Experience in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia by Meseret N. Teferra

What is it like to live in Addis Ababa? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Addis Ababa is the Capital City of Africa where the AU is located. The people are very friendly; hmm the weather is really amazing mostly between 15 and 30 Celsius. To be honest Addis is one of the places very suitable for living.

What is the student lifestyle like in Addis Ababa?

Addis Ababa University if the the first University and the oldest in Ethiopia. Under graduate students are sponsored by the MOE (no tuition fee) and mainly reside on campus with a shared room. They do have cafeterias for dining and other services on campus. Living off camps, PG students enjoy studying at Addis Ababa University while they can also work part time. Though there are self sponsored students, many of the are sponsored by the government.

How much does it cost to live in Addis Ababa?

Living cost in Addis is not more than 400 USD including accommodation and groceries.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Addis Ababa? Is there any advice you can give?

Finding housing is pretty easy in Addis.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Being multi-cultural society, we Ethiopians have varieties of dishes; doro wot, kitfo, kurt, beyaynet, shuro and many others.

What places would you recommend visiting in Addis Ababa?

The national museum is on of my favorite places next to Entoto Palace. The other being the whole of Pissa including the historical Taytu Hotel.

Is it good to eat out in Addis Ababa? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

There are plenty of restaurants in adds where foreigners enjoy eating.

Is the nightlife good in Addis Ababa? Where is good to go?

Bole, Haya Hulet and Piassa seems pretty good to spend the night in Addis.

What advice would you give future students heading to Addis Ababa?

Compared to the western culture, the society here at Addis is very friendly and supportive which makes life easy. If you want to move to Addis, please do so asap.