Discovering Tunisia
by Terence K. Murphy, Recommend Magazine
 

Despite turbulent times, the desire to visit exotic and interesting lands remains one of the fundamentals of travel - and a lifeline for growing destinations such as Tunisia.

On the north coast of Africa bordering the Mediterranean, Tunisia has for many years been a popular haunt of savvy Europeans seeking sun and stability.  Visitors are drawn here not only for the warm climate and over 800 miles of beaches, but for a diverse combination of exotic Arab culture, historic sites and a hospitable atmosphere that has driven the tourism industry to expand dramatically in recent years.

Visitors can haggle with the shopkeepers in the ancient Medina in Tunis, ride a camel Lawrence-of-Arabia-style across the endless dunes of the Sahara, and walk the pathways of history along the ruined streets of once-mighty Carthage.

Tunis
 Most visitors arrive in the capital, Tunis a sprawling city that is at once both ancient and modern.  Here, the Muslim traditions of dress and culture coexist with a Westernized, cell phone-equipped youth population.

Tourists enjoy a world-class assortment of hotels, restaurants and nightclubs in a democratic Arab culture that has enjoyed stability for over 3,000 years.  Must sees include the Bardo Museum, which houses the world's finest collection of Roman mosaics, and the nearby hillside town of Sidi bou Said, with its traditional cafes and restaurants and whitewashed houses perched over the deep blue Mediterranean.

Carthage
The Roman ruins at Carthage are just a few miles from the city center and the Medina-the maze of covered alleyways and shops where visitors can find everything from traditional Tunisian birdcages to rugs and spices that is the centerpiece of the old city.  At its heart is the famous Zitouna Mosque.

Tourism is already big business here, with over 100,000 hotel rooms and several thousand more under development - particularly along the coastline around Sousse, with its modern marina development - particularly along the coastline around Sousse, with its modern marina development at Port El Kantaoui, and in the resort towns of Monastir and Mahdia.  Definitely worthy of a side t is the magnificent is the magnificent Roman coliseum that dominates the desert town of El Jem.  Bigger and more intact than its more famous counterpart in Rome, the coliseum now stands as a fascinating desert monument to a once-mighty empire.  The historic desert town of Kairouan is famous for its carpet makers and the huge Okba mosque that dominates the city.

For travelers in search of exotic luxury Tunisia can be an interesting choice, with several upscale hotels now offering elaborate spa facilities.

The new Phytomer Spa at The Residence Resort near Carthage, for example is a 37,000 sq. ft. complex with over 30 treatment rooms and a design replete with arches, columns, balustrades, cupolas, fountains, urns and sculptures.

Tour Options
Several tour operators package programs to Tunisia, including Amelia International, which offers a chauffeured Sahara Desert Adventure.  The 4-night trip visits Djerba Matmata and some of the oases in the far south and includes an overnight in a deluxe Sahara tented camp. 

For more information contact International Tours and Cruises at 800-464-9602 or click here

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