============================== ETHIOPIA ============================== Ethiopia, one of Africa's largest countries, stretches from the shores of the Red Sea to the north of Kenya. Most of the country consists of highlands. Because of the wide range of latitudes, Ethiopia has many climatic variations between the high temperature plateau and the hot humid lowlands. The country is very vulnerable to drought, but in some areas thunderstorms can erode soil from the slopes, reducing the area available for crop planting. Coffee is the main source of rural income, and teff is the main food grain. Droughts have brought much famine. Area (Sq. Km.): 1,221,894 Population: 48,630,000 Capital: Addis Ababa Language: Amharic Religion: Orthodox Christian 40% Moslem 40% Government Type: In transition Currency: Ethiopian birr Embassy: 17 Princes Gate London SW7 1PZ 0171-589-7212 «»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«»«» Foreign Office Advice: Visitors should confine themselves to the recognised tourist areas including the Rift Valley Lakes, Addis Ababa and the Highland Tourist Route. Travel after dark should be avoided and accommodation taken only in larger towns. Avoid all border areas, except those between Ethiopia and Eritrea. Travel in region 5, Hararge and South of Arba Minch should be avoided if possible. Register at the British Embassy in Addis Ababa (Tel: 01 612354) if planning to venture into areas outside the capital, particularly if travelling by road. For more information ring: Foreign Office Travel Unit 0171-270-4129