Q: planning to go there sometime!
A: Take it from me, I am an Ethiopian-American with two parents who grew up in Ethiopia, and I have visited many times: Best place: I recommend going on the northern city tour provided by Ethiopian Airlines. For about a week, you go on a air tour (and spend 1-2 days) in 3-4 historical cities- stay in the government-supported hotels while you are in those cities. Here is the link to the site: http://www.ethiopianairlines.com/specials/TourPackage/historicethiopia.aspx Besides that, definitely check out Langano, Asmara, and other cities. Tours to these areas can be booked in your base in Addis through the NTO organization. Here is a link to their site: http://www.nto.com.et/thentopageande.htm Not so great: the capital of Addis Abeba (this is the old school spelling) or Addis Ababa (new school spelling) it is not scenic and there are only a few historic sites, though I recommend Addis as your base hotel (it has the best hotels in the country) choose the Sheraton or Hilton- the Sheraton is world-class 5-star resort which is just as expensive as it sounds, (but it is absolutely gorgeous) and the Hilton is a more family-friendly and more culturally aware (there are symbols of Ethiopia all around its sprawling location) Have fun!