Originally Posted by
mavere
Do we get meal vouchers, and are these meant for the hotel? Is the food decent? In other words, should I bring snacks with me as backup.
Skylight is a 5-star hotel. You do not need to "bring snacks" with you unless you have very specific requirements.
You will receive meals included in your transit package relative to the time of day. In most cases, that would mean the hotel buffet in the main restaurant. You can also order a-la-carte or room service or visit one of the other hotel restaurants at your own cost.
Originally Posted by
mavere
I guess the special ET transit hotel visa is only meant for the hotel, but would hotel guards stop us if we want to take an Uber to a restaurant then come back?
This was only the case during COVID when the transit hotels did not require vaccine or PCR tests while Ethiopia did require this for normal travelers. However, now that restrictions have been lifted you are welcome to go wherever you want. I regularly use the transit visa just to enter the country and then do my own thing. As long as you don't skip your next flight, you'll be fine.
There is no Uber in Addis, but there are other rideshare companies. However, there are also dozens of decent cafes and restaurants in the Bole area within walking distance of Skylight anyway if that is your fancy. Beware of pickpockets in the area though, especially young kids who work in groups and love to surround tourists.