We loved our stay here. The food in the restaurant was really good and at great prices. Staff was friendly and helpful.

As for other hotels the most important thing is location, location and location. The hotel is next to the Piazza, the International Bank, train- and bus station as well as within 5 minutes walking distance to the Main post office. Staff was exceptionally helpful during my stay, and the waitresses and waiters serving the ground floor restaurant and the excellent streetside bistro, that fills with quiet locals during the afternoon. The hotel has charm! Second floor rooms are reasonably spacious, this the floor where Nelson Mandela stayed. And housekeeping prompt and efficient. Also on the second floor is the restaurant serving fine ethiopian dishes. The hotel lacks an elevator, no wifi in rooms, no fridge, and a telephone that can only make local calls. This is no problem if you have a mobile, and there is an excellent and cheap internet facility on the ground floor next to the restaurant. No swimmingpool, no spa. Not suitable for noisy tour groups! or for those who dislike history.

The Ras takes advantage of its mention in tour books, charging an absurd amount to tourists for rooms that are only mediocre at best. Its ground-floor rooms are moldy and toxic. Its better rooms are not worth more than 200 birr/night. Take your money and go elsewhere in Addis.

The Ras hotel is centrally located. Though my room was basic it was clean and comfortable. They have a small shop and several restaurants, in the hotel.