Things to do in Ethiopia, Desta Mender, Fistula Hospital

Just thought I would share a very special place that anyone would have time
to visit while in Ethiopia. I think it's so important to get out of Addis as
the majority of our kids don't come from the city, but the beautiful
countryside.

The Hamlin Fistula Hospital has a community on the outskirts of the city
where those with chronic, irreparable injuries can live and work. It's
called Desta Mender. They have recently opened a restaurant there and all
are encouraged to go on Saturdays and Sundays for lunch (and maybe other
times, but I'm not sure!). They have really yummy meat pies (like Chicken
pot pie) and quiches. All made with the veggies, etc... grown on their farm.
The women also make handicrafts and you can buy them there, which make for
meaningful souvenirs.

It is GORGEOUS and green farmland where they grow vegetables, have chickens,
etc... You eat outside over looking a pond and pasture. It's a GREAT escape
out of the pollution of Addis and I'm so glad I took my parents there to see
something outside of the city. I just posted one pic of the area you
overlook when you eat. A great place for the little ones to run around! And,
the women there LOVE to see the kids.

It's really close to the city, and I imagine safe to go to even with the
travel limitations of election time this summer.

I hope some of you go to check it out! Just tell your driver to take Ambo
Road out of the city. In about 10-15 km, you will see a sign for Desta
Mender on the left. You follow this road up and just tell the guards you are
eating at 'Juniper Cafe'.

Sara

Thank you Sara for letting me share! This is a truly great opportunity. Sounds like a fun outing.