Eritrea is the youngest state of Africa. The East-African country got its independance from Ethiopia in 1993. Although the country is quite small it is surprisingly diverse.
The capital city Asmara is a nice blend of Italian colonial and Eritrean architecture. The city has survived most of the wars which destroyed many other cities in the 20-th century pretty well and is still a pleasant and laid back city where you can get the best espresso coffee of all Africa.
The Italians built a railway to connect Asmara to Assawa the main port on the red sea coast. A distance of less than 100 km but with lots of steep mountain passes inbetween. The railroad is now being rebuilt - using not only the original tracks but also the original steam engines! It should be fully opreative in 2002 but parts of the track are already in use. A ride on this train - which is a symbol of Eritrean independance - is a great experience.
At the end of the line you arrive in Massawa the second city of the country. It is a very lively town, famous for its bars and restaurants. It was damaged more than the capital, but is being rebuilt in quite a nice way.
Off the coast there are several islands, such as the Dahlak islands that are great for scube diving and sailing. Massawa is the best base from where to arrange a trip.
