Money & mosquitos

A mosquito net is probably not completely necessary, but I was glad to have one a couple of nights. Strangely I found Axum the worst, didn't have much trouble in Bahir Dar despite being by the lake (the Ghion provides nets, but I didn't need to use it). However, most hotels I stayed in didn't have any way to hang a net, so I just ended up with it draped over me - helped a bit but not ideal.

Money-wise I took cash (mix of euros and dollars) plus a few travellers cheques as backup, so didn't need to look for ATMs - I think there was one in Bahir Dar but don't recall seeing them anywhere else - almost certainly not in Lalibela. If relying on ATMs I would recommend carrying as much cash as you are comfortable with - at least enough to pay for a few days travel until you can find another one.

Have fun

Steve

I don't have a VISA card so I already planned ahead with cash/travelers' checks, knowing my card wouldn't work in the ATMs. That said, if there is an ATM in Bahir Dar or Gondar I didn't notice them.

I did have a mosquito net just in case, and while the Ghion in Bahir Dar does provide them, they also have a tendency to forget your reservation. My first night I was staying with two friends who'd also gotten screwed. They shared the bed under the net, and I stayed on a cot with my net draped over me! So, it can't hurt.

As for clothing...what you describe is fine. There isn't much you can do about how men perceive you. It's not bad in Ethiopia, by any means. My pants were longer and I wore long-sleeve shirts when I could, but I don't know how much difference it really made!

Enjoy...wish I were going too...

Hello dear friend,
ATM is working in addis ababa and bahirdar and gonder.
about cloths no problem what ever you wear. I am happy to show you around addis and have cooffee or drink.
thanks