The Roof of Africa, Aroma of Coffee - Addis Ababa City Walk ✨

This was my first time setting foot on the African continent, and I was lucky enough to explore Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. Before this, I only knew that Ethiopians excel in long-distance running and that the country is home to some of the most handsome and beautiful people in Africa. But after arriving, I discovered that Ethiopia boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, and its own unique sense of pride. Of course, the wealth gap is quite stark, and many areas are indeed quite challenging in terms of living conditions. Transportation 🚌 Bole International Airport (ADD) – Ethiopian Airlines offers direct flights from Beijing to Addis Ababa. The airport serves as Ethiopian Airlines' hub and is a major transit point in Africa. Currency 💵 Local currency: Birr (ETB) Exchange rate: 1 CNY ≈ 17 ETB Food & Dining 🍽️ There are many restaurants near the old airport, including some Chinese options. If local cuisine isn’t your thing, Chinese food is a safe bet. When choosing local restaurants, opt for larger, cleaner ones—after all, Africa can be a bit wild! Local specialty: Injera – A sour, spongy flatbread (looks like a towel in the photo 😆) served with various dips and grilled meat (beef/lamb). The bread has a strong fermented taste, which I personally found hard to get used to… Coffee ☕ Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee, so experiencing its coffee culture is a must! The most famous varieties are: Yirgacheffe – The finest local Arabica coffee, known for its bright acidity and fruity, floral notes. Geisha – Originated in Ethiopia but gained fame in Panama. It has a distinct tea-like, creamy texture with rose and jasmine aromas. Hambella (Hambela) – Rich and complex, with intense floral and fruity flavors. Things to Do & See 🌍 Addis Ababa University – The most prestigious university in Ethiopia (their version of Tsinghua/Peking University!). The campus is lush and peaceful, with a beautiful library. National Ethnographic Museum – Located inside the university, this was once a royal palace. Now, it showcases Ethiopian history and African culture. Ticket: 250 ETB per person. National Museum – Home to Lucy, the 3.2-million-year-old hominid fossil known as "the grandmother of humanity." City Outskirts – Vast African savannas with striking red soil. Urban Areas – Local markets sell fruits and vegetables from Chinese-owned farms. The wealth disparity is evident—luxury high-rises stand alongside tin-roofed slums. #OffTheBeatenPath #HiddenGems #Ethiopia #AddisAbaba #AfricaTravel #CityWalk #TravelGuide