Joanna James
In the history of both North Africa and Europe, Tunisia holds a prominent place. Aeneas and Dido, together with legends of Arabic princes and even Norman mariners from the north, make this cut-out on the Maghreb a fascinating, culturally-rich site to be found on the Mediterranean coast.
For ancient history buffs, it doesn't get much greater than this. In addition to the Colosseum in Rome, El Djem is known for its enormous arches and elliptical amphitheatres. The city, which has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, is a mix of old and new, with Roman ruins and arcades peppered throughout. The neighbouring Sahara's dust storms have preserved many views, but the major attraction is still the massive Amphitheatre of Thysdrus, which is largely devoid of large-scale archaeology. Embark on a journey through the dressing rooms of gladiators and ancient governors alike.
The clay spires of the Bordj el Kabir fort, built in the 1400s and 1500s to guard the port on the Gulf of Gabes below, are the unquestioned crowning glory of Djerba island. There are a number of people who have lived here for ages, including Numidian tribes, Arab tribes, Spaniards, and Ottomans. In addition, there are colourful ceramic bazaars and busy marketplaces selling olive oils and chickpea broths in the area.
There is certainly a range of Tunisia resorts to experience the wonders of this country, however, spending some time at The Residence Tunis will be a great way to experience some of the hospitality and great cuisine that there is to experience.
The coastal city of Sousse, which is still recovering from the tragic terrorist incidents of 2015, is suddenly considerably less outspoken about its natural splendour. They hide in the historic medina's narrow lanes, seep from the Aghlabite Great Mosque's plain yet magnificent spires, and call from the citadel's intimidating walls. In contrast to the smoky Ottoman hammams and vibrant Maghreb souks of the city centre, there are beautiful turquoise-blue beaches that are surrounded by luxury hotels and boardwalks.
Sidi Bou Said village, located just a 45-minute drive away from lively Tunis, has the vibrant feel of a trip across the Mediterranean to the Greek Aegean islands. Santorini and Mykonos come to mind while looking at this town's sky blue and whitewashed architecture. However, Rodolphe d 'Erlanger, a French musicologist, was the one who first experimented with the composition's unusual colours.
This is where the changing sands and arid escarpments of the Sahara begin, and it should be included in every journey to Tunisia. Tozeur, the adobe mud village, is the perfect place to get a taste of dry life. This Berber oasis town in the country's extreme southwest is a true work of art. When it comes to its surroundings, the area is filled with lush date palms that appear to spring out of the ochre-hued dirt around it. Then there's the city's medina, which is adorned with intricate filigrees, sculptures, and brickwork right out of the Middle East as well.
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A travel writer who has a pas...
