12 Mar Packing Up & Starting Over: My Move to Addis Ababa
Writer: Fezekisa Makeleni
Last year, I packed my entire life into suitcases and took a leap of faith—straight into the unknown. I left everything familiar behind to start fresh in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. I knew it would be a big change, but nothing could have prepared me for the adventure ahead. Moving to a new country isn’t just about adjusting to a different address; it’s about rewriting your entire existence.
The Culture Shock is Real
Addis Ababa is a wild, beautiful, and sometimes chaotic city. It’s a place where history meets modern hustle, where vibrant markets hum with life, and where traffic jams make Joburg’s peak-hour congestion look tame. It’s also home to an international mix of people, yet so uniquely Ethiopian that every day feels like stepping into a new world.
And let’s talk about the food. I won’t lie—this was a struggle. My cravings for a good old South African braai were met with plates of injera, Ethiopia’s famous sourdough flatbread. If you have an adventurous palate, you might love it, but my taste buds were begging for a crash course in adaptation. Coffee, though? That’s a different story. Here, coffee isn’t just a drink; it’s an experience. Ethiopia takes its coffee rituals seriously, turning every sip into a moment worth savoring.
Lost in Translation (Literally)
Language was another hurdle. Amharic is the dominant language, and unlike back home, English isn’t widely spoken. My first attempt at bargaining in the market? Let’s just say I nodded and smiled a lot, silently hoping I wasn’t agreeing to buy a goat.
Finding a place to live was another eye-opener. I thought moving out of my hotel would be simple—until I realized how expensive the rental market is. A quick reality check later, I found myself Googling exchange rates more than ever before.
Homesickness Hits Differently
Nothing prepares you for how much you’ll miss the little things. The sound of isiZulu at the taxi rank. A quick chat with the neighborhood spaza shop owner. The inside jokes that don’t quite translate over WhatsApp. And don’t get me started on FOMO—missing birthdays, graduations, and Sunday braais is tough. Thank goodness for video calls!
Some days, I feel like an explorer, thriving in my new reality. Other days, I’m one click away from booking the next flight home. The mental and emotional toll is real—adjusting to a new culture, learning new social norms, and constantly being outside your comfort zone can be exhausting. But I’ve learned to lean into resilience.
How I Stay Grounded
Therapy helps—whether it’s professional or just a vent session with a trusted friend. Making my apartment feel like home has also been a game-changer. I stock up on SA groceries when I can and keep my playlist filled with South African music. A little Podcast and Chill here and there? Absolutely necessary.
Most importantly, I’ve learned to give myself grace. Some days are tough, and that’s okay. Every challenge is just another step toward becoming a stronger, more adaptable version of myself.
Would I Do It Again?
In a heartbeat. Moving to Addis Ababa has stretched me in ways I never imagined. It’s taught me that home isn’t just a place—it’s the experiences, the people, and the lessons we collect along the way.
To anyone thinking about moving abroad—go for it. It won’t be easy, but it will be one of the most exhilarating, growth-filled journeys of your life. And if you ever find yourself in Addis, hit me up. I’ll be here, probably still lost in translation—but loving every moment of the adventure.
