About Tunisia
Country Notes
 An
ancient country Tunisia first saw the beginnings of human settlement
half a million years ago! Human remains suggest that man walked
the then green and fertile savannah - now the arid Sahara. Gradually
the land was settled and the power of Tunisia rose and fell -
Berbers, Phoenicians, Carthaginians and Romans all left their
mark on this beautiful country. In particular the Roman legacy
is strong. Many magnificent ruins bear testimony to the wealth
and power including El Jem and the Dougga complex. Following a
succession of dynasties the country became a French protectorate.
The coastal area in particular has a decided cosmopolitan air.
French and Arabic are the main languages. Although, with the influx
of British tourists, English is now widely spoken.
 Beach
breaks are considered to be the main reason for going to Tunisia
- golden sun drenched shores lapped by the warm waters of
the Mediterranean Sea provide an ideal holiday destination. But,
not far from the beaches where tourists enjoy para gliding, diving
and wind surfing, an amazing diversity of cultural sights cry
out to be visited! Visit the Bardo Museum in Tunis for incredible
mosaics, Dougga for Roman remains, go deep into the heart of the
country and see massive, impregnable Ksar or wander the old souk,
with their Medina's, to see the richness and depth of Tunisian
life.
Shopping is a real treat with many bargains in carpets, rugs,
leather items, jewellery and pottery. Prices are up for negotiation
- if you don't haggle the shopkeeper will be astounded!
Never offer more than 50% of the starting price as an opening
bid…! There are however, for non-hagglers, shops with fixed
prices! Other excellent buys are spices and herbs. The souks and
food markets are great fun, and, if on a self-catering basis offer
top quality fruit and vegetables at excellent prices.
Eating out can be a gourmets delight - tempting French
cuisine, authentic Tunisian, 'fusion cuisine' -
a hint of the Mediterranean and a touch of Tunisian and of course
the wonderful seafood. Or if a quick snack is your preference
try a meal at any of the small back street cafes selling everything
from Hot Dogs to Couscous the national dish. Local wine and beer
is also excellent.
 If
you want to get out and about pre-paid excursions can be made
with your booking. Alternatively why not hire a car for the day
(see the price insert). Tunisian roads are generally good and
have strict speed limits. The signs are in Arabic and French.
There is also an excellent train service linking most of the main
towns. Prices are very cheap and the service efficient. Finally
you can take a taxi - 'Petit taxis' that carry
up to three people and 'Grand taxis' who carry up
to five people. A 'Louage' is a large taxi and often
traverses the whole country picking and dropping off customers.
Do negotiate a price before you jump in!
For further country information please access the Tunisian Tourist
Board Web site: www.cometotunisia.co.uk.
Although a Moslem country dress code is relaxed but please dress
respectfully when visiting Religious sites and off the beaten
track.
Essential Information
- Capital: Tunis
- Time: Zone GMT plus 1hr from last Sunday
March to last Sunday October
- Currency: Dinar
- Language: Arabic and French. English widely
spoken.
- Religion: Islam
- Tipping: Left to guest's discretion
- Health: Essential information is on www.dh.gov.uk/travellers
- Clothing: Cool loose clothes are ideal for
the heat of the summer, whilst in the winter the weather there
can be a chill in the air and a sweater is often needed. Nights
in the desert can be cold.
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