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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.
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.