Ep 2. Ethiopia

In this episode of The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan, Romesh travels to Ethiopia to learn about the history, culture, and people of this African country. He begins his journey in the capital city of Addis Ababa, where he meets up with a local guide who takes him on a tour of the city's bustling markets, historical landmarks, and vibrant street life.

Romesh is impressed by the spirit and resilience of the Ethiopian people, who have faced numerous challenges and hardships throughout their history. He learns about the devastating famine of the 1980s, which claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of Ethiopians, and the country's ongoing struggle with poverty and environmental degradation.

Despite these challenges, Romesh discovers that Ethiopia is a country rich in culture and traditions, with a proud and vibrant cultural heritage. He spends time in the rural communities of the Oromo people, one of the largest ethnic groups in the country, and learns about their music, dance, and traditional crafts.

Along the way, Romesh also tries his hand at local cuisine, sampling traditional dishes like injera, a spongy bread made from teff flour, and doro wat, a spicy chicken stew. He even takes part in a traditional coffee ceremony, where he learns about the cultural significance of coffee in Ethiopian society.

Throughout his journey, Romesh confronts his own preconceptions and biases about Ethiopia and its people, and comes to a deeper understanding of the country's complex history and culture. He also confronts some uncomfortable truths about his own privileged position as a tourist, and the ways in which tourism can both benefit and harm the communities it seeks to explore.

Overall, this episode of The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan offers a fascinating and insightful look at one of Africa's most diverse and dynamic countries, and the challenges and opportunities faced by its people. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or simply curious about the world, this episode is sure to inspire, educate, and entertain.