If a country’s unique way of life and history is what gets you going, you have lots to 
get excited about in Ethiopia. What is remarkable about this empire on the Red Sea in northeastern Africa, is its cultural heritage, being home of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, considered one of the oldest Christian churches in the world.

Gondar, famous for being home to many emperors, warlords, kings and courtiers, is home to Fassil Ghebbi, a palace founded by Emperor Fasilides in the 17th century. (Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

Apart from a five-year occupation 
by Mussolinis’ Italy, it has never been colonized and the monarchy ended only in the coup of 1974. But to fully experience and understand Ethiopia’s distinctive culture and history, the best way is to visit the various sites that dot the region. From museums and castles that define its origin, to exciting tours and townships and quaint villages, there’s lots to see and do. Upon arrival we were met by Henok Tsegave, a knowledgeable tour guide who promised everyone an unforgettable experience in Ethiopia. And we were more than eager to start our adventure.

Addis Ababa is the capital city of Ethiopia and Africa’s undisputed diplomatic headquarters of the African Union. Interesting sights include the merkato, the sprawling market that’s home to anything and all things Ethiopian that you’d ever want to purchase, from pungent spices, to other interesting paraphernalia. Centrally located is the Radisson Blu Hotel which sets new standards for the discerning travellers. Combining excellent service with ultra-modern rooms,
a world-class restaurant and a well-equipped business center makes Radisson a perfect base from which to explore Ethiopia and its neighboring towns.

the National Museum of Ethiopia, located in the capital city of Addis Ababa, houses a collection of Ethiopian art, including weapons, clothing and other cultural artifacts. (Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

The National Museum’s most popular piece is Lucy, a skeleton of the female of the Australopithecus afarensis, dated 3.2 million years ago. Discovered in the 1970s, it acquired its name from The Beatles song, Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds. (Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

The National Museum houses artistic treasures as well as many of the most precious archeological finds such as the fossilized remains of early hominids the most famous
of which is “Lucy”, the partial skeleton of a specimen considered
to be the earliest child. Why Lucy? Interestingly while the fossils were dug, the popular Beatles song entitled Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds was being played repeatedly.

Lalibela (The Eight Wonder of the world) is a town on the north famous for monolithic rock-cut churches and is considered one of Ethiopia’s holiest cities. Each church was carved from a single piece of rock to symbolize humility and spirituality. It has been said that they were built with the help of angels, as they are exquisitely chiseled in the stone.

Among the churches we visited 
was Bete Medahine Alem, House of the Redeemer which is the largest with a vaulted dome, four aisles and 72 pillars. Bete Maryam, House of St. Mary is the most decorated among the rock hewn churches. Isolated from the others and undoubtedly the most famous is Biete Ghiorgis, the Church of St. George which is carved like a cross out of the red rock. The interior has no pillars, but four cross-shaped posts are connected
to the central part. All the eleven churches in Lalibela are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and represent a unique artistic achievement, in their execution, size and the variety and boldness of their form.

The Bete Giyorgis, or The Church of Saint George, is one of eleven monolithic churches in the holy city of Lalibela. Also a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the church is made from a type of limestone called tufa and is famous for being carved like a cross. (Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

Gondar, the 17th century capital of Ethiopia and popularly called the Camelot of Africa was home of many Emperors and warlords, kings and courtiers who led the country from the 12th century to the last decade of the 20th century. Unfortunately, several historical buildings were damaged by British bombs during Ethiopia’s liberation campaign of 1941. Nevertheless, most of the famous castles and imperial buildings survived the ravages of time and form one of Ethiopias’s most captivating antiquities.

Bahar Dar, the third largest city in Ethiopia is situated on the southern shore of Lake Tana, the source of the Blue Nile, the longest river in Africa. Its main attraction is the selection of Ethiopian Christian monasteries which are found on some 20 of Lake Tana’s 37 islands. The monasteries date from the 16th and 17th centuries and have changed little since their founding. They are simple huts decorated with colorful scenes from the Bible and lives of the saints.

Ethiopians are a creative bunch and everywhere you go, something colorful and striking will catch your eye. Whether it is the beautiful crosses and other religious objects masterfully created by silversmiths, or the intricate beaded works made by the local women , there’s plenty to choose from. What’s more, the arts and crafts are totally inspired by their past and include unique offerings like wall-hangings, basketry, etchings and other outstanding selections.

Mentewab Castle, located within Fasil Ghebbi in Gondar, is a castle dedicated to the Empress of Ethiopia. (Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)

So how does one get there to experience the many exciting and exotic adventures? Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest airline and aviation technology leader, recently welcomed its 787 Dreamliner, a new-generation Boeing aircraft, that services the Manila-Addis Ababa route. It has won several awards for its exceptional international services playing a significant role in connecting Africa to the rest of the globe.

Ethiopian Airlines flies to Addis Ababa from Manila with a brief stop in Bangkok three times
 a week. To celebrate the launch of its Dreamliner service to Manila, Ethiopian Airlines offers special round trip prices for both economy and business class.

Today’s Ethiopia is more than a must-visit destination. It’s transcendent and magical with a flair found nowhere else in the world, a spirit as expansive as the landscape with many opportunities and lots of soul. Go fly and enjoy it.