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TUNISIAExplore Tunisia Relax on the gorgeous white sand beaches of Sousse and Hammamet. Venture into the ancient walled Medina, where shops and market stalls line the narrow streets and haggling for a bargain is essential. Take a three-day jeep safari out onto the Sahars plains, passing through the country's arid, desert landscapes with its native architecture, which inspired George Lucas to shoot Star Wars on Tunisian soil. Or simply relax and enjoy the traditional entertainment on offer with belly dancers and folklore. With an abundance of water sports (adults only) and golf courses, Tunisia is an excellent destination providing the ideal escape for both those who like to take things easy and the more adventurous. Getting around Buses are cheap and cheerful but tend to get rather packed. Taxis are inexpensive and on a meter. Eating and Drinking Couscous is perhaps one of the best known Tunisian dishes, made from flour and water. It is steamed and served with fresh vegetables, meat or fish. Try Brik, an egg wrapped in a filo pastry packet and deep fried or Mechoui which is popular mixed grill usually served with a spicy sausage. Those who fancy something hot should try Harissa, a fiery red sauce made from peppers and olive oil. For dessert, try Baclava, layers of filo pastry filled with honey and nuts and freshly baked. Local interest and culture Take a trip south to El Djem where there is an amazing amphitheatre which was the third largest in the Roman Empire, and resembles the Coliseum in Rome. The city remains at Dougga are some of the most impressive Roman ruins in North Africa and make for a fascinating insight into the past. Also worth a visit is Kairouan, once a military base and founded in 670 for the Arab Cavalry, today it is recognised for its Great Mosque, the oldest place of prayer in North Africa. Beaches Tunisia has around 750 miles of mostly white sandy beaches, many of which are gently shelving into the Mediterranean. Fun for the children The camel caravan, in Port El Kantaoui, is always popular with children as is the Ostrich Farm, in Sidi Bou Ali, Friguia Zoo, in Bou Ficha, is also well worth a visit. Highlights Five must sees:Sunset over the Sahara Desert, The Atlas Mountains by the Red Lizard train, El Djem, The market at Nebeul, The City of Tunis. Great Views: Sunrise over the salt lake plains. Memorable Moments: Sitting on the back of a camel in the Sahara, not a sound to be heard. Destination Treasures: Carthage City, an ancient Roman city. Travel tips: Use Spend a couple of hours getting lost in the local Medina and then sit at an outside café and watch the world go by. Fast Facts Weather Report Climate:Tunisia has a mainly hot dry climate however temperatures can drop off sharply during the evening time at the start and end of the summer. Clothes: Light coloured cotton clothing is best. Light sweaters are recommended for the beginning and end of the season or for travelling on the 2 and 3 day Safaris into the desert. Appropriate dress is required when visiting public places eg. Mosques. Practicalities Language: Arabic/French Currency and Money: Tunisian Dinar. The exchange rate is the same irrespective of where travellers cheques are cashed. Travellers cheques are the easiest form of payment to carry and can be changed at all hotels. Cash dispensers are now growing in popularity and accept most major bank cards, however its better not to rely on cash cards as the sole source of getting cash. Cost of Living: Eating out on a budget costs 5.20 TND, mid-range 14.50 TND, top end 38 TND. Half a bottle of wine costs 9.40 TND Tourism Tourist Office:
24 Sackville Street, London W1X 1DE Events Republic day is held in July and in August, the festival of Baba Aoussa takes place in Sousse with carnival processions and street stalls. Activities There are three golf courses, one in Port El Kantaoui and two in Skanes. Nearly all the hotels have tennis courts. Take a boat cruise along the coast or a jeep safari into the Sahara Desert. Recommended Reading Lonely Planet Tunisia by David Willet Resorts
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