Rediscovering Roots: A Family Journey to Harar

Harar's Heartbeat

Today was a day of diving deep into the soul of Harar. It's amazing how much you can discover when you just let the city guide you, and today, Harar led me to places that resonated with its vibrant culture and history. It was a day filled with new tastes, sights, and experiences that I'm excited to share.

Our day began, as most good days do, with a hearty breakfast. We headed to Midre Genet Restaurant, a place I'd heard whispers about from locals for its authentic Ethiopian breakfast. It was exactly the kind of place I love – unpretentious, warm, and buzzing with the energy of Hararis starting their day. I savored *ful*, a traditional fava bean dish, with a side of *injera*. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploring.

After breakfast, we ventured towards Amir Talha Square. The square is the heart of Harar, a place where life unfolds in its rawest and most beautiful form. The air was filled with the chatter of locals, the scent of spices, and the vibrant colors of textiles and crafts. Lila was immediately captivated by the atmosphere, her eyes wide with wonder as she watched children playing and vendors selling their wares. Hans-Peter, ever the photographer, was in his element, capturing the essence of the square through his lens. We wandered through the square, soaking in the sights and sounds, and I felt a sense of connection to this city that I hadn't felt in years.


Discover the vibrant heart of Ethiopia at Amir Talha Square, where culture, community, and tradition come together in an unforgettable experience.

The beauty of Harar lies not just in its historical sites, but in the everyday moments that unfold within its walls.

From Amir Talha Square, we decided to explore Haroo Haramayaa. The drive was an experience in itself, the landscape shifting from the bustling city to serene countryside. Haroo Haramayaa, I learned, is more than just a place; it's an experience. The rolling hills, the vibrant greenery, and the crystal-clear lake create a tranquil escape from the city's hustle. We spent hours simply walking around, enjoying the fresh air, and marveling at the natural beauty. Lila was especially thrilled, chasing butterflies and collecting colorful stones.


Explore Haroo Haramayaa, a captivating Ethiopian tourist attraction blending rich culture with stunning natural landscapes for an unforgettable experience.

Lunch was another culinary adventure at Mubbeeibnumohammed. This restaurant, recommended by a local friend, turned out to be a hidden gem. We indulged in traditional Harari dishes, each bursting with unique flavors and spices. It was a true feast for the senses, and I felt a deep appreciation for the culinary heritage of my birthplace. I even tried to explain some of the more unique ingredients to Hans-Peter, who, despite his initial hesitation, ended up loving everything.


Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Mubbeeibnumohammed in Harar – where tradition meets taste in every bite.

As the day wound down, we made our way to Mulu Pub. I was keen to experience Harar's nightlife, even if just for a little while. The pub was lively, filled with locals enjoying each other's company and the local beer. The atmosphere was infectious, and we found ourselves chatting with people, sharing stories, and laughing. It was a reminder that, despite our different backgrounds, we're all connected by our shared humanity.


Discover Mulu Pub in Harar, where vibrant atmosphere meets authentic Ethiopian hospitality, perfect for tourists seeking a local experience.

Dinner was at Timir Resturant, a cozy spot known for its traditional Harari cuisine. I ordered *shiro*, a hearty chickpea stew, and *kitfo*, a minced beef dish seasoned with spices and butter. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with culinary delights. Lila, surprisingly, enjoyed the *shiro*, while Hans-Peter was a big fan of the *kitfo*.


Experience the authentic flavors of Ethiopia at Timir Restaurant in Harar - where every meal is a celebration of culture and tradition.

Before heading back to our relatives' home, we took a moment to reflect on the day. Harar had welcomed us with open arms, offering a glimpse into its rich culture and history. It was a day of rediscovering my roots, of sharing my heritage with my family, and of creating memories that we'll cherish forever.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Asmadin Uga and Aw Abdal Mosque, continuing our exploration of Harar's historical and religious sites. I'm also looking forward to doing some shopping at Harari, hoping to find some unique souvenirs to take back to Munich. As I drift off to sleep, I can't help but feel grateful for this journey, for the opportunity to reconnect with my past and share it with my loved ones. Harar, you've stolen my heart all over again.

I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Goodnight from Harar!

One thing I did forget to pack was an adapter for the Ethiopian plug sockets. Lucky our relatives had some spare ones!

Oh, and before I forget, I heard a funny story at Mulu Pub. Apparently, there's a local legend about a hidden treasure buried somewhere in the old city walls. Of course, everyone's always joking about finding it, but it adds a certain mystique to the place. Maybe tomorrow I'll try my luck searching for it – who knows what I might find!

I am so grateful that I have been able to bring my family to Harar and share my culture with them. I hope that Lila will grow up with a strong sense of her Ethiopian heritage, and that she will always cherish the memories we made here together. It's moments like these that make life truly special, and I am so glad to be able to experience them with my family.

The warmth of the Harari people, the vibrant colors of the city, and the rich history that permeates every corner – it's all so captivating. I'm already looking forward to our adventures tomorrow, and I know that Harar will continue to surprise and delight us.

As I think about our plans for tomorrow, I realize that this trip is about more than just seeing the sights. It's about connecting with my family, sharing my heritage, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. It's about showing Lila where I come from, and helping her understand the beauty and complexity of our culture. It's about teaching Hans-Peter about the traditions and customs that have shaped me into the person I am today. And most importantly, it's about celebrating the love and bond that we share as a family.

And as I close my eyes tonight, I can't help but smile. Harar, you've welcomed us with open arms, and I'm so grateful for the opportunity to be here, to experience your magic, and to share it with my family. Goodnight, my beautiful city. Until tomorrow...

Looking back on today, I realize how much I've missed this city. It's not just the familiar sights and sounds, but the feeling of belonging, of being connected to something larger than myself. It's the sense of community, the warmth of the people, and the shared history that binds us together. And it's the knowledge that, no matter where life takes me, Harar will always be a part of me. And now, it's a part of Lila and Hans-Peter too.

Tomorrow, as we explore more of Harar's historical sites and wander through its bustling markets, I hope to continue to capture these moments, to preserve these memories, and to share them with all of you. Because in the end, it's not just about the places we visit, but the people we meet, the stories we share, and the connections we make along the way.

So, as I sign off for tonight, I want to thank you for joining me on this journey. I hope that my words have transported you to the heart of Harar, and that you've felt a glimpse of the magic that I've experienced today. And I invite you to come back tomorrow, as we continue to explore this enchanting city and discover even more of its hidden treasures. Because in Harar, every day is an adventure, and every corner holds a new surprise.

Until then, *melkam edet!* (Good night!)