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World Cup SAfrica and Ethiopia from N Carolina |
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Hi Stephen; Thanks for asking. Of course we had a wonderful time in Cape Town – it is definitely one of the world’s great cities. Accommodations at Best Western hotel were fine; the two matches we attended were tremendous fun; and every South African we met was so tremendously nice and so concerned that we would enjoy ourselves. We ate great food every night as well (Cape Grace dinner was a highlight). As we had spent time in Cape Town in the past, we only did a couple of standard tourist things (Robben Island & Botanical Garden). Beyond that, we rented bicycles for a day, went to a couple of Saturday farmer’s markets on another, took drives down the coast, and generally just had a great time. Ethiopia was absolutely fascinating. Although it is an “African” country, it is so unique and different than any other country that I’ve visited on the continent (a dozen or so) that it didn’t remind me of any other affcan country I had ever been to. This is not a trip for inexperienced travelers or anyone who expects every accommodation to be “just perfect”. But historically, it was totally fascinating (i.e. Axum, the Churches at Lalibela, etc.) – especially if you are into learning about a civilization and culture that relatively few people know well. Our guide (Melaku Tesfa) was a very, very nice person . . . very knowledgeable . . . and very patient with all of us. The trip was very smooth throughout and although we got “bumped” on one of the interior Ethiopia flights, we didn’t miss anything we were expecting to see. All-in-all, the trip met and exceeded hopes. We all had a good time and returned in good health . . . though a bit exhausted from the travels. Best regards and thanks for all of your work on our trip!! Stephen
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