Landing in Ethiopia, I had no idea what to expect...I was returning to the U.S. from a few months in South Africa on Ethiopian Airlines and, on a whim, booked one night in Addis and one in Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire as it was permitted in my itinerary. I'm so, so glad that I did! I'm even looking at options to be able to work in Addis, as I found the diversity, history, and energy of the city/nation to be so compelling.
After just mentioning to the staff at Hotel Lobelia my itinerary and that I was keen on local recommendations for 20 hours in Addis, the hotel immediately booked a convenient and easy-to-find shuttle driver for me both directions as well as introduced me to Abay, a tour guide with whom I was fortunate to spend the evening and the following morning. Abay was amenable to my photographic and sight-seeing goals, and we hit the city hard in the evening and the following morning....indeed it was a whirlwind of a trip that left such an impression on me.
The hotel room was modest but so pleasant and had everything I needed. Also I appreciated that the bar/coffee area downstairs is open 24/7 if you need a bottle of water or a cup of Joe at 5 a.m. as I did to keep the street photography flowing.
Location couldn't be beat, either. A trivial drive (5 min? 10 min?) from the airport. Highly recommended to those on a layover like I was, or looking for a beautiful base on their way into or out of Ethiopia!
Ameseginalehu, Hotel Lobelia and Abay! I'll be back!