Travel to Tips

Local Customs: Although most locals dress conservatively, casual dress is accepted by the locals, who are fairly easygoing, although you should avoid garish clothes and behavior in general. Ask permission before taking someone's picture.
Banking: Banks are open weekdays and closed for lunch, and the US dollar is most easily exchanged. Although credit cards can rarely be used, traveler's checks can be used in larger establishments.
When To Visit: Kiddus Yohannes, the Ethiopian New Year on September 11, and Meskel, the Christian festival marking the finding of the true cross on September 27 and punctuated with bonfires, help to make September a good month to travel.
Food: The most common Ethiopian dishes are injera, a spongy bread made from sorghum or wheat, and different types of wat, or soups often cooked with chicken, vegetables and pepper. Coffee and tella, a beer made from maize or barley, are two of the most common drinks around.
Tipping: Check your bill and follow standard tipping rules for an additional 10% is a service charge hasn't already been included.