"Ethiopia (Abyssinia,) the land of a thousand smiles; home of the Ark of the Covenant; custodian of one of the world's first great civilizations; the only African country never to lose its independence; a country whose ancient cultures and magnificent landscapes reflect an extraordinary past that has left an indelible mark on the people and their colorful festivals.  Ethiopia is a country of great antiquity with a culture and tradition dating back more than 3,000 years; it is truly a tourist paradise - beautiful and mysterious.  Ethiopia's story begins at the beginning of time, in the very birthplace of mankind.  Let us introduce you to one of the last great 'undiscovered' destinations."
-Habte Fentaw, Awaze Tours

"Every time IĀ get off the plane in Ethiopia it feels more like a homecoming than a trip to a foreign land. The warmth of the people, the beauty of the land, the rich history and cultural landscape make it difficult for me to tell too many people as I want to keep it a secret and all for myself!"
-Matt Turnbull, UK

"Ethiopia is one of the safest places I ever been in my life. You can walk around during the day and in the middle of the night and never have a problem."
-Federico Rosa, Rosa Associati, Italy

"My trip to Ethiopia was one of the greatest experiences of my life and when it came time to leave I wasn't ready to go home and ended up extending my trip a few more days. Traveling to Ethiopia worried some family and friends, but I can honestly say I felt safer in Ethiopia that I do in many American cities that I travel to. The people of Ethiopia were kind, welcoming and some of the happiest people I have ever met."
-Bekah Holt, San Diego, CA

"Ethiopia is a vast country. It's rich culture and history together with stunning physical geography always shocks first time visitors. They just don't expect to be be surprised in such a positive way. Apart from being the cradle of civilisation, Ethiopia is also the spiritual home of distance running. For anyone with a passion for our great sport, a visit to Ethiopia is a must do experience. And to do so for a race connected with Haile is an experience  they will never forget. His magnetic personality and smile lifts any event and I am sure with his backing, this marathon will be an absolute winner. "
-Rob Walker, Channel 4 Athletics Commentator and BBC Sports Reporter

"I have travelled to Ethiopia on four occasions for the Great Ethiopian Run. Addis Ababa is an enchanting place - tranquil, historic, with beautiful weather and a friendly welcome everywhere you go. With all that the country has given to distance running over the years, a racing trip to Ethiopia should be on the Bucket List of runners of all standards. You will absolutely love it. "  
-Geoff Wightman, Director, "Run Britain"

"I've covered the Great Ethiopia Run, Hawasa Half Marathon and the other races organized by the Great Ethiopian Run so I knew a little about Ethiopia. They're well organized the races and I assure you that Ethiopia is a very hospitable and welcoming country, very unique history, different from the rest of Africa."
-Jiro Mochizuki, Japan, Internationally Acclaimed Sports Photographer

"I have visited Ethiopia on several occasions, both as a tourist and for my work as a sports journalist. All my visits have been hugely enriching and provided some of the most unforgettable sights and experiences of my life, be that taking part in the Great Ethiopian Run in Addis Ababa, or trekking in the breathtaking Simien Mountains. Ethiopia is widely perceived as a country ravaged by famine and war and for that reason many people are reluctant to visit. Of course Ethiopia does have its problems, but there’s something intoxicating about the place and the welcome I have received has always been unfailingly warm and genuine. Most Ethiopians are delighted that foreigners make the effort to visit their country and want them to leave with the best possible impression. Haile Gebrselassie himself is one of the most charming, generous people you could ever wish to meet. And the country’s boast of 13 months of sunshine a year is entirely justified."
-Chris Dennis, Sports Broadcast Journalist

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