Zorro, JH1AJT will be active again from Eritrea 16 - 22 October 2015 as E30FB.
He will operate on 40 - 10m SSB.
QSL via home call, LOTW.
Ads for direct QSL:
Y. Zorro Miyazawa, JH1AJT, P.O. Box 8 Oiso, Naka-Gun kanagawa 259-0111, Japan.
Previouse activity:
JH1AJT, N6PSE, DJ9ZB, JA1TRC, JH1NBN, JH1OGX, NQ7R, RA9USU and WD5COV will be active from Eritrea 6 - 17 March 2015 as E30FB.
They will operate on 160 - 10m CW, SSB, RTTY.
QSL via M0URX.
Eritrea. Country Information
Eritrea (Tigrinya: ኤርትራ? ʾErtrā ; Arabic: إرتريا Iritriyā) officially the State of Eritrea is a country in Africa.
Anthem- Eritrea, Eritrea, Eritrea.
Capital city- Asmara.
Official languages- Tigrinya, Arabic, English.
Independence from Ethiopia- 24 May 1991.
Currency- Nakfa ERN.
Time- UTC +3.
International Phone code- +291.
Internet domain- .er
E30FB Eritrea. Information for radio amateurs
Amateur Radio prefix- E3.
WAC continent- Africa.
DXCC country- Eritrea.
CQ zone- 37.
ITU zone- 48.
QTH locator- KK95.
Eritrea–The Hidden Gem of Africa
Eritrea, on the east edge of Africa along the Red Sea coast, is a fascinating country. The name Eritrea is derived from the Greek language meaning red.
It has a population of approximately 5 million people, and 121320 sq km. The religions are 50% Muslim and 50% Christian.There are 9 languages spoken in Eritrea, Tigrinya, the most popular, Amharic (Ethiopian) and Italian among the elders. The recommended language is English.
Colonized in 1890 by Italia, the Italian influence is still visible today. The buildings and the way of living in Asmara, the capital, is almost like living in an Old Italian city. You will also find that the natives are some of the most polite people in the world.
Getting around Eritrea
- Busses: There is an extensive roadway that can be used by the bus system. It is pretty cheap and travel throughout Eritrea. $1 can get you a 3-4 hour bus ride, but if you need the frills of a touring bus you should probably rent a car. Government busses are cheaper and there are smaller busses that run all day, slightly more in cost but cheaper than a taxi.
- Taxis: Although very easy to find they can be pricey due to the cost of petrol there. One can usually find others to share a ride and share the cost.
Fun Things to Do
- Asmara: Although it is the capital city, there are very few major cities that one can just enjoy walking around. The streets are clean, crime is rare, and the climate is perfect for strolling the streets and discovering its many hidden treasures. There are many cafes along the streets to sit and rest while enjoying a fresh cup of coffee and pastry.
- Massawa Island: It is a great place to walk around and see the charming architecture. On one of the side streets you will find a 17th century coral block house. Coral was once the main component in house building. Ottoman style houses can also be seen throughout.
- Kerin: This is worth the day trip from Asmara. The roads are good and plenty of places to stop along the way. What is interesting here is the camel market, new and old cathedrals, the hill villages and the 2nd world war graveyard.
- Dhalak Islands: The Dhalak Archipelago remains one of the world’s most unspoiled destinations. It is comprised of more than 200 islands altogether surrounded by the translucent waters of the Red Sea. It provides a place of recreation and a vital sea link to the outside world for Eritrea. Ofthe over 1000 different species of fish life, 15% can only be found here swimmingaround the wonderful coral color, making this a scuba diver’s paradise. Pearl fishing here has been around since the ancient Egyptians. Ancient water cisterns and a Necropolis with Kufic inscriptions can be found here. Manta rays and pods of dolphins can be found playing in the waters also.
At certain times of the year, tens of thousands of seabirds come here to breed.
If you happen to be swimming at night an amazing light show can be observed. This light show, called bioluminescence, is created by tiny living creatures. As you swim through the dark waters your limbs and fingers will be surrounded by an aura of greenish sparkling light.
Sailing, surf-riding, water-skiing, snorkeling and scuba diving are all part of the water fun that can be had here.
- The Old Steam Railroad Line: After years of not being used, the railroad line was restored in 2007. The original workers were brought out of retirement to run the newly renovated trains, which are the originals. The extraordinary views of picturesque mountains and the traditional villages, makes this tour one of a kind.
- Adults: Once a thriving major port, are now having major archeological finds. Artifacts in vast amounts are being discovered, some of which are silver and gold coins, pottery and marble. There has also been unearthed several tombs, a palace and possibly an 18th century church.
Cuisine:The food in Eritrea is similar to that in Ethiopia and can be spicey. The Wat and Injera are popular foods here. They are a large doughy pancake and are served with a spicey stew. The dough is eaten by dipping into the stew. This is all served on a special metal platter and is commonly served in a group setting.
If you really need a great morning pick-me-up be sure to try Silsi. This is a peppery fried tomato and onion sauce. Tsebhi, which is a fiery sauce, is used in most foods here, strong but definitely worth trying.
There are also many restaurants featuring good Italian food.
Sports: Cycling is a major sport in Eritea. Although few places that actually rent bicycles, it hosts a very rigorous race and is attended by a huge crowd of bicycle enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit:
The best months to visit are September-April, but any time of the year is suitable to visit.
Night Life: Asmara has a lively nightlife scene, being more on the sophisticated side, where Masada has more of the “wild night-life.”
Hotels:
- Hotel Intercontinental Asmara has a 5 star rating with all the bells and whistles.
- Allegro Italia is a lovely hotel in an old Italian villa, with cozy, nicely decorated rooms.
- Africa Pension Hotel is a great place if you are looking for clean, comfortable and inexpensive.
Shopping:
If you are looking for authentic items to buy the best places are in the open markets. There you find an abundance of different items to bring home.
Locally hand-made sandals are sure to bring many miles of wear as they are sturdy and well made.
You will also find open markets full of spices
If you happen to be there during the Christmas season you will be delighted with the decorations throughout the stores.
Eritrea is a bit off the beaten path but well worth the experience.
Video Eritrea