Tunisia is the most northerly country in Africa, bounded on the north and east by the Mediterranean, on the west by Algeria and on the south-east, in the northern Sahara, by Libya.

It is a country of vibrant contrasts in which many travellers don't venture further than the beaches and markets. But Tunisia has so much more to offer.  Relics of former rulers dot the landscape: the remains of the mighty city-state of Carthage, Roman ruins, medieval medinas (walled cities) and elegant 19th century French colonial boulevards.  

Stunning beaches are dotted along its 1,400km (875 miles) of Mediterranean coast. To the south is the Sahara, salt lakes and alien Berber architecture which have been used as locations for Star Wars and the English Patient. In contrast, to the north forest-cloaked mountains while the Cap Bon peninsular and central Tunisia are rich in fruit trees, olive groves and vineyards.

Its capital, Tunis, is a bustling modern metropolis. However in its heart lies a medieval Medina with hundreds of narrow streets. For those that enjoy sun and sand there are the luxurious resorts of Hammamet and Nabeul with their sandy beaches and crystalline waters. Along the Mediterranean coast lie the superb resorts of Mahdia, Monastir and Port El Kantoui.

Tunisia is a country of contradictions. For those who venture further south away from the beach resorts, on the edge of the Sahara desert are interesting geographical features such as the 'forest in the desert' at Ramada, the dry salt lake at Chott el Jerid, or the remote 'end of the road' oasis at Ksar Ghilane.

Away from the mainland is the island of Djerba. Off the southeast coast in the Gulf of Gabes, this island was referred to by Homer as the island of ten thousand palm trees. It has clear seas and fine, white beaches, and is home to Tunisia's main Jewish community and therefore has its own very distinct culture. The main tourist area is in the Zone Touristique on the northeast coast. But inland, away from the resorts, is where the real Djerba can be seen with olive groves and traditional architecture.

Tunisia’s currency is the Tunisian Dinar (TND). Credit cards (mainly MasterCard and Visa) are accepted in a few places in major resorts and towns. American Express and Diners Club are accepted in few places in tourist areas. You should find access to ATMs in most towns and every tourist resort. Traveller’s cheques can be readily cashed in banks with the most convenient currencies being Euros or US Dollars.