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We travelled to Ethiopia a year ago to bring home our DS. This was the first international flight for both me and DH. First off, I'd suggest using a travel agent who has experience with Ethiopia. Many adoption agencies recommend a certain travel agent. We used the travel agent recommended by our agency- Susan Parr in Port Angeles, WA. And she was SPECTACULAR!!!!
We chose to fly on Ethiopian Airlines. We flew from our home city to Washington DC. From there we boarded our direct flight to Addis Ababa. We did touch down in Rome to refuel, but we did not get off the plane. When we arrived in Ethiopia, we got our visa at the airport, it was a very simple procedure.
You should make arrangements with either your hotel or with your agency to have someone pick you up at the airport. You cannot rent a car at the airport. There are many taxis at the airport if you need one, but it would be much easier to arrange for a pickup. If you do end up taking a taxi, make sure you agree on the fare BEFORE you go anywhere.
There are many differnent places to stay in Addis Ababa- many hotels, and most agencies have a private guest house. We chose to stay at our agency's guest house, and are so happy we did. It allowed us to stay with other adoptive families, and the kids were able to play together (our DS was almost 5 when he joined our family). We also were within walking distance of the orphanage, which was really nice.
While we were in Addis, we visited the Hilton and the Sheraton. Both were very nice, the Sheraton was more luxurious (and more expensive!). Both hotels have a pool, you can go there and swim for a fee, even if you're not a guest. I know of people who have stayed at the Ghion, the Yilma and the Queen of Sheba, although I don't have personal experience with these.
To get around town, you can walk, or you can hire a taxi. I'd be willing to bet that your agency can recommend a good taxi driver. Again, agree on a price before you leave. There are lots of fun touristy things to do in Addis- we went to Washa Michael church (what a hike!!!), the national museum, and to dinner at the crown hotel one night. All of these were fun. We brought the Lonley Planet Guide to Ethiopia and Eritrea, and it was SO helpful! Also helpful was the Lonely Planet Amharic Phrasebook.
As for how many bags to bring, check with your travel agent. Usually, agencies ask travelling parents to bring donations/supplies for the children. So most parents bring the maximum allowable luggage. It shouldn't be a problem, though. We checked our luggage in at Minneapolis, and didn't see it again until we arrived in Addis- there were no problems with luggage at all. We did pack a change of clothes in our carryon, just in case, but we didn't need it.
It can be a little overwhelming, but it is SO worth it. Our trip to Ethiopia was so valuable to us- we met so many wonderful people and learned so much. I would do it again in a heartbeat.
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