Ethiopia is an interesting, original and unusually picturesque state located in the east of Africa. When going on a trip, you should take into account some recommendations so that it only brings pleasant impressions.
Wildness and civilization
Ethiopia is divided into a southern part with a predominance of pastoralist tribes and a northern, Christian one. You can travel in the northern part on your own, and to travel in the southern part you need to get a jeep or join a group, which is better done through a travel agency.
Where to apply for a visa
It is better to obtain a visa upon arrival at the capital's airport. As a rule, a single-entry visa is issued (the price is $ 20), although, if requested, a multiple-entry visa can be provided. The main thing is to take a photo of a standard size and google the name of a hotel.
Cash only
Do not bring bank cards into Ethiopia. Even in the capital, withdrawing money from them is turning into a major problem. It is best to take US dollars with you and change them at the airport upon receipt of the visa sticker in your passport. Small bills are in the greatest demand.
In any incomprehensible situation, you need to pray
Ethiopia is not a wealthy country, and its inhabitants are distinguished by excessive curiosity and even obsession. However, here, too, there are ways to influence. Thus, the person who is going to pray will be respectfully left alone. It is better not to give money to children, otherwise there will be a fight. Treating one child with a bunch of sweets with the expectation that he will share with the rest is not worth it - it will not be shared.
Long live George the Victorious!
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You should take a copper penny with the image of St. George the Victorious on the reverse - this is a pass to the holy places of the country, and a good souvenir. George the Victorious is highly revered here, and the Ethiopians are generally deeply religious people.
On you, God, that I am useless
You should take with you old devices that have already served their purpose: a smartphone, a player, a USB flash drive, etc. This is the best way to thank the Ethiopian, and also allows you to save a lot of money.
What a Russian understands, a Briton does not
Newcomers communicate with the population in English (unless, of course, they know Amharic). Although the Ethiopians speak it very interestingly - they pronounce all the letters of the word in accordance with its spelling. The Briton will not understand, but the Russian - completely. In the villages, however, one cannot do without a dozen or two local words, since no one here knows any foreign languages.
Walking at night will not work
It's not safe to walk here at night. Even taxis and intercity buses prefer to wait out the dark.
Which airline to choose
It is better to fly here by Turkish (via Istanbul) or Egyptian (via Cairo) airlines, since these companies have the most favorable fares.
It's not mine at all!
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Of course, expensive equipment (for example, a camera) attracts curious eyes. If local residents are interested in the price, you should not underestimate it or keep silent. Better to say that the device is terribly expensive, and they gave it to you for a while in order to capture the local beauty. In view of the fierce patriotism of Ethiopians, this simple trick will certainly work.
These tips will definitely come in handy when traveling through fabulous Ethiopia!
