With its heady fusion of North Aftican exoticism and European style, Tunisia enthrals all who visit. Here, on the north coast of Africa, where the
Mediterranean laps 800 miles of sun-drenched coast, vibrant beach resorts rub shoulders with ancient Roman ruins and visitors relax in French-style pavement cafés beside old men sucking on hookah pipes.
After the first settlers arrived 4000 years ago, a succession of great empires flourished. Phoenicians, Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Arabs and French have all contributed to Tunisia’s cultural heritage. Thanks to such diversity, you can marvel at magnificent archaeological ruins, haggle in bustling souks, laze on golden beaches, play golf or indulge in numerous watersports.
Tunis is the fascinating and cosmopolitan capital of Tunisia. Amid its medieval Arab palaces and Roman ruins, the influence of France is apparent in the wide boulevards and sprawling pavement cafés. In the new part of the city, visitors are drawn by a thriving nightlife, elegant boutiques and busy restaurants offering a spicy blend of North African and French cuisine. In contrast, the 13th century walled Medina, with its winding alleyways and colourful souks, seems to have changed little over the centuries.
On the outskirts, the Bardo Museum houses the world’s largest collection of Roman Mosaics, and to the north lie the remains of the ancient city of Carthage. Other sights within easy reach include the amazing temples, forum, theatre, baths and even a 12-seater loo in the ancient Roman market town of Dougga, and the huge amphitheatre at El Jem, where gladiators fought wild beasts. Also nearby is the picturesque blue and white Andalusian-style village of Sidi Bou Saïd, a haven of craft shops and chic restaurants. With such a wealth of things to do and see, Tunis begs to be revisited. |
