Visiting Tunisia: Insights into Its Rich History, Culture, and Natural Beauty

I was in my early 20s the first time I went abroad. A relative had recently visited Tunisia and recommended it, so my first experience of another country was, to say the least, a bit of a culture shock. Arriving on the first night in such a strange place was scary, but I very quickly fell in love with Tunisia.

A little boy selling flowers near our hotel introduced me to a new flower, Jasmine. The intoxicating fragrance lasted in our hotel room until the end of the holiday; it’s still one of my favorites, always stirring happy memories.

Since that first holiday, I have visited many times, always greeted by the Tunisian people with “Marhaba,” which means welcome in Arabic. This always makes me feel like I’ve arrived home.

Tunisia is the northernmost country in Africa, known for its ancient architecture, souks, and blue coasts, sites of Carthage, the Amphitheater of El Jem, and the Great Mosque of Kairouan. Around its edges are the Atlas Mountains, the Sahara Desert, and the Mediterranean basin, which have attracted conquerors and visitors throughout the ages. It enjoys a Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and short, mild winters.

Tunisian food is simple but delicious. Fresh, pita-like bread is cooked everywhere. Berber-style lamb stew cooked in spices and vegetables with couscous, Tunisian brik (a delicious filo-style stuffed deep-fried parcel), and sweet Baklava with nuts and honey syrup.

Camels conjure up a romantic image—cloaked nomads riding through the desert. What is lesser known is that they are a lifeline for Tunisian people. Over 56,000 camels are raised for their milk, meat, and fiber, providing a source of income for many families.

My top 5 must-dos when visiting Tunisia are:

1. Discover the Rich History of the Medina in Tunis

“Medina” means town in Arabic. This UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to the 8th century. It has a labyrinth of narrow streets with restaurants, souks, and little shops selling literally everything. There are also 110,000 people living in the Medina of Tunis.

2. Wander the Quaint Cobblestone Streets of Sid Bou Said

One of the best unknown destinations in the world. Amazing sea views from cobblestone, blue and white-lined streets, old charming Tunisian doors trailed with Bougainvillea—it’s an enchanting and beautiful place.

3.Unveiling the Ancient Wonders of Archaeological Carthage

Ancient ruins developed as a significant trading centre throughout the Mediterranean. After repeated clashes with their Roman rivals, the Romans took over in 146 BC, but because of the brutal destruction, very little of the original capital remains.

4.Journey Back in Time at the Magnificent El Jem Amphitheater

The largest colosseum in North Africa, which held up to 35,000 people. It’s one of the most accomplished examples of Roman architecture of an amphitheater, comparable to the Colosseum of Rome. Inside, the tiered seating has been preserved, and you can walk underneath the amphitheater out into the center arena like gladiators hundreds of years ago.

5.Embark on Adventures Beyond the Tourist Trails

For this trip, we were picked up in a 4×4 and explored the less explored parts of Tunisia. We explored the amphitheater and ancient Roman city of Uthina, Zaghouan water temple, and Carthage aqueduct. Had a traditional Berber lunch, then onto a half-ruined Berber village and Café Bleu Takrouna, a museum where we had mint tea overlooking the Atlas Mountains.

Tunisia is a captivating destination that will surprise you in memorable ways. The Tunisian people are so hospitable and welcoming, you’ll always want to return.

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