We returned to Massawa and Liz, bless her, went down with the nasty fever that was spreading amongst the yotties. It was a shame because she missed ‘Fenkil’, which was the 20th anniversary of Eritrea’s independence. It was an important day for the country and we were honoured to be present at such a significant occasion…
I have to say I was a bit disappointed with the celebrations. I was expecting jump-ups, street-corner carnage and general noise and mayhem. Nothing like that at all. Everyone came in from the surrounding towns and villages dressed in their Sunday best and were all very well behaved on this hazy afternoon.
The president came to speak to the crowds at the port and there was a small naval display, as well as school kids acting out something that I couldn’t see in person but was able to watch on a crappy old TV in a bar just 100 metres away, supping a cold one.
There were about 15 yotties in that bar though, all working their way through the cool, local beer and it didn’t take long for us to be surrounded by the local kids.
It was great fun to see the steam train that they had commissioned for the occasion.
There is a railway that runs from Massawa to Asmara, which is no mean feat when one considers the elevation of the track in order to get up to the capital.
The driver was suitably oily and he drove the train backwards and forwards, picking people up from the bus station and driving them in to town.
The good behaviour of the party-goers is testament to the greatness of the Eritrean people. Eritrea, dear reader, is now my most favourite country I have ever visited (whatever that might mean).
If you like our content and would like to support us, we will give you ad-free access to our videos before they go live to the public, discounts in our shop, access to Jamie’s iconic full-res photographs, and supporter-only blog posts. Click our ugly mugs for more info!
Jamie, just get an eye patch and a parrot on your shoulder and be done with it…!!
Thanks forall the updates and amazing photos but so sorry Liz was ill hope you are fine now Liz take care and wishing you fair winds xx
Enjoying every chapter of this book. What a steam train. 🙄
Fab photos yet again. Hope Spazabeth feels better soon.
Cuz x
Thankyou for sharing a unique once-off experience. As always,wonderful photos. You are spoiling us. A priviledge,which is appreciated Hope Liz is on the mend.
Ha ha, love that last pic.
u look so authentic jamie i just can’t tell u from a real pirate ..
Get well soon, Liz, or you’ll miss all the action! Bad luck about the fever.
Jamie – lucky you to be at such an amazing occasion!
Get well soon Liz! Incredible shots of incredible places. Pip pip!
Hope Liz is getting better!