Ethiopia, Part 1: Addis Ababa
Exploring Ethiopia's capital city Addis
The interior of Addis' Saint George Church
As we touch down at Bole International Airport, I notice two things: the tarmac smells of eucalyptus trees and the airport Wi-Fi isn’t working (neither is my mobile Internet service). Being a stereotypical millennial flying in from 4G- covered Nairobi, it’s a tough realisation that will define the rest of our trip: from Addis Ababa to Lalibela and Gondar to Bahir Dar, it will be a digital detox.
Addis Ababa as seen from Mount Entoto
A priest poses in the doorway of St. George Church
Before travelling to the Amhara region, I start my journey in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa. After dropping my luggage at the Ethio-Dutch-owned Zeist Lodge, an oasis-like city lodge – with a peaceful courtyard – it’s time for lunch. I head to Addis Ababa Restaurant, which is a perfect spot to try injera, the country’s national dish: a flatbread eaten with several kinds of stew.
Freshly brewed coffee is brought in Café Choché
After dinner, smoke from burning myrrh and frankincense fills the circular building, indicating that the coffee’s ready. The origin of coffee cultivation and consumption lies in Ethiopia. Countless coffee bars still decorate the streets of Addis Ababa, including the city’s “first coffee company”: To.Mo.Ca., an abbreviation of the Italian words: Torrefazione Moderna Café.
A market salesman poses in Merkato
From Merkato, it’s a short taxi ride to Piazza (Italian for “square”), one of the most picturesque neighbourhoods in Addis Ababa. The area is studded with great cafés: Dej. Jote Street is particularly worthwhile. You can admire the city’s oldest hotel, Itegue Taitu, and have a beer at the vivid Florida bar. And don’t forget to check out the leather shops, evidence that Ethiopia is home to the continent’s largest population of cattle. More durable and high-end leather products can be bought at Zinaff, ZAAF and Bermero (shoes).
A man prays against St. George Church's exterior
Hoi! My name is Joost Bastmeijer, and I’m a Dutch freelance travel writer and photojournalist currently traveling through Africa. Check out my photos on Instagram at instagram.com/joostbastmeijer, or visit my website to see some more of my work: joostbastmeijer.com!
One of Lalibela's rock-hewn churches
To read more about my trip to Ethiopia, make sure to check out my guide! In part 2 of the guide, I’ll take you to the most famous bit of Ethiopia: Lalibela. This village north of Lalibela holds many beautiful rock-cut churches, which still serve the surrounding church-goers as active shrines.