One of our favorite quotes at STG Travel Tunisia is by Saint Augustine of Carthage (Tunisia). He said, “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.”
Travel gives us many amazing experiences and provides us with stories that last a lifetime. But where is the best place to travel? According to the World Tourism Organization, Tunisia ranks among the top 15 fastest growing tourism countries in the world For those who are wondering whether they want to visit this rising tourist destination, here are our top 5 best reasons to visit Tunisia.
1. The people.
Welcoming, helpful and overly encouraging are some great adjectives that are often used with Tunisians. Hospitality is literally built within the culture. Dont be surprised if after one meeting, they invite you to their home for some tea or to a late night wedding or help you arrive at the next tourist destination.
Many of the people speak English and French fairly well and love a chance to practice with native speakers. Ask them any question about their country, food, religion or politics and prepare to have a lively discussion with them.
2. The beaches
Some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean can be found in Tunisia. From Monastir to Hammamet to Djerba, you will find every imaginable delight for every type of beachgoer. Along the coastline of Tunisia, the beaches offer everything from crystal-clear waters, wild cliffs and desert scenery. You can spend your day relaxing in the sun, snorkeling, scuba diving, horseback riding, hang gliding and banana-boat riding!
3. The food
Tunisia has a taste all it’s own! It can be described as a mix of French and African flavors with a spicy kick. And, you can find a variety of options as you travel from region to region. Each state has a specialty of its own. You can find couscous, stuffed fish with herbs, grilled vegetables in harissa, spicy lablabi soup, egg shakshouka (delicious with fresh bread)!
One of the more popular and memorable dishes is the brik (pronounced “breek”). It is a handmade malsouqa pastry shell that can be filled with parsley, egg, tuna, cheese, capers, etc…folded over, fried and served hot with lemon to squeeze over the top. Light and delicious for an appetizer at any meal.
4. The sites
Tunisia is the site of Ancient Carthage where the Punic wars were fought with Rome for the dominance of the Mediterranean. Saint Augustine and Tertullian are well-known Christian leaders that helped shape this amazing country. Because of Roman domination, there are an astounding number of Roman ruins to visit, not the least of which is El Jem which is home to the third largest Roman coliseums in the world! It is certainly worth the visit as you imagine the life of a gladiator in the underground passages and climb to the top where the Roman leader would give a thumbs up, or a thumbs down, to the delight of the crowd.
It also has several sites where the Star Wars movie series was filmed. You can walk where Luke Skywalker walked and pretend to see the second sun in the sky just outside of the Lars Homestead. Or, enter into the underground dwelling where he grew up. You can see other sites like the Mos Espa set and the pod-racing arena. Bring your theme music and shoot your own short film!
5. The Sahara
The largest desert on earth that inhabits about 30% of the continent of Africa, the Sahara has an unbelievable beauty all of its own. The name Sahara comes from the Arabic word (sahra), which means “desert.”
There is a myriad of things to do when you arrive. First, selfies! Document this bucket list adventure. Then, you can choose from sunset camel rides to overnight camel adventures where you sleep under the stars or in a tent, which includes a meal cooked over the campfire and bread cooked under the sand. Plus, live music and dancing in the firelight! If camels aren’t your thing, try a 4×4 quad ride or a dune buggy. If you don’t want to drive, hire a driver and his Landcruiser for a ride of a lifetime!
So, you can see that there is something for everyone at a reasonable price. Why not move on from reading only one page, to adding an entire chapter to your resume with a trip to one of the most breathtaking locations on the earth!