Tunisia Holidays
Resort

Tunisia
All You Need To Know

"Soft, sandy beaches that are perfect for sunbathing and swimming, plus modern hotels set right on the beach, offering excellent value for money."

Beyond its sun-soaked shores and sandy beaches, Tunisia is an exotic land of desert oases, Roman ruins, exquisite mosques and intriguing walled 'medinas'. Although an Arab country, it has a distinct Mediterranean character about it, moulded in part by a century of French colonial rule. Combining miles of pristine beaches with the mysterious atmosphere of North Africa , Tunisia is a fascinating mix of the ancient and modern.

The Tunisian landscape is full of contrasts. On the one hand there's the startling, barren beauty of the Sahara Desert , and on the other there are fertile lands fragrant with oranges, lemons and ancient olive groves. And then there's the coastline of long, white beaches lapped by the warm waters of the Mediterranean . Tunisia is certainly a country whose diversity belies its size. A lavish melange of faiths and cultures, including Byzantine and Ottoman, have left indelible marks on Tunisia , contributing to its rich heritage and wealth of architectural monuments. Not only will Tunisia bring you sunshine, but it will also reward the curious with the experience of a very different culture and way of life.

Beaches

Tunisia combines Africa's tropical climate with the warm, gently lapping waters of the Mediterranean . Miles of golden, sun-kissed sands, blown in from the Sahara , stretch for as far as the eye can see along a glittering coastline. Most hotels have their own private beaches so you shouldn't have trouble finding a spot to lay out your towel and bask beneath the sunshine. Simply grab your sunglasses and relax with a cocktail in one hand and a good book in the other.

Shopping

Experience the clamour and hurly-burly of a North African souk market. Most of Tunisia 's old towns stage these colourful bazaars, packed full of fascinating little shops and stalls where you can find classic buys such as woollen carpets, pottery, leather, copperware and Arabesque bird cages. Remember to haggle with shopkeepers - it's all part and parcel of the fun of a souk.

Nightlife

Evening entertainment is generally low-key, with most nightlife centred around hotel bars and discos. However, in some of the larger resorts and towns you will find some excellent restaurants and pavement cafes as well as the odd disco or two where you can let your hair down and dance the night away.

Sightseeing

From swirling desert sands to ancient walled cities, Tunisia overflows with fascinating sights. For a real flavour of North African culture head to Sousse and explore the old medina. Built on Byzantine foundations, mighty ramparts encompass the medina. Within the citadel is a section known as the Ribat, once the residence of devout Muslim warriors who used to defend the city from attack. Opposite the Ribat is another of Sousse 's main attractions, the 9th-century Great Mosque.

The best Roman ruins can be found at Dougga - their location, on the edge of the Tabersouk mountains, is just as impressive as the ruins themselves. If you fancy stepping into a galaxy far, far away then visit Matmata which was used as a set for the international blockbust r movie, Star Wars.

Local Specialities

The food here is heavily influenced by Arabic and Turkish cuisine and the Tunisians take pride in their sophisticated taste buds. Lamb, houmous, olive oil and an array of spices regularly play a part whether in a stew, as part of a kebab or in a wrap. Seafood is another mainstay of the Tunisian diet with 'rouget', red mullet, being particularly popular. Much of your food will be provided by your hotel but there are plenty of cafes and restaurants lining the streets if you fancy sampling some of the local ambience.

Sahara Explorer Gold An opportunity to see the diversity of the Sahara Desert, from the vast salt lake at Chott El Djerid to the oasis' of Tozeur we will help you discover the real Tunisia. A maximum of 25 passengers a coach means you have space to spread out and have your own window seat! You will be able to enjoy more time with our local guide who will share with you the history of this unique landscape. The itinerary is the same as the Sahara Explorer but with a more flexible itinerary. With the above, upgraded service in the restaurant for dinner, including limited drinks, make the Gold tour that little more personal.

Camel Caravan This is a once in a lifetime chance to cruise aboard your very own ship of the desert! Once you're in your seat we will take you for a leisurely ride through the olive groves and local villages. Visit a local farm where you will see the camels drawing water from a well and taste the delicious freshly baked Tabourna bread. A fun day out for all the family.

Zulu Experience For your entertainment we would like to invite you to spend an African night with us. The colourful Zulu dancers perform their selection of energetic dances and songs like the "Sekusile" a celebration of the new dawn and the war dance"Umkhomazi". Enjoy the beat of the drums and the soft melodies of the love songs; you might even take the chance to join in the "Gumboot" dance! With a four-course meal included this really is a taste of Africa .