Well, I finally gave in and went to pay for
some fast internet at the Hilton so I could post some pictures! After my first
few weeks, I feel adjusted to life here and I’m gaining a sense of independence
for getting around as well. Every day I’m meeting new people, trying new foods,
and learning more about the country, its people, and language. It also seems
that these learning experiences won’t be stopping any time soon… the guys I
live with – Habte, Shimi, and Asney – all like to play jokes on me and take
advantage of my gullibility. Here are some pictures of my time so far…
Smog city: A view of Addis Ababa from a hill
on the edge of the city. If the pollution doesn’t get to ya, the altitude
certainly will (8,000 ft). At a population of 4.5 million it’s pretty crowded
as well. Reminds me a little of some parts of China; there’s a mix of very nice
modern buildings and slum areas. Construction is everywhere as the city is
growing fast, and also like China, there is a significant gap between economic
classes.
The scenery looking west from Bethel, a
neighborhood on the western outskirts of Addis. This is where Selamta is
located, the orphanage that I’m working at. It’s a fantastic program! There are
96 kids living in Selamta houses as well as 30+ kids on financial support from
the organization. The social workers as well as the kids have a lot of energy
and enthusiasm. I really like spending time with them although right now I’m
limited to one day a week as it very far from where I live.
Shola Market – around the Haya Hulett (22)
neighborhood of Addis and pretty close to where I’m living. As you can see, you
can buy just about anything here. The market covers at least a square kilometer
(from my estimation) and visiting it is really taking a dive into Ethiopian
culture. You can bargain for most items here, although my Amharic is not quite
at a level to do that yet. At one point while I was there, a thief was being
chased through the maze of shops! It was exciting to watch – eventually he was
caught.
Savior of the World Cathedral in the Bole
neighborhood. The center of Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity, I hope to go to a
service here one of these Sundays…
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