I visited in september 2008. I found the people extremely humble and helpful. I was not hassled hardly at all. the Children are enthusiastic in this area but that is all. the churches are fantastic and some should be considered an eighth wonder of the world, especially St Georges church, which is designed in memory of Noahs Arc (now of course discovered on Mount Ararat as described in the Abrahamic faiths). There are many souveneres to buy without being presurised by the local shopkeepers. Food and accomodation here is also good quality. There has been recent development in for tourism here which I found to be very reasonable for qulaity and price for even western standards.

In addition the local guards keep a firm control over anyone misbehaiving with respect to the locals. It seemed frowned upon by the guards when the youth were following us asking questions in very good english but they are totally harmless and quite well educated, a definate must see!

The only thing negative is the harsh landing at Lalibella airport which you can expect as the planes are very small as is the airport.

In one of the churches room King Lalibella remains are in one of the rooms. However only men are allowed in this room, so if any of the visiting gentlemen would like some peace and quiet for a while, that is the place!