In 2018, I was traveling to Paris with Ethiopian Airlines. It was a journey I had planned for quite some time, but I had no idea that a long layover in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, would turn into one of the most memorable travel experiences of my life. My flight included a transit of 18 hours and 50 minutes in Addis Ababa. At first, I was worried about how I would manage such a long layover. Sitting at the airport for almost 19 hours felt exhausting even to think about. But little did I know that this transit would become a story I’d love to share for years to come.
To my great surprise, Ethiopian Airlines had a special promotional offer for passengers with extended layovers. The offer included a complimentary hotel stay and a city tour with a professional guide. When I heard this, I was honestly shocked. I hadn’t planned to visit Ethiopia at all, so the thought of exploring a new country without prior preparation felt both exciting and a bit overwhelming. But I decided to embrace the opportunity and make the most of it.
As we stepped out of the airport, I felt the warm and welcoming vibe of Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. Our guide, who was arranged by Ethiopian Airlines, greeted us with a big smile and led us to a bus for the city tour. From the moment the tour began, I realized this wasn’t just any ordinary city. Addis Ababa is a vibrant and beautiful city with a unique blend of modernity and culture. The streets were alive with energy, and the cityscape featured a mix of contemporary buildings and traditional Ethiopian charm.
The first stop on our tour was a renowned museum that showcased Ethiopia’s rich history, culture, and heritage. It was fascinating to learn about the country’s past, its unique traditions, and its significant role in African history. The museum had an incredible collection of artifacts, art pieces, and historical items that painted a vivid picture of Ethiopia’s journey through time. The guide explained everything with great passion and detail, which made the experience even more enriching. After the museum, we visited other landmarks and areas around the city. One of the things that stood out to me was how green and clean Addis Ababa is. Unlike the bustling chaos you might expect in a capital city, Addis Ababa felt calm and peaceful. The locals were warm and friendly, always ready to greet us with a smile. I couldn’t help but admire how well the city is planned and developed, with a perfect blend of nature and infrastructure.
A highlight of the trip was experiencing Ethiopia’s world-famous coffee culture. Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee, and it’s a big part of their identity and daily life. We visited a local coffee shop where we were served freshly brewed coffee made from raw coffee beans that were roasted right in front of us. The aroma filled the room, and the taste was unlike anything I had ever tried before. The richness and flavor of Ethiopian coffee were absolutely incredible. It was such a heartwarming experience, and it made me realize why Ethiopian coffee is celebrated globally.
After spending hours exploring the city, we were taken back to the hotel that Ethiopian Airlines had arranged for us. The hotel was clean, comfortable, and had all the basic amenities we needed to relax. I took a hot shower, which was incredibly refreshing after a long day of sightseeing. I felt grateful for the opportunity to rest in such a comfortable environment before continuing my journey. Later, the hotel arranged an airport transfer, making the process of getting back to the airport seamless and stress-free.
While the experience was amazing, I did face a few minor challenges. One of the biggest difficulties was the language barrier. Although our guide spoke English fluently, most locals didn’t, which made it hard to communicate when I wanted to ask questions or interact with people. My suggestion for future travelers is to learn a few basic phrases in Amharic, the local language. Even simple words like “hello,” “thank you,” or “how much” can make a big difference and show respect to the local culture. Another challenge was adjusting to the food. Ethiopian cuisine is delicious and full of unique flavors, but it might take some getting used to if you’re trying it for the first time. I recommend carrying some snacks just in case you need something familiar to eat. Also, be sure to stay hydrated, as the weather in Addis Ababa can be dry at times. If you’re traveling with Ethiopian Airlines and have a long layover in Addis Ababa, I strongly encourage you to take advantage of their transit offers. It’s an incredible opportunity to explore a country that many people overlook. The beauty of Addis Ababa, the warmth of its people, and the richness of its culture make it a destination worth visiting. The museum visit, the stunning city views, and the unforgettable coffee experience are moments I’ll cherish forever.
To all the travelers out there, don’t let a layover in Ethiopia go to waste. Turn it into an adventure! Pack your curiosity, embrace the culture, and enjoy the surprises that this beautiful country has to offer. So, the next time you see Addis Ababa on your flight itinerary, consider it more than just a stopover—it’s a chance to explore a hidden gem and create memories that will last a lifetime. Trust me, you’ll leave Ethiopia with a story to tell and a piece of your heart left behind.
Happy Travels!!!
