Shopping in Addis Ababa - authentic goods, best outlets, malls and boutiques

A colourful Merkato market operates in the city. On weekends it turns into the real Tower of Babel. You can literally buy everything here, from popular spices and sweets to dozens of handmade souvenirs. Yet, you can stroll through the rows with farm animals available for purchase. Coffee lovers especially prefer this place. Here, you'll find not only a variety of coffees, but also special dishes for brewing and serving it. In the Mercato marketplace, there are several antique rows where old coins, tips of spears, and a host of other unusual antiques are sold.

For quality items and souvenirs from local craftsmen, many tourists go to Salem's Ethiopia store. It is a large workshop where local artisans work every day. They make very beautiful baskets and ladies' handbags of cane, as well as interesting ornaments. They sell jewelry here as well, created by local craftsmen. All the goods will for sure delight with high quality and reasonable prices. Those who're not going to spend large sums on purchases will be satisfied with a large choice of inexpensive jewelry and small souvenirs.

There are several excellent textile factories in Addis Ababa, so many tourists visit local stores in search of fabrics. Sabahar is one of the best stores of the kind. Here, ladies can purchase luxurious silk of all colours of the rainbow, and even order sewing of any clothes. This store is perfectly decorated. Visitors will be able to witness how silkworm larvae look like. Moreover, beautiful scarves, clothes and towels, which can be bought as souvenirs, are sold here. Since the store is located in the factory compound, all tourist visits are accompanied by excursions. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Chiromeda Market is housed in an incredibly beautiful historical building. This market is relatively small. You can visit it in search of local clothes and souvenirs. Some of its arcades are in the open air. The market is popular with tourists due to its large choice of inexpensive clothes. The main introduced product is textile and various garments. Prices are moderate. What's more, you can always trade with vendors.

One of the most expensive shops in the city is St. George Gallery. It offers a wide range of exclusive souvenirs. Numerous original things are sold here, including beautiful paintings, sculptures and wood carvings. All items are distinguished by high prices, but they're worth it. Customers may rest assured in their quality and uniqueness.

Sholla Market is one more really interesting local place. Some tourists visit it like a zoo. Numerous breeds of chickens, goats and other domestic animals are sold here, as well as special feedstock. Tourists will be interested in visiting this marketplace in search of national delicacies. There'll be popular Ethiopian spices and the world's hottest chili pepper.

The city has several attractive jewelry stores. T&H Designs is one of the best in its category. Ladies will find interesting earrings with gems, as well as inexpensive jewelry made of silver. These decorations are completely unlike those that can be seen in the salons of European cities. Lovers of ethnic accessories will definitely appreciate them. There are also lovely handbags and other handmade items.

For beautiful paintings in national style, go to Lela Gallery. Its owner is a famous local artist. She has gathered a great art collection by famous painters of the country. The hostess gives tours around the gallery on her own and offers aroma tea in the courtyard afterwards. Part of the exhibits presented in this gallery is available for sale. Collectors from all over the world visit it.