Tired of homogeneous modern city breaks? Me too. If you long for something different and want to experience a country’s genuine traditions, culture and way of life, look no further than Tunisia. This northern most country in Africa may be known as the perfect summer beach destination, but Tunisia has far much more to offer including interesting history, fun activities and delicious cuisine.
Best things to do in Tunisia
If you’re looking to soak up the Tunisian sun or want to keep cool, the 10km Boujaffar beach is widely recognised as the best beach the country has to offer. If you don’t fancy laying around on a beach towel, there are plenty of water sports on offer too like jet-skiing to parasailing. If that sounds a little too much excitement, why not enjoy a gentle trek on a camel?
For a unique retail therapy experience, hit the markets. If you only have time to visit one market, make sure it’s Nebeul Market, Tunisia’s largest street market. From fashion accessories to local delicacies to household items, you’ll find unique souvenirs and have fun bartering the price down.
Mosque of Uqba, or the Great Mosque of Kairouan, commenced by Uqba ibn Nafi circa 670. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
And if you’re looking for some culture and something to take your breath away, visit the Great Mosque of Kairouan. Located in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Kairouan, it’s one of the most important and oldest Islamic mosques in North Africa. While non-Muslims aren’t allowed inside, visitors will still be in awe as they walk around the lavish courtyard and admire the grand structure.
To learn more about the country’s past, Sousse has an excellent Archaeology Museum. A great place to spend a few hours (and to escape the heat), the impressive mosaics will give you a great insight to Tunisia’s past.
English: A partial view of Ichkeul Lake near Bizerte, Northern Tunisia, in January 2008. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Did you know Tunisia has breathtaking scenic beauty? It’s not all desert you know! Head to Ichkeul National Park as many migrating birds do (I don’t mean fly over there literally). The UNESCO Heritage site offers many great walks, including around the perimeter of the beautiful Ichkeul Lake – make sure you bring a camera.
Best food and drink in Tunisia
Filling, tasty and inexpensive – what more could you want from a cuisine? And why pick one cuisine when you can have Arabic, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and French to choose from. Tunisian food is largely centred around meat, fish and vegetables which makes it incredibly healthy too.
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Tunisia is also spice heaven for those who love the feeling of heat in their mouth. Look out for dishes which include Harissa, a blend of red chilli, pepper and garlic sauce which livens up and provides a gentle kick to any meal. For an authentic experience, hit the street stalls where you’ll find the best bang for your Dinar.
You’ll also find a variety of hearty soups and broths like
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Chorba and Kamounia while the country is famous for it’s couscous, seafood and baklava. And what better way to wash down all of that lovely food than a thirst-quenching glass of fresh mint tea which is readily available everywhere you go.
Despite it being a Muslim country, alcohol is available in Tunisia. So why not try some of the local tipple like Celtia beer or wine still produced the old fashioned way – wine tours are also aplenty.
For more information on Tunisia and the best areas to stay, check out First Choice!
Have you visited Tunisia? What was your favourite thing about the country? Do you have any recommendations? Let me know in the comment section below!
