Thursday, February 9, 2017

Welcome to Tunis!




In the farthest corner of North Africa sits the tiny but mighty country of Tunisia. Much like it's sister countries Morocco and Algeria, Tunisia is a predominantly Muslim country situated on the astonishingly beautiful Mediterranean ocean. 

I have had the honor of living in Tunisia for the past 3 years with my husband and family. I feel it is important to say that despite being the only American/non Muslim living in the state of Jendouba at the north of Tunisia at no time have I ever felt unsafe. Although the surrounding mountains are well known for terrorists and you can often times hear machine guns going off in distance and helicopters flying just over your head, I never once have felt in danger. The Tunisian military unit called the Black Tigers are an elite special forces unit that work to eradicate terrorism in the region and they sure do take care of business. There is no doubt that I have the utmost confidence in their ability to do so. 


Despite the negative press lately, Tunisia is a place worth checking out for many reasons. If you have an affinity for Indiana Jones movies like I do then you will definitely love Bizerte and Tozur. I was under the impression that Raiders of the Lost Ark was filmed in Morocco but come to find out it was all Tunisia! You may have also heard of a little movie franchise called Star Wars, the actual city of  Tataouine rests at the southern part of Tunisia against the epic landscape of the Sahara Desert. Still to this day the old structures remain and it is absolutely breathtaking. There are so many mind blowing places it would be impossible to list them all but I will introduce you to some of my all time faves. 





Tabarka, Tunisia famous for it's annual Jazz Festival is one of my favorite places in all of Tunisia. Tabarka is at the very top of Tunisia just minutes from the Algerian border. It is a cozy little beach town unknown to many tourists. You drive through the stunning Kroumirie Mountains through the remote city of Ain Draham famous for it's natural springs.Well known for it's unique red coral Tabarka is a gem unto it's self. If you love diving, gorgeous beaches or relaxing by the ocean at the local cafe's this place is definitively for you. 


Tunisia also has a wealth of incredible archaeological sit. Infact the Romans called Tunisia their home because of it's vast yellow marble deposits which they exploited to no end. My top two faves are definitely the Roman ruins of Chemtou and Bulla Regia. Both are within about 20 miles of each other in the Northern part of the state of Jendouba. Bulla Regia has over 17 centuries of history and is a mind blowing site to behold. It spans over 150 acres and is the largest site in Tunisia. Just a few miles away is the magnificent Roman/Berber site of Chemtou (Simithu, or Simithus during the Roman era).  There is a wonderful museum which has lot's of awesome relics on display. Chemtou was a massive city that includedrock quarries, acemetery, workshops, bathhouses, temples, sanctuaries, housing for those working the quarries.The reason the Romans were so enthralled with Tunisia was it's highly coveted antique yellow marble deposits which they mined at Chemtou. 







If you ever decide to visit Tunisia these sites are a must see especially for any archaeology buffs. There are so many other places to see and explore like the island of Djerba, Hammamet, Ghammart and especially the famous Sidi Bou Said (just think blue doors). If you have been to Morocco and loved it then Tunisia is definitely for you! 






Thanks for your time! If you would like more let me know! 

Fun Facts! Did you know...

-Tunisia is also famous for it's olive oil, jasmine, and their spicy chili sauce called Harissa. But look for "Arabic" harissa it is the "home made" version and it is so much better then the canned. 
-Be ready for hot food! They put harissa on almost everything including sandwiches and soups so if you have a sensitive stomach be sure to let them know "No Harissa" lol. 
-Couscous originates from Tunisia and is a staple in any Tunisian diet. There is nothing like hand made fresh Tunisian couscous like Mom makes! 
-Tunisia has the most Roman Ruins of any other country except Italy of course

Travel Tip!

Forget the T.P! They have water hoses instead of toilet paper. I had no idea at first and let's say I improvised until someone told me that you use the hose which is attached to the wall right next to any toilet.  :-) 

Language lesson: Some key terms in Tunisian/Arabic to get you by...

Asalemu Alaykum - greeting that means "Peace Be with You"
Wa alaykum Salem - response which means "And may peace be with you"
Ahlan Kayfa Halouka - Hello how are you?
La'Bes Hamdoula- I'm fine thanks to God
Enti tatkalum al englisie - do you speak English?







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