Phase 1 - Day 1

Phase 1 of our trip to Ethiopia is well underway. It started off really well. Our flight from New York to Paris was excellent. We flew on OpenSkies which is operated by British Airways. It is an all business class airline except for a few first class seats. The airplane we were on was a 757-200 with only 4 seats per row. I could just barely touch the seat infront of me when I streatched my legs out. The aisles were wide enough that two people could pass each other without stepping into someone's seat. We had full reclining seats with foot rests and champagne delivered to us as soon as we sat down. The food was decent and we even got some sleep.

Regrettably it went downhill fast after breakfast. Specifically, my breakfast decided it wanted to come uphill. I was able to struggle through the landing and customs, but the tram ride to the metro did me in. Even after getting sick (into a bag at the station), the metro ride was difficult. I had to get off several stops prior to where we were supposed to just so I could get some air. But we eventually made it and the metro navigation aspect was really quite simple.

The hotel is nice and the staff is very friendly, thanks Greg! After a quick nap, we took off for a scenic walk. The hotel desk clerk recommended a nearby cafe for a simple lunch and that combined with the fresh air and walking helped me start feeling better. No picture we could take of the traffic around the Arc de Triomphe can do it justice.

The Eiffel Tower is spectacular. Particularly when seen at night such as what we can see from our hotel room.