Sheraton Addis at 27: A Timeless Ethiopian Luxury Through Harry Jaggard’s Eyes











A Masterpiece of Hospitality: How the Sheraton Addis Remains an Undisputed Classic After 27 Years, Through the Eyes of Explorer Harry Jaggard

In the heart of Addis Ababa, a city pulsing with both ancient history and a dynamic future, stands a monument to timeless elegance: the Sheraton Addis. Since its grand opening on February 28, 1998, this jewel in Marriott’s Luxury Collection has been more than a hotel—it has been a symbol of Ethiopian pride and a benchmark for five-star hospitality in Africa. While the city’s skyline has transformed with gleaming new towers, the Sheraton has retained its classic charm. But how does a 27-year-old establishment hold its own in a constantly evolving luxury market? The answer lies in the perspective of one of the internet’s most intrepid travel vloggers, Harry Jaggard, whose recent stay offers a compelling testament to the hotel’s enduring legacy.

The Modern Explorer: Who Is Harry Jaggard?

Before stepping into the Sheraton’s opulent halls, it’s worth understanding the man behind the lens. Harry Jaggard is no ordinary luxury hotel reviewer. Born on December 4, 1997, the English travel vlogger and digital content creator has built a devoted following—over 2.5 million subscribers on his primary YouTube channel, @harryjaggardtravel, and a combined audience of more than 6.5 million across platforms. His brand thrives on authentic, often gritty adventures. Describing himself as a “professional idiot completing side missions,” he has explored destinations many tourists avoid, from Somalia’s bustling markets to Afghanistan’s remote villages.

After earning a degree in Business Management from the University of the West of England and working as a videographer in Dubai, Jaggard transitioned to full-time content creation. His style is immersive, personal, and refreshingly honest—he doesn’t just show you a place, he takes you on the journey, sharing candid thoughts, challenges, and unfiltered opinions. This is what makes his review of the Sheraton Addis so significant. When a traveler who thrives on discomfort and raw experiences praises a luxury property, it speaks volumes about its quality and character.

Jaggard’s Verdict: Inside “Heritage Luxury”

In his video Staying in Ethiopia’s Most Luxurious Hotel, Jaggard captures the Sheraton Addis as embodying “heritage luxury”—a blend of grand history and meticulous upkeep. He admits some hesitation about showcasing such opulence, fearing it might clash with his adventure-driven brand, but ultimately decides it’s a story worth telling—and a way to offset travel costs, a candid admission his followers appreciate.

His first impression of the room? “A little bit old,” he notes, yet quickly praises the thoughtful updates. A Bose speaker awaits, the bed is spotless, and the room is infused with Ethiopian cultural touches. Unique amenities include coffee-flavored cookies, tea crackers, and colo—a traditional roasted barley snack—welcoming guests with an immediate taste of local hospitality. He singles out the complimentary morning coffee or tea service, delivered to the room at a chosen time, as a small but deeply luxurious detail.

Touring the property, Jaggard showcases its vast offerings: a lavish breakfast buffet featuring everything from sushi and salads to indulgent Oreo croissants and a carrot-walnut “healthy pancake”; high-end dining at the pan-Asian Jade and a Japanese restaurant with Teppanyaki grill; a recently renovated open-air gym with a running track; and a sprawling resort-like pool area complete with a bar. Even minor frustrations—such as a crowded executive lounge—were met with quick solutions, like in-room meal service. Initial concerns about slow Wi-Fi vanished after a speed test revealed excellent connectivity, vital for a digital nomad.

A Foundation of Grandeur: The Sheraton’s Origins

The Sheraton’s status rests on its ambitious beginnings. Conceived by Sheikh Mohammed Hussein Al Amoudi and built by MIDROC Ethiopia at a cost of over $200 million, the hotel was as much a patriotic project as a commercial one—designed to create jobs and elevate Ethiopia’s global image. Construction required relocating over 500 families to secure its prime hilltop site between two of the nation’s most important landmarks: the National Palace and the Menelik Palace.

Architect Kosek Ivo designed the hotel with uncompromising attention to quality. It boasts over 1,500 square meters of event space, a cutting-edge health club, and remains the only hotel in Ethiopia with its own ultraviolet water sterilization plant, underscoring its commitment to guest well-being.

Evolving Without Erasing

The Sheraton Addis has avoided becoming a relic by embracing continuous renewal. It is now undergoing a major renovation, marked by Marriott International’s recent approval of a new mock-up room that meets the brand’s highest global standards. This ensures the property will retain its architectural integrity while incorporating modern luxury.

That Jaggard’s glowing review came before these renovations makes his praise even more striking. Experiencing the “heritage” version of the hotel, he still declared it the best in the city.

In the end, the Sheraton Addis endures not just because of its age, but because of its fusion of visionary history, meticulous upkeep, unmatched service, and readiness to evolve. Through Harry Jaggard’s lens, it’s clear the Grand Dame of Addis Ababa is not merely surviving—it’s thriving, poised to welcome a new generation of travelers with its signature blend of culture, character, and world-class hospitality.