WELCOME TO ADDIS ABABA Useful information and tips to help you get settled in Addis Ababa This Welcome Guide is made up of useful information and tips provided by past and present ICS parents, teachers and staff as well as with the support of various websites. This information is not intended to contradict any regulations or guidelines supplied by your Embassy or Organisation. This guide was last updated February 2018; however, Addis Ababa is growing rapidly and information changes just as fast. Please feel free to email
[email protected] if you would like something added, removed or if you discover any incorrect information. CONTENTS • Before You Arrive • Settling In • Getting Around Town • Medical and Health Care • Useful Contacts • Places of Worship • Shopping • Restaurants, Pubs & Clubs • Family Activities • Exploring Ethiopia • Be Aware • Volunteer Opportunities Version 2 Page 2 “Since its establishment in the 19th century, Addis Ababa (አዲስ አበባ) has always seemed like a magical portal, a gateway to another world. For the rural masses of Ethiopia, it was, and is, a city whose streets are paved in gold; for a foreign visitor, the gateway of Addis Ababa is at the verge of an ancient and mystical world. And yet, Addis – Africa’s fourth-largest city and its diplomatic capital – is also a traffic-choked, sprawling city of no discernible beauty that many foreign visitors try to transit as quickly as possible. But take note: by skipping out on the contradictions of this complex city you run the risk of failing to understand Ethiopia altogether. And apart from anything else, Addis is the best place in the country to sample Ethiopian food, and has some wonderful museums and places to stay.” Lonely Planet https://www.lonelyplanet.com/ethiopia/addis-ababa Before You Arrive The following advice is taken from people who are currently living in Addis.