Located in the northern Africa bordered by Libya and Algeria, Tunisia is endowed with miles of sandy beaches that make this country a popular destination for sun-sand-and-sea holiday.
Dubbed the ‘Tunisian San Tropez’, Hammamet town is very popular among tourists looking for sun and clear waters. The town offers long stretches of sandy beaches, trendy boutiques as well as an ancient fort overlooking the Mediterranean Sea for those who want some elements of culture in their holiday.
For some Arabian adventure, you should go trekking into the Sahara from Douz. However, make sure to get your travel insurance before proceeding because the heat in the region can affect you. You can take a flight over the region to best capture the vast expanse of solitude.
If you want a little culture, plan a tour to the underground village of Matmata. To escape the heat of the Sahara, the Berbers constructed a series of tunnels and houses beneath the ground. These structures are still inhabited as of today, and some have unconventional little hotels.
Tunis – the capital of Tunisia – is also worth a visit. The city is refashioning itself as a determinedly modern Arab capital, although both its long Ottoman and not-so-long colonial past still have a strong, perceptible presence.
When To Go:
Tunisia enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The country is best visited in springtime (between mid-March and mid-May), when it is warm and the landscape is green.
Summers (June to October) are best for beach aficionados, but this is Tunisia’s peak season, so expect prices to go up and crowds of tourists on Tunisia holidays to take over the beaches.
Quick Facts About Tunisia:
Time: GMT + 1
Area: 164,000 sq km
Borders: Algeria, Libya
Seasons: Cool (November to April), warm (May to October)
Capital: Tunis
Telephone: + 216; international access code 00
Visa: Visa for South Africans and Australians are available at the airport; citizens of Western Europe, USA, Japan and Canada do not need visas. All other nationalities must apply in advance.
Languages: Arabic, French