Tunisia is a country situated on the Mediterranean coast of North Africa. It is the easternmost and smallest of the nations situated along the Atlas mountain range, bordering Algeria, to the west, and Libya to the south and east. Forty percent of the country is composed of the Sahara desert, with much of the remainder consisting of particularly fertile soil, with easily accessible coasts. This Arab-Berber nation is one of the most liberal in the Islamic world; alcohol is freely available and women need not feel intimidated. The capital, Tunis, reflects the country’s diversity. Its French colonial past has a far-reaching influence (it only gained independence in 1956), most obviously in its cuisine that blends sophisticated French styles with Arab spice. Since independence, Tunisia, first under the 30-year rule of Habib Bourgiba, and now under a government led by Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, now in his fourth five-year term as President, has pursued a policy aimed at prevention of Islamic fundamentalism. It is also one of the most advanced Arab nations in terms of women’s rights, and has by far the most successful economy in the region.
Transportation in Tunisia
By Car: Tunisia has an extensive road network. In case of breakdown, the Garde Nationale (National Guard) will assist free of charge (they usually contact the nearest garage). Traffic drives on the right.
By Bus: The green and yellow coloured national buses, run by SNTRI, are air conditioned and travel daily to most towns across the country. Other services include the intercity buses which are cheap and reasonably comfortable. The destination is written in French and Arabic on the front of the bus. Passengers are allowed 10kg of luggage without additional charge. Each piece of luggage must, however, be registered.
By Rail: Regular trains (run by SNCFT) connect Tunis with major towns. The main route is between Tunis and Gabès, via Sousse, Sfax and Gafsa. It is essential to purchase a ticket before boarding the train or double the fare may be charged. Several daily trains run on each route, many with air-conditioned accommodation and a buffet.
By Ferry: SNCM (Ferry Terranée), Grimaldi Ferries, Grandi Navi Veloci and Medmar run ferry services from France and Italy to Tunisia.
By Air: The national airline is Tunis Air. There are regular direct flights to Tunisia from all over Europe, but no direct flights from Asia, Australasia, South America or the USA. Air France, British Airways, Lufthansa, Iberia and Alitalia fly regularly to Tunisia.
Tunisia’s main appeal, aside from its seaside resorts, is based on its many historical monuments, which reflect the Punic, Roman, Byzantine and Islamic influences.
Founded by the Phoenicians in 814 BC, Carthage thrived as a maritime centre and later became the third-largest city in the Roman Empire before being destroyed by the Arabs in AD 692.
Matmata is one of the most famous villages in Tunisia as it was the setting for the opening scenes of the film ‘Star Wars’. The village’s lunar-like landscape and subterranean cave dwellings attract hundreds of visitors every day.
Main Attractions
Tunis Medina
The medina, or old quarter, of Tunis was built during the seventh century AD. From the 12th to the 16th centuries
Carthage
Located on the outskirts of Tunisia’s capital city. It was, for many years, the arch-enemy of the ancient Roman empire.
Matmata
The Berber people first dug homes out of the ground over 1000 years ago in order to escape the midday heat. These Troglodyte communities formed craters beneath the earth and constructed tunnels between some of the courtyards to build an underground labyrinth.
National Museum of Carthage
Located on the outskirts of the city near the airport.
