Guesthouse Amenities - Services

Driving:  Tesfaye has a lot of driving responsibilities that go beyond just carting us needy parents around.  However, when possible he took us where we wanted (not needed) to go.  When not driving, he seems to spend a significant amount of time smoochin' and huggin' on all of the kids. The kids chant his name when he pulls the van into the care center.  The staff also called a taxi for me when needed.

 

This was just a getting-ready-to-drive pic.  No babies in the driver's seat ala Britney Spears!

Cooking: Ababa cooks meals for all the guests.  Meals are served at 8am, 12p and 6p.  The food is a mix of traditional Ethiopian and Americanized food.  There was always plenty. She is also from the Kembata region so she was able to easily speak to the kids from that area and is, in general, very helpful with any issues that arise with the kids.

Cleaning: Alem cleaned my room every day as well as the common areas.  I was quite embarrassed at how quickly she managed to clean my room.  She also washed clothes for me (BYO laundry soap.  Soap is available in the groceries and in the shops along the street, I believe.) I think she also helps with the cooking. She was always smiling.

Security: The security guard monitored who entered the facility.  He can also get a taxi for you during off hours.  He was accompanied by a theoretical attack kitty (more likely a fraidy cat).

Telephone: If you receive a phone call during office hours, the staff will let you know.  Also, cell phone usage is surprisingly popular.  I was told that it costs about 1000 birr to purchase a cell phone and 25 birr for 20 days of unlimited usage (calling out in-country only and receiving from anywhere).  There are shops between the care center and guesthouse for cell phones.  This is all secondhand info.