Making sweat feel spiritual didn't start with SoulCycle – a religion scholar explains
Cody Musselman, Postdoctoral Research Associate, John C. Danforth Center on Religion and Politics, Arts & Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis
Each January, Americans collectively atone for yet another celebratory season of indulgence. Some proclaim sobriety for “Dry January.” Others use the dawn of a new year to focus on other forms of self-improvement, like taking up meditation or a new skin care routine. But adopting a new fitness plan is the most popular vow.
How to plan a year of wild human experiences, from Rio's Carnival to Nevada's Burning Man
Timkat Festival, Ethiopia
When: Jan. 18-19
What it is: For what feels like a step back in time, it's worth planning a trip to this centuries-old religious festival in Ethiopia at the start of the year. Celebrated countrywide by Ethiopian Orthodox Christians, Timkat commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan by John the Baptist through reenactment. The festivities begin with parades as Orthodox priests in colorful garments, complete with umbrellas and replicas of the Ark of the Covenant in hand, walk the streets as they chant and pray to the sound of traditional drums. The celebrations always take place near a main body of water — from a river to a pool — that is blessed before believers step into it as symbolic renewal of their baptism vows. The most popular cities for witnessing Timket are Addis Ababa, Gondar and Lalibela.
How far ahead you need to plan: Airfare and hotels book up quickly; Ethiopians expatriates tend to return for the yearend holidays and stay on for this vibrant festivity. Book your airfare and rooms at least six months in advance, or a package tour, to get the best rates.
How you get there: Fly into Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, which is well connected globally via Ethiopian Airlines and major carriers. Catch an internal Ethiopian Airlines flight to Gondar or Lalibela if you’re attending the festival in one of these smaller historic cities. A packaged tour is highly recommended so the logistics of the event will be worked out in advance, including airport pickup.
Where you should stay: In Addis Ababa, the Sheraton Addis Luxury Collection is a favorite. In Gondar, the hilltop Goha Hotel offers splendid views over the city, as does the Maribela Hotel in Lalibela.
Travel agencies that can help: Ethiopian Holidays by Ethiopian Airlines offers packages, or book through Absolute Ethiopia Tours.
