These last 40 Days - A few notes from 3 countries

I decided to make up for lost time and write two blogs today to account for the 40 days in between my last blog update and today.

I spent 12 Days in Sharm el Sheikh for International Congress 2013, AIESEC's biggest international conference held annually. Many asked me why did I go to Egypt at that time, why did we host it there, with the political unrest in the country. But first of all we didn't notice any instability in Sharm where we were. Secondly hosting IC in a country that is undergoing such dynamic is also a powerful statement of the organization; we want to be a part of the powerful conversations. It allowed hundreds of youth all over the globe to come together to discuss the challenges and needs of our societies and how we can develop the youth that are aware, engaged and have the skills and will to have a positive impact on their societies.

After the conference I spent 2 days in the sunny beach resorts lazing around. I'm skeptical to Sharm because of the total lack of anything genuinely Egyptian, but the relaxation was lovely no matter what.

Upon returning to the Caucasus I spent a few more days in Georgia to sort out my visa. I took the speed train to Batumi and got to see a bit more of the scenic countryside nature in Georgia!

By the end of August I was back in Azerbaijan. The trip back was lovely, I stayed with an Azerbaijani family. For the first few hours we didn't talk much, then we spent a few hours at the borderchecks, and something wonderful happened, as soon as we were over the border their Azerbaijani hospitality kicked in, they had food and we ate dinner together, talking about Azerbaijan and Europe. It was funny how immediately upon entering Azerbaijan my companions seemed to suddenly adopt me and embrace me in family hospitality.
Since coming back I've spent my days in Baku, its colder now, though in this case that is wonderful words; its now 23-27C on average, still sunny, so finally I can get by a day without the AC (air conditioning) on 24-7. The wind is picking up and some leaves are falling, I guess autumn is coming, but we're still clinging on to the remainders of summer. I have had reunions with friends, been to an wonderful Azerbaijani wedding (well engagement) ceremony!
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Finally the students are also returning, running a student organization in the summer is a bit... lonely (as everyone is away), now we've had some lovely days at the seaside and in Baku. Over 100 Days since moving to Azerbaijan... Can't wait for the next 100!