healing waters called “Istisu”, translated as “hot water”. Majestic Talish Mountains never cease to amaze travelers with its unique beauty and freshness.
Speaking of Masalli, it is impossible to avoid its rich and diverse cuisine, which has an ancient history. Despite being located away from main thoroughfares, the southern region without a doubt is a potentially perfect area for tourism.
Lankaran, bordering with the Caspian Sea in the east, and Iran in the south and west, is one of the oldest settlements in Azerbaijan.
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Amina Nazarli is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @amina_nazarli
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