22July -- Addis

Uneventful day, but I’m really happy! David got my e-mail note and is leaving for Nairobi today. Caroline and Linda are already there. And for me, another perfect day of travel.

I was greeted at the airport by my travel agent’s accountant and a couple of other guys. I checked into a pretty nice hotel (if a little gaudy) and went out to do some fast shopping before I head back to Nairobi. I wonder if my traveling companions have seen the news – riots in Nairobi and bombs in London, Iraq and Egypt.

Saw the giant market here in Addis, and I have to say, it IS big. Went into several shops, high-end and otherwise, and found exactly the souvenir I wanted. Headed on back to the hotel and got into an Internet café that actually worked. Did the blog, paid some bills, and had dinner. I LOVE Ethiopian food, and I don’t understand why every tourist and book complains about it. I will admit I don’t eat all the animal parts they serve here, but the deep, spicy taste of absolutely everything is wonderful. I have to learn to cook greens this way.

Couldn’t wait to go to bed so I could wake up the next day. Will see David and Caroline + Linda in Nairobi tomorrow! YEA!!!