FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
GNTO

Under $100: Addis Ababa

by Akhil Kalepu

Oct 12, 2014

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia © Derejeb | Dreamstime

Africa

Ethiopia is one of the oldest nations in the world, a founding member of the United Nations and the sole African country never to be colonized. With an exchange rate of 20 birr to a dollar, Ethiopia is a great destination for budget-minded travelers, containing a wealth of natural beauty and historic sites.

 

St. George’s Cathedral is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city, which is open to the public and also houses a museum. There is an awe-inspiring set of paintings around the worship area, depicting scenes from the Bible and Ethiopian history. Entry costs 50 birra per person, and they will allow visitors during off-service hours for an additional 50–100 birra tip.

 

Housed in the former palace of Emperor Haile Selassie is Addis Ababa’s Ethnological Museum, hailed as one of the finest contemporary museums in Africa and costing only 50 birra. The first floor is organized by the life cycle, starting with childhood with exhibits on rites of passage, games and traditional stories. Adulthood features traditional medicine, handicrafts, hunting and war, and death is an exhibition on religion and burial tombs. The second floor is dedicated to a variety of Ethiopian art, showcasing religious iconography, magic scrolls and traditional music.

 

Community markets are a great place to observe the life of your destination and Addis Mercato is a particularly vibrant one to visit. The name is derived from the country’s occupation under Mussolini’s Italy, and has become the self-claimed largest open-air market in Africa. There are plenty of vendors selling unique souvenirs, in addition to some great Ethiopian street food and coffee.

 

As the day comes to a close, nothing is quite as fitting as the sweet sounds of jazz serenading the setting sun. Ethiopia’s jazz culture was huge in the 1960s, garnering their own sub-genre called Ethiojazz. The scene was suppressed by the politically authoritarian Derg, though the music made a slow comeback in Addis Ababa. Located inside the Taitu Hotel, the Jazzamba Lounge is a dream destination for jazz aficionados, with nightly performances attracting top local and international acts. Entry is only 80 birra and they keep jamming until 1 a.m.

 

#TrazeeTravel

Insta Feed
Travel Goods
Nov 21, 2024

Never Lose an Item Again with Apple’s New Share Item Location Feature

It’s your worst nightmare: Your plane is taxiing and you’re looking out the window, only to realize you’ve left your iPad or laptop in the airport. Thanks to a new feature from Apple, these fears can be allayed, ensuring we always know where our valuables are, whether traveling or at home.

Seoul: Your Favorite Worldwide City

Seoul is the place for your next bleisure destination.

Dining/Entertainment
Nov 20, 2024

Experience the Only Restaurant Made Entirely of Ice in America

You’ve heard of ice hotels, but what about ice restaurants? When ice Hôtel de Glace de Québec opens in January 2025, it will be home to the only restaurant made entirely of snow and ice in America thanks to a partnership with Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac.

Destinations
Nov 20, 2024

What Destinations Are Trending in 2025?

Luxury travel company Scott Dunn looks ahead to 2025 with predictions of hot destinations to visit. These focus on under-explored locations, sustainable tourism and exclusive experiences.

Discover Greece’s Tower Towns: A Journey Through History

Greece's tower towns offer a captivating blend of history, architecture and stunning landscapes that make them perfect for curious travelers. These towns, particularly found in the Mani region of the Peloponnese, are defined by stone towers built during the medieval period. Constructed for both defense and as symbols of family pride, the towers stand as a testament to the region's turbulent history and its residents’ resilience.

Destinations / Europe
Nov 20, 2024

Where to Find the Best Stargazing Spots in Ireland

This year, the Northern Lights put on quite the display across Ireland, but don’t think these lights are the only thing you can see in Ireland. In fact, many spots across the country provide some of the best opportunities to stargaze thanks to low levels of light pollution. Ireland has three International Dark Sky Parks and even more spots which, although not accredited, are worth a visit for anyone wishing to see the sky in its unfiltered form.