Ethiopia
A Glimpse of Ethiopia: A Journey Through Time
Disclaimer: Due to the ongoing conflict in the northern regions of Ethiopia, many historical sites remain inaccessible to travelers. It's crucial to stay updated on the latest travel advisories before planning a trip.
A Restricted Journey
My flight began with my first Business Class trip on Ethiopian Airlines, reputed to be the largest airline in Africa and also the one that has the most connections into Africa. The trip was not too bad, on a 787 Dreamliner!
My long-awaited trip to Ethiopia was met with an unexpected challenge: a state of emergency declared in the northern regions. This meant that I couldn't visit the iconic historical sites like Aksum, Lalibela, and Gondar, which are renowned for their ancient churches, monolithic obelisks, and medieval castles. A real waste, considering that the Ark of The Covenant is rumoured to be there.
Exploring Addis Ababa: A Cultural Tapestry
Despite the limitations, I was determined to make the most of my time in Ethiopia. I focused my exploration on the vibrant capital city, Addis Ababa.
The National Museum of Ethiopia: A Window to the Past
One of the highlights of my trip was the National Museum of Ethiopia. Here, I was captivated by the rich history of the country, from prehistoric times to the modern era. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, including the famous fossil remains of Lucy, one of the earliest known hominids.
with my museum and local guide
Ancient Churches: A Spiritual Journey
Addis Ababa is also home to several ancient churches that offer a glimpse into Ethiopia's deep-rooted Christian heritage. I visited some of these churches, admiring their intricate frescoes, stained glass windows, and unique architectural styles. The serene atmosphere and the devotion of the worshippers created a truly spiritual experience.
Learning About Lucy: Our Ancient Ancestor
Lucy, the 3.2-million-year-old hominid fossil, is a significant discovery in the field of paleoanthropology. I learned about her fascinating story at the National Museum and gained a deeper appreciation for the origins of humankind.
A Taste of Ethiopian Culture
Beyond the historical sites, I immersed myself in the vibrant Ethiopian culture. I sampled delicious Ethiopian cuisine, enjoyed traditional coffee ceremonies, and listened to enchanting Ethiopian music. The warm hospitality of the Ethiopian people made my trip even more memorable. Coffee and incense are popular here. I tried the local coffee, and I must say, it does not disappoint.
I purchased incense and have yet to burn them because it’s on Destiny.
Traditional Music
Part of the coffee making process - or rather coffee serving process
While the ongoing conflict curtailed my journey to Ethiopia, I could still experience the country's rich history and culture. I look forward to the day when I can return to explore the northern regions and witness the grandeur of its ancient sites.
I wished I could stay longer and see more of the sights. To me, this country has so much to offer, yet it's often forgotten by the rest of the world, aside from the images of famine from the 80s. Ethiopia is much more than that. It's a place I would strongly recommend visiting.
