All the way on the northernmost tip of Africa lies an exotic little country filled with beauty and engulfed in magic. Tunisia is a land of contrasts. From its simmering deserts to its Mediterranean shores to its history steeped in the diverse culture of the West and the Middle East, to the beliefs of its people and the grandeur of its places, this African republic has myriad delights to offer anyone who decides to step foot on its enchanted shores. Feeling adventurous? Why not take a holiday yourself to this beautiful land to experience, what could literally be, the spice of life.

Located exactly halfway in between the Nile Valley and the Atlantic Ocean, Tunisia has a mainly temperate climate, with mild summers and winters. The south of the country contains a section of the Sahara Desert, whereas the north and east consist of shoreline that looks out onto the sunbathed Mediterranean. Further inland you can find the end of the range of the Atlas Mountains, which is flanked by several hills and plains. Therefore you can obviously expect to encounter a range of possible activities all around the country, including desert and mountain sightseeing tours and treks, sailing, swimming, scuba diving and even golf for those who seek something more low-key. Tunisia has 1148 kilometres of coast, which makes long walks on the beach and lie-downs in the sand a pleasure for many, especially with the sunrise visible over the Mediterranean. Some places along the coast include Tabarka and Sousse, as well as many more.

As for the culture, Tunisia is so diverse that it would be an efficient use of one’s time and money to bypass a trip around much of Europe and come straight to this country. Over the centuries, the Republic of Tunisia has been called a number of names, the most famous of which is Carthage. It was from this site that Hannibal set off with his mighty herd of elephants in the 3rd Century BC to conquer Italy. It was also this ancient city that had the greatest influence on the Western Mediterranean during its domination of the region.

Today, the remains of this once mighty civilization still remain in Tunisia and prove as testament to the country’s rich background. Traces of the many populations that have peopled the land – the Spanish, French, Vandals, Arabs, Phoenicians, Romans and Byzantines to name a few – can still be seen in Tunisia’s exquisite architecture and in the living spirits and memories of the friendly Tunisian people. Their religions vary from Christian to Muslim to Jew, and the range of ethnic backgrounds ensures an exciting experience for anyone who is among their presence. Several museums such as the National Museum of Bardo also contain an array of artifacts from the past. Several archeological sites are also on display to the public, where professionals excavate the ruins of history. It is even said that the Tunisian Oasis at Kebilli contains the ruins of a Stone Age civilization.

Several hotels, especially those along the coast, offer top-class accommodation and services. You’ll be sure to have a good time being pampered by the staff that aims to please the newcomers to their proud country. While you’re there, make sure to make use of the fine facilities at hand, and feel free to participate in the range of festivals that take place during the year, especially in April and December. Celebrations such as Douz (the traditional Saharan festival) in December and Sbeitla (the international spring festival) in April are always enjoyed by townspeople and foreigners alike. After all, how better to immerse yourself in the local culture than to be a part of it?