This trip is a fascinating insight into how three distinct countries have developed since the collapse of the USSR. Azerbaijan - Muslim and rich with oil and gas. Georgia - Christian Orthodox, poor after suffering difficult relations with Russia and desperately turning towards Europe away from it's Soviet past and suffering from the Russian occupation of part of it's territories. Armenia - a christian country much decimated in size, but with a large international Armenian population around the world which is supporting the internal population. In addition to all this recent history you experience ancient history from early man with the cave paintings at Qobustan to the early coming of Christianity in Armenia and Georgia and the historic monasteries and churches. Plus you get magnificent scenery in the mountains of Georgia. A worthwhile and busy trip packed full of incredibly varied sights.