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Djerba Introduction
Situated in an oasis Djerba is an island connected to mainland Tunisia and it has lots of magical mystery surrounding it, as it is said it was once the home of Ulysses. Right in the heart of the Mediterranean and almost on the tip of Northern Africa, the tiny islet of Djerba is situated in the Gulf of Gabes, to the south east of Tunisia. You need to hop onto the ferry from the mainland of Tunisia which runs every half an hour, so day trips are more than possible.
It is an island that is perfectly flat, with views of the magnificent Mediterranean Sea surrounding it and is connected to mainland Tunisia by a causeway, or by ferries which run frequently. Although holidays to Djerba should include some beach time, there are some wonderful sights to see, activities to do and tranquility to be had!
Whilst there are many hotels in Djerba, it is also possible to find a get away from it allspot, where you will be able to enjoy local customs and traditions in an enchanting way. There are all inclusive packages and cheap packages with the best prices on offer. It is within easy reach of the UK to enable you to take a romantic weekend break in one of the value for money hotels. Budget holidays are practical, particularly if you are looking for a second holiday of the year. There is an abundance of low cost, value for money hotels available. With the short flight from the UK a weekend break is more than a possibility.All the hotels that are alongside the beach have been built very tastefully and don't detract from the astounding coastline.
We could describe Djerba as up market: it has a very tasteful and authentic atmosphere that will amaze you, but it has also retained a lot of its traditionalism, with its Mosques, its traditional villages, the Roman ruins and the fortress, its magnificent Souk where you can be sure to grab a bargain.
Spend a day wandering around the narrow streets taking in the sights, sounds and smells. A visit to Djerba is not complete without going to the Souk Houmt.Houmt is the island's capital city so you shouldn't miss out on some time touring around the memorable city. You can wander around the Souk, taking in the atmosphere, sights and smells. Houmt Souk has a quaint pottery village full of authentic charm and mystery. One of the best Jewish buildings in Northern Africa is the Ghriba Synagogue.
Djerba is a lovely resort with lots of beautiful sandy beaches surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea. Water sports are excellent here with a big variety of things to keep you busy. You don't have to just lie on a sun kissed beach that is surrounded by palms, olive groves and orchards of apricots, figs, lemons, mandarins and pomegranates, you can enjoy plenty of water sports, and sailing and windsurfing are both popular activities. Scuba diving or snorkelling is simply a must!
There is a golf course where you can enjoy a relaxing game of golf in idyllic surroundings. An interesting sight to see and visit is the 15thcentury fortress Borj El Kebir.
As well as all this, there is plenty more to see and do. There are archaeological sites to visit, mosques to see and, if you are feeling energetic you can hire a bicycle to do some exploring of this island.
What about the nightlife? This is very tasteful and is mostly hotel based where you can watch an evening cabaret, enjoy the fun with the snake charmers, you can see some belly dancing and if you feel energetic can even join in. The "Gougou" dancers may entertain you with their traditional dance and music show.
The hospitality of the local people is friendly; they can't do enough to help you. Eating out is not expensive and you will find families are welcomed, with value for money meals. Children are always welcomed and the entire resort is family orientated. There is something to suit everyone's taste.
With so many options available and so much to see and do it is little wonder that the resort has become one of the most popular on the island. Fabulous beaches, fascinating landscapes and history, superb sports and family facilities, fine dining and a laid back nightlife all combine to make a visit to Djerba a truly unforgettable experience.
With all this in mind, go ahead, pack your costume and set off for your dream holiday!
Djerba Location
Situated in an oasis Djerba is an island connected to mainland Tunisia and it has lots of magical mystery surrounding it, as it is said it was once the home of Ulysses. Right in the heart of the Mediterranean and almost on the tip of Northern Africa, the tiny islet of Djerba is situated in the Gulf of Gabes, to the south east of Tunisia. You need to hop onto the ferry from the mainland of Tunisia which runs every half an hour, so day trips are more than possible.
Djerba History
Tunisia has an interesting history and over many years has seen other nationalities arriving in Tunisia, including the Ottoman Turks and the Italians. Then came the medieval era when Arabs arrived, bringing with them their culture, the Islamic religion and their language. Later on after this Tunisia was occupied by the Vandals and after by the Byzantines.
Then the Romans arrived, followed by the Phoenicians and then migrants from Sahel in Africa. Tunisia is full of multi cultures, one of the reasons it has a diverse and rich being.
All these different cultures brought with them their own architecture and styles. The ancient city of Carthage played an important part in the Punic Wars between Rome and Cartage, the last being what led to the complete destruction of Cartage around 150 B.C.
Getting to and around Djerba
Air
Tunisia has 8 airports, 5 of which are international. Tunis-Carthage Airport is in the capital city and Monastir-Habib Bourguiba Airport. There are also airports at Djerba, Tozeur and Tabarka which fly overseas. Tunisair is the country's national airline and travels between Heathrow and Tunis four days a week and it also covers other European cities. Flights from London airports take approximately 2 ½ hours. There are no direct flights to Djerba, so you need to stop at Tunis Airport or Monastir Airport and then change.
Tunis Airport
See Tunis Airport Guide
Monastir Airport
See Monastir Airport Guide
Djerba Airport
See Djerba Airport Guide
Airlines
Air Berlin, British Airways, Condor flights First Choice, Fly Thomas Cook, GB airways, JetairFly, Luxair, Monarch, Thomson Fly, transavia.com, Tunisair,
Trains
Several services a day from Hammamet to Tunis, El Djem and Sousse and from Mahdia to Monastir and Sousse. Prices are cheap. Modern and comfortable trains depart from Tunis Station at Place Barcelona southwards to Gabes, via Hammamet, Sousse, (branch lines to Monastir and Mahdia), Sfax. Northwards to Bizerte, Tabarka, Dougga. Trains from Tunis and everywhere are run by the National Train Company (SNCFT). Its headquarters in Tunis can be reached at (216) 1- 490 - 391.
Buses
Bus services good and travel all around the main towns of Tunisia. They usually begin or end at Gare Bab el Fellah, Bab Alioua (which serve northern destinations) and Gare Bab Saadoun (which serves southern destinations). The buses are run by a company called SNTRI.
Tuk Tuks
These are six seater motorized rickshaws (a three wheeled cart) which run between many of the resorts. They are a cheap and good form of transport for shorter journeys.
Sea
Tunisia is well serviced with 7 big ports which have ferry services operating between Tunisia, France and Italy. The main ferry routes from France are from Marseilles to Tunis and Genoa to Tunis. There are ferries which cross from the mainland to the island of Djerba, they run approximately every 30 minutes.
Car
Road conditions in Tunisia are quite good and the roads are well maintained. There are around 30,000 kms of major roads with another 10,000 kms of secondary roads. Service stations are around the country at convenient positions. There are many car hire agencies in the bigger cities of Tunisia.
Taxis
Taxis are very good value and there are many of them so it is not necessary to book, just hail one as it passes. Ask the driver the fare before you set off on the journey and make sure that once the journey commences the meter is turned on. After 21.00 most taxis charge an extra 50%. Yellow cabs in Tunis are metered, although some other cabs in other areas may not be.
Transfers from the airport
Arriving at a foreign airport can often be a strenuous affair and with most customers traveling independently these days having a pre-booked airport transfer is an essential part of your holiday package. Local taxis at the airport can sometimes be limited or with long queues, by booking a pre-booked you can not only make a fantastic saving on your transfer but also avoid all the stress of queues and haggling with taxi drivers. Book your airport transfer service here now >>
Airport shuttle bus service
In most of our gateway airports you can pre-book an Airport Shuttle Service. This is a pre-booked only service that operates between the relevant airport and holiday resort. In normal times you can expect to wait up to 30 minutes for your shuttle bus to arrive however as this is a pre-negotiated service and only available to participating travel companies then expect to pay far less to get from the airport to your destination accommodation than other traditional forms or transport such as local taxis. Book your airport shuttle service here now>>
Djerba Car Hire
Once in Tunisia you can hire a car, although we would advise that driving conditions are not like you would find in the UK. Driving can be hazardous in Tunisia as many of the road rules are ignored. The major cities get very busy and traffic jams are the norm. Fill up with petrol when you see a station, as petrol stations are few and far between.
In more rural areas it is often possible to see stray donkeys and Oxen so care should always be taken. Ola would not advise driving at night. In Tunisia you will drive on the left hand side and anyone hiring a car must have a valid driving licence and be older than 25 years of age. You will need your passport, driving licence and pre-payment at the time of hire.
Many UK Tour Operators and Retailers have pre-negotiated rates with most reliable local companies and prices are usually cheaper by booking in advance. Check out our fantastic pre-booked car hire rates now here>>
Djerba Sightseeing
However long you plan to spend in Djerba, you'll barely have the time to see all the region has to offer! If all you are looking for in a holiday destination is a glorious sandy beach where you can soak up the sun lazing under the fantastic blue skies, then Djerba has what you are looking for. But, there is more to offer in the area by way of sightseeing with its shopping experiences, archaeological history, wonderful traditional buildings, nightlife and cultural shows are all what makes Djerba a truly enchanting holiday.
Visit the Mosque
There is an old mosque next to the fishing harbour, the mosque is called Strangers' Mosque and is believed to be the finest mosque in the Houmt-Souk. Photographic lovers will be amazed at the wonderful structure.
The Folk Museum
Here you will see a very colourful display of ancient costumes which originated from the 18thcentury. The building itself is a landmark and has enchanting carvings and ceilings full of stalactites. You will also see a fine collection of jewellery and a craft shop. You can see exhibitions of the Holy Koran which are memorable.
The 13thcentury Fort
The 13thcentury fortress named Bori el Kebir stands proud on the island. It was built as a defence against pirate attacks and other invaders.
See the La Ghriba Synagogue
There is a legend around the synagogue in that it is said it was built with the stone of the Solomon Temple from Jerusalem. This temple was destroyed, so the synagogue is especially precious. There are many interesting objects inside the synagogue including scrolls, candlesticks and more.
Top Things to do in Djerba
However long you plan to spend in Djerba, you'll barely have the time to see all the region has to offer! If all you are looking for in a holiday destination is a glorious sandy beach where you can soak up the sun lazing under the fantastic blue skies, then Djerba has what you are looking for. But, there is more to offer in the area by way of sightseeing with its museums, shopping experiences, archaeological history, wonderful traditional buildings, nightlife and cultural shows are all what makes Djerba a truly enchanting holiday.
Islands of Kerkennah
If you catch a ferry from Sfax it takes about an hour to reach the islands of Kerkennah. These are quiet islands, but ideal for sunbathing and swimming in the warm seas. The villages are interesting, where you will see a bit of traditional life. If you manage to talk one into it, going out with a local fisherman is said to be a thrilling experience for half a day.
Visit the hot springs at Hamman Mellegue
Originating from the Roman times and purely a natural phenomenon, the hot springs are delightful where you can bathe in the warm pools which have different levels of heat. The springs are said to be healing, so if you suffer from aches and pains, why not give them a go?
Check out the Medina in Tunis
As part of Tunisia's rich and wealthy past you can see around 700 monuments which include palaces, mosques, mausoleums, madrasas and fountains. This is a fascinating part of Tunisia's past. The sights, sounds and smells are just astonishing and will keep you intrigue for hours.
The hilltop villages of Kalaa Sghirra, Kalaa Kebira and Akouda
You should not miss seeing these quaint, beautiful hilltop villages which have narrow winding streets and colourful doorways. Here you will see what Tunisian life is really about, and the villages have some nice restaurants where you can stop off and have lunch.
Relax on the beach at Mahdia
Mahdia has a peaceful and tranquil beach, which so far has stayed relatively untouched by tourism. You can relax, enjoy a book, listen to some music with a personal player, sunbathe or take a refreshing swim in the beautiful sea.
Hergla
Hergla is a quiet, laid back village high in the cliff where traditional life is important. You will still find the locals sitting on the doorsteps and streets, nattering and exchanging jokes. The village used to press olives for olive oil so you will still see the weaving filters today. If you wander around the small fishing harbour, you will also see some whitewashed houses and a mosque. The Port is at Hergla Park and here it is very trendy and upmarket, in total contrast to the quiet village which is only 2 kms away. At the Port, you will find a fairground, and both an adult and a child's Go Kart track.
Play water-sports in Tabarka
As well as swimming Mediterranean Sea around Tunisia, and enjoying the fantastic beaches, most beaches have a good variety of water sports available, particularly at the resort of Tabarka. Traditional water sports such as windsurfing, para gliding and sailing are popular, while scuba diving and deep-sea fishing are also popular. So whether you are an old hand at some of these, or a beginner the opportunities are there for you to try.
Go Scuba Diving
Tunisia has some of the best diving opportunities, particularly around the reefs and rocks, delight in the beautiful coastline in this part of the Mediterranean Sea.
Take a camel ride in Douz
From Douz you can go across the Sahara Desert on a camel, one of nature's most amazing creatures. Journeys usually take around 30 minutes and trekking this way will provide an excellent way to look at the sights.
Visit the locations of the Star Wars movies
The Hollywood movies Star Wars I and IV where made in some of the desert areas of Tunisia. Chott El Gharsa, Sidi Bouhlel, Ajim, La Grande Dune, Matmata, Chott El Jerid and Ksar Hadada are the main locations for the Tatooine scenes. You can also visit the small village of Tatouine, which has no bearing on the actual filming except that the name was used for the Skywalker family. There are many photographic opportunities here for enthusiasts.
Blue Ice
This is an incredible complex of fun, spread over three floors which the children and the young at heart will love. There is a games room, many restaurants, the ice rink where beginners can take lessons. At night the ice rink becomes an ice disco. It is situated in Yasmine Hammamet and will provide hours of entertainment.
Carthageland
Carthageland is a theme park that provides an opportunity to learn about Tunisia's history through a number of rides and themed sections, where you can relive past events like the Punic Wars, The Roman era and takes you on a journey through Africa. A highlight of the park is a re-enactment of the Turkish pirates. It is situated in Yasmine Hammamet and will provide hours of adventure and fun.
Acqua Palace
The Acqua Palace is a water park with lots of water slides, water rings, the toboggan drops and the Crazy River Ride, so not for the faint hearted. For a quieter and relaxing time you can enjoy the Jacuzzi plus a number of pools where you can relax at the side or take a dip when things get a little too hot. There are smaller activities designed for young children like the water castle and its mini slides. There is also a park area with swings, rope swings and see saws plus more. The Acqua Palace is in Port El Kantaoui.
Oasis Parc
This is a beautiful botanical garden with numerous plant and animal species. There is a small zoo section to keep the children happy, and as you wander around the garden you will see many unusual plant species. There are many plants which have healing benefits. There are lots of exotic birds in the zoo which pretty feather colours. Oasis Parc is located in Port El Kantaoui
Friguia Park
Friguia park is located between Hammamet and Sousse and will provide a full day of activity. It has more than a 100 animals, where their habitats have been designed to mimic their natural environments. The various animals include mammals and reptiles such as camels, gazelles, antelopes, donkeys, ostriches, lions, flamingos and crocodiles. The Park also endeavours to provide shelter for endangered African species that will eventually be returned to their natural environment.
Chott El Jerid
Be prepared to be mesmorised by the eeriness of Chott El Jerid which is a succession of lakes that go as far as Algeria. It is a strange phenomenon as in the summer the lake surface is completely baron and even blisters with the heat, yet in the winter the lakes become flooded. A strange phenomenon.
Play a game of Golf
There are plenty of golf courses spread around Tunisia where you can enjoy an excellent game of golf, with courses designed for all abilities.
Ride in a Hot Air Balloon
At Menchia Beach you can take a trip upwards in a hot air balloon. You can even take some balloons which travel over the Sahara Desert, the views are magnificent and completely enchanting.
Golf
The Djerba Golf Club has 3 courses consisting of 9-holes and they provide everything you could wish for to enjoy the game.
Shopping in Djerba
As Tunisia is not part of the European Union it is a Duty Free Destination which enables you to purchase items much cheaper than in the UK. Bargains are easy to find particularly at the Souk's where it is part of daily life to barter for the best price.
Djerba has a lot of streets and souks, so when you feel like some browsing, window shopping or buying some souvenirs you can take yourself off and search the ware, whilst enjoying the sights, sounds and smells. The atmosphere is magical as you mingle with the locals, everyone is looking for a bargain. They are busy and bustling, so don't expect it to be stress free, you've got to grit your teeth and get in there to find the bargains. Manyof the products sold on Djerba originate from North Africa, the influence of this is noticeable in the wood craft and jewellery you can find.
The Souk in Djerba is famous so when you feel like some browsing, window shopping or buying some souvenirs you can take yourself off to one of the medina and search the ware, whilst enjoying the sights, sounds and smells. The atmosphere is magical as you mingle with the locals; everyone is looking for a bargain. There is a smaller souk at Midoun where you can guarantee seeing some wonderful fresh produce grown locally.
Mainland Tunisia has a very trendy shopping centre with more than 80 outlets, some selling designer brand names. It also has plenty of food facilities for people wishing to eat and shop. There is also something to keep the children happy by way of a leisure centre and a play area. There is also a hyper market called Carrefour, one of the biggest chains of shops from France which sells everything from food, cosmetics and electrical items.
Eating out in Djerba
Like most countries, Tunisia enjoys simple, but wholesome food that tastes delicious. A Tunisian normal diet doesn't usually consist of fast food or convenience type food. They like their own locally produced fruit, salad and vegetables which are picked and cooked extremely fresh. They cook with olive oil, grown in Tunisia and make some tasty salad dressings which are low fat and high in nutrients, as is locally produced tomatoes either in puree, pulp or cooked whole. Dining is a social occasion, they like to take their time and enjoy food with company.
Djerba has a fantastic selection of restaurants, some along the main beach front but there are also quite a few to choose from around the streets of the town itself. You can find traditional faire is Tajine which is basically a delicious stew cooked in an earthenware dish over a long period of time so all the flavours seep into the sauce. Samosas are also a popular spicy pastry dish with a mixture of fillings like meat, rice, almonds or fish. Cous cous is a traditional savory accompaniment to meats and is usually cooked in a large vat with spicy herbs. Fish is popular, particularly sardines which are often fried and often served with bread, tomatoes, egg plant and a spicy sauce.
You will find restaurants in Djerba serving international and Mediterranean cuisine with familiar dishes to suit all tastes and pockets. There is also a good selection of a la carte restaurants.
It is a common tradition in Tunisia to eat with your hands: your right hand is the hand to put food into your mouth, not the left hand. Most dishes are served with bread which is ideal to scoop up the food to put into your mouth, why use a fork when you have a hand!
Soft drinks are always available, Tunisian wine and beer are good value and much cheaper than imported brands. As Tunisia is an Islamic country, you will probably have to ask for the alcohol menu in restaurants. It is strictly frowned upon to be seen drinking any type of alcohol in public places.
Tunisian Local Customs
Local customs in Tunisia should always be respected. Visitors to Tunisia should dress appropriately, particularly females who should avoid low cut, very short attire especially when going into religious buildings Local customs in Turkey should always be respected. During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking is forbidden during daylight, so therefore visitors should be very discreet if participating in these activities. Homosexuality is frowned upon and is, indeed, illegal. For the sharing of rooms only married couples are allowed.
Although Tunisia's population is 90% Muslim, the country is one of the more liberal and tolerant of other religions and nationalities. When you meet locals, you should offer your hand for a handshake. If you are invited to a Tunisian's house for a meal, it is polite to take along a small gift and don't offend your host by refusing to eat something, try it first at least which is what they will expect of you.
Nightlife in Djerba
Nightlife is more sedate than you will find in other European destinations, but having said that you will find a few nightclubs and late music bars where you can enjoy your evening in pleasant surroundings. Remember there is a strict alcohol policy and publicly drinking alcohol on the streets is frowned upon.
Nightlife in Tunisia is certainly entertaining with belly dancers, fire eaters, snake charmers and traditional folklore evenings. A lot of the bigger hotels have a disco and an interesting excursion you could try is a Bedouin Feast.
Nightlife is generally quite sedate in Tunisia and most nightlife is usually based around hotels. However you can enjoy a nice meal in a pleasant atmosphere in any of the Tunisian restaurants, and life is always more cosmopolitan at the marina. There are some discos which play a variety of international music
At the International Cultural Centre in Hammamet you can enjoy an evening of entertainment with theatrical shows.
Golf in Djerba
The Djerba Golf Club was designed by British Engineer Martin Hawtree and it is a'Championship' 18 hole course with excellent facilities for you to enjoy your game of golf.
Events and Festivals in Djerba
In Tunisia every year there are plenty of events and local festivals going on, you will always find something to do in any of the cities. There are national holidays held on particular days to mark events in history with the month long Ramadan being the biggest Islamic religious festival in Tunisia.
January
Eid al Adha
This is also called the Festival of Sacrifice to honour the pilgrimage to Mecca when Abraham was asked by God to offer his son Ishmael in sacrifice. Today Muslims sacrifice sheep and other animals to mark the festival.
Islamic New Year
This is an Islamic religious event, also known as Muharram. Religious services are held throughout the country and includes different types of festivities. Alcoholic drinks may not be available for purchase in some areas at this time.
February
Ashura
On 7 February this is Shi'ite day when Shi'ite Muslims commemorate the memory of Husayn ibn Ali.Tunisian people visit tombs and make bonfires as part of the festivities.
April
Milad al-Nabi
Muhammad's birthday is celebrated in a different way dependant upon whether it is a Shi'a or Sunni doing the celebrating. There is usually a variety of events, processions, parades, feasting and lots of colour throughout the towns.
May
Labour Day
Labour Day is a national holiday and Tunisian's usually spend the day relaxing and enjoying time together with family and friends. You may find a limited number of things open and available to do as it is a National Holiday.
June
International Festival of Sfax
A popular event particularly amongst locals which includes a variety of Arabic pop music and classical singers.
International Festival of Jazz
Tunisian and international jazz artists come together to showcase their talents at this popular annual musical event. Performances are held throughout the city and are very popular.
July
Republic Day
The anniversary of independence day from France, which took place in 1956. It is a national holiday and lots of events take place throughout Tunisia.
The 'Nights of Mahdia Festival'
An evening of music and theatrical performances but for venues and dates check at the tourist office.
July and August
Festival of El Jem
A month long festival with operatic and classical music performances
August
International Festival of Bizerta
An arts festival held in Bizerta, with musical performances along with dancing and other shows
September
Ramadan
During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking is forbidden during daylight, so therefore visitors should be very discreet if participating in these activities.
According to the Islamic Calendar religious festivals honour the majority of Islamic holidays, Ramadan which lasts for a month.
October
Eid al Fitr
This is a time when families get together and have 3 days of festivities and prayer to mark the end of Ramadan.
November
International Festival of the Sahara
Douz hosts a magnificent festival which celebrates the art and traditions of the people from the Sahara. There are usually lots of performances from North African people to make this a lively affair.
December
Eid al Adha - second festival of the year
This is also called the Festival of Sacrifice to honour the pilgrimage to Mecca when Abraham was asked by God to offer his son Ishmael in sacrifice. Today Muslims sacrifice sheep and other animals to mark the festival. This is a repeat of the festival held in mid January.
NATIONAL HOLIDAYS IN TUNISIA
January (dates vary) Eid al-Idha (Feast of the Sacrifice)
January - dates vary Hegire (Islamic New Year)
20 March Independence Day
21 March Youth Day
9 April Martyr's Day
April - dates vary Mouled (Prophet's Anniversary)
1 May Labour Day
25 July Republic Day
13 August Women's Day
22-24 October Eid al-Fitr
7 November New Era Day
December - dates vary Eid al-Idha(Feast of the Sacrifice)
Beaches in Djerba
Djerba is a lovely resort with lots of beautiful sandy beaches surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea. Water sports are excellent here with a big variety of things to keep you busy. There are plenty of water sports and you can enjoy snorkelling or scuba diving too.
If you tire of the beach you can have a game of golf, play tennis or hire a bike to go cycling around the small island.
So with plenty to do and lots to keep you busy, go on and book that holiday you've dreamed about!
Tunisia Useful Information
Land Area:
total: 163,610 sq km
land: 155,360 sq km
water: 8,250 sq km
Population: 10,383,577 (July 2008 est.)
Capital: Tunis
Coastline: 1,148 km
Language:
The overwhelming majority speak Arabic and French. English is taught in all schools and is increasingly spoken especially by younger people. Sometimes German and Italian is also spoken.
Banking Hours:
Banks are open from Monday to Thursday 08:00 to 11:00 and 14:00 to 16:15; Fri 08:00 to 11:00 and 13:00 to 16:15. During the winter season they are open Monday to Friday 07:30 to 11:30.
Currency:
The unit of currency is the Tunisian diner (TND), divided into 1,000 mollies. Notes are available in denominations of TD30, 20, 10 and 5 while coins are in denominations of TD1, as well as 500, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5 mollies. Travellers cheques are widely accepted. Banks and some hotels provide foreign exchange. ATMs are found in most towns and at all the tourist resorts; almost all will accept Visa cards and many will also accept Maestro (Switch) cards. Visa, Diners Club, American Express and MasterCard are accepted for payment in souvenir shops, upmarket hotels and restaurants, although Visa encounters the least problems. All Tunisian currency must be exchanged before departure.
Currency Exchange:
Cash and travellers cheques can be exchanged at all banks across the country. Additionally, hotels with at least a three-star rating invariably offer bureau de change services while those in need of cash outside of regular counter hours will find currency exchanges at the major airports.
Customs:
Travellers to Tunisia do not have to pay duty on the following items: 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 400g tobacco; 1 bottle of alcohol; a reasonable amount of perfume; and gifts to the value of 10 Tunisian dinars.
Import and export allowances for visitors are as follows: 400 cigarettes or 100 cigars or 500g of tobacco; one litre of spirits or two litres of alcoholic beverage; 250ml of perfume; one litre of eau de toilette; one still camera and gifts up to the value of TD100.
Electricity/Plug:
Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Round European-style, two-pin plugs are used.
Health:
No vaccinations are recommended for Tunisia and no serious health risks exist, but all travellers are required to show a yellow fever certificate if coming from an infected area. Travellers' diarrhoea and other parasitic infections may be contracted, but is unlikely in the modern seaside resorts. Visitors travelling outside these resorts should ensure they drink only boiled, purified water and eat well-cooked food. All medical expenses must be paid for immediately after treatment in Tunisia, and costs can be quite high. The availability of medication is limited. Visitors should bring adequate supplies of their own medication. Health insurance is a necessity.
Visitors are strongly advised to have injections against typhoid prior to travelling to Tunisia. Visitors entering from countries where yellow fever is present are obliged to produce a yellow fever certificate on arrival in the country. Cholera has been an issue on and off in the country and visitors are advised to check the status of the situation with their embassy before travelling. Tap water is drunk by the locals but may be too heavily chlorinated for most visitors so buying bottled water is a safer alternative. Hepatitis A, Hepatitis E, Lassa fever and Rabies are all present in Tunisia. Consult your general practitioner with regards to preventative steps against these diseases.
Safety:
Tourist areas in Tunisia are regarded as being at risk of being targeted by international terrorism, but there have been no incidents since a car bomb attack on the offshore island of Djerba in 2002. Visitors should be vigilant and keep a check on official travel advice. There is little violent crime, but petty theft and pick pocketing does occur. An increase in bag snatching has been noted in tourist areas and visitors are advised to keep bags close at all times. Travellers are advised to avoid the border areas with Algeria, and be extra cautious if travelling alone in the southern desert areas.
Tunisia is the safest country in Africa and while visitors shouldn't feel especially threatened or uneasy when going about their tourist activities, they should still observe a few caveats in order to avoid any unfortunate incidents spoiling their holiday. As with many tourist destinations, pickpockets are part of the scenery and as a visitor you are a prime target so you should have your wits about you at all times, especially in crowded areas. Keep wallets and purses in front pockets at all times and avoid carrying valuable items unless entirely necessary.
Women may experience some hassle from the local male characters, especially if they head out at night. Stick to the main areas and travel in numbers of two or more and avoid fraternisation of any description to be on the safe side. Women should also avoid wearing provocative clothing; mini skirts and cleavage showing tops are not appropriate unless within the confines of hotels or apartment complexes. Beach wear is fine as long as it stays on the beach.
As Tunisia is a Muslim country, visitors should respect religious rules and traditions especially with regards to drinking alcohol. The sale of alcoholic beverages is restricted to certain areas and sensible drinking within these areas is advised. Public displays of drunken behaviour are highly frowned upon and likely to be met with trouble from the law.
Tipping in Tunisia:
Tipping is not a requirement but appreciated for good service in local establishments. Most people performing a useful service will wait to be tipped. Waiters in resort and hotel restaurants expect a tip of around 10%.
It's normal to tip waiters in both resort and hotel restaurants with about 10 per cent of the total bill price. In local establishments, tipping is not expected but is still appreciated and indicates your approval of the food and service received.
Time Zone:
GMT +1 (GMT +2 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October).
Communications:
The international dialling code for Tunisia is +216. The outgoing international code is 00, followed by the relevant country code (for example 0027 for South Africa). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)1 for Tunis. For mobile phones, dial (0)9. The country is covered by two GSM 900 mobile networks. There is widespread Internet coverage with Internet cafes in the main cities and towns.
The country code for Tunisia is +216. There are two GSM 900 mobile networks in operation in the country and visitors using a mobile service provider that has a roaming agreement with Tunisia will invariably find they are able to make calls using their existing phone and SIM card. Internet access is available in most parts of the country and internet cafés can be found in the main cities and towns.
Passport and Visa Requirements:
Country Passport Required? Visa Required? Return Ticket Required?
British Yes No Yes
Australian Yes Yes/1 Yes
Canadian Yes No Yes
USA Yes No Yes
Other EU Yes No/2 Yes
Passports
Passport valid six months after return date required by all nationals referred to in the chart above.
Visas
Not required by nationals referred to in the chart above for stays of up to three months (up to one month for nationals of Greece; up to four months for nationals of Germany and USA), with the following exceptions:
(a) 1. nationals of Australia who do need a visa;
(b) 2. nationals of the Czech Republic, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and the Slovak Republic, who must travel on a recognised package holiday, and nationals of Cyprus who do need a visa.
Note: Visas are not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above if transit passengers, provided holding valid onward or return documentation and not leaving the airport or ship or continuing their journey within 48 hours of arrival.
Visa Note
(a) All visitors must hold sufficient funds for the duration of stay. (b) 1. Nationals of Australia who do need a visa, can obtain it on arrival at the point of entry. Check with the embassy for details of length of stay. (c) Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).
Types of Visa and Cost
Short-stay: US$34.
Validity
Short-stay usually for stays of up to three months. For up-to-date lengths of stay, contact nearest consulate.
Applications to:
Consulate (or consular section at embassy); see Contact Addresses.
Working Days Required
Approximately three weeks, for both postal and personal applications.
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