Author: RadioTunis.com

What Can You Learn From French Dieting Techniques?

 

There are plenty of stereotypes donning the world about France and its people, with one of these focussing on their dieting. In short, this is regarded as a much healthier nation, with obesity levels sat at 11% compared to the 33% that the US has.

Bearing this in mind, we have tapped into some of the key dieting principles that the French tend to stick to.

 

The French aren’t into their snacking

Take a look around most countries, particularly the US, and you will find that snacking is a favorite pastime. Whether it’s at the office, in the car or any other location of your choice, it happens regularly.

The French meanwhile, only eat meals at the table. This is probably the reason they consume, on average at least, around 100 calories less per day than the typical American.

 

Wine is savored

In a lot of countries, wine is something that we tend to guzzle down. In France, this isn’t the case in the slightest.

The French don’t “prepare” for a meal by taking in a couple of glasses beforehand. Instead, they drink whilst eating, while the wine that they do pour tends to only partially fill the glass.

The obvious benefit here is that they severely limit the amount of calories they are consuming, with wine being a bit of a villain in this regard.

 

Colorful vegetables are completely in

This next point might sound as though it borders on the ridiculous, but give us time. The French are known to opt for colorful vegetables, rather than the bland-looking alternatives.

What’s the reason for this? The likes of beetroot, zucchini and all of those other vibrant foods tend to have more antioxidants in them, which obviously works wonders for the body.

 

It’s all about portion control

Another reason why the French seem to find it so much easier to stay in shape is because of the portion sizes. In short, they are significantly smaller than what is used to in the US. For example, while a croissant in Paris might be one ounce, if you head over to some cities in the US it’s double the size.

Ultimately, one doesn’t have to be a mathematician to realize the repercussions on your waistline.

 

There’s no such thing as a buffet

Ok, if you look long and hard enough you might stumble across a buffet, but in general the French are not familiar with the term. All-you-can eat just isn’t a thing, meaning that it becomes much harder to start to pile up the calories on your plate in front of you. Instead, traditional restaurants are more of a thing – meaning that the portions are again consistent.

 

Meals last an eternity

In the US, a lot of us will wolf down each course without a second thought. Ultimately, there is little time between each one, and little time to digest.

The upshot of the above is that overindulgence is more likely to occur.

As you may have already gathered, this doesn’t occur with the French. Instead, their meals last an eternity, meaning that they will digest their food and start to feel full midway through a meal.

 

Cheese isn’t all what it’s made out to be

One of the big stereotypes about France is its cheese. However, don’t for a minute think that this is a food which they gobble up as a matter of urgency.

On the contrary, cheese is treated as a “special” food which isn’t turned to at the earliest opportunity. Usually, you will eat it after meals, while it’s also worth pointing out that most French cheeses are actually low in calories when compared to the traditional US versions. We’re referring to the likes of Brie and chevre, mainly.

 

The French don’t need a car

This next point might be a slight exaggeration, but in general the French rely much less on their cars. Studies have shown that over one third of the time, French people will navigate via walking or bike.

When this is compared to the US, where residents will use their car when they leave home around 84% of the time, this is in stark contrast.

 

They don’t believe in low-fat treats

While some might swear by low-fat treats, the French don’t fall into this category. They appreciate that many of these foods contain hidden sugar which ultimately, over time, is going to be even worse for them than the fat that they might have saved. Instead, they will simply opt for the real alternative.

 

The French don’t know about dieting

Finally, despite their size, the French don’t believe in dieting. They don’t tend to measure out portions, and don’t try and balance out the number of carbs, proteins and vegetables on a plate. Instead, they take more of a broader view on the subject. They will try and fill their plate with a variety of foods, without going overboard on one particular food type.

What Can You Learn From French Dieting Techniques?

 

There are plenty of stereotypes donning the world about France and its people, with one of these focussing on their dieting. In short, this is regarded as a much healthier nation, with obesity levels sat at 11% compared to the 33% that the US has.

Bearing this in mind, we have tapped into some of the key dieting principles that the French tend to stick to.

 

The French aren’t into their snacking

Take a look around most countries, particularly the US, and you will find that snacking is a favorite pastime. Whether it’s at the office, in the car or any other location of your choice, it happens regularly.

The French meanwhile, only eat meals at the table. This is probably the reason they consume, on average at least, around 100 calories less per day than the typical American.

 

Wine is savored

In a lot of countries, wine is something that we tend to guzzle down. In France, this isn’t the case in the slightest.

The French don’t “prepare” for a meal by taking in a couple of glasses beforehand. Instead, they drink whilst eating, while the wine that they do pour tends to only partially fill the glass.

The obvious benefit here is that they severely limit the amount of calories they are consuming, with wine being a bit of a villain in this regard.

 

Colorful vegetables are completely in

This next point might sound as though it borders on the ridiculous, but give us time. The French are known to opt for colorful vegetables, rather than the bland-looking alternatives.

What’s the reason for this? The likes of beetroot, zucchini and all of those other vibrant foods tend to have more antioxidants in them, which obviously works wonders for the body.

 

It’s all about portion control

Another reason why the French seem to find it so much easier to stay in shape is because of the portion sizes. In short, they are significantly smaller than what is used to in the US. For example, while a croissant in Paris might be one ounce, if you head over to some cities in the US it’s double the size.

Ultimately, one doesn’t have to be a mathematician to realize the repercussions on your waistline.

 

There’s no such thing as a buffet

Ok, if you look long and hard enough you might stumble across a buffet, but in general the French are not familiar with the term. All-you-can eat just isn’t a thing, meaning that it becomes much harder to start to pile up the calories on your plate in front of you. Instead, traditional restaurants are more of a thing – meaning that the portions are again consistent.

 

Meals last an eternity

In the US, a lot of us will wolf down each course without a second thought. Ultimately, there is little time between each one, and little time to digest.

The upshot of the above is that overindulgence is more likely to occur.

As you may have already gathered, this doesn’t occur with the French. Instead, their meals last an eternity, meaning that they will digest their food and start to feel full midway through a meal.

 

Cheese isn’t all what it’s made out to be

One of the big stereotypes about France is its cheese. However, don’t for a minute think that this is a food which they gobble up as a matter of urgency.

On the contrary, cheese is treated as a “special” food which isn’t turned to at the earliest opportunity. Usually, you will eat it after meals, while it’s also worth pointing out that most French cheeses are actually low in calories when compared to the traditional US versions. We’re referring to the likes of Brie and chevre, mainly.

 

The French don’t need a car

This next point might be a slight exaggeration, but in general the French rely much less on their cars. Studies have shown that over one third of the time, French people will navigate via walking or bike.

When this is compared to the US, where residents will use their car when they leave home around 84% of the time, this is in stark contrast.

 

They don’t believe in low-fat treats

While some might swear by low-fat treats, the French don’t fall into this category. They appreciate that many of these foods contain hidden sugar which ultimately, over time, is going to be even worse for them than the fat that they might have saved. Instead, they will simply opt for the real alternative.

 

The French don’t know about dieting

Finally, despite their size, the French don’t believe in dieting. They don’t tend to measure out portions, and don’t try and balance out the number of carbs, proteins and vegetables on a plate. Instead, they take more of a broader view on the subject. They will try and fill their plate with a variety of foods, without going overboard on one particular food type.

Getting The Most out of Horse Trekking in Tunisia

The image of someone darting across the desert on horseback might seemingly be reserved for the movies – but don’t head to Tunisia with this misconception.

While beaches, camels and a whole load of other activities are the main selling point for a lot of travel agents, something which often slips under the radar is horse riding.

In short, this is an activity which is soaring in popularity. Some people might head there and participate in a short session, perhaps lasting half a day. Something which has become more common are the longer rides though – allowing you to really dive into the country and find everything from untapped attractions to camping in the desert.

Following on from the above, it’s no surprise that there’s plenty of demand for horse riding in this country. We have attempted to condense as much information on this subject into this guide; looking at just what a typical ride can incorporate, as well as how you should prepare before you venture out.

 

What is the basis of a horse riding trip in Tunisia?

This is a question which is particularly hard to answer, for the simple reason that there’s not a one-fits-all approach. As you have probably found whilst researching this topic, there are countless horse riding services now in the country – with some offering a ride for as little as an hour, while others will take you all around the country for weeks at a time.

In the first instance, where you will only be riding for a short period of time, it’s all about the animal. In other words, while you might come across some interesting sights, the basis is that you’ll be getting used to riding on horseback.

When you consider a longer ride, things start to get a little more eventful. Firstly, there is the accommodation factor. It probably won’t come as a surprise to read that a lot of your accommodation will be out in the wild or in other words, you will be camping. For those of you who crave luxury, you needn’t fear though. You won’t be pitched on the floor – you will be sleeping in proper beds in at least moderate style. From time to time some operators might provide a hotel, but on the whole a lot of horse riding treks are accompanied by camping.

In terms of what you will be seeing, it largely depends on the area you travel around. For example, if you turn to Southern Tunisia, some tour operators will show you El Ksour – a traditional fort which is hidden away in the caves. As well as this, you’ll get to see cave houses and immerse yourself in the surrounding culture.

Another common destination is the Sahara. As you might expect, nothing even rivals galloping over these sands and you’ll set eyes on dunes, mountains and everything else that the Sahara has to throw at you. It’s not all stereotypical either; some tour operators really will mix things up and look to provide you with unique experiences, such as bathing with horses, or climbing around nearby structures, which really does bring something else into the trip.

So, while there isn’t a clear set of guidelines for one of these tours, it’s not all about riding on horseback. Sure, this is a major part of it – but as part of your expedition you will set eyes on a variety of attractions which are not even contemplated when a lot of people book a trip of this magnitude.

 

Is there anything you should prepare beforehand?

Just like the answer to the last question, a lot depends on the type of trip you have chosen.

In the case of a short expedition, it’s all about clothing. In other words, it’s going to be hot, and you need to ensure that your body is sufficiently protected. It should hopefully go without saying that you have steady access to water as well; make sure this is in a position which you can easily reach when you are on the horse.

For longer rides, the preparation guidance is somewhat difference. While it will be very hot during the day (if you are traveling during the summer months), at winter the temperature can sharply drop if you are in the Sahara. It means that you need to layer up accordingly and make sure that you can easily adapt to the heat or low temperatures. It’s also worth mentioning that if possible, for obvious heat-reasons, you should avoid summer travel. While some people will be able to withstand it, many find that it’s just too hot and hinders the whole experience.

There are a few pieces of advice in relation to your health as well. Firstly, you’ll need to make sure that you are under 85kg – as this is the maximum weight that many horse riding companies will permit on their animals. It means that you will have to engage in at least some cardiovascular training beforehand so you can lose weight and be fit, with this likely to aid with the moments that you will be traveling on-foot. This is because there are areas of journeys which just aren’t suitable for the horses and you will have to work to guide them over them.

A lot of your other training will relate to your strength. Your core should be specifically targeted, as this can aid with your balance significantly, which is really important when it comes to staying on horseback for a long period of time. Fortunately, the recommended exercises are pretty easy in this case and will tend to come in the form of ab crunches.

You should look to improve your strength in your quads and glutes as well. This is mainly due to the fact that your legs will need to “grip” hold of the horse at times, meaning that strength in these areas will help your cause drastically. One of the best exercises to improve this is wall squats.

 

A finishing note on horse riding in Tunisia

We have hopefully provided a good starting point for those of you who are looking to take advantage of Tunisia’s latest phenomenon. Horse riding is become incredibly popular and considering some of the sights that you can explore, it’s really no surprise why.

Of course, there are a few caveats. Contrary to what a few inexperienced riders might think, you do need to prepare. This doesn’t just revolve around the weather either, but also your general fitness. If you can get that in shape several months before you depart, you really will be in a grand position by the time you mount.

Getting The Most out of Horse Trekking in Tunisia

The image of someone darting across the desert on horseback might seemingly be reserved for the movies – but don’t head to Tunisia with this misconception.

While beaches, camels and a whole load of other activities are the main selling point for a lot of travel agents, something which often slips under the radar is horse riding.

In short, this is an activity which is soaring in popularity. Some people might head there and participate in a short session, perhaps lasting half a day. Something which has become more common are the longer rides though – allowing you to really dive into the country and find everything from untapped attractions to camping in the desert.

Following on from the above, it’s no surprise that there’s plenty of demand for horse riding in this country. We have attempted to condense as much information on this subject into this guide; looking at just what a typical ride can incorporate, as well as how you should prepare before you venture out.

 

What is the basis of a horse riding trip in Tunisia?

This is a question which is particularly hard to answer, for the simple reason that there’s not a one-fits-all approach. As you have probably found whilst researching this topic, there are countless horse riding services now in the country – with some offering a ride for as little as an hour, while others will take you all around the country for weeks at a time.

In the first instance, where you will only be riding for a short period of time, it’s all about the animal. In other words, while you might come across some interesting sights, the basis is that you’ll be getting used to riding on horseback.

When you consider a longer ride, things start to get a little more eventful. Firstly, there is the accommodation factor. It probably won’t come as a surprise to read that a lot of your accommodation will be out in the wild or in other words, you will be camping. For those of you who crave luxury, you needn’t fear though. You won’t be pitched on the floor – you will be sleeping in proper beds in at least moderate style. From time to time some operators might provide a hotel, but on the whole a lot of horse riding treks are accompanied by camping.

In terms of what you will be seeing, it largely depends on the area you travel around. For example, if you turn to Southern Tunisia, some tour operators will show you El Ksour – a traditional fort which is hidden away in the caves. As well as this, you’ll get to see cave houses and immerse yourself in the surrounding culture.

Another common destination is the Sahara. As you might expect, nothing even rivals galloping over these sands and you’ll set eyes on dunes, mountains and everything else that the Sahara has to throw at you. It’s not all stereotypical either; some tour operators really will mix things up and look to provide you with unique experiences, such as bathing with horses, or climbing around nearby structures, which really does bring something else into the trip.

So, while there isn’t a clear set of guidelines for one of these tours, it’s not all about riding on horseback. Sure, this is a major part of it – but as part of your expedition you will set eyes on a variety of attractions which are not even contemplated when a lot of people book a trip of this magnitude.

 

Is there anything you should prepare beforehand?

Just like the answer to the last question, a lot depends on the type of trip you have chosen.

In the case of a short expedition, it’s all about clothing. In other words, it’s going to be hot, and you need to ensure that your body is sufficiently protected. It should hopefully go without saying that you have steady access to water as well; make sure this is in a position which you can easily reach when you are on the horse.

For longer rides, the preparation guidance is somewhat difference. While it will be very hot during the day (if you are traveling during the summer months), at winter the temperature can sharply drop if you are in the Sahara. It means that you need to layer up accordingly and make sure that you can easily adapt to the heat or low temperatures. It’s also worth mentioning that if possible, for obvious heat-reasons, you should avoid summer travel. While some people will be able to withstand it, many find that it’s just too hot and hinders the whole experience.

There are a few pieces of advice in relation to your health as well. Firstly, you’ll need to make sure that you are under 85kg – as this is the maximum weight that many horse riding companies will permit on their animals. It means that you will have to engage in at least some cardiovascular training beforehand so you can lose weight and be fit, with this likely to aid with the moments that you will be traveling on-foot. This is because there are areas of journeys which just aren’t suitable for the horses and you will have to work to guide them over them.

A lot of your other training will relate to your strength. Your core should be specifically targeted, as this can aid with your balance significantly, which is really important when it comes to staying on horseback for a long period of time. Fortunately, the recommended exercises are pretty easy in this case and will tend to come in the form of ab crunches.

You should look to improve your strength in your quads and glutes as well. This is mainly due to the fact that your legs will need to “grip” hold of the horse at times, meaning that strength in these areas will help your cause drastically. One of the best exercises to improve this is wall squats.

 

A finishing note on horse riding in Tunisia

We have hopefully provided a good starting point for those of you who are looking to take advantage of Tunisia’s latest phenomenon. Horse riding is become incredibly popular and considering some of the sights that you can explore, it’s really no surprise why.

Of course, there are a few caveats. Contrary to what a few inexperienced riders might think, you do need to prepare. This doesn’t just revolve around the weather either, but also your general fitness. If you can get that in shape several months before you depart, you really will be in a grand position by the time you mount.

The All-in Guide to Camel Trekking in Tunisia

Some countries have certain activities associated with them, and there’s no doubt that in the case of Tunisia it is pretty synonymous with camels.

While some tourists will choose this country for its beaches, others might take a more cultural view and opt for it because of experiences like camel trekking which can really set it apart.

Camel trekking isn’t something that has just arrived courtesy of tourists though. On the contrary, this was a principle mode of transport and if you turn to something like Silk Road (which we will talk about more later), there was once a time where upwards of 20,000 camel caravans a day were passing by.

As such, it’s no surprise to see that it’s on a lot of people’s Tunisia bucket lists. Of course, with so much popularity comes a lot of operators offering the experience, and to ensure that you get the very best as per your requirements, we have put together this guide. We will now take a look at just what the typical camel trekking experience covers, as well as some must-read preparation advice that can make the day so much easier for you.

 

What’s the best advice to take on board before going?

Before we dive into the meet of what you should expect during one of these treks, it’s important to understand what is expected from you (or your body, to be precise).

The first point probably won’t come as much as a surprise; the temperature deviation can be substantial. In the middle of summer, the heat in the Sahara can be bordering on unbearable. It’s because of this that you really need to take precautions to protect yourself; ensuring that your head is covered and you are continuously applying sun screen. In relation to your head, a really good piece of advice is to turn to a head scarf – which can also be used over your eyes if the sand starts to bluster around.

While some of you might expect the heat, something which is a little less stereotypical is the drops in temperature. If you are opting for a long-term camel trek, at night the temperature really can fall in the Sahara. This means that you need to plan for both extremes – with layered clothing being one of the best solutions as this allows you to adapt at a whim.

An important point to note for these tours is that they can be exhausting – and this isn’t just for the camel. There will be occasions where you may have to get off and guide the animal, and a small degree of fitness will naturally be required here. We’re mainly talking about cardiovascular training and just a basic run will serve you well – and potentially reduce some of your weight that will be on the camel.

A lot of people don’t realize the strain that your body comes under whilst riding a camel though. You will be sitting in the same position for hours on end (stops can be at a premium), and this can cause immense tiredness. You need excellent posture, a strong core and also strength in your legs and hips.

While there are absolutely scores of exercises that you can use to fine-tune the above areas, you really don’t need to turn to something overly complex. Ab crunches are an easy one to boost your core, while the hip extension exercise can work wonders and you don’t even need access to a gym (just a chair will suffice).

As we’ve already documented, you don’t have to go super-advanced with this. You can start your training a few months before your big expedition, with three sessions a week being enough.

If you are very close to the trek date, you can use supplementation to boost your training abilities, such as whey protein, natural steroids, nitric oxide supplements etc ..

 

What is camel trekking in the Sahara all about?

Perhaps a common misconception about this experience is that it’s all about the animal. While this is true to a large extent, what a lot of people don’t understand is that the tour operators providing these experience include a lot of other attractions. For example, they will take you along routes that incorporate oasis, or small villages – just so you get something extra out of the tour. Considering the fact that some of these treks are more than two weeks long, this is pretty important and ensures that people don’t leave the expeditions bored.

On the subject of the long-term treks, let’s talk about accommodation. This is the element that a lot of people like, for the simple reason that a lot of the experiences will allow you to camp under the stars. Sure, some people may have done this in their own country, but in an area as unique as the Sahara it certainly brings a little extra charm. If you are along a trek that is particularly long, you will probably be provided with a mixture of this and hotels – with the latter usually having impressive facilities to at least retain a little luxury and style.

The activities that are on offer will naturally vary depending on the location of the trek, as well as the tour operator you have selected. However, some are certainly more popular than others and one of the favored ones is Houidhat Erreched Lake. When this attraction is offered, you must grab it with both hands, as it allows you to trek to one of the most beautiful parts of the Sahara and benefit from the likes of hot water lakes and huge sand mountains. This is one of those attractions where you will be given plenty of time to relax as well, and you’ll generally be able to swim in the lake and just enjoy the picturesque surroundings.

While we could also talk about the oasis’ and other “standard” Sahara features, a mention should also be given to the Silk Trade Route. For those unaware, this is a historic trade route – which used to see tens of thousands of camel caravans trek through on a daily basis. Suffice to say, it’s another one of those attractions you should do your upmost to see – even if it doesn’t perhaps possess the beauty-qualities that the likes of Houidhat Erreched Lake has.

 

Closing words on camel trekking in Tunisia

Hopefully, all has become clear about camel trekking now. It’s something which is utterly cultural and if you do happen to take advantage of one of the longer tours, you really are bracing yourself for an unparalleled experience. It’s not just about the animal – these longer tours really do bring everything from history to culture to the table.

Another takeaway should be the importance of preparation. Again, this is only relevant for the longer tours, but a combination of the sun and the physical excursion on your body means that you should be looking to prepare for one of these longer tours at least several months in advance.

The All-in Guide to Camel Trekking in Tunisia

Some countries have certain activities associated with them, and there’s no doubt that in the case of Tunisia it is pretty synonymous with camels.

While some tourists will choose this country for its beaches, others might take a more cultural view and opt for it because of experiences like camel trekking which can really set it apart.

Camel trekking isn’t something that has just arrived courtesy of tourists though. On the contrary, this was a principle mode of transport and if you turn to something like Silk Road (which we will talk about more later), there was once a time where upwards of 20,000 camel caravans a day were passing by.

As such, it’s no surprise to see that it’s on a lot of people’s Tunisia bucket lists. Of course, with so much popularity comes a lot of operators offering the experience, and to ensure that you get the very best as per your requirements, we have put together this guide. We will now take a look at just what the typical camel trekking experience covers, as well as some must-read preparation advice that can make the day so much easier for you.

 

What’s the best advice to take on board before going?

Before we dive into the meet of what you should expect during one of these treks, it’s important to understand what is expected from you (or your body, to be precise).

The first point probably won’t come as much as a surprise; the temperature deviation can be substantial. In the middle of summer, the heat in the Sahara can be bordering on unbearable. It’s because of this that you really need to take precautions to protect yourself; ensuring that your head is covered and you are continuously applying sun screen. In relation to your head, a really good piece of advice is to turn to a head scarf – which can also be used over your eyes if the sand starts to bluster around.

While some of you might expect the heat, something which is a little less stereotypical is the drops in temperature. If you are opting for a long-term camel trek, at night the temperature really can fall in the Sahara. This means that you need to plan for both extremes – with layered clothing being one of the best solutions as this allows you to adapt at a whim.

An important point to note for these tours is that they can be exhausting – and this isn’t just for the camel. There will be occasions where you may have to get off and guide the animal, and a small degree of fitness will naturally be required here. We’re mainly talking about cardiovascular training and just a basic run will serve you well – and potentially reduce some of your weight that will be on the camel.

A lot of people don’t realize the strain that your body comes under whilst riding a camel though. You will be sitting in the same position for hours on end (stops can be at a premium), and this can cause immense tiredness. You need excellent posture, a strong core and also strength in your legs and hips.

While there are absolutely scores of exercises that you can use to fine-tune the above areas, you really don’t need to turn to something overly complex. Ab crunches are an easy one to boost your core, while the hip extension exercise can work wonders and you don’t even need access to a gym (just a chair will suffice).

As we’ve already documented, you don’t have to go super-advanced with this. You can start your training a few months before your big expedition, with three sessions a week being enough.

If you are very close to the trek date, you can use supplementation to boost your training abilities, such as whey protein, natural steroids, nitric oxide supplements etc ..

 

What is camel trekking in the Sahara all about?

Perhaps a common misconception about this experience is that it’s all about the animal. While this is true to a large extent, what a lot of people don’t understand is that the tour operators providing these experience include a lot of other attractions. For example, they will take you along routes that incorporate oasis, or small villages – just so you get something extra out of the tour. Considering the fact that some of these treks are more than two weeks long, this is pretty important and ensures that people don’t leave the expeditions bored.

On the subject of the long-term treks, let’s talk about accommodation. This is the element that a lot of people like, for the simple reason that a lot of the experiences will allow you to camp under the stars. Sure, some people may have done this in their own country, but in an area as unique as the Sahara it certainly brings a little extra charm. If you are along a trek that is particularly long, you will probably be provided with a mixture of this and hotels – with the latter usually having impressive facilities to at least retain a little luxury and style.

The activities that are on offer will naturally vary depending on the location of the trek, as well as the tour operator you have selected. However, some are certainly more popular than others and one of the favored ones is Houidhat Erreched Lake. When this attraction is offered, you must grab it with both hands, as it allows you to trek to one of the most beautiful parts of the Sahara and benefit from the likes of hot water lakes and huge sand mountains. This is one of those attractions where you will be given plenty of time to relax as well, and you’ll generally be able to swim in the lake and just enjoy the picturesque surroundings.

While we could also talk about the oasis’ and other “standard” Sahara features, a mention should also be given to the Silk Trade Route. For those unaware, this is a historic trade route – which used to see tens of thousands of camel caravans trek through on a daily basis. Suffice to say, it’s another one of those attractions you should do your upmost to see – even if it doesn’t perhaps possess the beauty-qualities that the likes of Houidhat Erreched Lake has.

 

Closing words on camel trekking in Tunisia

Hopefully, all has become clear about camel trekking now. It’s something which is utterly cultural and if you do happen to take advantage of one of the longer tours, you really are bracing yourself for an unparalleled experience. It’s not just about the animal – these longer tours really do bring everything from history to culture to the table.

Another takeaway should be the importance of preparation. Again, this is only relevant for the longer tours, but a combination of the sun and the physical excursion on your body means that you should be looking to prepare for one of these longer tours at least several months in advance.

The Complete Guide to Hiking in Tunisia on-foot

If you’ve gazed through the travel shop windows over recent years, you’ll probably know all about Tunisia and its golden beaches. At the same time, you probably don’t have quite as much knowledge on its terrific potential for hiking enthusiasts.

In simple terms, this is a hiking paradise. Not only does it have an ideal landscape, it has some of the most interesting cultural attractions around. It means that hiking around the country provides a perfect way to explore it in way that most other tourists just aren’t able to see.

Of course, just turning up and walking near your resort is asking for trouble. In fact, some of this trouble can be more severe than you might first imagine – you only have to read our second hiking suggestion to see that. It’s for this reason that we have put together the following page, as we mull over five of our favorite hikes in Tunisia as well as providing the necessary advice that can prepare you well for such an experience.

 

Hike #1 – Lake Ichkeul

Let’s start with a hike that you can really dictate the length with. While a lot of our suggestions are set routes, Lake Ichkeul is instead a mountain based around a lake meaning that you can really go as far as your feet permit.

The beauty about Lake Ichkeul is that it circulates Ichkeul National Park, which happens to be a Unesco World Heritage site. If you happen be into birds you are in luck as well – this area contains some of the most fascinating wildlife around.

 

Hike #2 – Djebel Boukornine

Remember we said that some hikes might be bordering on dangerous? Well, here we go.

Firstly, let’s not hide the fact that this hike can be utterly picturesque, if you tread carefully. It’s based around the National Park of Boukornine and considering the fact that this has been pretty much abandoned now, it provides several interesting sights.

Starting at Hammam-Lif, you will work your way up the mountain and find yourself immersed in some of the best views you have ever set eyes on.

However, make sure you don’t reach the summit. A military base is situated here and while you probably won’t be mistaken for genuine intruders, it’s still worth avoiding.

This trail should take around four and a half hours to complete, with the descent being approximately 2,350 ft.

 

Hike #3 – Korbous

From a statistical point of view, this next one is very similar to the previous. It’s 3.5 miles in length, but is by no means flat and most people will find the rocky environment pretty hard to master on their feet.

Once again, the views are second to none here. You’ll be traveling through Ain Kanessira and Robinson’s creek, meaning that hot baths will complement the extraordinary views as well.

 

Hike #4 – Chenini to Douiret

For anyone looking for a more relaxing trek, this is probably the one that’s the most advisable. In short, you will be traveling between Berber villages – meaning that you gain a real sense of culture as you trek through it.

Don’t be fooled into thinking that the villages are stuck out in the middle of nowhere though. While they might be from a literal point of view, they are based between mountains which means there are umpteen sights to set eyes on as you walk.

You will be trekking just over twelve miles with this hike – but it’s fairly relaxed and shouldn’t take more than half a day to complete.

 

Hike #5 – Zaghouan

This final hike is the same length as the previous one we’ve just mulled over. The big difference is the elevation-factor though; this time you will be trekking upwards to the tune of around 4,000 ft.

In other words, this isn’t for the faint hearted and you will require some training (see below). However, fitness aside, some of the sights are an absolute joy. By traveling to such heights you really will open up some fabulous views. Additionally, merely returning to the village of Zaghouan is beautiful and means that the start and end point of this hike is a real gem.

 

What is the best way to prepare for hiking in Tunisia?

If you are merely planning a quiet walk every so often, it goes without saying that the preparation advice isn’t going to be overly extensive. However, for anything longer-term, you really have to prepare accordingly.

Let’s firstly start with the general health and fitness, check mensanswer.com or menshealth.com for more help in this topic. Again, this is only going to occur in those instances that your body is going to be pushed, but cardiovascular training is always going to be seriously advisable. Even for some of the hikes which are just a couple of miles in distance, the fact they are on rocky terrain and perhaps on an incline means that it will stress your body to surprising lengths. Bearing this in mind, make sure that your training replicates this; if you are running, turn to a treadmill with the incline option (if you can’t train outdoors).

While cardio is probably the most important form of training, you shouldn’t neglect the weight training element either. If you are spending a day, or maybe longer, on a hike you will need substantial supplies. This is where your back and shoulder muscles really will have to be in shape – and this should be incorporated into your training plan. As well as this, training your quadriceps and core is important, and will again provide you with the necessary power for the hike.

As well as fitness, you should also be aware of your nutrition. During the walk itself, complex carbohydrates are going to help no-end and will provide you with that all-important energy. Make sure you avoid sugary snacks as while you will gain that initial peak in energy, it will soon dwindle and you will be left feeling worse than before.

We should also give a mention about clothing. Naturally, walking boots with ankle supports are absolutely essential when the terrain is anything other than flat, while you will need to ensure you are protected from the sun. While sun screen can do a good job in a lot of these cases, consider taking a scarf which can protect your head when the heat really does start to intensify.

 

A closing summary on hiking Tunisia

Hopefully, we’ve been able to demonstrate the immense potential that Tunisia has from a hiking perspective. As we alluded to in the opening section, this is a country which tend to be renowned for its beaches and typical tourist activities – but delve deeper into it and it becomes a true hiking hotspot.

At the same time, there is some general preparation advice you should attempt to follow. While simple hikes are unlikely to pose any risk to your health, once you step things up a gear you really have to make sure you are in shape and your body is able to cope with the demands.

The Complete Guide to Hiking in Tunisia on-foot

If you’ve gazed through the travel shop windows over recent years, you’ll probably know all about Tunisia and its golden beaches. At the same time, you probably don’t have quite as much knowledge on its terrific potential for hiking enthusiasts.

In simple terms, this is a hiking paradise. Not only does it have an ideal landscape, it has some of the most interesting cultural attractions around. It means that hiking around the country provides a perfect way to explore it in way that most other tourists just aren’t able to see.

Of course, just turning up and walking near your resort is asking for trouble. In fact, some of this trouble can be more severe than you might first imagine – you only have to read our second hiking suggestion to see that. It’s for this reason that we have put together the following page, as we mull over five of our favorite hikes in Tunisia as well as providing the necessary advice that can prepare you well for such an experience.

 

Hike #1 – Lake Ichkeul

Let’s start with a hike that you can really dictate the length with. While a lot of our suggestions are set routes, Lake Ichkeul is instead a mountain based around a lake meaning that you can really go as far as your feet permit.

The beauty about Lake Ichkeul is that it circulates Ichkeul National Park, which happens to be a Unesco World Heritage site. If you happen be into birds you are in luck as well – this area contains some of the most fascinating wildlife around.

 

Hike #2 – Djebel Boukornine

Remember we said that some hikes might be bordering on dangerous? Well, here we go.

Firstly, let’s not hide the fact that this hike can be utterly picturesque, if you tread carefully. It’s based around the National Park of Boukornine and considering the fact that this has been pretty much abandoned now, it provides several interesting sights.

Starting at Hammam-Lif, you will work your way up the mountain and find yourself immersed in some of the best views you have ever set eyes on.

However, make sure you don’t reach the summit. A military base is situated here and while you probably won’t be mistaken for genuine intruders, it’s still worth avoiding.

This trail should take around four and a half hours to complete, with the descent being approximately 2,350 ft.

 

Hike #3 – Korbous

From a statistical point of view, this next one is very similar to the previous. It’s 3.5 miles in length, but is by no means flat and most people will find the rocky environment pretty hard to master on their feet.

Once again, the views are second to none here. You’ll be traveling through Ain Kanessira and Robinson’s creek, meaning that hot baths will complement the extraordinary views as well.

 

Hike #4 – Chenini to Douiret

For anyone looking for a more relaxing trek, this is probably the one that’s the most advisable. In short, you will be traveling between Berber villages – meaning that you gain a real sense of culture as you trek through it.

Don’t be fooled into thinking that the villages are stuck out in the middle of nowhere though. While they might be from a literal point of view, they are based between mountains which means there are umpteen sights to set eyes on as you walk.

You will be trekking just over twelve miles with this hike – but it’s fairly relaxed and shouldn’t take more than half a day to complete.

 

Hike #5 – Zaghouan

This final hike is the same length as the previous one we’ve just mulled over. The big difference is the elevation-factor though; this time you will be trekking upwards to the tune of around 4,000 ft.

In other words, this isn’t for the faint hearted and you will require some training (see below). However, fitness aside, some of the sights are an absolute joy. By traveling to such heights you really will open up some fabulous views. Additionally, merely returning to the village of Zaghouan is beautiful and means that the start and end point of this hike is a real gem.

 

What is the best way to prepare for hiking in Tunisia?

If you are merely planning a quiet walk every so often, it goes without saying that the preparation advice isn’t going to be overly extensive. However, for anything longer-term, you really have to prepare accordingly.

Let’s firstly start with the general health and fitness, check mensanswer.com or menshealth.com for more help in this topic. Again, this is only going to occur in those instances that your body is going to be pushed, but cardiovascular training is always going to be seriously advisable. Even for some of the hikes which are just a couple of miles in distance, the fact they are on rocky terrain and perhaps on an incline means that it will stress your body to surprising lengths. Bearing this in mind, make sure that your training replicates this; if you are running, turn to a treadmill with the incline option (if you can’t train outdoors).

While cardio is probably the most important form of training, you shouldn’t neglect the weight training element either. If you are spending a day, or maybe longer, on a hike you will need substantial supplies. This is where your back and shoulder muscles really will have to be in shape – and this should be incorporated into your training plan. As well as this, training your quadriceps and core is important, and will again provide you with the necessary power for the hike.

As well as fitness, you should also be aware of your nutrition. During the walk itself, complex carbohydrates are going to help no-end and will provide you with that all-important energy. Make sure you avoid sugary snacks as while you will gain that initial peak in energy, it will soon dwindle and you will be left feeling worse than before.

We should also give a mention about clothing. Naturally, walking boots with ankle supports are absolutely essential when the terrain is anything other than flat, while you will need to ensure you are protected from the sun. While sun screen can do a good job in a lot of these cases, consider taking a scarf which can protect your head when the heat really does start to intensify.

 

A closing summary on hiking Tunisia

Hopefully, we’ve been able to demonstrate the immense potential that Tunisia has from a hiking perspective. As we alluded to in the opening section, this is a country which tend to be renowned for its beaches and typical tourist activities – but delve deeper into it and it becomes a true hiking hotspot.

At the same time, there is some general preparation advice you should attempt to follow. While simple hikes are unlikely to pose any risk to your health, once you step things up a gear you really have to make sure you are in shape and your body is able to cope with the demands.

Tunisian Tourism Opening its Door Back to The UK

uk tourists back to tunisia

For years, Tunisia was a tourist hotspot for the UK. Tour operators around the country could market and sell trips to Tunisia at ease; it had the weather, the beaches and of course fantastic culture.

Then, everything changed. The moment an ISIS gunman stepped onto a beach and killed 38 people, the tourism market effectively shut down. It shut down to such an extent that the Foreign Office even advised against travel there, as the risk of further terrorism attacks occurring was so high.

Since then, you have had to search high and low to find any tourist on vacation. Fortunately, several years on from the deadly event, things seem to be changing. Tour operators are starting to open up Tunisia back to the UK market, and this is hopefully the start of a long-awaited return for the Tunisian tourism industry.

 

The attack that changed it all

In 2015, a Tunisian jihadist walked onto a beach in Sousse, with an assault rifle disguised in a parasol. From then on, the events are catastrophic. 38 people, with 30 of these said to be Britons, were shot dead.

In the midst of it all, the police took an age to arrive. Local Tunisians tried their upmost to stop him from causing more destruction, going as far as forming a human shield to stop him progressing to other resorts.

In the end, the man behind the attack, Sifeddine Rezgui, was forced into a backstreet. The police shot him dead and as a reminder to all, the bullet holes are clearly visible in the wall that provided the backdrop for the finale.

While this is the attack that might have captured the headlines, it’s also worth mentioning that Tunisia was targeted just three months prior to this at the Bardo Museum in Tunis. On that occasion, 22 people died.

While Tunisia could hardly be classed as a peaceful country following the 2011 Revolution, to say that it shocked the nation would be a gross understatement. To put the impact on tourism into perspective; in 2014 the country accepted 430,000 visitors from Britain. If we look at the figures from last year, this was down to 28,000.

 

2018 is the year where normality is returning

Fortunately, nearly three years on from the tragedy, things look to be on the mend. Sure, it’s going to take a significant amount of time before the hundreds of thousands of visitors that regularly trekked to Tunisia are back there.

However, one of the UK’s largest operators, Thomas Cook, is preparing to launch flights from Manchester, Birmingham and Gatwick again. Furthermore, all of these flights are fully booked. Then, if we turn to another operator, TUI, they are preparing to relaunch in May this year.

Of course, it’s not all good news. While this is certainly promising, in the case of Thomas Cook, it is still expecting just one quarter of the people who traveled to Tunisia in 2014.

 

The advancements of Tunisian security

The main reason tour operators are regaining confidence in Tunisia is because of the huge advancements in the country’s security. It’s advanced to such an extent that the UK’s Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre has even recommended that the Foreign Office lift their travel restriction to the country.

These security advancements arrive in multiple forms as well. For example, Britain has played a huge role in helping the country redo their entire security systems at the country’s major airports including Tunis, Monastir, Djerba and Enfidha. As part of this work, they have installed explosive detection systems, while the National Guard has been aided by the Ministry of Defense in relation to port security.

MI6 has started to pass on more intelligence information to the country, while France is also providing assistance in the form of firearms training to the police.

It’s not just the main transport hubs and authorities which have been targeted by these advancements in security though. For example, counter-terrorism detectives from the Metropolitan Police have traveled to train hotel staff and help them identify what “suspicious” activity really looks like.

Then, if we turn to the beach itself where the tragedy took place, this is now heavily guarded. In some areas, over 60 CCTV cameras are in place, while the police are on standby in case of any disturbances.

The patrols along borders are much more extensive as well. For example, at Ras Ajdir, 10% of vehicles are searched based on profiling. This profile involves American X-ray scanners, which are able to see inside the vehicle. Clearly, this offers a huge security advantage.

On the subject of America, alongside Germany they have been able to help Tunisia build a 120km wall which runs alongside the Libyan frontier. They are also looking to introduce drone patrols to heighten security in this area.

All of this means that Britain is satisfied that Tunisia is a safe place to visit, and actually encourages its people to make the trip and enjoy its fabulous culture.

Tunisian Tourism Opening its Door Back to The UK

uk tourists back to tunisia

For years, Tunisia was a tourist hotspot for the UK. Tour operators around the country could market and sell trips to Tunisia at ease; it had the weather, the beaches and of course fantastic culture.

Then, everything changed. The moment an ISIS gunman stepped onto a beach and killed 38 people, the tourism market effectively shut down. It shut down to such an extent that the Foreign Office even advised against travel there, as the risk of further terrorism attacks occurring was so high.

Since then, you have had to search high and low to find any tourist on vacation. Fortunately, several years on from the deadly event, things seem to be changing. Tour operators are starting to open up Tunisia back to the UK market, and this is hopefully the start of a long-awaited return for the Tunisian tourism industry.

 

The attack that changed it all

In 2015, a Tunisian jihadist walked onto a beach in Sousse, with an assault rifle disguised in a parasol. From then on, the events are catastrophic. 38 people, with 30 of these said to be Britons, were shot dead.

In the midst of it all, the police took an age to arrive. Local Tunisians tried their upmost to stop him from causing more destruction, going as far as forming a human shield to stop him progressing to other resorts.

In the end, the man behind the attack, Sifeddine Rezgui, was forced into a backstreet. The police shot him dead and as a reminder to all, the bullet holes are clearly visible in the wall that provided the backdrop for the finale.

While this is the attack that might have captured the headlines, it’s also worth mentioning that Tunisia was targeted just three months prior to this at the Bardo Museum in Tunis. On that occasion, 22 people died.

While Tunisia could hardly be classed as a peaceful country following the 2011 Revolution, to say that it shocked the nation would be a gross understatement. To put the impact on tourism into perspective; in 2014 the country accepted 430,000 visitors from Britain. If we look at the figures from last year, this was down to 28,000.

 

2018 is the year where normality is returning

Fortunately, nearly three years on from the tragedy, things look to be on the mend. Sure, it’s going to take a significant amount of time before the hundreds of thousands of visitors that regularly trekked to Tunisia are back there.

However, one of the UK’s largest operators, Thomas Cook, is preparing to launch flights from Manchester, Birmingham and Gatwick again. Furthermore, all of these flights are fully booked. Then, if we turn to another operator, TUI, they are preparing to relaunch in May this year.

Of course, it’s not all good news. While this is certainly promising, in the case of Thomas Cook, it is still expecting just one quarter of the people who traveled to Tunisia in 2014.

 

The advancements of Tunisian security

The main reason tour operators are regaining confidence in Tunisia is because of the huge advancements in the country’s security. It’s advanced to such an extent that the UK’s Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre has even recommended that the Foreign Office lift their travel restriction to the country.

These security advancements arrive in multiple forms as well. For example, Britain has played a huge role in helping the country redo their entire security systems at the country’s major airports including Tunis, Monastir, Djerba and Enfidha. As part of this work, they have installed explosive detection systems, while the National Guard has been aided by the Ministry of Defense in relation to port security.

MI6 has started to pass on more intelligence information to the country, while France is also providing assistance in the form of firearms training to the police.

It’s not just the main transport hubs and authorities which have been targeted by these advancements in security though. For example, counter-terrorism detectives from the Metropolitan Police have traveled to train hotel staff and help them identify what “suspicious” activity really looks like.

Then, if we turn to the beach itself where the tragedy took place, this is now heavily guarded. In some areas, over 60 CCTV cameras are in place, while the police are on standby in case of any disturbances.

The patrols along borders are much more extensive as well. For example, at Ras Ajdir, 10% of vehicles are searched based on profiling. This profile involves American X-ray scanners, which are able to see inside the vehicle. Clearly, this offers a huge security advantage.

On the subject of America, alongside Germany they have been able to help Tunisia build a 120km wall which runs alongside the Libyan frontier. They are also looking to introduce drone patrols to heighten security in this area.

All of this means that Britain is satisfied that Tunisia is a safe place to visit, and actually encourages its people to make the trip and enjoy its fabulous culture.

How Tunisia Is Struggling To Form An Economic Stronghold

economy tunisia

While there are some work and on-going efforts being put into reforming the economic stronghold of the Tunisia government, there’s a lot of challenges present that all political parties involved must join together to solve.

The Prime Minister, Habib Essid is trying to put together some sensible and logical policies that work for everyone and help build a strong economy. The Prime Minister is running into three critical issues though that is halting the process.

 

#1 – The political instability of Tunisia is crippling to any efforts to form a working Democracy for the people. Political infighting among Tunisian officials is infamous and the people don’t quite know what to make of it. More people wish they could get involved and help out but the political parties involved seem more focused on fighting with each other rather than trying to come together to create a Democracy.

 

#2 – The security of Tunisia as a whole has come under scrutiny by not only Tunisian officials, but multiple countries around the world. The security of Tunisia was first questioned back in 2011 when the revolution began. There’s no easy approach or way to fix this either. The media loves making an example of Tunisia when a terror attack reaches their soil, despite terror attacks happening all over Europe which don’t primarily hurt their tourism efforts or economy.

 

#3 – Finally, there’s the social status of Tunisians and trying to make sure they’re better off. Economic growth is an absolute must if Tunisia wants to form a working Democracy for themselves and their people. Unemployment since the political turmoil has also been on the rise, so that’s one of the main challenges of the economic growth that the Prime Minister will have to address. You also have a lot of underprivileged people living in Tunisia who don’t have access to fair living standards and live well below the line of what can be seen as acceptable in any working Democracy.

 

All of these challenges aren’t lone challenges though, because they all seem to connect to each other and if the Prime Minister can even face one of these challenges, then they’ll be better off as solving one challenge would put a dent in the other two. The revolution was inspired by this feeling of hopelessness by the people and the high rate of unemployment.

People felt their government was letting them down and without work, they couldn’t support themselves or a family.

If you want to increase the security and the political landscape of Tunisia, you have to address every single issue listed above and that’s going to be a hard task for anyone who takes them on. The economy has been growing incredibly slow ever since the revolution and things aren’t looking too good for the future either. Growth in 2014 was at a staggering low of only 2.3%, which is vital to fix. The longer people remain unemployed and the longer people feel like they have no life in Tunisia, it could raise the risk of another full-blown revolution, which Tunisia can’t afford.

It’s not a surprise or a secret that Tunisia’s current economic model isn’t working and it’s actually getting worse. If you look at the growth numbers of Tunisia, it’s going to get lower if changes aren’t made soon. If you want a healthy economy, then the average growth rates for production and improvement should be at 5 or 6% at a minimum. This is when you start seeing a drop in the unemployment rating and the living standards of a country starts to rise. When a country progresses past a certain point after struggling, this is when you see a brand-new economy model take place that reshapes the country.

While Tunisia likes to brag about their market economy and embracing new technologies, like cryptocurrencies, bitcoin and ethereum, the evidence isn’t really there to support it. The problem with a good majority of the economy is that it’s state owned, which creates a huge host of problems. This is where corruption and capitalism starts to kick in, which is designed to milk people for all the money they have as long as they can get away with it. There’s a lot of challenges that are going to be present in the reformation of their government though, so this won’t be an overnight or a task that can be accomplished in several years.

While other countries have been more than willing to lend Tunisia a hand with financial aid in issues such as business and structural reformation, again, we’re faced with the same issue of political instability and fighting among politicians. The problem isn’t getting the aid needed, the problem is getting the approval of the local government to go ahead with these changes and do what’s necessary. Parliamentary approval in Tunisia is infamously hard to obtain, regardless of the issue at hand.

There are several drafts written and conducted for reforming things such as private business, partnerships, labor laws and investments in general but the main problem is getting parliament to agree or sign off on such changes. Three different banks in Tunisia hold a whopping 40% of the bank business in the country. This is a problem because it allows them to operate how they want without a lot of guidelines.

While there is some hope in the future as Tunisia plans their next big government reform, politicians promise that there’s going to be far more stability and that the structure of leadership will be clearly defined. Will it be enough? Will Tunisia finally put aside their differences and work together or will they accept the future of non-existent growth while they fade into bankruptcy?

How Tunisia Is Struggling To Form An Economic Stronghold

economy tunisia

While there are some work and on-going efforts being put into reforming the economic stronghold of the Tunisia government, there’s a lot of challenges present that all political parties involved must join together to solve.

The Prime Minister, Habib Essid is trying to put together some sensible and logical policies that work for everyone and help build a strong economy. The Prime Minister is running into three critical issues though that is halting the process.

 

#1 – The political instability of Tunisia is crippling to any efforts to form a working Democracy for the people. Political infighting among Tunisian officials is infamous and the people don’t quite know what to make of it. More people wish they could get involved and help out but the political parties involved seem more focused on fighting with each other rather than trying to come together to create a Democracy.

 

#2 – The security of Tunisia as a whole has come under scrutiny by not only Tunisian officials, but multiple countries around the world. The security of Tunisia was first questioned back in 2011 when the revolution began. There’s no easy approach or way to fix this either. The media loves making an example of Tunisia when a terror attack reaches their soil, despite terror attacks happening all over Europe which don’t primarily hurt their tourism efforts or economy.

 

#3 – Finally, there’s the social status of Tunisians and trying to make sure they’re better off. Economic growth is an absolute must if Tunisia wants to form a working Democracy for themselves and their people. Unemployment since the political turmoil has also been on the rise, so that’s one of the main challenges of the economic growth that the Prime Minister will have to address. You also have a lot of underprivileged people living in Tunisia who don’t have access to fair living standards and live well below the line of what can be seen as acceptable in any working Democracy.

 

All of these challenges aren’t lone challenges though, because they all seem to connect to each other and if the Prime Minister can even face one of these challenges, then they’ll be better off as solving one challenge would put a dent in the other two. The revolution was inspired by this feeling of hopelessness by the people and the high rate of unemployment.

People felt their government was letting them down and without work, they couldn’t support themselves or a family.

If you want to increase the security and the political landscape of Tunisia, you have to address every single issue listed above and that’s going to be a hard task for anyone who takes them on. The economy has been growing incredibly slow ever since the revolution and things aren’t looking too good for the future either. Growth in 2014 was at a staggering low of only 2.3%, which is vital to fix. The longer people remain unemployed and the longer people feel like they have no life in Tunisia, it could raise the risk of another full-blown revolution, which Tunisia can’t afford.

It’s not a surprise or a secret that Tunisia’s current economic model isn’t working and it’s actually getting worse. If you look at the growth numbers of Tunisia, it’s going to get lower if changes aren’t made soon. If you want a healthy economy, then the average growth rates for production and improvement should be at 5 or 6% at a minimum. This is when you start seeing a drop in the unemployment rating and the living standards of a country starts to rise. When a country progresses past a certain point after struggling, this is when you see a brand-new economy model take place that reshapes the country.

While Tunisia likes to brag about their market economy and embracing new technologies, like cryptocurrencies, bitcoin and ethereum, the evidence isn’t really there to support it. The problem with a good majority of the economy is that it’s state owned, which creates a huge host of problems. This is where corruption and capitalism starts to kick in, which is designed to milk people for all the money they have as long as they can get away with it. There’s a lot of challenges that are going to be present in the reformation of their government though, so this won’t be an overnight or a task that can be accomplished in several years.

While other countries have been more than willing to lend Tunisia a hand with financial aid in issues such as business and structural reformation, again, we’re faced with the same issue of political instability and fighting among politicians. The problem isn’t getting the aid needed, the problem is getting the approval of the local government to go ahead with these changes and do what’s necessary. Parliamentary approval in Tunisia is infamously hard to obtain, regardless of the issue at hand.

There are several drafts written and conducted for reforming things such as private business, partnerships, labor laws and investments in general but the main problem is getting parliament to agree or sign off on such changes. Three different banks in Tunisia hold a whopping 40% of the bank business in the country. This is a problem because it allows them to operate how they want without a lot of guidelines.

While there is some hope in the future as Tunisia plans their next big government reform, politicians promise that there’s going to be far more stability and that the structure of leadership will be clearly defined. Will it be enough? Will Tunisia finally put aside their differences and work together or will they accept the future of non-existent growth while they fade into bankruptcy?

Regulations And Protocols You Must Know Before Importing Your Pet To Tunisia

pet travel to tunisia

When travelling to another country, there’s going to be different standards, laws and regulations for pet owners. This can depend on your country of origin and what kind of pet you have. Some pets may not even be allowed into the country. It’s very vital and important to make sure you check ahead of time and get all the necessary documents filled out so you won’t run into any issues when you get to the airport and your pet arrives. Failure to do so, may result in the isolation of your pet in some countries and some countries may even put the pet down if it’s believed to be a threat.

Relocating a pet isn’t easy and it can be a long road if you don’t plan ahead. There are companies that do provide pet relocation consultations and services, so for the best possible outcome and to make sure you have everything you need, you may want to contact a company that provides these services and make sure they import to Tunisia.

A lot of countries in Europe will require pets to have a very specific model of microchip installed but Tunisia doesn’t require a microchip at all. Even though it’s not technically required, we highly recommend that you have a microchip in your pet in case your pet is lost and this will make it far easier to find the owner when the pet is found.

 

What if I’m Entering Tunisia By Air?

The only airport that pets may enter into Tunisia through is the Tunisia Carthage International Airport. You can either put your pet into the cabin, put them in air cargo or in some cases, they can be taken onto the plane as checked baggage. However, you should have any kind of identification signifying that is your pet handy with you at all times.

 

Parasites & Diseases

One of the key requirements is to make sure your pet is free of any diseases or parasites that can be transferred to humans. Under no circumstances will Tunisia allow a pet into the country that is found with any of these parasites, so this is requirement number one. You’ll be required to present an international health certificate which must be issued by a licensed veterinarian from the issuing country. This certificate will declare that your pet does not have any transferable diseases and is healthy for travelling.

 

Vaccinations

All of your pets should be vaccinated for rabies 30 days prior to entering into Tunisia. There’s two different places where you can prove the rabies vaccination: There’s a separate certificate or you can attach it to the immunization record that you are required to bring.

 

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora

If you have an unconventional pet that’s not considered a household common pet, you’ll want to make sure it’s not protected under the CITES act. Almost every country in the world participates in this act and if you do own a pet covered under the CITES act, you will more than likely need to contact Tunisian authorities to find out what further documentation or paperwork needs to be done, if they’re allowed into the country.

 

Pet Passport

All of the combined certificates will act as your pet’s passport when you enter into Tunisia and you shouldn’t lose them. When you come to Tunisia, you’ll more than likely want to land ahead of time of your pet because these requirements must be presented before they’ll let your pet into the country.

All of these requirements mainly apply to dogs and cats, the basic common household pets. However, if you have other pets like mammals, fish or birds, you won’t need to get a rabies vaccination. Even without the requirement of a rabies vaccination, you will still need to have a health certificate on hand that proves they are free of any diseases that would prohibit them from entry into Tunisia.

 

Rabies Titer Test

You don’t need to have a rabies titer test done to get your pet into Tunisia. This rule applies to any country of origin.

 

Do I Need an Import Permit?

No. You will not be required to show an import permit when your pet is travelling to Tunisia, as long as it’s a personal pet.

These requirements and regulations change all the time, so you may want to contact a pet relocation service to ensure your pet is safe for travel and that you meet all of the requirements to get your pet into Tunisia. Proper planning and finding out what you need a head of time can save you a hassle and a whole lot of headache. It’s too common in Europe that pet owners come unprepared without the required documents and their pets end up either being sent home or put into localized isolation for 30 days to verify they’re safe for the country.

Regulations And Protocols You Must Know Before Importing Your Pet To Tunisia

pet travel to tunisia

When travelling to another country, there’s going to be different standards, laws and regulations for pet owners. This can depend on your country of origin and what kind of pet you have. Some pets may not even be allowed into the country. It’s very vital and important to make sure you check ahead of time and get all the necessary documents filled out so you won’t run into any issues when you get to the airport and your pet arrives. Failure to do so, may result in the isolation of your pet in some countries and some countries may even put the pet down if it’s believed to be a threat.

Relocating a pet isn’t easy and it can be a long road if you don’t plan ahead. There are companies that do provide pet relocation consultations and services, so for the best possible outcome and to make sure you have everything you need, you may want to contact a company that provides these services and make sure they import to Tunisia.

A lot of countries in Europe will require pets to have a very specific model of microchip installed but Tunisia doesn’t require a microchip at all. Even though it’s not technically required, we highly recommend that you have a microchip in your pet in case your pet is lost and this will make it far easier to find the owner when the pet is found.

 

What if I’m Entering Tunisia By Air?

The only airport that pets may enter into Tunisia through is the Tunisia Carthage International Airport. You can either put your pet into the cabin, put them in air cargo or in some cases, they can be taken onto the plane as checked baggage. However, you should have any kind of identification signifying that is your pet handy with you at all times.

 

Parasites & Diseases

One of the key requirements is to make sure your pet is free of any diseases or parasites that can be transferred to humans. Under no circumstances will Tunisia allow a pet into the country that is found with any of these parasites, so this is requirement number one. You’ll be required to present an international health certificate which must be issued by a licensed veterinarian from the issuing country. This certificate will declare that your pet does not have any transferable diseases and is healthy for travelling.

 

Vaccinations

All of your pets should be vaccinated for rabies 30 days prior to entering into Tunisia. There’s two different places where you can prove the rabies vaccination: There’s a separate certificate or you can attach it to the immunization record that you are required to bring.

 

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora

If you have an unconventional pet that’s not considered a household common pet, you’ll want to make sure it’s not protected under the CITES act. Almost every country in the world participates in this act and if you do own a pet covered under the CITES act, you will more than likely need to contact Tunisian authorities to find out what further documentation or paperwork needs to be done, if they’re allowed into the country.

 

Pet Passport

All of the combined certificates will act as your pet’s passport when you enter into Tunisia and you shouldn’t lose them. When you come to Tunisia, you’ll more than likely want to land ahead of time of your pet because these requirements must be presented before they’ll let your pet into the country.

All of these requirements mainly apply to dogs and cats, the basic common household pets. However, if you have other pets like mammals, fish or birds, you won’t need to get a rabies vaccination. Even without the requirement of a rabies vaccination, you will still need to have a health certificate on hand that proves they are free of any diseases that would prohibit them from entry into Tunisia.

 

Rabies Titer Test

You don’t need to have a rabies titer test done to get your pet into Tunisia. This rule applies to any country of origin.

 

Do I Need an Import Permit?

No. You will not be required to show an import permit when your pet is travelling to Tunisia, as long as it’s a personal pet.

These requirements and regulations change all the time, so you may want to contact a pet relocation service to ensure your pet is safe for travel and that you meet all of the requirements to get your pet into Tunisia. Proper planning and finding out what you need a head of time can save you a hassle and a whole lot of headache. It’s too common in Europe that pet owners come unprepared without the required documents and their pets end up either being sent home or put into localized isolation for 30 days to verify they’re safe for the country.

Is Tunisia’s labor union really successful?

Any organization that comes away with a Nobel Peace Prize is naturally going to claim the plaudits – and that’s exactly what happened with the Tunisian General Labor Union (UGTT), back in 2015.

Being the centerpiece of a turbulent transition period following protests in 2011, the group were hailed as they aided the country’s economic development.

However, questions are now being asked on whether or not the UGTT really can do its own job correctly. Let’s not forget, this is a labor union. As such, while it did play a key role in the recent transitional period, it also needs to prove that it can succeed in resolving Tunisia’s biggest economic problems.

 

What is the nature of the economic problems in Tunisia?

The economic situation in Tunisia simple; from an unemployment point of view, it’s worse than before the revolution. The rate of unemployment currently stands at 15%, while even more worrying is that over 50% of individuals who are college educated are not in work.

From a nation satisfaction point of view, a survey has revealed that 86% of nationals say that the economy is bad, or somewhat bad.

Additionally, people in the poorer parts of the country are becoming increasingly frustrated. It was only toward the end of January where protests occurred – with people taking to the streets to call for improvement in the economy. Since then, emergency measures have been promised and the situation has eased – but one has to wonder how long this can continue.

 

What is the problem that the UGTT face?

In an ideal world, the UGTT would perform its job of attempting to protect its members. It’s worth mentioning that it is traditionally a labor union for working and middle-class people.

Of course, throughout the recent turbulent period, it has been forced to take on far more roles. Its Nobel Peace Prize came following its work to preserve the Tunisian economy through the transition – and this is the main problem that troubles the organization. On one hand it is regarded as the union that will represent the working and middle-class, but on the other it needs to do something to preserve the economy and ultimately encourage work for the younger members of society.

As we’ve already shown, the employment situation in Tunisia is far from ideal – and is disastrous in educated youths. In other words, the UGTT is doing its principle job of protecting its members – but can this continue if they attempt to play more of a political figure and ultimately improve the youth employment situation?

To make matters even more difficult, the working and middle classes are by no means in safe positions. Much of these classes have jobs based in the public sector and understandably, following the revolution and other infamous incidents that have hit Tunisia, this is an area which has the potential to suffer. The public sector is at risk of being hit by budget cuts as politicians attempt to stabilize other areas of the country and as such, the UGTT still needs a plan to protect its core membership.

 

What has the UGTT achieved?

In amongst all of the uncertainty, one should not forget that the UGTT has still achieved plenty over time.

Let’s not forget that this is an organization that has been around since before Tunisia existed and played a significant part as the country broke away from the rule of France. Additionally, during the dictatorship era under Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali, the UGTT was known to “play on both sides”. In other words, whilst still being a loyal component of the regime, it still managed to offer a layer of protection to the people. It means that the UGTT, since its formation, has always had to deal with multiple roles and balance them accordingly.

In terms of specific achievements, they have unquestionably been successful. For many years the labor brokerage system was corrupt to say the least – and this has been improved drastically thanks to the UGTT. Elsewhere, there are far fewer employees on short-term and insecure contracts, while the minimum wage has at least increased in the public sector.

 

What’s next for the UGTT?

If we cast our minds back to July 2015, the Deputy Secretary General of the UGTT, Belgacem Ayari, set out ambitions for the organization. They included improving the labor code so it resembled those adopted by most other countries, making more provisions for gender parity and clauses to dissuade employers from abruptly terminating contracts.

Ultimately, it’s clear that the UGTT appears to be switching its focus even more and becoming that political force that has been mentioned.

However, with unemployment levels barely moving over recent years and causing protests, many would suggest they are failing in this regard. Additionally, with many illegal activities such as smuggling starting to blight the interior of Tunisia, it prompts yet more problems for the organization and one has to question which direction they are going to turn next.

Is Tunisia’s labor union really successful?

Any organization that comes away with a Nobel Peace Prize is naturally going to claim the plaudits – and that’s exactly what happened with the Tunisian General Labor Union (UGTT), back in 2015.

Being the centerpiece of a turbulent transition period following protests in 2011, the group were hailed as they aided the country’s economic development.

However, questions are now being asked on whether or not the UGTT really can do its own job correctly. Let’s not forget, this is a labor union. As such, while it did play a key role in the recent transitional period, it also needs to prove that it can succeed in resolving Tunisia’s biggest economic problems.

 

What is the nature of the economic problems in Tunisia?

The economic situation in Tunisia simple; from an unemployment point of view, it’s worse than before the revolution. The rate of unemployment currently stands at 15%, while even more worrying is that over 50% of individuals who are college educated are not in work.

From a nation satisfaction point of view, a survey has revealed that 86% of nationals say that the economy is bad, or somewhat bad.

Additionally, people in the poorer parts of the country are becoming increasingly frustrated. It was only toward the end of January where protests occurred – with people taking to the streets to call for improvement in the economy. Since then, emergency measures have been promised and the situation has eased – but one has to wonder how long this can continue.

 

What is the problem that the UGTT face?

In an ideal world, the UGTT would perform its job of attempting to protect its members. It’s worth mentioning that it is traditionally a labor union for working and middle-class people.

Of course, throughout the recent turbulent period, it has been forced to take on far more roles. Its Nobel Peace Prize came following its work to preserve the Tunisian economy through the transition – and this is the main problem that troubles the organization. On one hand it is regarded as the union that will represent the working and middle-class, but on the other it needs to do something to preserve the economy and ultimately encourage work for the younger members of society.

As we’ve already shown, the employment situation in Tunisia is far from ideal – and is disastrous in educated youths. In other words, the UGTT is doing its principle job of protecting its members – but can this continue if they attempt to play more of a political figure and ultimately improve the youth employment situation?

To make matters even more difficult, the working and middle classes are by no means in safe positions. Much of these classes have jobs based in the public sector and understandably, following the revolution and other infamous incidents that have hit Tunisia, this is an area which has the potential to suffer. The public sector is at risk of being hit by budget cuts as politicians attempt to stabilize other areas of the country and as such, the UGTT still needs a plan to protect its core membership.

 

What has the UGTT achieved?

In amongst all of the uncertainty, one should not forget that the UGTT has still achieved plenty over time.

Let’s not forget that this is an organization that has been around since before Tunisia existed and played a significant part as the country broke away from the rule of France. Additionally, during the dictatorship era under Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali, the UGTT was known to “play on both sides”. In other words, whilst still being a loyal component of the regime, it still managed to offer a layer of protection to the people. It means that the UGTT, since its formation, has always had to deal with multiple roles and balance them accordingly.

In terms of specific achievements, they have unquestionably been successful. For many years the labor brokerage system was corrupt to say the least – and this has been improved drastically thanks to the UGTT. Elsewhere, there are far fewer employees on short-term and insecure contracts, while the minimum wage has at least increased in the public sector.

 

What’s next for the UGTT?

If we cast our minds back to July 2015, the Deputy Secretary General of the UGTT, Belgacem Ayari, set out ambitions for the organization. They included improving the labor code so it resembled those adopted by most other countries, making more provisions for gender parity and clauses to dissuade employers from abruptly terminating contracts.

Ultimately, it’s clear that the UGTT appears to be switching its focus even more and becoming that political force that has been mentioned.

However, with unemployment levels barely moving over recent years and causing protests, many would suggest they are failing in this regard. Additionally, with many illegal activities such as smuggling starting to blight the interior of Tunisia, it prompts yet more problems for the organization and one has to question which direction they are going to turn next.

Health & Safety Advice When Travelling to Tunisia

It would be fair to say that Tunisia has become one of the most sought-after travel destinations, with its exotic weather, sandy beaches and cultural attractions making it a firm favourite amongst a huge audience of travellers.

This also happens to be a country which has developed significantly over the years. Despite this, one should not be under the impression that Tunisia is completely safe for the foreign traveller.

Anyone who is set to visit the country will become susceptible to various infections, while the medical care that’s on offer isn’t generally as renowned as what most of us are used to.

All of the above means that a lot of precautions have to be taken before you even considering travelling to Tunisia. Therefore, whether you are a man, woman, pregnant woman or child – read our following guide to find all of the essential information you need to take on board to stay safe in Tunisia, and what to do if something does go wrong.

 

What is the general advice before travelling to Tunisia?

travel to tunisia

The general advice associated with travelling to Tunisia is probably the same as any other country you will visit. For example, first and foremost you will need to bring all of your medications, labelled appropriately.

You should also carry a signed and dated letter from your fitness instructor and your physician stating all of your medical conditions, in case any procedures need to be carried out during your stay.

In relation to health insurance, you will need to ensure that this covers your medical expenses abroad. This is something that a lot of travellers have been tripped up by in the past and without any form of finance or proof of insurance, it’s not been unheard of for care to be refused.

Elsewhere, basic advice such as taking a personal medical kit should be followed. This advice should be tailored to the country you are visiting, to alleviate some of the main conditions that are experienced there.

Finally, it should go without saying not to take any unnecessary risks. This can relate to animals, whereby it’s completely inadvisable to have any contact with stray dogs for example.

Or, it could relate to something completely different – such as sexual encounters. Like anywhere, the advice here is to always wear condoms to protect against possible infection.

 

What is the most common travel-related ailment in Tunisia?

disease

The most common ailment that is reported when travelling to Tunisia is Travellers’ diarrhea. This is mainly due to the risks that are associated with the food and drink in the country – which is something we will move onto in further detail shortly.

Bearing the above in mind, the general advice is for travellers to take an antidiarrheal drug to the country. It’s worth mentioning that diarrhea is defined when at least three loose stools occur in an eight hour period. As well as the antibiotics, medical experts recommend drinking a lot of fluids.

Should the symptoms be accompanied with a fever, or if the diarrhoea contains traces of blood, it’s recommended to seek medical attention.

 

What precautions should be taken in relation to food and water?

take precaution

Following on from the above section, it is worth highlighting some of the main precautions that should be taken in relation to the food and water – two factors that are not just behind diarrhoea, but also some of the more serious conditions that will be looked at in-depth throughout this guide.

Like most foreign countries, it is not recommended to drink the tap water in Tunisia unless it has been treated appropriately. This means that it has to be boiled, chemically disinfected or filtered for it to be fit for consumption.

Elsewhere, any drinks that are accompanied with ice should be avoided as there is a high probability that they have been formed by water that has not been treated accordingly.

Unfortunately, there are similarly tight guidelines on the food that can be consumed in the country as well.

For example, it is not advisable to consume fruits or vegetables which have not been peeled or cooked, while any food that is available from street vendors should be avoided as well. Elsewhere, the standard food guidelines that don most countries should be adhered to, including the following:

  • Avoiding any food which isn’t piping hot.
  • Avoiding any food which has been made from unpasteurized milk.
  • Avoiding raw or undercooked meat or fish.
    –

What immunizations are recommended prior to travelling to the country?

vaccination tunisia travel

Before travelling to the country, travellers are advised to receive several immunisations. Everyone who visits Tunisia should ensure that they have received vaccinations against the following:

· Hepatitis A: Anyone who is over one year of age should ensure that they receive this vaccination, at least two weeks before travel. It is also advisable to receive a booster 6-12 months later, while side effects for the Hepatitis A vaccine are classed as mild and rarely prompt anything worse than a headache.

· Hepatitis B: While there are slightly fewer risk factors associated with Hepatitis B, it is still recommended to be given to anyone travelling to Tunisia. At the moment, two versions of the vaccine are licensed in the United States and few side effects are ever reported.

· Typhoid: Typhoid is also transmitted via food and water, meaning that it is another vaccine that is thoroughly recommended to all travellers. Unlike Hepatitis A, this is usually given in oral form and again, the side effects are not significant. There is also an injectable Typhoid vaccine, although this is generally given to young children as the oral capsule is not recommended for anyone under six years of age.

· Measles: Following an outbreak of Measles in 2002, this is another recommended vaccine for most visitors. If you were born after 1956 and don’t have at least two documented measles immunizations, the authorities suggest receiving the vaccination before travel.

· Routine Vaccinations: It is also recommended that all travellers have all of the routine immunizations in their history. These include the Tetanus-diphtheria vaccine, which should also be given if you have not received an immunization within the past decade. Varicella for chickenpox is recommended as well.

While the above are required by all travellers, there are also vaccinations whereby the rules are somewhat more relaxed. For example, the Yellow fever vaccine is required for any traveller who is arriving from a country which has been infected in Africa or the Americas in the past.

It is not recommended to give a Yellow fever vaccine to any child younger than six months of age, while you should also consult a medical professional if you are above 60-years-old, pregnant or breastfeeding. If you do require this vaccination, you will need to obtain a fully validated International Certificate of Vaccination to show to the Tunisian authorities.

Another optional vaccination is the one for Rabies. This is only recommended if you are planning to spend a lot of your holiday in the outdoors, where you might be more susceptible to animal bites.

 

Are there any infections to be wary of that are not covered by immunizations?

Unfortunately, there are other infections that travellers should be made aware of – with these not covered by the recommended course of immunizations.

Firstly, while the risk is exceptionally low, an outbreak of MERS-CoV (Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus) was reported only several years ago in 2003. Due to the fact that this was passed between members of a family, it’s understood that this is transmitted via person-to-person contact. It is caused by the common cold and the general advice to reduce the risks is to take adequate hygiene provisions – such as washing your hands frequently with either soap or an alcohol-based sanitizer.

This isn’t the only concern through travel to Tunisia though. West Nile Virus is probably the other most prominent one, with no fewer than 37 cases being reported in 2012. This is transmitted via mosquito bites and has been known to cause death in the past.

Other conditions that can be picked up in the country include Brucellosis, Tick-born relapsing fever, onchocerciasis, cutaneous leishmaniasis and lymphatic filariasis. There have also been instances of HIV, although the risks are very low unless you engage in unprotected sex or receive injections via an infected needle.

 

What is the advice in relation to children?

Due to the fact that certain vaccinations are not recommended for children (with hepatitis A and typhoid fever being typical examples as they are not advised to be given to children under the age of two), there are slightly more risk factors.

Starting with the hepatitis A and typhoid risk, this means that you need to be particularly careful not to allow your child to come into contact with any food or drink that could cause infection. As we’ve already touched upon in the food and drink section of this guide, basic precautions need to be taken and common sense is absolutely paramount to reduce the risks.

However, apart from the typhoid and hepatitis A immunizations, all others should be up-to-date. To refresh one’s memory, these immunizations should be broken down like the following:

  • · Children aged over 12 months should have received 2 doses of MMR, before travel.
    · Children aged between six and eleven months should be given a single dose of the measles vaccine.
    · It is sometimes recommended for additional immunizations to be given ahead of the normal schedule. You should consult with your physician about this before travel.

 

What is the advice given to pregnant women?

Unsurprisingly, the advice given to pregnant women is very similar as to if you were visiting any other country. It’s generally advisable to avoid international travel if you have any underlying medical complaints, or if you’ve even suffered complications in a previous pregnancy.

Most doctors state that travel is completely safe, amongst those women who aren’t at risk, between 18 and 24 weeks. In the latter part of the pregnancy, the third trimester, travel should be avoided at all costs – not least because of the uncomfortable nature of delivering in a foreign country.

You should also look to take even more care in relation to food and water. This is because some of the infections which can be passed through such mediums, like listeriosis, have been known to have terrible consequences on a developing foetus.

Additionally, it should be stated that even though diarrhoea is one of the most common complaints for people traveling to Tunisia, most medications used to treat this condition are not advisable for pregnant women. In other words, you should scrutinise the medication information before even considering it.

 

How should insects and ticks be guarded against?

insects

The standard guidelines apply for the protection against insect and ticks in Tunisia. It’s advisable to wear long sleeves and trousers, whilst protecting the head and feet with hats and proper shoes respectively.

If you happen to be venturing into rural areas, this advice could span as much as suggesting that you tuck your trousers into your boots to guard against tick bites.

In addition to the above, insect replants should be applied to exposed skin.

 

Are there any suggestions in relation to bathing and swimming?

swimming poo

To reduce the chances of schistosomiasis and health problems occurring, avoid venturing into any lakes, fresh water or ponds. Additionally, do not consider using fresh water for showering unless it has been heating to 150 degrees for at least five minutes before use.

How can the emergency services be contacted in Tunisia, and what are general medical facilities like?

In case of an emergency, the ambulance in Tunisian can be contacted by calling 190.

In general the medical facilities in the country are acceptable and will be able to treat any routine problem. However, some specialized treatments might not be available and in these cases you may be flown to a country which has better services.

It’s worth noting that the majority of hospitals expect cash payments, even if you have the relevant travel insurance. It means that you are expected to pay yourself, before resolving the issue with your insurance provider at a later date.

Health & Safety Advice When Travelling to Tunisia

It would be fair to say that Tunisia has become one of the most sought-after travel destinations, with its exotic weather, sandy beaches and cultural attractions making it a firm favourite amongst a huge audience of travellers.

This also happens to be a country which has developed significantly over the years. Despite this, one should not be under the impression that Tunisia is completely safe for the foreign traveller.

Anyone who is set to visit the country will become susceptible to various infections, while the medical care that’s on offer isn’t generally as renowned as what most of us are used to.

All of the above means that a lot of precautions have to be taken before you even considering travelling to Tunisia. Therefore, whether you are a man, woman, pregnant woman or child – read our following guide to find all of the essential information you need to take on board to stay safe in Tunisia, and what to do if something does go wrong.

 

What is the general advice before travelling to Tunisia?

travel to tunisia

The general advice associated with travelling to Tunisia is probably the same as any other country you will visit. For example, first and foremost you will need to bring all of your medications, labelled appropriately.

You should also carry a signed and dated letter from your fitness instructor and your physician stating all of your medical conditions, in case any procedures need to be carried out during your stay.

In relation to health insurance, you will need to ensure that this covers your medical expenses abroad. This is something that a lot of travellers have been tripped up by in the past and without any form of finance or proof of insurance, it’s not been unheard of for care to be refused.

Elsewhere, basic advice such as taking a personal medical kit should be followed. This advice should be tailored to the country you are visiting, to alleviate some of the main conditions that are experienced there.

Finally, it should go without saying not to take any unnecessary risks. This can relate to animals, whereby it’s completely inadvisable to have any contact with stray dogs for example.

Or, it could relate to something completely different – such as sexual encounters. Like anywhere, the advice here is to always wear condoms to protect against possible infection.

 

What is the most common travel-related ailment in Tunisia?

disease

The most common ailment that is reported when travelling to Tunisia is Travellers’ diarrhea. This is mainly due to the risks that are associated with the food and drink in the country – which is something we will move onto in further detail shortly.

Bearing the above in mind, the general advice is for travellers to take an antidiarrheal drug to the country. It’s worth mentioning that diarrhea is defined when at least three loose stools occur in an eight hour period. As well as the antibiotics, medical experts recommend drinking a lot of fluids.

Should the symptoms be accompanied with a fever, or if the diarrhoea contains traces of blood, it’s recommended to seek medical attention.

 

What precautions should be taken in relation to food and water?

take precaution

Following on from the above section, it is worth highlighting some of the main precautions that should be taken in relation to the food and water – two factors that are not just behind diarrhoea, but also some of the more serious conditions that will be looked at in-depth throughout this guide.

Like most foreign countries, it is not recommended to drink the tap water in Tunisia unless it has been treated appropriately. This means that it has to be boiled, chemically disinfected or filtered for it to be fit for consumption.

Elsewhere, any drinks that are accompanied with ice should be avoided as there is a high probability that they have been formed by water that has not been treated accordingly.

Unfortunately, there are similarly tight guidelines on the food that can be consumed in the country as well.

For example, it is not advisable to consume fruits or vegetables which have not been peeled or cooked, while any food that is available from street vendors should be avoided as well. Elsewhere, the standard food guidelines that don most countries should be adhered to, including the following:

  • Avoiding any food which isn’t piping hot.
  • Avoiding any food which has been made from unpasteurized milk.
  • Avoiding raw or undercooked meat or fish.
    –

What immunizations are recommended prior to travelling to the country?

vaccination tunisia travel

Before travelling to the country, travellers are advised to receive several immunisations. Everyone who visits Tunisia should ensure that they have received vaccinations against the following:

· Hepatitis A: Anyone who is over one year of age should ensure that they receive this vaccination, at least two weeks before travel. It is also advisable to receive a booster 6-12 months later, while side effects for the Hepatitis A vaccine are classed as mild and rarely prompt anything worse than a headache.

· Hepatitis B: While there are slightly fewer risk factors associated with Hepatitis B, it is still recommended to be given to anyone travelling to Tunisia. At the moment, two versions of the vaccine are licensed in the United States and few side effects are ever reported.

· Typhoid: Typhoid is also transmitted via food and water, meaning that it is another vaccine that is thoroughly recommended to all travellers. Unlike Hepatitis A, this is usually given in oral form and again, the side effects are not significant. There is also an injectable Typhoid vaccine, although this is generally given to young children as the oral capsule is not recommended for anyone under six years of age.

· Measles: Following an outbreak of Measles in 2002, this is another recommended vaccine for most visitors. If you were born after 1956 and don’t have at least two documented measles immunizations, the authorities suggest receiving the vaccination before travel.

· Routine Vaccinations: It is also recommended that all travellers have all of the routine immunizations in their history. These include the Tetanus-diphtheria vaccine, which should also be given if you have not received an immunization within the past decade. Varicella for chickenpox is recommended as well.

While the above are required by all travellers, there are also vaccinations whereby the rules are somewhat more relaxed. For example, the Yellow fever vaccine is required for any traveller who is arriving from a country which has been infected in Africa or the Americas in the past.

It is not recommended to give a Yellow fever vaccine to any child younger than six months of age, while you should also consult a medical professional if you are above 60-years-old, pregnant or breastfeeding. If you do require this vaccination, you will need to obtain a fully validated International Certificate of Vaccination to show to the Tunisian authorities.

Another optional vaccination is the one for Rabies. This is only recommended if you are planning to spend a lot of your holiday in the outdoors, where you might be more susceptible to animal bites.

 

Are there any infections to be wary of that are not covered by immunizations?

Unfortunately, there are other infections that travellers should be made aware of – with these not covered by the recommended course of immunizations.

Firstly, while the risk is exceptionally low, an outbreak of MERS-CoV (Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus) was reported only several years ago in 2003. Due to the fact that this was passed between members of a family, it’s understood that this is transmitted via person-to-person contact. It is caused by the common cold and the general advice to reduce the risks is to take adequate hygiene provisions – such as washing your hands frequently with either soap or an alcohol-based sanitizer.

This isn’t the only concern through travel to Tunisia though. West Nile Virus is probably the other most prominent one, with no fewer than 37 cases being reported in 2012. This is transmitted via mosquito bites and has been known to cause death in the past.

Other conditions that can be picked up in the country include Brucellosis, Tick-born relapsing fever, onchocerciasis, cutaneous leishmaniasis and lymphatic filariasis. There have also been instances of HIV, although the risks are very low unless you engage in unprotected sex or receive injections via an infected needle.

 

What is the advice in relation to children?

Due to the fact that certain vaccinations are not recommended for children (with hepatitis A and typhoid fever being typical examples as they are not advised to be given to children under the age of two), there are slightly more risk factors.

Starting with the hepatitis A and typhoid risk, this means that you need to be particularly careful not to allow your child to come into contact with any food or drink that could cause infection. As we’ve already touched upon in the food and drink section of this guide, basic precautions need to be taken and common sense is absolutely paramount to reduce the risks.

However, apart from the typhoid and hepatitis A immunizations, all others should be up-to-date. To refresh one’s memory, these immunizations should be broken down like the following:

  • · Children aged over 12 months should have received 2 doses of MMR, before travel.
    · Children aged between six and eleven months should be given a single dose of the measles vaccine.
    · It is sometimes recommended for additional immunizations to be given ahead of the normal schedule. You should consult with your physician about this before travel.

 

What is the advice given to pregnant women?

Unsurprisingly, the advice given to pregnant women is very similar as to if you were visiting any other country. It’s generally advisable to avoid international travel if you have any underlying medical complaints, or if you’ve even suffered complications in a previous pregnancy.

Most doctors state that travel is completely safe, amongst those women who aren’t at risk, between 18 and 24 weeks. In the latter part of the pregnancy, the third trimester, travel should be avoided at all costs – not least because of the uncomfortable nature of delivering in a foreign country.

You should also look to take even more care in relation to food and water. This is because some of the infections which can be passed through such mediums, like listeriosis, have been known to have terrible consequences on a developing foetus.

Additionally, it should be stated that even though diarrhoea is one of the most common complaints for people traveling to Tunisia, most medications used to treat this condition are not advisable for pregnant women. In other words, you should scrutinise the medication information before even considering it.

 

How should insects and ticks be guarded against?

insects

The standard guidelines apply for the protection against insect and ticks in Tunisia. It’s advisable to wear long sleeves and trousers, whilst protecting the head and feet with hats and proper shoes respectively.

If you happen to be venturing into rural areas, this advice could span as much as suggesting that you tuck your trousers into your boots to guard against tick bites.

In addition to the above, insect replants should be applied to exposed skin.

 

Are there any suggestions in relation to bathing and swimming?

swimming poo

To reduce the chances of schistosomiasis and health problems occurring, avoid venturing into any lakes, fresh water or ponds. Additionally, do not consider using fresh water for showering unless it has been heating to 150 degrees for at least five minutes before use.

How can the emergency services be contacted in Tunisia, and what are general medical facilities like?

In case of an emergency, the ambulance in Tunisian can be contacted by calling 190.

In general the medical facilities in the country are acceptable and will be able to treat any routine problem. However, some specialized treatments might not be available and in these cases you may be flown to a country which has better services.

It’s worth noting that the majority of hospitals expect cash payments, even if you have the relevant travel insurance. It means that you are expected to pay yourself, before resolving the issue with your insurance provider at a later date.

Best Tunisia Day Trips

On first glance, Tunisia might look like “another” of those countries with hot temperatures and sandy beaches. To those who study it closely, it’s so much more.

This is a country which is engulfed in history, culture and just general interest. It has umpteen attractions and landmarks, many of which are known and recognised across the world, and this makes it open to a wide array of tourists.

Of course, finding the time to cram all of these landmarks into one trip can be daunting to say the least. This is one of the reasons why arranged tours have become so popular in the country, as we take a look at five of the est excursions you can go on when you land in Tunisia.

 

Classic Safari Tour from Hammamet – 3 Days

sahara tunisia 1

This first trip is for those who really want to extract the most from their trip and have the time to dedicate several days to the experience. It focusses on the best of the Sahara, although it starts off in the popular tourist destination of El Jem, where visitors can feast their eyes on some of the greatest landmarks in Tunisia such as the amphitheatre. As well as being the third largest in the world, this also happens to be one of the most preserved around, with many festivals often being held there.

The first day then progresses onto Matmata, with this being a cave-like village that was actually one of the scenes for the first films of the Star Wars franchise in 1976.

Following a three course lunch, the last experience of the day sees you start your journey into the Sahara. This happens in Douz and with this being one of the most traditional villages in Tunisia (it even has a camel market), it brings yet more culture into day one.

Following an overnight stay in Douz, the tour commences to Chott El Jerid. This is one of the most picturesque sights that Tunisia promotes, with the salt lakes leaving a cloud of evaporated salt that is eventually used commercially across Europe.

From this point on, the day starts to become a little more relaxed. The group will travel to Tozeur, also known as the capital of the palm tree country, and one of the most architecturally-unique places in Tunisia. It’s here where you’ll have lunch and the opportunity to just explore Tozeur.

The third and final day sees you venture into the mountains in Chebika and Tamerza. All of these destinations are trading posts and as well as prompting some fantastic views, it adds to the overall culture for this tour as well.

The last stop of the tour is in Kairouan, with this arguably being the religious capital of the country. It has no fewer than 100 mosques, including the Great Mosque, while there are other attractions to explore such as water reservoirs and the Medina.

 

Sahara Explorer from Hammamet – 2 Days

sahara tunisia 2

As the name suggests, this trip is slightly shorter than the previous one although still manages to condense some of Tunisia’s prize attractions in. For example, day one is comprised identically, with trips to El Jem, Matmata and Douz all being included in the tour.

In fact, the second day of the tour is also very similar. It progresses via the famous salt lakes at Chott El Jerid, before then progressing to Tozeur. It’s at this point that the trip takes a little bit of a different turn and instead of visiting the mountains of Chebika and Tamerza, the group will progress directly to Kairouan to see all of the religious sights.

Like with the first expedition, this two day trip still includes all meals and for anyone who isn’t overall concerned about visiting the mountain area of the country, it could be an option.

 

Tunis, Carthage and Sidi Bou Said Full Day Trip from Hammamet

sidi bou said

While the first couple of tours have taken a similar itinerary, the same cannot be said about this next one on our list. First and foremost this expedition lasts for just one day, but it’s the destinations that tourists visit which sets it apart from the previous ones we have looked at.

For starters, this tour begins in Carthage. This happens to be the first archaeological site that has been given UNESCO status, which is a reason in itself to visit. When you also realise that Carthage used to be the capital of the country and has several attractions (including another Tunisian amphitheatre), it certainly makes for a cultural start to the expedition.

Next, it’s on to Sidi Bou Said. This is yet another UNESCO protected site, and yet another destination that is hugely cultural. Celebrities will often visit, while the beauty of the local surroundings mean that it’s a favourite for artists and musicians as well.

Last on the list of this itinerary is Tunis, which is probably the most well-known destination of the tour. A walled city, this has everything that the typical tourist loves, from workshops, monuments to Souks. The Medina is also worth a mention and with this basking in Muslim, Turkish and Arab culture, it certainly brings a lot of variance to the tour.

 

Kairouan and El Jem Day Trip from Hammamet

kairouan

This next tour is also a full day trip but again takes a somewhat different turn. It takes visitors around a couple of the destinations that have already been explored through this guide, with Kairouan and El Jem being the places of interest.

No fewer than three hours is spent in the first stop in Kairouan. A guide will take visitors around the Great Mosque, Medina till Bab Ejjalladine, Mausoleum of Sidi Sahib and Aghlabid pools.

The afternoon is then dedicated to the famous El Jem. Unsurprisingly, the amphitheatre takes great precedence with this element of the trip, although the tour also deviates towards a local museum. This focusses on a collection of exquisite mosaics, alongside a fully restored private home dubbed “the house of Africa”.

A total of 90 minutes is spent exploring El Jem, giving visitors ample time to experience all of its wonders.

 

Panoramic Cap Bon Full Day Trip from Hammamet

cap bon

In comparison to the past couple of full day trips that have been looked at, it could be said that this final suggestion on our list condenses the most activities.

From Hammamet, visitors will be taken to the historical town of Nabeul. Nabeul’s past focusses heavily on pottery and ceramics, meaning there are a lot of interesting sights for visitors. If your trip happens to occur on a Friday, you will benefit from the renowned local market that occurs on this day every week.

The next stage involves a trip to Haouaria which is described by locals as the “country of eagles”. Despite its reputation, just 900 people reside here – making it one of the quietest destinations you will visit. It also means that tourists are one of its biggest economy drivers and again if you are lucky enough for your trip to fall on a Friday, you’ll benefit from another local market.

The tour concludes in Korbous, which is another quiet village. This is a truly fitting end to the expedition, with visitors witnessing some real sights of beauty relating to the area’s water supplies. The rock pools that are formed in Korbous are made up of some of the purest mineral water around and the fact that Tunisians travel from afar to bathe in these waters says everything you need to know about its reputation.