Category Archives: travel

The road back to Addis and the "Merkato"

The drive back to Addis Ababa, from Harar, took a long time. It’s only one lane in each direction, and there are a lot of trucks in Ethiopia. One thing I noticed, almost from the beginning, is the shocking number … Continue reading →

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Harar: At the crossroads of civilizations

There was a communication lapse regarding my drive to Harar, from Addis Ababa, and I was stranded in a God-forsaken area near the coffin market for a couple of hours. It seemed I would not get to Harar in time … Continue reading →

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The Simien highlands

Due to altitude sickness, my stay in the Simien highlands was brief. The drive to the base city of Debarq, up winding mountain roads, was both harrowing and beautiful. Here’s a view: The road is almost exclusively dirt, but much … Continue reading →

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A visit to the Hamer tribe (video at the end contains nudity)

In the far south of Ethiopia is a region called the Omo Valley. It’s home to several tribes, which have remained isolated until recently. To get to Omo Valley, I flew from Addis Ababa to the main city of the … Continue reading →

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Back from the wedding

Good new: The wedding was a success; my daughter is now married! A great time was had by all and I got to spend time with some wonderful people (including my other kids). I hope you’ll forgive me for not … Continue reading →

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Some cool animals from Ethiopia

Here are some animals, all in the wild, I photographed in Ethiopia. How many of them can you identify? My daughter’s getting married tomorrow. Feel free to wish me Mazal tov!

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The mystique of Aksum

My local guide in Aksum (also spelled “Axum”) told me there are no mosques in the city. When Muslims ask why this is so, the local Christians reply, “When  Muslims allow churches in Mecca, we’ll allow mosques in Aksum.” Aksum … Continue reading →

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The worshipers of Lalibela

Some of the other tourists I spoke to in Ethiopia described Lalibela as the highlight of their trip. I’m not sure this currently applies to me, but I may have second thoughts. I think what impressed the other tourists most … Continue reading →

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The Afar salt miners

If you’re the type of person who sometimes pities yourself for your difficult job, perhaps you should visit the Afar salt miners of the Danakil. They spend their days cutting salt out of the earth in the hottest place on … Continue reading →

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Dalol: The colorful place

The Danakil Depression holds several attractions. In fact, it’s a geological treasure trove, and a mecca for scientists. One of these attractions is a place called, by the locals, “Dalol,” which means “colorful place.”  The range of colors one sees … Continue reading →

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