Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
(there can be few things more tempting than a grumpy
faranji!
). An Amharic
'hid!'
('clear off!') for a boy,
'hiji!'
for a girl or
'hidu!'
for a group is the Ethiopian response and
sends children scuttling; however, it can have the reverse effect and is considered rather
harsh from a foreigner.
On a less-friendly note, several travellers have reported stone-throwing children in vari-
ous parts of the country.
Scams
Compared with other African countries, Ethiopia has few scams and rip-offs. Those that
do exist, like the siren scam in Addis Ababa (
Click here
)
and the notebook scam (where
kids beg for notebooks and pens for school, which, if you buy them one, are taken straight
back to the shop to exchange for money), are pretty transparent and rather easily avoided.
You'll also hear many 'hard luck' stories, or those soliciting sponsorship for travel or
education in Ethiopia or abroad. Although most are not genuine, some stories are sadly
true, so don't be rude.
Also look out for fake antiques in shops.
Self-Appointed Guides
High unemployment has spawned many self-appointed and unofficial guides. You will be
approached, accompanied for a while, given unasked-for information and then charged.
Be wary of anyone who approaches you unasked, particularly at the exit of bus stations
etc. Unfortunately, there's almost always an ulterior motive. Be polite but firm and try not
to get paranoid!
Shiftas
In some of the more remote areas, such as the southeast's Ogaden Desert, near the Kenyan
border, along the Awash-Mille road at night, in the far west and, most commonly, in the
Danakil region,
shiftas
(bandits) are sometimes reported. Tourists are very rarely targeted,
but it does happen and in early 2012 five foreign tourists were killed and four people kid-
napped close to the Erte Ale volcano in the Danakil Depression. The government has
blamed Eritrea for the attacks. Nobody has ever been brought to justice.
Check government travel-advice warnings to keep up to date with any recent trouble
spots. Tour companies are also a good source of information; though remember that some
less than reputable ones (none of which we include in this topic) might tell you a place is
safe when it isn't just in order to get your custom and money.
