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It is the capital city of Ethiopia. All kinds of direct, indirect, scheduled and cheap flights to Ethiopia arrive here. If you say it is the ‘gateway’ to Ethiopia, it won’t be wrong.  If you are planning to spend your December Vacations in Addis Ababa or you are on a Business trip, this article will make you familiar with Addis Ababa, as we know it today.

Early 90’s was the glorious time when Addis Ababa started to become alive and continued on the road to progress. It is that one decade, which defined and decided the future of Addis Ababa and how it would welcome the new millennium. The never ending struggle and the belief to rise as one united power enabled this land of passionate people to grow, develop and attain a status as respected and popular African Country. Addis Ababa became the host to the Organization of African Unity and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa. Today, it also holds head quarters of seven other international organizations and branch offices in the capital. Also, it is the center of commerce and industry.

The many productions at national and domestic levels include the chief products steel fabrication, wood, tanneries, textiles, cement, leather goods and breweries manufactured in and around the city. It is the hub of production and backbone for national growth and development. Other than the industrial zones, the surrounding and central areas of Addis Ababa today, are modern and lively. There are often seasonal festival, cultural shows and mouth watering cuisines at the local restaurants and hotels. Most of them are free of charge and provide an excellent opportunity to blend in the Ethiopian culture and historic values while sipping your coffee in a modern, air conditioned and well lit hotel lobby.

The city’s eastern side is covered with many Government offices, institutions and educational centers. The popular “Menelik Palace” is also located in the eastern region, while the new National or Jubilee Palace stands lower down Menelik II Avenue opposite Africa Hall, the headquarters of the UN Economic Commission for Africa. For tourists and first timers in Ethiopia, Eastern side is a much recommending start for exploring Africa. The Maskal Square, known for holding demonstrations is also located here. The other places to see in this region are the University, National Museum, Institute of Ethiopian Studies and the most recommended, “Trinity Cathedral”, Addis Ababa’s outstanding landmark.

Much like other big cities worldwide, the central area of the city consists of mainly a commercial zone, a bunch of good hotels, government departments and city hall. Also, if you are looking for cheap flights to Addis Ababa Ethiopia or want to return on a direct flight you can get it from the Ethiopian Airline head quarter located here. Other buildings of interest include the main post and telegraph office, general hospital, the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, St. George’s Orthodox Church, the National Theatre and the sports stadium.

The comparatively, less traveled region for those in a mood to explore the ‘unbeaten path’ head to the western region of the city. The western region is home to a large open flee market “the Mercato market” that remains open seven days a week. Also, if you are looking for local or hand made artifacts, you will find a lot of shops here. For advice on visas, passports or other queries, you will find the Embassies in western region as well.