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Earlier this year i found myself in Ethiopia!! It was a great surprise since there was no pre-planning, but the trip fell together like a dream while it was happening. What a fabulous country this is! A fine mix of striking landscapes, beautiful smiling people, great food, rich and abundant history, culture and shopping, shopping, shopping! Ethiopia is one of the oldest countries in the world. Well established societies date back as far as the 8th century BC. The oldest fossil remains of human ancestors were found in Ethiopia and estimated to be 5.9 million years old. Christianity was introduced in the 4th century AD which makes Ethiopia is a bit of a quirk on the African continent. The only Christian nation in a sea of Islam. Although scars from war and the 1973 famine that killed 200,000 still haunt this country of 75 million people from 80 different ethnic groups, Ethiopia is experiencing a renaissance and there is a renewed sense of hope for the future. The capital, Addis Ababa is a literal beehive of building activity. Ethiopian Airlines was ranked #1 on the continent! Ethiopia may be the only country in Africa where the HIV infection rate is decreasing, largely due to interventions by the Bill Clinton Foundation. Deforestation, disease and hunger are still enormous problems, but a stable elected government has begun important economic reforms such as privatization of property and businesses. Agriculture has rebounded and accounts for about 40% of the gross domestic product and 80% of exports (mostly coffee). This has directly benefitted the small scale farmer who is the backbone of the country. Tourism is being encouraged and is a resource that really is yet to be tapped into. |
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Ethiopia is a surprisingly easy country to travel in. This "off the beaten track" destination actually has some well developed facilities. Domestic flights are inexpensive, although the destination may change after you board, you'll eventually get to where you're going! A government hotel chain "Ghion" offers very comfortable accommodations in many locations around the country. Most people in towns speak some English which is the unifying language of this diverse country. All secondary schools conduct their classes in English. For me, the best thing about Ethiopia is its smiling people. I felt very warmly received and well taken care of by these people that generally seem very happy and get by with scarce resources. I hope you take time to see my slide show of this highly recommended destination! |
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TIME TO CELEBRATE SUMMER! Tribal
Quest — August
1-5 Northwest
World Reggae Festival
— August
10-12 Adrienne's
Summer Bead Show
— August
17-19 Hawthorne
Day
— August
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 Jerry Shover, The Gold Door |
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