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[thxnews]

Discover the Hidden Gems of Ethiopia: A Cultural Expedition

  Discovering Ethiopia

Ethiopia is a country located in the northeastern part of Africa and it is known for its rich history and cultural diversity. It is bordered by six neighbors: Eritrea to the north, Djibouti to the northeast, Somalia to the east, Kenya to the south, South Sudan to the west, and Sudan to the northwest. The country has a population of over 100 million people and is home to more than 80 ethnic groups who speak different languages. Ethiopia has a long history dating back thousands of years; it was one of the oldest civilizations in Africa and developed its own unique script and calendar. The country is also famous for being the only African nation that successfully resisted colonization by European powers in modern times. Despite its long-standing place in history, Ethiopia remains relatively unknown to many tourists. However, its unique blend of traditions and modernity has recently gained attention from international travelers seeking an authentic cultural experience. With so much to see and discover, Ethiopia is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for those looking for something different.  

Hot springs in the Danakil Depression in Ethiopia's Afar region. Photo by Jorge Tung. Unsplash.  

Ethiopia's Unique Climate

The country experiences two main seasons- the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season runs from June to September, while the dry season lasts from October to May. The highlands of Ethiopia experience a temperate climate due to their altitude, with temperatures averaging between 10°C and 20°C throughout the year. However, as one moves towards the lowlands or deserts (like the Danakil Depression) temperatures can rise up to 50°C during the day whilst dropping significantly at night due to the desertification. The Rift Valley region also has unique weather conditions that are hot and humid throughout most parts of the year. If you're looking to explore the Simien Mountains National Park or trekking in Lalibela, then the dry season months between October and March would be an ideal time for you. During these months, the days are warm with clear blue skies which make it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and photography.  

Australopithecus afarensis fossil hominid, the Lucy skeleton, from the Hadar area, Afar Triangle, northern Ethiopia. Photo by James St. John. Flickr.  

The Amazing History of Ethiopia

Ethiopia has a rich and diverse history that spans thousands of years. The country is believed to be one of the oldest civilizations in the world, with evidence of human habitation dating back to around 4 million years ago. The earliest known human ancestor, "Lucy," was discovered in Ethiopia in 1974 and is believed to be over three million years old.  The region was also home to some of the earliest forms of agriculture, with crops such as coffee and teff being cultivated there for thousands of years. The early history of Ethiopia is shrouded in mystery, but it is known that several powerful kingdoms emerged in the region during ancient times. One such kingdom was Aksum, which rose to prominence around 100 AD. Aksum was a major center for international trade and played an important role in spreading Christianity throughout Africa. Another notable kingdom was Abyssinia, which emerged around 1270 AD and lasted until the late 20th century. This kingdom played a key role in Ethiopian politics and culture for centuries. Today, visitors can still catch glimpses into Ethiopia's past through its architecture, art, and cultural traditions.  

Top Attractions in Ethiopia

  Bete Giyorgis, the Church of St. George, in Lalibela, Ethiopia. Photo by Jialiang Gao. Wikimedia.   Lalibela One of the most popular attractions in Ethiopia is Lalibela, a small town known for its incredible rock-hewn churches. These beautifully crafted structures were carved out of solid rock over 800 years ago and remain some of the most impressive examples of religious architecture in the world today.  

Simien Mountains, Kingdom Of Gondar. Photo by Rod Waddington. Flickr.   Simien Mountain National Park The Simien Mountains in Ethiopia are a stunning natural wonder, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the northern part of Ethiopia, the mountain range stretches for about 160 kilometers and is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. The Simien Mountains are known for their deep gorges and dramatic waterfalls that cascade down rocky cliffsides. Beyond its natural beauty, the Simien Mountains are also home to unique wildlife such as Gelada baboons, Ethiopian wolves, and Walia ibexes – all of which can only be found within this area.  

Great Rift Valley, Ethiopia. Photo by Scott Edmunds. Flickr.   Rift Valley This geological feature stretches approximately 6,000 km from Syria to Mozambique and bisects Ethiopia into two halves. The Ethiopian Rift Valley is home to several lakes, hot springs, volcanoes, and unique flora and fauna that form a rich ecosystem. The Great Rift Valley was formed by the movement of tectonic plates over millions of years. As the plates moved apart, deep fissures were created in the Earth's crust, forming valleys where water collected and created lakes. In Ethiopia's case, there are seven crater lakes within walking distance from each other in the region around Bishoftu city. These lakes provide an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience nature at its best while enjoying activities such as birdwatching or boating.  

Hamer in Logara, near Turmi, Ethiopia. Photo by Alfred Weidinger. Flickr.  

The Rich Culture of Ethiopia

This East African nation has over 80 ethnic groups, each with its unique customs, language, and way of life. Its history dates back over 3,000 years and is rich with mythology and legend. The country boasts many archaeological sites that reveal its long-standing civilization. Ethiopian culture is vibrant and colorful, celebrating everything from religious festivals to traditional dances. One of Ethiopia's most significant cultural treasures is its religious heritage. Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity has been practiced for sixteen centuries and has greatly influenced the country's art, music, literature, and architecture. The churches carved out of solid rock in Lalibela are a testament to this rich tradition. The Ethiopian Orthodox Church plays a significant role in the country's culture. Its practices are deeply intertwined with Ethiopian traditions; many religious celebrations involve music, dance, and feasting. Despite Ethiopia's deep roots in ancient culture, it remains a modern nation with thriving cities like Addis Ababa. The capital city blends traditional and contemporary cultures through its architecture and cuisine making it an exciting destination for travelers seeking to explore both sides of this fascinating country. Music and dance are also an integral part of Ethiopian culture. Traditional music often features instruments such as the masinko (a one-stringed fiddle) or krar (a six-stringed lyre). Meanwhile, unique popular dancing styles include eskista (shoulder dancing) or amhara kemis (woven cloth dancing).  

Injera with Shiro Wot. Made with Teff flour. Photo by David. Flickr.  

People of Ethiopia and their food

Ethiopia is known for its rich history and strong traditions that continue to shape its people's lifestyle today.  The majority of Ethiopians belong to various ethnic groups such as the Oromo, Amhara, Tigray, and Somali. The economy of Ethiopia is largely based on agriculture, which employs over 80% of the population. The main crops grown are coffee, cereals (such as maize and teff), oilseeds (such as sesame and sunflower), pulses (such as beans and lentils), fruits, vegetables, and flowers.   Traditional Teff Flour Teff flour is a gluten-free flour that grows in Ethiopia, where it has been used for centuries as a staple food. It is made from the tiny seeds of the teff plant, which are ground into a fine powder. Teff flour has a slightly nutty taste and can be used to make a variety of dishes, including bread, pancakes, and porridge. One of the main benefits of teff flour is its high nutritional value. It is rich in protein, fiber, iron, calcium, and other essential vitamins and minerals. This makes it an excellent choice for people who are looking for healthy alternatives to wheat-based flour. Additionally, because it is gluten-free, teff flour can be enjoyed by those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance without causing any adverse reactions. Injera is the most popular food in Ethiopia. It is a flatbread made from teff flour and has a sourdough taste to it. Injera can be eaten on its own or used as an accompaniment to different stews, curries, and vegetables. Wat is another famous Ethiopian dish that consists of meat or vegetable stew accompanied by injera bread. Wat comes in different varieties each with their distinct flavor profiles depending on the type of meat or vegetables used in preparing it. Aside from agriculture, there are other industries that provide employment for Ethiopians. One such industry is textiles, which produces clothing made from cotton grown in the country. Ethiopia's leather industry is also growing rapidly due to the high demand for quality leather products worldwide. Also, the constru ction sector has been booming in recent years due to increased government investment in infrastructure projects like building roads and accommodation.  

Blue Nile falls. Photo by Katie Hunt. Flickr.  

Conclusion

Ethiopia is a country that has much to offer to visitors. From its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and wildlife, there is always something new to discover in this magnificent nation. One thing that stands out about Ethiopia is the warmth of its people. Ethiopians are friendly, hospitable, and always willing to help visitors navigate through their cities. You will also find a variety of delicious traditional dishes such as injera (a sourdough flatbread) served with a variety of stews known as wats. The music and dance performances are also unique experiences that showcase the diverse cultures found throughout Ethiopia. Ethiopia is a country known for its diversity of wildlife, including numerous species of birds. With more than 800 identified bird species, Ethiopia's avifauna is one of the richest in Africa and the world. The country's varied topography, ranging from high mountains to lowland plains, has created diverse habitats that support different bird communities. With so much to see and discover, Ethiopia is a brilliant destination for those looking for something different.   Sources: THX News & Ethiopia. Read the full article

[travelsbliss]

Best Places to Visit in Pretoria, South Africa: A Guide for U.S. Travelers

Are you ready to experience the vibrant culture and rich history of Pretoria? Known as the Jacaranda City, Pretoria is filled with historical landmarks, lush gardens, and cultural treasures. This guide is perfect for U.S. travelers looking to explore one of South Africa's most dynamic cities. From the Union Buildings to the Pretoria National Botanical Garden, your journey through Pretoria will be unforgettable. 🌸🇿🇦 📍 Discover Pretoria's beauty: Best Places to Visit in Pretoria, South Africa - A Guide for U.S. Travelers

[phonemantra-blog]

Ethiopian Airlines, Africa's leading carrier in terms of network operation, has unveiled a brand new route! This exciting development expands their extensive network and enhances connectivity for travelers across the continent. Let's delve deeper into this new service, exploring the route details, aircraft amenities, and the potential impact on Sierra Leone and the broader region. Ethiopian Airlines Connecting Freetown: A New Gateway to Africa Effective May 31st, 2024, Ethiopian Airlines proudly launched thrice-weekly passenger flights to Freetown, Sierra Leone. This new route operates with a stopover in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, further strengthening connections within West Africa. This expansion marks a significant milestone for Ethiopian Airlines' network expansion strategy. By adding Freetown, the airline facilitates easier travel for business and leisure passengers, fostering closer connections between Sierra Leone and the rest of the world. A Comfortable Journey Awaits: The Modern Boeing 787-800 Ethiopian Airlines understands the importance of passenger comfort and a pleasant travel experience. For this new route, they've deployed their state-of-the-art Boeing 787-800 Dreamliner aircraft. Passengers can expect a truly enjoyable flight with features like: Spacious and comfortable seating Personal entertainment systems offering a wide range of in-flight entertainment options Onboard Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing passengers to stay connected throughout their journey The combination of a modern aircraft and Ethiopian Airlines' renowned hospitality ensures a relaxing and enjoyable experience for all passengers flying between Addis Ababa, Ouagadougou, and Freetown. Flight Schedule: Planning Your Trip Here's a breakdown of the flight schedule for the new service, making it easier for you to plan your trip: ET 943: Addis Ababa (ADD) -> Ouagadougou (OUA) -> Freetown (FNA) - This flight operates on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. ET 942: Freetown (FNA) -> Ouagadougou (OUA) -> Addis Ababa (ADD) - This return flight operates on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. A Catalyst for Growth: Economic Benefits for the Region Beyond passenger convenience, this new route holds significant economic potential for the countries involved. As Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, stated, "This new service will not only enhance connectivity for business and leisure travelers but also contribute to the economic growth of both Sierra Leone and Burkina Faso." Improved air connectivity often catalyzes economic development. By facilitating easier travel for businesspeople and tourists, this new route can stimulate trade and investment in Sierra Leone and Burkina Faso. Additionally, the increased passenger traffic could lead to job creation within the tourism and travel sectors of these countries. Unveiling Freetown: A Destination Rich in Culture and Beauty Freetown, the capital and largest city of Sierra Leone is a vibrant coastal hub brimming with cultural and historical significance. Nestled on the Atlantic Ocean in West Africa, Freetown offers a unique blend of stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife. This new route by Ethiopian Airlines presents an exciting opportunity for travelers to discover the wonders of Sierra Leone. From exploring the vibrant markets of Freetown to witnessing the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the country, Freetown has something to offer every type of traveler. Ethiopian Airlines: A Commitment to Seamless Travel Ethiopian Airlines' dedication to providing its customers with a smooth and efficient travel experience is evident in its continuous network expansion. The addition of Freetown to their growing global network underscores this commitment. Passengers flying on this new route can expect exceptional service and a comfortable journey aboard Ethiopian Airlines' modern fleet.

[hellojustussando]

Watch "life in the village" on YouTube

[newsbites]

News from southern Africa, 20 July

The top ten passports in Africa comprise countries from southern and southeastern Africa.

The top ten African passports in the Henley Passport Index are Seychelles, Mauritius, South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Malawi, Kenya and Tanzania.

2. A suspected underground gas explosion near a minibus taxi rank in Johannesburg, South Africa, during rush hour, resulted in extensive damage, flipped cars, and injured at least nine people.

There are concerns of a second explosion and potential building collapses in the affected area, leading to the evacuation of residents.

The cause of the explosion is suspected to be gas, but the source is yet to be determined, and rescue efforts are ongoing amidst the danger of gas leaks.

3. Russian President Vladimir Putin will not be attending the BRICS Summit in Johannesburg and Sergei Lavrov will attend instead "by mutual agreement", according to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Earlier, Cyril Ramaphosa had declared that detaining Putin pursuant to an international arrest warrant would be seen as a declaration of war, prioritizing national security and avoiding potential conflict with Russia.

South Africa, as the chair of the BRICS group, aims to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict through peace talks led by African heads of state, but European leaders have rejected their peace mission.

[mangokiliadventures]

Experience the Best of Zanzibar: Custom Vacation Packages

Welcome to Mango Kili Adventures, your go-to source for custom vacation packages to experience the best of Zanzibar! Our team of experienced travel professionals are dedicated to creating the ultimate Zanzibar vacation packages tailored to your specific interests and budget. Zanzibar is a tropical paradise with stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a rich cultural heritage. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an adventurous outdoor excursion, Zanzibar has something for everyone.

[ptseti]

Just a glimpse of the many untapped wonders on the continent— discover Africa's must-see gems, so mesmerizing they seem unreal!@dboxshowafrica#TravelAfrica #africantravel #visitafrica

[anagooshoadventures]

Anago Osho at the Association of Travel and Tourism Writers of Nigeria's (ATTWON) TOURISM PARLIAMENT AND AWARDS.

Theme: Rethinking Tourism through the Nigerian youth.

Date: 7th Dec. 2022. 11 a m Venue: Citiheight Luxury Hotel, ikeja, Lagos.

@anagooshoadventures @anagoosho_rootsandlegends

#anAnago Osho at the Association of Travel and Tourism Writers of Nigeria's (ATTWON) TOURISM PARLIAMENT AND AWARDS.

Theme: Rethinking Tourism through the Nigerian youth.

Date: 7th Dec. 2022. 11 a m Venue: Citiheight Luxury Hotel, ikeja, Lagos.

@anagooshoadventures @anagoosho_rootsandlegends

#attwontourismparliament

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@badagryhistoricaltours

@ahnactourguidesnigeria

#anagooshoadventures #africadiaspora #africansintheamericas

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#attwon

@cleantheearthgroup

@badagryhistoricaltours

@ahnactourguidesnigeria

#anagooshoadventures #africadiaspora #africansintheamericas

#africancuisine #lagostourguide #lagostourguides #besttourguideever #tournigeria #worldrecognition #lagostourism #lagosdiaspora #nigeria #slavehistory #pointofnoreturnbadagry #lagostourist @iccomnigeria #beninrepublictourism #ghanatourism #tourguideanagoosho #unwto #instagramtravel #nigeriaincanada #africantraveller #culturalexchange #culturetrip #tourismnigeria #tourwestafrica #lagostours

[africantravellersltd23]

Why Must You Visit Kigali for Your Vacation?

Kigali has given Rwanda, and the entire East African area, a new definition. Its magnificence, along with the stunning green environment that covers the angulating hills, will inspire you to create stories. Undoubtedly, the Kigali city tour is packed with amazing sites that will leave you astonished. The Kigali city tour is a classic urban trip that far outperforms any other experience you've had.

Rwanda's capital, Kigali, is the ideal starting place for an incredible gorilla trek, one of Africa's most interesting wilderness adventures.

Rwanda's vibrant capital city, Kigali, also serves as the country's only international airport. Highlights of Kigali include the Genocide Memorial Center, the fruit market, lunch at the Hotel Mille Collines, and a trip in a motorcycle taxi across town.

The city was built in 1907 under German colonial control, although it did not become the capital until 1962 when Rwanda gained independence. Today, it is a bustling city of 2 million residents.

Why should you visit?

Rwanda's vibrant capital city, Kigali, also serves as the country's only international airport.

Kigali is the ideal starting place for an incredible gorilla trek, one of Africa's most exciting wildlife adventures.

The city was built in 1907 under German colonial control, although it did not become the capital until 1962 when Rwanda gained independence.

Highlights in Kigali include the Genocide Memorial Center, the fruit market, lunch at Hotel Mille Collines, and a trip in a motorcycle taxi across town.

Just as Kampala is known as "the city that never sleeps" and Nairobi as "the city with a national park full," Rwandans worked hard to have their city recognized, making it exceptionally clean, orderly, and safe until it was dubbed "Africa's Switzerland." You might choose solely city trips in Africa, and you will be shocked at how unique the cities of Nairobi, Kampala, Kigali, and Dar es Salaam are. Kigali is a vibrant city known for its cleanliness, order, and hospitality. It provides travelers with some of the greatest city tours available on the African continent. Many visitors have had nothing to say about their experiences here.

Rwanda Tours

Kigali city tour has been eased with the advent of the Kigali Sightseeing Bus, which serves to raise the sensations enjoyed during the Kigali city tour to a new level by allowing travelers to explore the greatest of Kigali's tourist sites. The Kigali sightseeing buses are extremely opulent, with double-deckers and open roofs that provide breathtaking views of the picturesque Kigali city.  The following is a list of places to visit and activities to do in Rwanda's small but lovely city. You can contact Africantraveller if you need your combined Uganda-Rwanda safari to include a Kigali city visit.

Kigali Genocide Memorial

Rwanda's 1994 genocide was unquestionably awful, and the Kigali Genocide Memorial does a superb job of remembering it during your Kigali city tour. A visit to the monument is unforgettable because tourists learn about the events leading up to, during, and following the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, which resulted in the loss of over 250,000 lives. Kigali Genocide Memorial

[ckiss2014]

Join us for cooking, conversation and more this Saturday at 12 noon EDT. . Chef Angela-Michelle of @culinarykisses and Prince of @magrizamademecook will cook, laugh, and reminisce of their African Culinary Adventures. . And as an added bonus, this event will moderated by Sibongile of @kayasgogo . Come hear about their friendship, their time together in Zimbabwe, and about African food and culture. . You don't want to miss this, so click the calendar icon in the lower left of this post to set an event reminder. . See y'all on Saturday!! ❤️👩🏽‍🍳💯 . . . . . #chefangelamichelle #culinarykisses #foodandkisses #like #follow #share #viral #food #foodie #foodies #foodiesoninstagram #instafood #foodstagram #nomnom #cooking #cooktogether #themotherland #zimbabwe #africa #african #africantravel #africanfood #africanrecipes #africancooking #cookingtogether #blackfoodmatters #changethenarrative #ourstory #cookoff #virtualcooking (at Culinary Kisses) https://www.instagram.com/p/CotUUGwNJoU/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[temdriworld]

Your editor, if you never knew, with my 1995 Mitsubishi Delica in Africa. One and a half year and still going strong. #africa #temdriworld #iloveafrica #myafrica #travelafrica #africantravel #africantraveller #africantravelblogger #africantravels #ilovebeenafrican #weareafricans #africanoverlander #mitsubishi #delical400 #mitsubishidelica #delicaspacegear #visitafrica #visiterlafrique #mitsubishi4x4 https://www.instagram.com/p/CVIZJ7EIBAs/?utm_medium=tumblr

[checkoutafrica]

Our culture is coded wisdom. ~ Wangari Maathai. . . . 📸• @occhiopesto #checkoutafrica #africa #photooftheday #kenya #africantravel https://www.instagram.com/p/CVgs8Q9o4eE/?utm_medium=tumblr