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Sports and adventure in Tunisia

marzo 27th, 2013 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in DESTINATIONS - (0 Comments)

The perfect climate of Tunisia is an invitation and a temptation for all those who love sports and adventure. Whether you like calm and safe sports, or whether you prefer an adrenaline rush, in Tunisia you will find countless options.

Water sports such as sailing are much more affordable in Tunisia than in other Mediterranean countries, and the best ports are El Kantaoui, Sidi Bou Said, Monastir and Djerba. The coral reefs at Tabarka, Hergla and Djerba are perfect for snorkeling and diving. Surfing, windsurfing and kite surfing can be practiced in Hammamet, Sousse, Sidi Bou Said and Djerba. And in all of the beaches in the country you can go water skiing.

If you prefer staying inland, go hiking or trekking in any of the 6 National Parks in the country, and you will be surprised with the landscape, flora and fauna you’ll discover. Visiting Tunisia without going on a camel ride is a crime! Feel free to take a ride on the back of these exotic dromedaries. You can choose between a few hours walk to a trip through the desert lasting several days, a whole adventure which you will never regret or forget. If you’re into slightly more extreme sports, you have the option of surfing and skiing on sand dunes. Surfing the Douz’s sand dunes or crossing Chott el Jerid on a sand yacht are opportunities you don’t come across in many places in the world, so enjoy it! Another extreme adventure you’ll never forget is flying over the Sahara in an ultralight or a hot air balloon, a view that will mark the desert in your memories for life. Less extreme but just as fun it is to travel through the desert on a buggy or quad. Riding through the dunes on these vehicles gives you a sense of freedom and a huge adrenaline rush.

Do you want to go on adventures in Tunisia?

 

“The IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts in Tunisia offer a peaceful or adventurous holiday near the Sahara desert, always providing guests with the most comfortable facilities and comprehensive services so that you can make the most of your stay in Tunisia.”

 

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The best of Tunisia

marzo 11th, 2013 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in DESTINATIONS - (0 Comments)

A warm and friendly country, Tunisia is an authentic melting pot where the Berber, Arab, African and European cultures have blended to forge a strong cultural identity that is unlike any other.
The population is made up mainly of Muslims and the country’s official religion is Sunni Islam, although the Jewish and Christian communities practise their faith freely, further enriching the country’s cultural diversity.

Contrary to what many may think, Tunisia is not just a sun and sand destination boasting paradisiacal beaches. By venturing further into the country, you will discover authentic marvels in its more traditional towns.

But the beaches are indeed superb, and any trip to Tunisia should include a few days by the sea. The beaches of Hammamet are the best-known, renowned for their cleanliness, fine sand, crystalline waters and delightful temperature. Also highly valued are the beaches of the Island of Djerba. Lying to the east of the capital, these stunning beaches are the ideal spot for scuba diving.

In addition to its beaches, Tunisia offers us a wealth of culture, traditions and monuments. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Roman Coliseum of El Djem; built over 1,700 years ago, it could hold more than 40 thousand spectators! The ruins of the ancient city of Sbeïtla are considered to be among Tunisia’s most important legacy from the days of the Romans, second only to the Coliseum of El Djem. Several of the city’s temples have withstood the passing of time and remain intact. The ruins of the ancient city of Carthage make up another of the many archaeological sites that are well worth a visit. Although many of the buildings that formed part of the complex have deteriorated over the centuries, it is definitely not to be missed.

Also well worth a visit is the Holy City of Kairouan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded by the Arab conquerors in the 7th century, its importance for the peoples of Islam is on a par with that of Mecca and Jerusalem. The Great Mosque, whose structure dates back to the same time as the founding of Kairouan, is considered to be one of the most important religious remains. Equally intriguing are the labyrinths of Tamezret, a town situated on the edge of the vast Sahara Desert and of particular interest due to its maze-like layout of streets and squares. It is also one of the few remaining towns in northern Africa where the ancient Berber language is still spoken.  The town of Douz is the gateway to the Sahara. Its charm lies in the huge white gate situated on one of its main streets, separating the bustling life of the town from the silence of the arid desert. It is also the site of one of the largest oases in southern Tunisia. Other oases that are well worth a visit include the one in Tozeur, the largest in the country and a popular tourist spot or the one in Nefta, considered to be the most beautiful in all Tunisia, situated close to the salt lake known as Chott el Djerid, which stretches out on the horizon like an endless white sea.

You should also take the time to browse round some of the markets or souks to be found in every town and city in the country. Particularly recommendable are the markets in the city of Sfax, the best place for shopping in Tunisia, partly due to the fact that the prices are more affordable.

This exotic country that’s just a stone’s throw away offers this and much more besides. Are you really going to spend your entire holiday on the beach? I’m definitely not!

 

“IBEROSTAR Hotels& Resorts’ hotels in Tunisia are the perfect base from which to enjoy unique experiences during your holidays. The IBEROSTAR hotels are situated in prime locations in Djerba, Hammamet, Mahdia, Sousse, Zarzis and Tozeur, offering outstanding opportunities to gain a first-hand insight into this country of outstanding natural beauty and its magnificent culture”.

 

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Tunisia’s special winter light

noviembre 9th, 2012 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in DESTINATIONS - (0 Comments)

Whilst Europe is shivering in the freezing temperatures, why not pack your bags and head for Tunisia – one of the most westernised Arab countries yet which still preserves all its unique charm?

Tunisia is a land of major contrasts: Mediterranean beaches, the dunes of the Sahara, a peaceful melting pot of the world’s three greatest religions; the Roman remains that remind us of the former splendour of the ancient city of Carthage…you simply won’t know where to start! So allow us to offer you a few ideas.

If you have a passion for sports such as  sailing, surfing, scuba diving and golf; love exploring archaeological sites or venturing out across the endless desert dunes; or even if you prefer to relax in an oasis of hundreds of thousands of palm trees, listening to the bubbling waters of a thousand and one springs, set against the stunning backdrop of ochre-tinged mountains – then you should know that the best time of year to enjoy all this is between October and May, when temperatures average between 12ºC and 28ºC. So winter is a much better time than mid- summer for any of these activities, especially if you’re not used to high temperatures, which can really take it out of you.

If you prefer cultural tourism, then Tunisia, with its spectacular ancient heritage and fascinating past, will not disappoint you. Definitely not to be missed is a tour of the  Bardo Museum, housed in a 19th century Beylical palace, or the Carthage Archaeological Museum, Kairouan Museum (with its collection of Islamic Arts), the Medina of Tunis, Djem Amphitheatre, Kerkouane, the Medina of Sousse …

For those longing to relax on golden sands, Tunisia is haven of fabulous beaches, where the hotels have been carefully built to blend into the landscape. There visitors can enjoy all types of water sports and they are also the perfect choice for a family holiday, as there are countless activities and spaces for the kids. The temperature is ideal for fun and games on the beach with friends and family!

But whether you’re travelling with your partner or in group, make sure you take the time to visit one of the many thalassotherapy centres scattered around the country, renowned for their quality and variety of treatments. Treat yourself to a thalassotherapy session and you’ll feel like a new person!

Stroll around the outdoor markets, enjoy the delicious herbal teas – unlike anything you’ve ever tasted before -, get to know the locals…Tunisia is all warmth, diversity and light…so come and discover all the brilliance of this fabulous country this winter!

“IBEROSTAR Hotels& Resorts’ hotels in Tunisia are the perfect base from which to enjoy unique experiences. The IBEROSTAR hotels are situated in prime locations, offering magnificent opportunities to gain first-hand insight into this country of outstanding natural beauty and its magnificent culture”.

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The breathtaking beaches of Tunisia

octubre 26th, 2012 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in DESTINATIONS | Snapshots - (0 Comments)

Tunisia boasts some of the Mediterranean’s most spectacular beaches, and whatever time of year you choose to visit, you’ll be amazed by these stretches of golden sand, bathed by intensely blue waters and blessed with sunshine practically 365 days a year.

To the north you’ll be enchanted by a coastline of crystal-clear waters and beaches backed by lush vegetation and majestic mountains with sheer cliffs. The southern coastline forms a sharp contrast: here the fascination lies in the desert landscapes of the surrounding area.

Whichever beach you choose, Tunisia offers countless delightful spots where you can swim and dive with complete peace of mind. Many also offer the infrastructures necessary to try your hand at a wide range of water sports.

The beaches of Mahdia: Mahdia is a picturesque coastal city; indeed, its stunning beaches have turned it into a bustling holiday resort during the summer months. However, it is the ideal choice for a winter holiday, when the coastline regains its tranquil, laid-back pace.

The beaches of Hammamet: These are the best-known beaches in Tunisia, lying some 60 minutes’ drive from the capital. These superb stretches of fine white sands are bathed by warm waters. The wealth of marine life makes them particularly popular among lovers of scuba-diving.

The beaches of Monastir: Monastir is one of Tunisia’s most popular cities, offering a wide range of accommodation options. Its beaches are famed for their spectacular beauty. The city has an international airport where hundreds of flights land each day.

The beaches of Sfax: Sfax has one of the largest populations in Tunisia. It stands on an impeccably clean coastline and the surroundings are dotted with modern shopping malls. There is also a large number of accommodation options close to the beachfront.

The beaches of Tunis: Tunisia’s capital city is noted not just for being one of the most modern in the country and its wide range of hotels, but also for the beauty of its beaches. There is also an international airport situated just a few kilometres outside the city centre. La Goulette and Pedruchillo are two of the most highly-recommendable beaches in this area. The latter is considered to be an ecological centre of major importance due to the vegetation that surrounds it.

The beaches of Melloula: The city of Melloula stands on the border with Algeria. Its beaches include Serrat, which stretches out along the coast for 7 kilometres, making it one of the longest in Tunisia.  Melloula is also famous because its coastline is dotted with beaches of varying types: whilst some are rocky, others boast fine white sands. In addition to Serrat, in this region we also strongly recommend the beaches of Jebara and Berkoukech.

The beaches of Djerba: The Island of Djerba, situated off the east coast of Tunisia, is considered to be a prime tourist destination. This is due to the large number of hotel complexes that line its coasts. Djerba is also noted for its variety of shopping malls and because its beaches are suitable for scuba-diving and many other water sports. The best beaches on Djerba are Sidi Mahrez and Seguia.

Dejrba’s stunning beauty has inspired many of the great poets, including Homer, who described it as the island of ten thousand palm trees. It is easy to see why this writer was captivated by the island, and we guarantee that you too will be enchanted by its fabulous year-long climate and amazing beaches of fine white sand.

“The outstanding location of the hotels that IBEROSTAR Hotels & Resorts owns in Djerba, Hammamet, Mahdia, Sousse, and Zarzis is an excellent opportunity to discover the secrets of a country of outstanding natural beauty and culture”.

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BAKLAVA RECIPE

junio 11th, 2012 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in Mystery Guest - (0 Comments)


Baklava is one of Tunisia’s most exquisite traditional desserts. And to make it easy to prepare, we’ve got a special chef’s tip for you: if you haven’t got any rose water at home, you can replace it with the same amount – two spoonfuls – of orange blossom water.

 

Ingredients:

  • ½ kg of filo pastry (you can use flaky pastry instead, but the result is not the same)
  • 300 g of peeled, chopped nuts
  • 2 or 3 spoonfuls of sugar
  • A couple of spoonfuls of ground pistachios (optional)
  • Light syrup (made with sugar, a little water and cardamom beans)

Instructions:

  1. Grease a round mould that can be placed in the oven with sufficient oil or melted butter.
  2. Add a layer of filo pastry.
  3. Spread with oil or butter and add another layer.
  4. Repeat this process until there are 4-5 layers.
  5. Mix the sugar with the chopped nuts and place them on the pastry. Add a little more butter or oil.
  6. Add another 6-8 layers of filo pastry.
  7. Wet the palm of your hand with water and pass it over the pastry, and then spread with oil or butter.
  8. Using a sharp knife, score with a diamond or square pattern.
  9. Place the mould in a hot oven for 20 minutes, then reduce to a moderate heat until the dessert is golden brown.
  10. Remove from the oven and pour the syrup over the Baklava while it is still hot. You may decorate it with pistachios. Serve warm or cold.

 

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Keen on Kilims

mayo 8th, 2012 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in Snapshots - (0 Comments)

One of my very most prized travel souvenirs is a vintage kilim, about 75 years old, which I bought more than a decade ago in the otherworldly medina of Fez, Morocco – with its black-and-yellow zigzag motif, it evokes exoticism and the quintessence of travel whenever I look at it. I’m instantly transported back into that world of mint tea and mysterious narrow byways, the tannery where I watched young boys dying leather for shoes and Ottomans, the rooftop restaurant where I first tried tagines and pigeon, and the bathhouse where I found myself being vigorously pummeled by a wiry Moroccan masseur.

So what exactly are kilims and how are they different from carpets? Well, they’re also made of wool, but in many ways are closer to tapestries – flatter, lighter, more tightly woven, and less durable than carpets, with no pile to speak of.   All the above add up to one key reason kilims also tend to be less expensive than most rugs – another is that they have traditionally been a homespun village craft, made for locals instead of the tourist or export market as increasingly became the case with rugs.

Having said that, over the years I’ve spotted quite a few gorgeous, skillfully crafted, even quite sophisticated kilims in several countries, and in various countries, more of them have been made for export than they used to be – and some command prices into the thousands of dollars or pounds. The word “kilim” itself is Turkish, derived from the Persian gelim, but in addition to Turkey and Iran they can be found throughout North Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, the Caucasus, and the Balkans – so if you ever find yourself at one of the Iberostar resorts in Turkey, Morocco, Tunisia, Montenegro, or Bulgaria, you may well come across local examples while browsing in local markets or shops.  Many will be relative bargains, and I can assure you from personal experience they will look marvelously striking whether hanging on your wall or laying on your floor.

Photo | Stephan Geyer

  If you ever find yourself at one of the Iberostar resorts in Turkey, Morocco, Tunisia, Montenegro, or Bulgaria, search for your gorgeous, skillfully crafted and sophisticated kilims!

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Albert Memmi’s Book on Tunisia

abril 19th, 2012 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in Local Characters - (0 Comments)

Tunis

 

Situated in the heart of Tunisia, the capital city of Tunis is a metrópolis that straddles between the past and present. From the city’s old medina to the suburbs of Carthage, colonial architecture and traditional Arabic edifices are on full display. In the new town, or Ville Nouvelle, modern skyscrapers run along the grand Avenue Habib Bourguiba – a stark contrast to the historical quarters. As the capital city of the country, Tunis is the country’s political and administrative hub.

Past vs Present

While the city’s new town is rapidly expanding due to modernization, the country and its people continue to hold on tight to its past. One of these people include Albert Memmi, a distinguished Tunisian author who has written numerous titles on life in Tunis during its days as a French colony. His first novel, The Pillar of Salt, published in 1953, was particularly recognized.

Born in 1920 into a poor Jewish family living in the Jewish ghetto of Tunis, Memmi wrote about his childhood, growing up in a whirling world of contrasts and the effect of these contrasts on the protagonist who subsequentlys flee the realities. Memmi writes with a searing honesty of his struggle to attain a sense of identity. This quote from his book is a great descrption of how he feels, “I’m a Jew! My home is in the ghetto, my legal status is native African. I come from an Oriental background. I’m poor’. But I had learnt to reject these four classifications.”

In addition to all the problems he grew up with, Memmi plunges the reader deep into the chaos and tragedy of World War Two and the effects of the German presence on the Jewish community in Tunisia. In the concluding chapters of The Pillar of Salt , he describes the hardships endured in the German labor camp and the final escape back to Tunis.

The Present Tunisia

Luckily, Tunisia has come a long way since those days. Having gained independence in 1956, Tunisia has since developed into a safe and historically-rich country. Besides the intriguing capital city of Tunis, there is also a whole world to explore around the country: from the fascinating island of Djerba to the beaches of Hammamet and the Star-Wars-inspired Tozeur. Wherever you choose to go in Tunisia, you’ll be surprised to find a country extremely rich in history and culture.

Photo |Tab59

Whether you’re looking for an adventure vacation or a relaxing break, Tunisia has enough history and diverse natural beauty for everyone. If you want to visit this amazing country book your room at one of the Iberostar Hotels!

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Tunisian Food 101: A Palette of Exotic Flavors

enero 25th, 2012 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in Mystery Guest - (15 Comments)

Sun, sand and sea…what more could a person want for a relaxing vacation? Europeans have long known the allure of travel to Tunisia, that small piece of North Africa that’s been attracting tourists with its natural beauty and Mediterranean coast for years. Steeped in culture that can be dated all the way back to prehistoric times, Tunisia has become a playground for those seeking everything from relaxing sea water therapy to playing the links.

This “mystery guest” loves nothing more than relaxing in the atmosphere of one of Iberostar’s ten resorts and hotels in Tunisia. Whether it be the elegant five-star Iberostar Solaria in Hammamet, or the comfortable Mehari Djerba with its Tunisian architecture and 27-hole golf course nearby, I’m always ready to relax and soak up some sun and serious food when I visit.

If you’re new to Tunisian food, you’re in for a real treat, as the influences of nearby cultures permeate the foods. Forget what you thought you knew, and open up your senses to the Tunisian tajin, which is a crustless quiche, brik, made of egg and tuna stuffed into a hearty dough, and couscous, the national dish, which in my humble opinion is by far the finest in all of North Africa.

Chef Slim Bettajeb oversees the food at all ten of Iberostar’s Tunisian resorts. I was able to get a few minutes of his time and learn a bit about the man behind the food at our favorite resorts.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your career. How did you get to be an Iberostar chef?

I studied the culinary arts at École Hotelliere from 1984 to 1985. Having worked in several major hotel chains, I took the opportunity to participate in various international events, including the Guinness world records — for the biggest couscous (2 tons), as well as having participated in gastronomic week festivals around the world, until I came to work for Iberostar.

What Tunisian dishes are served at your resort? Are they served every day at lunch and dinner? Is anything typically Tunisian served at breakfast?

We specialize in all types of couscous dishes such as stews, rices, hot appetizers, and hors d’oeuvres. We serve several of them daily for lunch and dinner, changing our menu often. Mornings bring more typical dishes for breakfast such as donuts (ftaia) and bread (mlaoui).

Which is your favorite Tunisian dish, and why?

My favorite food is bourgoul, which you may know as bulghur or cracked wheat. We prepare it with dried meat and vegetables. It’s healthy and hearty with lots of natural fiber, protein and carbohydrates.

Do you have a recipe that you could share with our readers that would be simple to make at home?

Yes, this Ojja with eggs recipe is relatively simple and would give them the opportunity to sample the flavors of Tunisia at home.

Ojja with eggs

Ingredients

  • Diced peppers 0.250 kg
  • Diced tomato 0.200 kg
  • Crushed garlic 0.080
  • Tomato paste 3 gs
  • 5 eggs
  • salt
  • pepper
  • turmeric
  • caraway
  • Olive oil 0.050 l

Coarsely chop the peppers and tomatoes and crush the garlic. Add the fresh tomatoes, peppers and tomato paste until slightly wet, season with salt, pepper, turmeric and caraway. Simmer. At the end of cooking add the eggs and let them cook. Serve hot.

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Tunisia’s Ancient Glory: The Ruins of Mighty Carthage

enero 18th, 2012 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in Snapshots - (0 Comments)

Chances are you’ve heard of Hannibal, and maybe even that he and his army tried to invade Italy by crossing the Alps with elephants. The city-state he fought for, Carthage, was classical Rome’s biggest rival in the Mediterranean, and one of the big kahunas of the entire ancient world. Even if you’re coming to Tunisia mainly for a warm beach vacation, you owe it to yourself to not miss this important UNESCO World Heritage Site (especially if you’re staying in Hammamet, less than an hour’s drive away).

Just across the bay from the modern capital Tunis, “Kart-hadasht” was founded even earlier than Rome, in the 8th or 9th century BC, as a colony of Phoenicians from farther east along the Mediterranean coast, under a queen that history most commonly knows by her Greek name Dido; eventually the city became a commerce-oriented republic rich and powerful enough to rule over hundreds of other Phoenician (aka Punic) cities along the coast, as well as coastal areas of what are now Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Spain. But its rivalry with Rome led to what are called the Punic wars, and Rome finally defeated, invaded, and refounded Carthage in 146 BC. It was later overrun by the Vandals, then became part of the Byzantine Empire until it was conquered by Arabs in 698 AD. So the ruins you’ll find here today include various and sundry cultural and historical influences.

The sprawling and utterly fascinating modern-day archaeological site includes ports, an acropolis, necropoles (cemeteries), an amphitheater, temples, baths, residential areas, early Christian churches, Islamic mosques, and more (there are also several nearby archaeology, oceanography, and history museums). There’s a lot of ground to cover, so bring a hat, water, sunscreen, and good walking shoes!

Photo | Unitopia

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George Lucas’ Star Wars: Made in Tunisia

noviembre 4th, 2011 | Posted by Iberostar Hotels & Resorts in Local Characters - (0 Comments)

When George Lucas first created the Star Wars trilogy, he would have never imagined that the film set in Tunisia would continue to draw in thousands of fans to this day. Many Star Wars fans have already found their way to the deserts of Southern Tunisia, the ‘galaxy far far away’ that set the scenes for Star Wars.

As the producer and director of the Star Wars trilogy, George Lucas traveled to exotic territories to find the perfect setting for his epic space opera film. Tunisia’s sprawling deserts, bizarre landscapes and peculiar underground dwellings are what drew George Lucas to this North African country.

“When I was searching in 1977 for a place to make the first Star Wars movie I found Tunisia the ideal country for filming: beautiful countryside, unique architecture and a very high level of technical sophistication.” – George Lucas.

Film locations in Tunisia

Tozeur makes for an excellent base to visit the nearby Star Wars film locations. Just outside of town is the film set of Mos Espa, where visitors can explore its gates, pod-racing arena, gallery and market. Walking through the set, it’s easy to confuse illusion with reality. Just 23km out of town, you’ll find the Star Wars Canyon, which was also featured in other movies like Raiders of the Lost Ark and The English Patient.

But for those who are looking to get beyond the film locations, Tozeur itself is worth a visit. An oasis set amidst a jungle of palm trees, this is the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Explore the desert on camelback or take in the hypnotic atmosphere of the desert at one of the many Tozeur hotels.

The fictional planet of Tatooine, home to Anakin and Luke Skywalker, actually got its name from a real city called Tataouine. Most of the scenes starring Tatooine were shot in the hills and villages surrounding this town.

After following the Star Wars trail, kick back on the island of Djerba, best known for its resorts and beaches. Town is just a hop away from Toshi Station and Ben’s hermitage which was used as the house of Obi-wan Kenobi.

For those planning a Tunisia vacation, indulge yourself in some outer space fantasy while lounging by the beach. I’m sure George Lucas would like that.

Photo | mamnaimie

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