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TUNISIA TRAVEL GUIDE
TUNISIA - An Overview
Tunisia is a gem of a country in northern Africa with touristy options in all areas. It boasts a mountainous north, a desert south, a stunning Mediterranean coastline along its north and east sides and, most of all, fine weather.
Tunisia’s beach resorts such as Monastir and Hammamet are its biggest draw, where sandy beaches and seafood restaurants beckon, while millennia-old cities and renowned archaeological sites reveal this intriguing country’s rich historical past. The bustling capital, Tunis, and ancient city of Carthage are perfect for the more discerning traveller, while a fun nightlife and colourful locals fill in the gaps.
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WEATHER - When To Go
Tunisia is a boiling hot country and gets hotter the further south you go. Although it has a Mediterranean climate, its weather is more akin to that of a typical African country, with hot, dry summers and rainy winters (off-peak) in the north. The best time to visit Tunisia is without doubt either side of the summer in late spring and early autumn, but if you like it hot then summer is for you (June to August).
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TUNISIA HIGHLIGHTS
There’s plenty to do in Tunisia. Here are some some suggestions for your itinerary.
- A week can be spent lingering in one of Tunisia’s Mediterranean beach resorts; Hammamet, Monastir or Mahdia are popular choices.
- Take in the capital Tunis and all of its cultural delights over two or three days.
- A day spent at the mighty city of Carthage, taken by the Romans and now a popular archaeological site, is a must.
- Perhaps a day or two down south to check out where Star Wars was filmed and to discern the beginning of the Sahara Desert.
- Go trekking in the cool, mountainous north of the country.
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PLACES TO VISIT in Tunisia
The Tunisian coast: is stunning with over 800 miles of beaches and many worthwhile towns including Mahdia, Sousse, Monastir and Tozeur. Many white sand beaches get pretty busy in season and it is wise to visit just before or after June to August when they tend to throng with tourists. Water sports are very popular in the busiest resorts, including sailing, scuba diving and snorkeling, while the swimming and bathing is also excellent.
Hammamet: is Tunisia’s foremost Mediterranean coastal resort town and was also one of its first. Located in the north of Tunisia, Hammamet has nice beaches and a good tourist infrastructure, although the in-your-face stall holders can be a hassle. The excellent seafood restaurants on the seafront are reason enough to have a visit while nearby are the mega attractions of Tunis and Carthage.
Tunis: is the capital and main city of Tunisia, a melting pot of cultures, with an ancient quarter and the Franco Ville Nouvelle part of the city. Major sights in the old part of the city (Medina) are the Zitouna Mosque (the Great Mosque), built out of Carthage ruins; the 15th century mausoleum of Sid Qasim; and the Dar Lasram, Dar Ben Abdallah and Dar Othman palaces. Ville Nouvelle features the impressive Cathedral of St Vincent de Paul and the National Museum of Bardo (the country’s best museum, featuring collections from all levels of history in Tunisia, with numerous Carthaginian, Roman, Christian and Islamic objects on display).
Carthage: has bags of history for those interested in something other than beaches and nightlife. Home of Hannibal, Carthage was founded by the early Phoenicians and was dubbed one of the ancient world’s greatest cities. The Romans conquered the city and today the archaeological site displays major facets of their time here, including the Roman baths, the amphitheatre, and the Sanctuary of Tophet, while the National Museum of Carthage lies on Byrsa Hill and is a must. The whole site is splendid and provides fine views over the gulf.
Coliseum of El-Jem: although not to the same scale as the Colosseum in Rome, Tunisia’s main Coliseum is grand nonetheless and boasts World Heritage status. It is the most impressive monument left by the Romans in Africa today and is beautiful at sunset. If you are here in the summer, try attending one of the regular concerts.
Roman History: Yes, the Romans definitely left their mark on this country. As well as Carthage and the Coliseum of El-Jem, history buffs may enjoy a visit to the Roman ruins at Dougga as well as Roman Africa’s most impressive city, Sufetula, which displays the best temples and basilicas in the region.
Matmata, Djerba and the South: those into stark landscapes and the like should enjoy a trip to the south of the country where the Tunisian landscape gives over to the desolation of the Sahara Desert. The most popular sight in this part of the country is Matmata, a point which was also realised by George Lucas, director of Star Wars. The other main attraction of the south is the island of Djerba (aka Jerba), known locally as Dream Island.
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HOSPITALITY
Food and eating out: Tunisia doesn’t offer anything spectacular in this department, although you will find decent seafood restaurants in the beach resorts. For local fare have a go at the cheap couscous stew.
Entertainment and nightlife: Muslim Tunisia has restrictions in place on the sale of alcohol only to licensed places, although you will hardly notice when sticking to the beaten path. Beers and wines are the most common alcoholic tipples, including the local beer celtia, while pilsner beers and Tunisian wine are also popular.
Accommodation: options are pretty good and all are on the table in Tunisia’s resorts and major towns. Holiday apartments are also popular but booking ahead is advised.
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TUNISIA FLIGHTS - GETTING THERE FROM THE UK
Direct flights to Tunis from London are available by both BA / British Airways and Tunisair.
Most holidaymakers arrive via flights to Monastir though (before travelling to their specific resort, often nearby), through tour operators such as Thomas Cook, Thomson or First Choice.
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