It's one of the best Hobbies you can be involved in. How would you like to communicate with Thousands of people all around the world, from your own home?
With Amateur Radio ( Ham Radio) You do it totally self contained from your home. You have a Radio Transmitter and a Radio Receiver or more commonly these days a Transceiver, which combines both in one unit. This is connected to an Antenna. and as a Licenced Radio Amateur, you can transmit on the many Amateur Bands which are Internationally recognised by Government's.
The equipment used can be simple home made design's costing very little, to Professionally made unit's costing several thousand UK Pounds. The Antenna can be a simple home made one using Copper Wire to a more advanced one using Aluminium tube which is directional, and more efficient. Most Amateurs World Wide, speak English, so friendships in many Countries can be made.
The requirement to get "On Air" However does require you to obtain a licence, which requires you to sit an Exam, the various exams vary from country, and most have a fairly simple entry level exam. But you will have to check with your National Radio Society for local details.
For more info on this Fascinating Hobby, Click on the Following Links for either the U.K. RSGB or the American ARRL both site's will give you more information.