Halib Mentel Eritrea - November 29 2007

 

I follow the railway track until just behind the Sarina hotel. I realize that there is a checkpoint downhill where I will have to show my travel permit. Passing it using the railway track might not be appreciated by the military. So I climb downhill to show the piece of paper and get registered in the customs log.

After the check uphill again to continue my hike. When the railway track disappears in the fields, I return to the asphalt road, joining a group of women. One of them offers to carry my rucksack. I refuse politely to let the woman carry the bag, while I have the strength to carry it myself. But she insists.

I give her the bag and she drops it over one shoulder, carrying it for some kilometers, making fun with the rest of the group in Tigre. When she is tired, she returns the rucksack to me.

After a two hours walk we enter Halib Mentel. Unfortunately all bars are closed. No place to find to drink some tea or mineral water. In a small dark shop I find some warm Asmara beer. Although it does not fit into my diet, it better than the local water. With some banana's and some biscuits it is today's lunch.

I walk through the village, where the roads follow the slope of the hills. Children are asking my name and want to know my age. After an hour I return to the main road to return to Keren in a mini bus.

At the Keren bus station I enjoy zeitun and lemon juice, and spent the rest of the day enjoying the town, the sun, and mineral water.

I promised Shishai, who runs a small super market, not far from the house of Afworki and Hansu, to pass by to say goodbye before returning to Asmara. I keep my promise.

She has a gift for me: a decorated Jebena (a traditional coffee pot). I feel embarrassed. Apart from a copy of her picture, II did not bring her anything, and a gift like this must have a special meaning. But I can not figure out what.

  

Railway bridge - start of the track to Halib Mentel.

Former railway station on the outskirts of Keren Eritrea.

View from the railway track - Keren Eritrea.

View from the railway track - Sarina hotel Keren Eritrea.

View on the railway track - Keren Eritrea.

Former railway station - Halib Mentel Eritrea.

Scenic view - Halib Mentel Eritrea.

Traditional houses (Tukuls) - Halib Mentel Eritrea.

Scenic view - Halib Mentel Eritrea.

Orthodox Church - Halib Mentel Eritrea.