History and Tradition in Tunisia:
It could be said that Tunisia is one of the oldest countries in the world, having been discovered by Phoenician traders around the 10th Century BC. Carthage, built by these same traders, became a major Mediterranean stronghold for trade and travel around 600 BC, subsequently falling to the Romans circa 150 B.C following the Punic wars between the Phoenicians and Romans, with Rome being the victor. Carthage and Tunisia changed hands several times over centuries from the Romans to the Vandals to the Byzantine before finally settling into the hands of the Arabs around the 7th Century, who retain control today.

With so many owners, the architecture of Tunisia is eclectic, to say the least, showing numerous cultural influences. However, the Arab sense of architecture is as evident today as it was centuries ago when they seized control of present day Tunisia. Due to its being Arab, Tunisia retains many of the mores and values related to other Arabian countries, with Islam being the predominant religion, though other religions co-exist peacefully there. The Jewish and Christian religions will freely celebrate their rites and holidays, giving Tunisia a rich diversity. However, the Berber, Arab, African and Western European cultures, lending an air of sophistication and ethnicity found nowhere else, have influenced the Tunisian culture! Tunisia, as a major tourist destination, is considered more tolerant than its’ Arab counterparts in the Middle East. For Instance, while the Islamic faith prefers head scarves of its women, visitors to Tunisia are not expected to abide by this tradition, being permitted to dress more in line with Western Europe, however, more conservative dress is appreciated.

As you explore the various cities in which you stay, you will find that while the buildings and homes look somewhat plain, usually whitewashed, it is the doors and windows that express what lies inside each building. Highly decorated, cheerfully colored doors and windows are the rule rather than the exception in Tunisian cities, towns and villages. There are many explanations as to the meaning of this, whether it is to ward off mosquitoes or to share with the rest of the world the artistic expression of the occupants, it is definitely understood in the Islamic culture that the door to one’s home is the most important threshold in the life of a Muslim. The doors and windows to a home are the transition from the outside world to the hospitality that lies within the home of the individual and the door to a home will often be one of the more beautiful aspects of any home in Tunisia.

The people of Tunisia are a tolerant group as well as being warm and welcoming; when in doubt, ask. Proud of their rich heritage, Tunisians are happy to share with visitors their history and culture. Due to the influences of Western Europe, though, Tunisia will seem like one of the more modernized countries favoring the Islamic faith. Tunisia welcomes visitors of all nationalities and religions who desire a cheap in a warm Mediterranean environment. People wishing to travel and get the chance of knowing more about the rich Tunisian cultural heritage can book a flight and enjoy the hospitality of the very nice hotels of the resort of their choice.

Alternative departures:
Tunisia holidays from London
Tunisia holidays from Midlands
Tunisia holidays from Newcastle
Tunisia holidays from Manchester
Tunisia holidays from Belfast
Tunisia holidays from Scotland
Tunisia holidays from Bristol and Cardiff