Tunisia

Introduction to Tunisia

The Tunisian Republic (الجمهرية التونسية), or Tunisia, is a country situated on the Mediterranean coast of North Africa. It is the easternmost and smallest of the nations situated along the Atlas mountain range, bordering Algeria, to the west, and Libya to the south and east. Forty percent of the country is comprised by the Sahara desert, with much of the remainder consisting of particularly fertile soil, with easily accessible coasts. Both played a prominent role in ancient times, first with the famous Phoenician city of Carthage, and later, as the Africa Province, it became known as the bread basket of the Roman Empire. It is thought that the name Tunis originated from Berber, meaning either a geographical promontory, or, "to spend the night."

Tunisia is in north Africa, between the Mediterranean Sea and the Sahara Desert and between Algeria and Libya. Much of the land is semi-arid and desert. There are mountains in the north. The climate is temperate in the north, with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. The desert is in the south.

Cultural notes about Tunisia

Tunisia attracts millions of tourists every year. Near the capital of Tunis are the ruins of Carthage, once the centre of the ancient Carthaginian empire which was defeated by the Roman Empire in three Punic wars.

Official Canadian government advisories for travelling to, in and around Tunisia

Canadians should use caution when travelling near the Algerian border.

Petty crime including theft, pickpocketing, and scams occur in urban areas. Ensure personal belongings are secure at all times and carry photocopies of identification and travel documents. The originals should be stored in hotel safes.

Travellers should keep informed of soccer game schedules, as there have been several incidents of soccer-inspired violence in Tunisia.