What folks are doing and seeing while in Ethiopia

People are always asking what to do when they are in Ethiopia. So, I have asked a few moms who I know to give us some ideas using what they did while they were in country for their adoptions.

This is from Lisa and Steve about what they were able to do while they were in Ethiopia, thanks Lisa:

We visited Children's Hope Chest projects, Drawn from Water (an organization
who rescues children who are to be drowned in the river due to tribal
superstitions) and several orphanages. One family visited their Compassion
child whom they had sponsored for ten years. They said it was an amazing
experience! We also visited three other orphanages. One of the highlights of
our trip (although it was very hard) was our trip to Sodo, five hours south
of Addis, to meet our child's birth mother. Finally, we visited the Robera
coffee factory.

I suggest getting into the countryside in some way and visiting some
orphanages, micro finance projects, or other organizations that are
assisting in humanitarian aid. It will put American life into proper
perspective.

From myslef:
We also would suggest getting into the country side. Two day trips of sorts are Wolisou where there is a mini resort with a hot springs swimming pool. Go on a thursday. And the other is Entoto, where you can see a small museum, a church and the palace remains of King Menalik II. The view of Addis is stunning, and even in the fog and rain the scenery is so surreal. Great trips.
We also visited our Compassion Child and would highly recommend that trip of a lifetime if you sponsor a child in the area.

I hope to add to this post the experiences of others. If you have suggestions  on what to do leave a comment.