"ADDIS ABABA - not so 'new' flower" Addis Ababa by nsbm

Arriving in Addis Ababa -a name as exotic as the place itself - its 2400m above sea-level was welcomingly cool and a bit 'altitude' heady. Home to nearly 3million souls this city was founded in 1886 by Emperor Menelik II at the base of strategic Mt Entoto.
The new Bole Bole Airport and the new road to town traverses a middle income cafe/motel lined tourist-strip with signs for various exotic African embasssies directing you off the side roads.
The neat strip ends directly onto a large rectangular open square - MESKEL. Go straight on and you head towards the royalty and diplomatic areas ; turn left and you end up on Ras Makonnen and then the main artery, Churchill Avenue. Venture further and you come to the galvanized and mud shanties of the suburbs.
The contrast is obvious with well heeled UN-types whizzing around in ac 4x4s, while the locals traipse at a subsistent pace. You wonder what are the benefits of all the NGOs to the locals?
After spending a day relaxing at the Addis Hilton it all became clear....lots of talk and jobs for the boys but little trickle down action to the masses..tell me otherwise..Let the new flower entice you with its italianate flair and patriotic passion

the MERKATO

Located just northeast of the city centre this large 'market' area is a warren of arcades, shop-fronts, stalls and kiosks. Teeming with people from the early am all sorts of contraband, recycled and brand-name produce can be purchased if you look carefully. It feels seedy because of sheer size and unfamiliarity but is adequately safe. A local guide is recommended as they can whizz you thru the interesting segments without getting overkill or lost and thats really easy here as it all looks the same!
The atmosphre is great and no one hassles you as local retail & wholesale commerce is paramount. An african version of the Kashgar Bazaar indeed!...dont miss this cultural treat.

pieces of pride

The Royal heritage of Ethiopia is still part of the true Ethiopian psyche as they are strongly patriotic. The Palace located just north of Meskel Square is off-limits to all and surrounded by such great foliage that you cant see it except in photos. The National Museum located just on the next bloc is worth the visit, I strongly suggest you get a guide as they embellish the relevant exhibitions and you dont get lost in museum paraphenalia. The guides themselves are pleasant & chatty and its an opportunity to truly appreciate the Ethiopian joie de vivre. Further on the Holy Trinity Catheral invites you to experience the medieval orthodoxy of Ethiopian christianity where the tomb of Haile Selassie can be found