General Info

Tunisia’s unusual combination of Islamic culture and European influence makes it North Africa’s most popular tourist destination and with a climate that rarely falls below 20 degrees, it’s a literal ‘hot spot’ all year long. Its breathtaking national parks, shimmering salt lakes, stunning palm tree oases, tantalising mirages and seductive Saharan sunsets together create an unforgettable experience.

Food and drink Tunisian cuisine has been influenced by the influx of different inhabitants over the years. It essentially remains a mixture of Mediterranean and traditional Tunisian recipes although the Jewish community contributed enormously to enriching Tunisian gastronomy too. The emphasis with Tunisian food is on the natural, wholesome ingredients with fresh olive oil and high quality spices. Frozen foods are shunned therefore delicious recipes are created, from scratch, daily. Harissa, a dip made from dried

crushed red chillies, garlic and spices, is offered with olive oil and bread as part of any meal. A typical traditional starter is the ‘Brik’ –a small parcel made with filo pastry filled with an egg, potato and parsley mixture and deep fried. Cous cous is the national dish and is served with vegetables, lamb, fish or chicken. It is served with a fragrant spiced sauce which is usually added liberally. Grilled fish is favoured due to the great abundance of fish available on a daily basis. Desserts are usually fresh fruit or small pastries such as Baklava. Mint tea is the traditional drink of Tunisia made with fresh mint and pine nuts. Celtia is the light local beer although international beers are also available in Tunisia. Wine and spirits are also widely available.

Shopping Tunisia is a true shopper’s paradise. If you love to haggle you’ll adore the souks where almost any price goes. The medinas or old towns, which are home to the souks, are real living places where craftsmen can still be found practising their trade on the street and where each street represents a different craft. The best way to shop in this entertaining maze is to wander around aimlessly and stumble across anything that takes your fancy.

Climate Tunisia is a mixture of Mediterranean and African climates – hot summers and mild winters.

Northern Tunisia is typically dry and hot with temperatures throughout July, Aug and Sept reaching 35+ degrees with up to 12 hours of sunshine per day. Southern Tunisia is even hotter occasionally seeing temperatures of 45+ degrees.

Currency The currency is the Tunisian Dinar which can only be changed in Tunisia. It is worth noting that foreign currency can be changed into Dinar at the airport, most hotels and most banks. However converting Dinar back into the foreign currency is only permitted at the airports Bureau de Change .

Population The population of Tunisia is 9.8 million

Religion Tunisia’s population is 98% Islamic. Judaism and Christianity make up the other 2%