Help Dialing Ethiopia, Ghion Hotel

November 5, 2005 6:29 AM

When I call 011-251-1-513222 for the Ghion Hotel in Addis Ababa, I receive various error messages. Please help me find a working number for this hotel, I need to reach a guest.

My sweetheart is currently in Addis on assignment and seeking a way out of the city due to the violence. I think he might be departing this evening and would like to talk to him before he does. Any help you can offer in getting the right number would be appreciated.

posted by cior to Travel & Transportation around Ethiopia (8 answers total)

The number shown on their site is 251-1-51 32 22, 51 02 40. Have you tried dialing using those additional digits? Maybe those last six digits indicate an alternate phone number, maybe 011-251-1-510-240?

Alternatively, have you tried emailing the hotel at the address on that page, or sending a fax to that fax number?
posted by Gator at 7:07 AM on November 5, 2005

You're dialing correctly, so I don't know. I assume you've tried the second series of numbers as well. When I'm dialing overseas I often get error messages if the circuits over there are busy. Keep trying, maybe?
posted by meerkatty at 7:08 AM on November 5, 2005

I googled dialing codes for Addis Ababa and I think you should be dialing 011-251-11-513222. Good luck.
posted by firstdrop at 8:13 AM on November 5, 2005

I should have added that directory inquiries is often wrong about dialing codes and that you should always google for the right answer. However you still may not be able to make the call if you're using a calling card that doesn't work with the city you want. They don't always tell you this before you buy.
posted by firstdrop at 8:56 AM on November 5, 2005

Best answer: After more investigation, I learned that Ethiopia implemented a new numbering plan on September 17th. From there, I was able to find a converter and the correct number: 011-251-115-513-222.
posted by cior at 9:04 AM on November 5, 2005

How about trying an operator assisted, station to station call? Ya, it'll cost ridiculously more than direct dialled but you probably will only be talking for a few minutes. And if your sweetheart isn't there the hotel staff can let you know.
posted by Mitheral at 11:52 AM on November 5, 2005

Ha, you marked your own answer as best!
posted by Peter H at 3:12 PM on November 5, 2005

Response by poster: I did mark my answer as best, the converter produced the right number. Just for kicks, check out the way the Embassy of Ethiopia describes the change.

I was able to speak with him for a whole 17 minutes. His work in Ethiopia was grounded by his client due to security concerns. He'll be heading for the airport tomorrow morning for a flight to Entebbe. Friends who left yesterday had an easy trip, so I'm hoping for the same.
posted by cior at 4:58 PM on November 5, 2005