June 13-18, 2023 – An adventurous group of Filipino world travelers who are members of PGE had the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of West Azerbaijan during the Most Traveled People’s Shusha 2023 Expedition. This privately sponsored expedition, in collaboration with Charles Veley, founder of MTP; Mehraj Mahmudov, Azerbaijan’s most travelled person; Farid Isgandarov, the expedition’s permit expert; Elturan Nicat, the head of transportation; and the Azerbaijan 4×4 Club, invited and brought together 30 travelers from around the world, including nine Filipino delegates, for an unforgettable journey.
The 5-day expedition took the PGE members through the captivating South Caucasus region, allowing them to witness the mesmerizing beauty of the Caucasus Mountains while delving into the area’s complex history. Along the way, they had the chance to visit some of the region’s prominent tourism destinations but also ventured into areas that bore the scars of past conflicts.
One of the significant experiences of the expedition was the opportunity to visit landmine-infested areas. While it may sound perilous, the excursion offered valuable insights into the challenges faced by regions recovering from conflict and the efforts taken to make these areas safe again. The world travelers also had the extraordinary privilege of witnessing a demining operation, where they learned about the process of clearing these hazardous remnants of war.
Additionally, the group visited a military camp where they were granted the unique chance to participate in military exercises, providing them with a glimpse into the lives of soldiers stationed in the region. Such encounters offered a deeper understanding of the human aspect of conflicts and the resilience of the people living in these contested areas.
After a lengthy detour necessitated by a military incident, the expedition finally arrived at the enchanting city of Shusha (Şuşa). The arduous journey took almost 8 hours, navigating the winding mountain roads of Western Azerbaijan to circumvent the conflict.
The delegates were captivated by the city’s profound cultural significance to Azeri heritage. Shusha is a cultural gem, cherished as the heart of Azerbaijan’s heritage. Known as the creative nucleus of the country, the city boasts a rich history, nurturing the talents of Khans, poets, writers, and musicians throughout the ages.
Visitors to this plateau city are treated to a plethora of museums and captivating landmarks, offering a profound understanding of Azeri culture and its roots. Among its distinctive symbols is the vibrant Khari Bülbül, a unique orchid bearing the silhouette of a bird, often associated with the nightingale.
One of the city’s primary attractions is the Ganja Gate, an imposing structure forming part of the Shusha fortress, situated on the northern side, facing towards the city of Ganja in the north of Azerbaijan.
Delving into the pages of history, the delegates learned about Mehdigulu Khan Javanshir and his daughter Xurşibanu Natavan, also known as the “powerless” poet. As the last ruler of the Karabakh Khanate, Mehdigulu Khan’s legacy lives on through his daughter’s philanthropy and lyrical poetry.
The Palace of Karabakh Khans, which once stood majestically as the residence of the first Khanate of Shusha, Panah Ali Khan, now lies in ruins, a poignant reminder of the city’s golden age during the Karabakh Khanate.
Nature enthusiasts will find solace and inner peace while in Jidir Duzu (Cıdır Düzü), a historical national park in the Karabakh region. With a short hike to it’s edges, these cliffs will surprise you with a stunning horizon of lush forests of the greenest trees and a breeze of the freshest air.
The trip allowed the delegates to grasp the historical struggles of Shusha which magnified the city’s strategic significance.
Witnessing the ongoing restoration efforts, the delegates were filled with hope for Shusha’s bright future as a burgeoning tourist destination that would continue to preserve and celebrate its cultural legacy for generations to come.
The delegates also met with the Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Department of the Presidential Administration, Hikmet Hajiyev and discussed an issue close to their hearts – the challenges Filipinos face in obtaining Azerbaijan visas. By addressing this matter with Azerbaijani authorities, PGE aims to facilitate easier access for Filipinos to the country and potentially to other destinations, promoting tourism and cultural exchange between nations.
Left to right: Dan Sarte, Ryazan Tristram, Mike Lewis, Eden Candy, MG Jubinal, Charles Veley, Hikmet Hajiyev, Lowela Ramos, Andrea Umali, Ana Francisco and Aimee Paragas.
As a community of passionate travelers, PGE remains committed to participating in travel and tourism projects that align with its core values. These values encompass education, leadership, partnership, advocacy, and fostering positive international relations.
The Shusha expedition provided PGE members with not only an adventurous escapade but also a chance to learn about the importance of diplomacy and cooperation between nations in resolving conflicts and building a more interconnected global community.
The journey through Azerbaijan marked a significant chapter in PGE’s collective travel experiences. It strengthened our commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism while also broadening their horizons and deepening their appreciation for the diverse cultures and histories that enrich our world.
As the PGE members return to their homes, they carry with them memories of a transformative expedition and a renewed sense of purpose to continue exploring the world while making a positive impact on the places they visit. Through their adventures, they inspire others to travel with a purpose and to contribute to a more understanding and compassionate world, one journey at a time.
See Inquirer.net feature story 9 Filipinos join 2023 Most Traveled People expedition in Azerbaijan
