Around forty percent of the country is composed of the Sahara desert, with much of the remainder consisting of particularly fertile soil and a 1300 km coastline.
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 provides an ideal holiday destination. But, not far from the beaches where tourists enjoy paragliding, diving and wind surfing, an amazing diversity of cultural sights cries 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 Medinas, 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 dont haggle the shopkeeper will be astounded. Never offer more than 50 percent 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. 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.
While enjoying glorious sandy beaches you can be, within a few minutes, amidst the hubbub of the bustling where little has changed for centuries. Relax in luxurious hotels and visit romantic ancient ruins. Swim in the warm waters of the Mediterranean, or embark on an Arabian adventure in the Sahara Desert. Tunisia holidays are an experience of a lifetime.
Tunisia has a diverse economy, with important agricultural, mining, energy, tourism, petroleum, and manufacturing sectors. Governmental control of economic affairs, whilst still heavy, has gradually lessened over the past decade with increasing privatisation, simplification of the tax structure, and a prudent approach to debt.
