Preface Last Updated: 1/26/2005
3:25 AM
Tunisia's history and list of attractions would do justice to a
country twice its size. From the stone-age settlements near the
oasis at Kebili to the space-age sets of Star Wars (parts of which
were filmed at Matmata), its lush-to-lunar landscapes have seen
plenty of action.
Tunisia may be the smallest country in North Africa, but its
strategic position has ensured it an eventful history. The
Phoenicians, Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Arabs, Ottomans, and
French have all picked at the region at one point. It is believed
that what is now arid desert was covered in forest, scrub, and
savanna grasses, much like the plains of Kenya and Tanzania today.
The Phoenicians first came to Tunisia in 1100 B.C. and
established a chain of ports along the North African coast. The port
that looms largest in history books is Carthage, archenemy of Rome.
It became the leader of the western Phoenician world in the 7th
century. The city's regional dominance lasted until the Punic Wars
between Rome and Carthage and ended with Carthage utterly razed and
its people sold into slavery.
The Tunisian territory became a Roman domain after the war. The
emperor Augustus re-founded Carthage as a Roman city, naming it the
capital of Africa Proconsularis, Rome's African holdings. The Romans
went on to found cities and colonies across Tunisia's plains and
coastline.
By the beginning of the 5th century, with Rome's power in
terminal decline, the Vandals decided the area was ripe for
plucking. Within 10 years, they had taken Carthage as their capital.
The Byzantines of Constantinople, who took the territory from the
Vandals in 533, kept it for the next 150 years.
Islam was introduced in the 7th century, when the Arab armies
swept out of Arabia and quickly conquered Egypt. The Arabs had taken
all of north Africa by the start of the 8th century, and the region
became a province of the fast-expanding Islamic empire.
Conflicts arose again when North Africa was caught in the middle
of the rivalry between Spain and the Ottoman Empire in the middle of
the 16th century. Tunis changed hands half a dozen times in some 50
years before the Turks took it and it became an Ottoman territory.
Ottoman power lasted through to the 19th century, when France became
the new power in the Western Mediterranean.
The geopolitical climate after WW II opened the door for Tunisian
nationalists to step up their campaign for independence from France.
Tunisia was formally granted independence on March 20, 1956.
History, culture, ancient ruins, and a beautiful, diverse
landscape - you will be impressed with what Tunisia has to offer.
After all, it has had 3,000 years to prepare for your visit.
The Host Country
Area, Geography, and Climate Last Updated: 1/26/2005 3:32 AM
The Republic of Tunisia lies at the northernmost tip of Africa, a
strategic location that throughout history has made it a crossroads
between Europe and the Middle East. Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria, and
northwestern Libya form the Maghreb (the West, in Arabic), an area
of common history, language, ethnic groups, and culture.
The country's area of 63,378 square miles is slightly smaller
than Missouri. Tunisia has 1,000 miles of Mediterranean coastline.
Northern Tunisia is the most heavily populated part of the country,
mountainous (although elevations rarely reach 3,000 feet), and
relatively fertile; this area was the breadbasket of the Roman
Empire. The north also claims Tunisia's one major river, the
Medjerda. Central Tunisia is a semi-arid highland with poor soil,
little rainfall, and scant population. The south is arid and barren,
except for occasional oases, as it merges with the Sahara.
Tunisia's climate is temperate with generally mild winters and
hot summers. The countryside is quite green in winter and spring;
and becomes dry and brown in summer. Winters are are short, rainy,
humid and chilly. The temperature is rarely below freezing. Snow
falls in the northwestern mountain region. Summers in Tunis are
characterized by high temperatures, occasionally reaching 120°F,
with an average humidity of 60% to 70% during June, July, and
August; evenings are pleasant. From mid-May until mid-October, the
sky is usually cloudless and little rain falls. In an average year,
only 120 days have any rainfall.
Population Last Updated: 1/26/2005 3:33 AM
Tunisia's population is approximately 10 million. Islam is the
state religion and nearly all Tunisians are Arab Sunni Muslims.
Religious minorities are tolerated and protected, including a small
Jewish population (the second largest in the Middle East outside of
Israel). In addition to its many mosques, Tunis has a few Jewish
synagogues and several churches (Catholic and Protestant, with
services in French and English).
More than 77% of Tunisia's population 10 years and older is
literate, due in large part to universal education up to grade 8.
Arabic is the official language, but French is widely spoken as a
second language, particularly in urban areas. A basic knowledge of
French will facilitate life in Tunis as nearly all product
information, printed materials, and road signs are written in both
French and Arabic. English is taught at the secondary school level
but is not yet used or spoken as widely, although it is on the rise.
Public Institutions Last Updated: 1/26/2005 3:35 AM
Tunisia's form of government is characterized as a presidential
republic, dominated by a single party, with decision-making centered
in the executive branch. Although opposition parties exist, the
ruling Constitutional Democratic Rally (RCD) party is firmly
intertwined with government institutions throughout the country,
making it extremely difficult for opposition parties to compete on a
level playing field. The President was reelected to a fourth 5-year
term in October 2004 with 94.5% of the vote.
The President appoints the Prime Minister, the Cabinet, and 24
provincial governors. The Chamber of Deputies (Parliament) is
elected by direct universal suffrage for a 5-year term and meets
January through July and November through December every year.
Twenty percent of the seats are reserved for the opposition. A new
upper house of Parliament, the Chamber of Advisors, is to be created
in 2005.
There are eight legal parties: the Constitutional Democratic
Rally (RCD, ruling party), the Democratic Socialist Movement (MDS),
the Popular Unity Party (PUP), Social Liberal Party (PSL), the
Renewal Movement (NR or Ettajdid), the Progressive Democratic Party
(PDP), the Unionist Democratic Union (UDU), and the Democratic Forum
for Labor and Freedom (FDTL). Three political parties are
unregistered: the Tunisian Green Party (PVT), the "An-Nahdha
Movement," and the Tunisian Communist Workers' Party (POCT). The
Tunisian Government considers An-Nahdha to be a terrorist
organization.
Thanks to the Personal Status Code, established shortly after
independence, and the Government's efforts to advance the status of
women, Tunisian women enjoy full civil and legal rights. Numerous
organizations actively seek to advance respect for women's rights,
including the National Union of Tunisian Women and the Tunisian
Democratic Women's Association (ATFD). The independent trade union
federation, the General Union of Tunisian Workers (UGTT), remains
large and influential.
Courts in Tunisia are secular, and there is a three-level
judiciary: first-instance courts, courts of appeal, and the highest
judicial body, the Supreme Court. All judicial proceedings are in
Arabic. There are also other judicial bodies such as an
administrative court designed to address grievances against
government ministries.
Arts, Science, and Education Last Updated: 1/26/2005 3:36 AM
Tunisia's cultural and artistic heritage is a blending of
Phoenician, Roman, Arab, Spanish, Turkish, French, and Berber
influence. This rich heritage can be seen throughout the country, in
magnificent collections of Roman mosaics and statues, Phoenician
coins and jewelry, and early Arab manuscripts. Archeological sites
scattered through the country are constant reminders of the richness
of Tunisia's heritage. Remains of Punic ports, a Roman coliseum,
aqueducts, numerous temples and villas, and Spanish forts are all
part of Tunisia's living past.
The education system in Tunisia expanded rapidly after
independence. Today, the primary and secondary systems enroll over
95% of the eligible school population, with no significant
difference between male and female enrollment rates. To earn the
high school baccalaureate degree, students must attend at least 13
years of school and pass the qualifying examinations. Over time, the
government has promoted instruction in Arabic so that today many
students who do not continue their education beyond the primary
level are literate in Arabic rather than French. More recently, the
Government has made the teaching of English at the university and
secondary level an increasing priority. English is currently
introduced in the sixth year of primary school, and there are
several university degree programs in which the language of
instruction is English.
Although Ezzitouna University is arguably the oldest university
in North Africa, dating back to the Middle Ages, the beginning of
the modern university system in Tunisia dates to the establishment
of the University of Tunis in 1960. Since then the higher education
system has grown rapidly to currently include 150 different
institutions. As of 2004, there are 10 public universities under the
Ministry of Higher Education, including the recently founded
"Virtual University" that dispenses instruction over the Internet.
In the 2004-2005 academic year, there were over 300,000 students
enrolled in higher education, and a projected half million students
will be enrolled by 2010. Over half of these students are women. In
the past decade, there has been a concerted effort to increase the
number of institutes and faculties outside of Tunis. Recent years
have also seen the growth of private "universities," although most
resemble vocational schools. In 2004, there were 12, teaching
business, computer science, and other subjects related to the
technical and service industries.
Commerce and Industry Last Updated: 1/26/2005 3:38 AM
Tunisia, a middle-income country, has a growing and diversifying
economy that is increasingly open to the world economy. After severe
economic crises in the mid-1980s, the Government instituted a
structural adjustment program that has successfully encouraged
fiscal prudence, export-led growth, and slow but steady
liberalization. Minimal GDP growth of 1.1% in 2002 was followed by a
5.5% expansion in 2003 and a similar amount in 2004. Inflation was
approximately 4.5% in 2004. The chief sectors of Tunisia's $16.2
billion (2004 estimate) economy are services, manufacturing,
agriculture, phosphate mining, and hydrocarbon production.
The tourism sector is the largest player in the services sector
and represents a major source of foreign exchange. Transportation
and domestic trade make up the remainder of the services sector.
Tunisia is developing its information technology infrastructure in
order to spur more growth in jobs and exports in the services
sector.
Textile and leather production, as well as agribusiness, dominate
the manufacturing sector. Many famous name European clothing lines
are produced in Tunisia, and U.S. companies such as Playtex and "The
Gap" source portions of their production here. Tunisia is one of the
world's leading producers of lime phosphate, and it is
self-sufficient in oil and natural gas production. Several U.S.
petroleum exploration and services companies operate in Tunisia and
make up about half of U.S. investment in the country.
Tourism is the country's third largest income earner and accounts
for about 7% of nominal GDP. Tunisia welcomes visitors primarily
from Libya, France, Algeria, Germany, Italy, and the UK. Tunisia's
warm climate and fine beaches make it Europe's Caribbean - an
attractive, inexpensive vacation spot within easy reach. Efforts to
move away from mass tourism toward more lucrative niche markets have
led to developments in cultural and desert tourism, as well as golf
courses and 5-star resorts. Tunisia actively seeks foreign
investment in key employment and export-producing sectors, and has
created an attractive investment incentive program. With its
proximity to the European market and the duty-free entry afforded to
Tunisian products by the EU-Tunisian Free Trade Agreement launched
in 1995, Tunisia is appealing to foreign investors seeking access to
the European market. The EU supplies over 70% of Tunisia's imports
(and absorbs 80% of its exports). Although European investments are
the most plentiful, there is a growing U.S. business presence in
Tunisia, which includes Microsoft and the Lear Corporation. A
process for formally discussing bilateral trade issues, the Trade
and Investment Framework Agreement, with the U.S. was launched in
2003. In 2003, the U.S.-North Africa Economic Partnership (USNAEP)
was folded into the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) to
support economic, political, and education reform efforts in the
region. Tunisia hosts one of two regional MEPI offices.
Transportation
Automobiles Last Updated: 12/30/2004 5:18 AM
The Embassy does not rent or lend vehicles to newcomers. Newly
arrived employees awaiting arrival of their personal vehicles are
authorized transportation to and from the workplace during regular
office hours by the motor pool on a fee basis for up to 60 days.
Avis, Hertz, and other rental cars are available, but they are
expensive. Employees who have chosen not to ship or purchase a
personal vehicle are expected to make all their own transportation
arrangements. Taxis are numerous and reasonably priced. There are
several taxi services to which an employee can telephone ahead and
book a taxi.
Tunisian customs regulations regarding vehicles make a clear
distinction between U.S. Government employees with diplomatic status
and those without. Those employees not included on the formal
diplomatic list are given "PAT"(Personnel Administratif et
Technique) plates and may register only one duty-free personal
vehicle. Those in PAT status can only purchase or import a duty-free
vehicle during the first year after arrival at post. Employees with
diplomatic status obtain "CD"(Corps Diplomatique) plates. Those with
diplomatic status who have a spouse residing at post are permitted
to register up to two personal vehicles. An individual may not
register a duty-free vehicle, sell or otherwise dispose of that
vehicle, and then import or purchase another one to replace it. The
Tunisian Government rarely grants exceptions to this rule.
Tunisian customs regulations greatly reduce opportunities for
resale of automobiles upon departure from post. The high import
duties for all cars tend to limit the pool of potential buyers to
those people with duty-free privileges.
Vehicles imported into Tunisia should not be ostentatious and
must not have windows so heavily tinted that it is not possible to
see into the car from outside. Tunisian law requires seatbelts for
the front seats. The climate makes both a heater and air-conditioner
necessary.
There are few American cars in Tunisia, so spare parts for them
are not available. Maintenance of American cars can also be
problematic because mechanics are unfamiliar with them. Furthermore,
because of the high import duty on new and used cars paid by those
without duty-free privileges, all U.S. automobiles (including
European cars built to American specifications) have limited resale
value.
European cars can be ordered locally duty free (delivery delay is
at least 2 months) or may be ordered directly from Europe, either
after you arrive at post or from Washington. Such cars may be picked
up in Paris, Marseille, or Frankfurt, for example, and driven to
post via one of the ferry services operating from Marseille or
Genoa. (See "Getting to the Post.") Many employees have found this
to be an advantageous alternative to shipping a car to post since
transit time for shipped vehicles can be lengthy, and because
vehicles arriving by ferry can be driven immediately with a
temporary registration. Having personal transportation available
upon arrival at post is a great advantage. Newly assigned employees
who are considering purchasing a car in Europe and driving it to
post should contact the Embassy well in advance to make ferry
reservations. A local insurance can be bought through Embassy
Shipping Office the same day of your arrival so you can drive home
immediately. To facilitate customs clearance, the vehicle should be
registered in another country and have valid license plates before
shipment to Tunisia. Such a vehicle can be cleared within 1 week
after arrival and driven for three months while awaiting official
Tunisian plates. If the vehicle has not been previously registered,
an additional 4-8 weeks will be necessary for customs clearance and
will be more complicated for registration, and the vehicle will
remain at the port, so may not be driven during this time.
Registering a car in Tunisia is a complicated and lengthy
procedure because of the numerous formalities required. The Embassy
arranges registration of personally owned vehicles. A permanent
license number is assigned to each registered car, and license
plates are made at owner's expense. Cars must be insured.
Third-party-liability insurance is mandatory and must be obtained
locally through the GSO Shipping Unit. The price for such insurance
varies according to the horsepower of the vehicle, but is about $200
per year. Collision insurance is very expensive locally and can be
difficult to collect quickly due to complicated Tunisian
regulations. Many employees prefer to buy collision insurance from a
U.S. company in addition to locally purchased third-party liability.
If you intend to travel abroad, the GSO Shipping Unit can assist you
in purchasing "Green Card International Insurance" (temporary
international auto insurance) through the same local insurance
agency.
A Tunisian driver's license is not required if you have a valid
U.S. driver's license. It is important that your license remain
valid for the duration of your assignment. If you intend to travel
to other countries where you will need an international driver's
license, obtain one in the U.S.; or the Tunisian branch of the
Automobile Association normally will issue international driver's
licenses to those who are not Tunisian Citizens.
Coupons for duty-free gasoline may be purchased from the
Commissary, saving about 17 percent of the cost at the pump.
Per 6 FAM 165.9-2, personnel assigned to Tunis are granted
exceptions to the restriction on shipment of foreign-made,
foreign-purchased, privately owned vehicles to the U.S. at
government expense. However, these vehicles must meet all of the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of
Transportation (DOT) regulations.
Local Transportation Last Updated: 6/26/2005 5:32 AM
The local yellow (municipal) bus network is unsatisfactory
because of overcrowding and unreliable schedules and equipment.
However, a green (private) bus network also connects the coastal
neighborhoods with the more heavily populated neighborhoods of
Tunis. Electric trains connect the city with the coastal community.
These trains are inexpensive and easy to use, but are usually
crowded. Train service to some areas ends by midnight.
Well-kept, paved roads connect all the larger Tunisian cities.
The railroad system covers a distance of 1,200 miles and connects
most of the larger cities. All major roads and landmarks are well
labeled in French and Arabic. The trains on the Tunis-Sousse-Sfax
corridor are new, quite comfortable, and provide frequent service.
Six international airports provide service-Tunis/Carthage, Monastir,
Djerba, Sfax, Tozeur, and Tabarka.
Taxis are numerous in Tunis but can be difficult to find at
certain hours and in some areas. However, they are easy to find
throughout the day and evening in the northern suburbs where most
American staff resides. Taxis carry a maximum of three passengers.
Fares are metered and inexpensive. The taxi fare from Tunis/Carthage
Airport to the Embassy is about $4.
Regional Transportation Last Updated: 6/26/2005 5:32 AM
Tunis Air and Air France fly daily direct flights to Paris. Tunis
Air and Alitalia provide daily flights to Rome. Regular direct
flights are also available to London, Frankfurt, and most other
major cities in Europe and the Middle East. The Embassy uses the
services of a local travel agency, Tunisian Travel Service (TTS).
TTS (Wagonlit’s representative) also accepts major credit cards and
personal dollar checks from official personnel.
No direct sea transportation is available from Tunis to the U.S.,
but weekly sailings of large, comfortable ferries to Sicily (9
hours), Naples (14 hours) (in summer only), Genoa (24 hours), and
Marseille (24 hours) are available on Italian (Tirrenia) and
Tunisian lines (CTN). Reservations must be made months in advance,
especially if a vehicle is involved. Ferry reservations are
particularly difficult to obtain during the summer. For more
information, contact the Embassy Travel Section.
Communications
Telephones and Telecommunications Last Updated: 2/4/2005 7:12 AM
Local and international direct-dial (IDD) long-distance telephone
and facsimile (fax) service are available at rates higher than in
the U.S. A direct-dial 3-minute call to the U.K. costs TD1.950, to
Italy TD1.950, and to Washington, D.C. TD 2.400. Although Tunis PTT
has primary maintenance responsibility for private residential
telephones, Embassy technicians provide emergency assistance to
Mission personnel in most cases. PTT bills are issued quarterly.
Basic service costs about TD 8; however, local calls in the greater
Tunis metro area are billed at the rate of TD 0.010 per minute for
the first 1,200 minutes per quarter and TD 0.020 for any additional
minutes.
Although telegram and telex services are available, these are
rapidly being overtaken by fax. International telegraph and telex
service is expensive. Some employees make use of a global callback
system that costs about $.50/minute from Tunisia to the U.S. The
Embassy has IVG phone lines, accessed through the switchboard
operator, that allow for direct calls to be placed to Washington
D.C., without charge. The Embassy has no telex service.
Embassy switchboard operators are on duty Monday-Friday (7:00a.m.
to 10:30p.m.), Saturday (7:00a.m. to 5:30 p.m.), and Sunday
(10:00a.m to 8:00 p.m.).
Following are some direct Mission telephone and fax numbers:
Telephone Fax
Embassy: 216-71-107-000
216-71-107-090
Post One: 216-71-107-212
PA/American Center: 216-71-107-254 216-71-963-263
ODC: 216-71-107-085 216-71-964-422
DAO: 216-71-107-200 216-71-964-509
ACST: 216-71-760-517 or 760-905 216-71-716-412
GSO: 216-71-107-494 216-71-962-144
FMO: 216-71-107-206 216-71-964-330
OAA: 216-71-107-402 216-71-107-101
FSI: 216-71-741-672 216-71-741-062
Wireless Service Last Updated: 1/26/2005 3:40 AM
Two companies currently provide cell-phone service in Tunisia.
They use the GSM standard. There is excellent coverage in Tunis and
the infrastructure is rapidly expanding throughout the country.
International and roaming service is available, and the two
companies offer a variety of tariff programs, including prepaid
cards.
Many direct-hires are issued a cell phone. However, you are
responsible for all personal phone calls you make.
Direct-hire employees will receive a handheld radio for Post's
Emergency Radio Network. Post conducts weekly radio checks to ensure
the network is functional and all equipment operational.
Internet Last Updated: 1/26/2005 3:40 AM
Home internet access in Tunisia is available mainly in two
different forms: ADSL and dialup. ADSL is growing in popularity as
more areas around the country gain access.
What is ADSL? ADSL stands for asymmetric digital subscriber line,
a new technology that allows more data to be sent over existing
copper telephone lines. ADSL supports data transfer rates up to 9
Mbps.
ADSL subscription prices vary between TD 50 and TD 100
(approximately $40-$80) per month, all-inclusive, for 128 and 256
Kbps connections, respectively. ADSL service is provided by most
ISPs present in the internet market, at similar prices. These
providers include:
PLANET TUNISIE
41, Avenue Kheireddine Pacha 1002 Tunis
Tel : (216) 71 84 73 73
Fax : (216) 71 84 09 30
Website: www.planet.tn
HEXABYTE
11, rue du Niger, Centre Hanen, Bloc A, Appartement 1, 1002 Tunis
Téléphones : 71-288682 71-286988 71-280730 78-456666
Fax : 71-287754
Website: www.hexabyte.tn
TOPNET
Imm Pacha Centre, Bloc B, 1er étage, 75 avenue Kh Pacha 1073
Tunis
Tél : 71 780 900
Fax : 71 951 031
Website: www.topnet.tn
TUNET
16, Rue de Syrie Bloc C 1001 Tunis
Tel : +216 71 835235
Fax: +216 71 831643.
Website: www.tunet.tn
GLOBALNET
GobalNet immeuble Ennour centre urbain nord 1082 Tunis
Tel : (216) 71 71 2000
Fax : (216) 71 708 008/ Hotline : 71 708 708
Website: www.gnet.tn
Mail and Pouch Last Updated: 1/14/2005 6:44 AM
Personal mail can be sent and received via air pouch and
international mail. Air pouch service from the Department averages
10-12 days and is dispatched three times weekly. International mail
is less reliable and can take up to 2 weeks. Outgoing diplomatic air
pouch service may be used for personal letter mail, audio and
videocassette tapes, prescription medications, eyeglasses,
orthopedic supplies, periodicals, and parcels. The Department
permits the return of merchandise ordered from U.S. vendors via
pouch, with an endorsement stating that the item (which is being
returned for exchange) was purchased in and received from the U.S.
Parcels containing such material must bear the correct U.S. postage.
The Department will not forward any mail that does not have the
correct postage. The Department does not provide UPS entry services.
Parcels should not exceed 50 pounds or measure more than 17x18x32
inches. Parcels should be securely wrapped since pouches are not
handled carefully in transit. Glass containers and liquids of any
kind, including aerosols, are strictly prohibited by Department
pouch regulations. For additional restrictions, see 5 FAH 521, 5 FAH
524, and 5 FAH 525. The Department will return prohibited items to
the sender and the addressee will be so informed via email. The
Department accepts parcels at its Dulles Airport Facility from the
USPS, UPS, and personal delivery for onward forwarding to post. The
Department does not provide insurance and registry services for
articles sent via pouch. Though insured or registered items will be
forwarded via pouch, the Department accepts no liability for loss or
damage. In addition to international mail, post has established a
"Homeward Bound" mail service, which is administered by the USGERA
commissary. For a fee, employees are allowed to mail personal
packages through the diplomatic pouch.
Embassy pouch mail and return address:
Official
Embassy:
Your Name
Department of State
6360 Tunis Place
Washington, D.C. 20521-6360
FSI Arabic Language Field School:
Your Name
Department of State (FSI)
6360 Tunis Place
Washington, D.C. 20521-6360
Personal
Your Name
6360 Tunis Place
Dulles, VA 20189-6360
International Mail
Local postal facilities (Tunisian PTT) can be used to send and
receive personal letters and parcel mail. Parcels sent or received
require customs clearance. The Embassy will assist in customs
formalities on parcels received. However, those who use local postal
facilities must appear personally at the post office when sending
parcels, with all packaging supplies (box, tape, string, etc.), to
close the parcel following customs inspection. In each case, the
sender or recipient is responsible for customs and postal fees.
Embassy international mail and return address:
Your name
American Embassy
(Agency abbreviation)
Les Berges du Lac
1053 Tunis, Tunisia
Radio and TV Last Updated: 1/7/2005 9:43 AM
Local radio stations broadcast in both French and Arabic on
standard AM frequencies. There are five local FM stations- four in
Arabic, the other in French, with daily one-hour broadcasts in
Spanish, English, German, and Italian. A shortwave radio offers
wider reception. For example, with a shortwave radio, limited U.S.
Armed Forces and VOA broadcasts can be heard evenings, and BBC
broadcasts can be heard during the day.
There are two TV channels broadcast in Tunisia - both in Arabic -
Channel 7 and an educational channel. Some can also pick up a third
- RAI Uno - which offers programing relayed from Italy; it operates
24 hours daily.
Armed Forces Network (AFN) programming is available to Embassy
staff. There are 10 video and 14 audio stations offering sports,
sitcoms, dramas, talk shows, movies, documentaries, news programs
and music from the U.S.
Black-and-white TV sets manufactured for the American market work
in Tunisia. However, color sets made for the U.S. market do not.
Only color sets that receive the PAL and SECAM systems function in
Tunisia. These television sets may be purchased locally or in
Europe. A local color TV of good quality costs from TD 450 to 1,500
(approximately $380-$1270), depending on size. Multisystem TVs are
available for purchase at the duty-free store by individuals with
duty-free privileges.
Both analog and digital satellite receivers can be purchased on
the local market. The following satellites can be reached with a
receiver in Tunisia: ASTRA (19 degrees east), Hot Bird (13 degrees
east), Telecom 2A-2B (8 degrees west), ARAB SAT (26 degrees east),
and NILE SAT (7 degrees west). Analog TV satellite receivers cost
about TD 300 ($254) and digital receivers cost about TD 650 ($550).
Newspapers, Magazines, and Technical Journals Last Updated:
1/26/2005 3:42 AM
The most important daily newspapers are the following: Ash-Shourouq,
the largest circulation independent, Arabic-language newspaper; As-Sabah,
an independent daily; and La Presse, a government-owned
French-language newspaper. The bilingual (Arabic/French) weekly
magazine Realites is the most respected opinion magazine. The weekly
newspaper Tunisia News is the only locally published
English-language periodical.
The International Herald Tribune arrives in Tunis late on the day
of publication. It is available on the newsstands for $1 a copy.
International editions of Time and Newsweek may be purchased at
newsstands a day after publication for about $2. Magazines and
newspapers sent via the Department arrive 2-3 weeks after
publication.
A library at the Embassy's CLO office is available to American
personnel. The Public Affairs Section, the British Council, and the
American Cooperative School also have library facilities that can be
used with permission.
Health and Medicine
Medical Facilities Last Updated: 1/26/2005 3:47 AM
A State Department Foreign Service Health Practitioner (FSHP) who
serves as the Post Medical Officer, an EFM part-time RN, a
locally-hired Tunisian physician, and a Medical Office Manager staff
the Health Unit, which located in the Embassy. The regional medical
officers (RMO) and the regional psychiatrist (RMOP) are posted in
Cairo and Athens and visit this post on a regular basis. The Health
Unit provides a full Family Practice Primary Care service including
consultation and treatment, laboratory analysis, and management of
chronic diseases.
The Health Practitioner handles most medical problems at the
Health Unit. Certain health problems require specialty consultation
with local specialists. For the most part, medical doctors received
their training in Tunisia, France, or the U.S. An American-certified
ophthalmologist, oral and maxillofacial surgeon, pediatricians, and
general surgery doctors are on our consultants roster. All
physicians speak French and some also speak English.
Several dentists provide adequate general dental services,
orthodontic, and periodontal care. Local laboratory and X-ray
facilities are equipped with modern, and some digital, diagnostic
equipment. The Health Unit staff monitors the safety of the
facilities and quality of the services.
Local pharmacies are stocked with French products, and some
French derivatives of American prescription drugs, at a reasonable
cost. The Health Unit has a small pharmacy, primarily to treat acute
illnesses, and is not a "supply" pharmacy. Individuals taking any
chronic medications, such as anti-hypertensives, birth control
pills, etc., should bring at least a six-month supply with them.
Renewal prescriptions can be written by the FSHP and faxed to a U.S.
pharmacy for filling. Medco or Express Scripts are the main
pharmacies used by Health Unit patients. Information on these
services can be found in the Health Benefits Brochure provided by
the employee's health insurance carrier.
Employees and dependents with medical conditions that require
emergency hospitalization are referred to one of the local private
polyclinics (for acute emergencies). If treatment is deemed
necessary, patients are evacuated to the designated medevac point
for Tunisia, which is London. Daily flights are available between
the two countries. A patient may elect, on a cost-constructive
basis, to travel elsewhere, i.e. CONUS. Excellent Tunisian
diagnostic facilities are available: CT scan, ultrasound, and MRI
(two centers in Tunis), but test interpretation and technique is
often much different than what is customary in the United States.
Community Health Last Updated: 2/8/2005 1:02 PM
Public sanitation standards, although improving, are lower than
in Western Europe. However, trash and garbage are collected daily in
many neighborhoods in Tunis and its suburbs. The municipal water
system in Tunis has been tested in areas where American diplomats
reside and the water is considered potable. Many people prefer to
purchase bottled water due to the unpleasant taste of highly
chlorinated tap water. Sewage system quality depends on locality.
There are areas in the northern suburbs, for example, where sewage
is pumped by truck on a weekly basis. The Tunis municipal sewage
system is being enlarged and made more efficient.
The lovely beaches surrounding Tunis are often considered
polluted by U.S. standards and unsafe for bathing. The Health Unit
monitors these waters periodically.
Preventive Measures Last Updated: 12/9/2004 5:06 AM
Americans generally remain healthy during tours here. Health
problems are similar to what is expected in Western Europe or
Washington, D.C. Environmental allergies are a significant problem
in Tunisia, as are year round viral and upper respiratory tract
infections. Extensive stool analysis has revealed that parasitic
disease is no more common here than it is in the United States. The
Embassy Health Unit provides an up-to-date medical handbook to all
newcomers. A newcomer orientation is mandatory for those assigned to
Embassy Tunis.
Recommended immunizations include: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B,
Rabies (Human Diploid Cell vaccine), Tetanus, meningococcal
meningitis and oral typhoid vaccine. Malaria and Yellow Fever are
not endemic to Tunisia.
Employment for Spouses and Dependents Last Updated: 1/26/2005
3:43 AM
Spouses and dependents may work in the local economy only if they
can perform a job requiring special skills for which Tunisians are
not trained. Fluency in French or Arabic is a requirement for most
of these jobs. A work permit, which the employer requests from the
Ministry of Social Affairs, is required and difficult to get. The
Government of Tunisia has been unwilling, thus far, to enter into a
bilateral dependent employment agreement.
At any one time, the Mission (including USGERA) has about 6-10
employment opportunities for qualified eligible family members.
These are mixed among PIT, FMA, peak-season, summer, full and
part-time positions. Such jobs have tended to be administrative,
clerical, secretarial, and of varying lengths (i.e., from a few days
to a year or more). Many require a security clearance. Some family
members at post have created self-employment opportunities.
Interested family members should consult with the Family Liaison
Office. Post employs a full-time Community Liaison Officer (CLO) and
a full-time Consular Associate. Additionally, there are three
escort-secretary positions, which are "When Actually Employed"
positions. The Embassy has a summer employment program for
employees' children aged 16 and older.
Teaching positions are sometimes available at the American
Cooperative School of Tunisia. Interested individuals should apply
before arrival, by writing to the Director, in care of the Embassy.
Those trained and certified in teaching "English as a Second
Language" may apply for one of the few positions occasionally
available with Tunisian agencies.
American Embassy - Tunis
Post City Last Updated: 1/6/2005 7:59 AM
Tunis is built on the west bank of a shallow salt lake on
Tunisia's northeastern Mediterranean coast. It has been the capital
of what is now Tunisia since the 13th century. Tunis is really two
cities - the old Arab town (the medina) with its narrow shop-lined
streets, and the modern city that has grown up around the medina
over the last century. Tunis continues to grow at a fast pace.
Metropolitan Tunis covers about 1,600 square miles. According to the
most recent statistics, the population of metropolitan Tunis is over
1.8 million.
Tunis is the center of Government and is an active commercial
center and seaport. More than fifty countries are represented in
Tunisia with resident diplomatic missions and 40 countries are
non-resident.
Tunis has four seasons, with spring and fall being the most
pleasant. Summers are hot and dry. Winters are rainy and damp with
days of brilliant sunshine intervening. Except at the highest
altitudes, the temperature rarely drops below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Tunis is an enjoyable post, with its good climate and many
opportunities for sightseeing, cultural enrichment, and recreation.
Despite its proximity to Europe and its cultural diversity, Tunisia
is very much a part of the Arab World. Information about Tunisia can
easily be obtained on the Internet. Sites such as www.tunisie.com,
www.planet.tn, and www.tourismtunisia.com offer information and
pictures about life in Tunisia.
Security Last Updated: 1/11/2005 2:12 AM
Crime
The Department of State rates Tunisia a medium threat country for
crime. Most incidents involve pickpockets and snatch-and-run thieves
in high traffic tourist areas, day and night, such as the Tunis
Medina and central market as well as other large cities countrywide.
Burglaries are occurring with more frequency but do not exclusively
focus on the expatriate community, a trend that has caused even
Tunisian families of moderate means to improve their residential
security by installing grillwork over their windows and doors.
Privately, many Tunisians acknowledge that crime is on the increase
as the growing middle-class offers criminals more opportunity for
theft. Residential break-ins can occur at night and when homes are
often unoccupied. Burglars, while assumed to be ready for
confrontation, generally choose flight rather than fight if caught
in the act. Violent crime remains relatively rare in affluent areas
where most expatriates reside.
Safety
The most significant safety threat a visitor to Tunisia faces is
the indigenous style of driving. Local drivers rarely use lanes
designated for turns, often preferring to cut across from center
lanes; rarely look before changing lanes, a particular problem in
heavy traffic; do not yield right away on merges; commonly jump
traffic lights or speed through intersections on the red. Visitors
are encouraged not to drive themselves and to always wear seatbelts.
Good defensive driving skills are recommended.
Visitors and residents should bring an approved car seat for
infants and young children. For visitors or residents who must
drive, ensure that a sufficient braking distance is maintained
between your vehicle and those in front of you and remain conscious
of persons crossing the road. Pedestrians rarely use cross walks and
often venture into the road without regard for oncoming traffic.
Political Violence
Tunisia is a moderate, Muslim country that has enjoyed relative
peace and political stability since gaining its independence from
France in 1956. President Ben Ali continues to place a high priority
on fighting terrorism and maintaining law and order. Tunisia's
dependence on tourism as a source of convertible currency has
contributed, in part, to the continued expansion of the internal
security services over the past decade. Acutely aware of the
potential economic damage that would result from a foreign
perception of Tunisia as an unsafe or unstable country, the security
services are highly visible and ensure that the country's image
remains one of tranquil stability.
Post-Specific Concerns
There are no specific security or safety concerns for U.S.
businesses or American citizens living in or visiting Tunisia.
However, visitors should be aware that English is not widely spoken
in Tunisia. Individuals without the ability to communicate in French
or Arabic will find conducting personal or professional business
difficult. Women should avoid walking alone outside after sundown,
especially in the beach area.
The Tunisian police are relatively well trained and professional.
Acutely aware of the need to maintain its image abroad and protect
its tourism industry, the police are generally responsive to
visitors in need of assistance and ensure that their presence is
particularly high in areas frequented by tourists or foreign
nationals. By law, Tunisian police officers can and do conduct
random traffic stops. Visitors who are briefly detained by the
police are encouraged to remain cooperative and professional, traits
that the police will appreciate and that will likely assist in
expediting a quick resolution to an arbitrary police stop. Police
and National Guard personnel are generally responsive to the needs
of visitors.
The Post and Its Administration Last Updated: 1/6/2005 7:49 AM
The U.S. Mission in Tunisia consists of the Department of State,
including the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) Regional
Office, the Foreign Service Institute's (FSI) Arabic Language Field
School, the U.S Defense Attaché's Office (USDAO), the Office of
Defense Cooperation (ODC), the American Battle Monuments Commission
(ABMC), and the Office of the Agricultural Affairs (OAA).
A new Embassy compound was completed and occupied in November
2002. This modern facility is located on a 20-acre site, halfway
between downtown Tunis and the northern suburbs of La Marsa,
Carthage, Sidi Bou Said, and Gammarth. The average commute for most
employees is 15-20 minutes. The American Cooperative School of Tunis
(ACST) is located directly across the road from the Embassy. Except
for the American Battle Monuments Commission and the FSI Field
School, all Mission offices are located on the Embassy compound.
The Embassy compound is located between La Marsa Highway and La
Goulette Road, near the Berges du Lac commercial and residential
area. Telephone number is 71-107-000, fax: 71-107-090.
The Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) Regional Office is
located in the Embassy. MEPI is the U.S. Government's flagship
program for supporting reform in the Middle East and North Africa.
The Regional Office coordinates MEPI activities in Algeria, Egypt,
Lebanon, Morocco and Tunisia. Telephone: 71-107-055; Fax:
71-107-436.
The Foreign Service Institute's Arabic Language Field School is
located at Impasse du 3 Aout (near the Ambassador's residence) in
the suburb of Sidi Bou Said. Telephone: 71-741-672; Fax: 71-741-062.
The American Battle Monuments Commission administers the only
American cemetery in North Africa. The cemetery is located in the
suburb of Carthage. Buried or commemorated there are 6,565 Americans
who died in the North Africa campaigns of World War II. The
impressive grounds include a memorial, a small chapel, and a
visitors' building. Telephone: 71-747-767; fax: 71-747-051.
Regular Embassy office hours are Monday through Friday from 8
a.m. to 4:45 p.m., with 45 minutes for lunch. Special summer hours
are in effect during July and August with work hours of 7:30 a.m. to
4:15 p.m.
American citizen employees of the Department of State are paid
through the Payroll Center in Charleston, South Carolina, by direct
deposit to a U.S. checking account.
The Embassy Administrative Section provides varying degrees of
administrative support services to all agencies in accordance with
the International Cooperative Administrative Support Service (ICASS)
agreement made with each agency.
Housing
Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 12/30/2004 5:29 AM
The Embassy makes every effort to have an employee's permanent
housing ready for occupancy so the employee can move in upon
arrival. When permanent housing is not yet available, the Embassy
prepares temporary housing for incoming employees. Typically the
Embassy uses a vacant house or apartment for temporary housing. In
the rare case that a hotel must be used, there are very good tourist
hotels available at prices that do not exceed the lodging allowance.
Permanent Housing Last Updated: 12/30/2004 5:30 AM
Ambassador's Residence. The residence was built by OBO in 1974
and is located on a hill in Sidi Bou Said overlooking the Bay of
Tunis. The architecture blends Arab and American styles. The
residence grounds cover about 5 acres. A clay tennis court is
located between the entrance gate and side gardens. A swimming pool
and two changing rooms are located at the back. A small parking
area, a garage for one large car, and houses for three staff members
are also located on the grounds.
The residence contains both the Ambassador's private living
quarters and an area for official entertaining. A foyer with a large
atrium is used for receptions or informal dancing. The official area
has a cloakroom, powder rooms, salon, and tearoom with a fireplace.
A staircase at the far end of the salon leads down to the formal
dining room. Off this room are the kitchen, pantry, laundry, and
storage rooms containing refrigerators, freezers, dryer, and washer.
The residence is fully decorated and furnished. Crested china,
glassware, and silver are provided. The kitchen is equipped with
essentials. A guest suite is located off the main entrance. The
suite includes two bedrooms, each with a private bath, and a small
balcony. The main entrance, or a separate one, can be used to enter
the family living quarters. These consist of a family living/dining
room, four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and a small kitchen on the
lower level. The upper level has a family sitting room with a
fireplace and a balcony with space for a table and chairs. Storage
space is ample. Although the residence is provided with linens for
the representational areas, bring a small supply of your own for
family use on the private side of the house.
DCM's Residence. This older house, located in Carthage, was
formerly the Ambassador's residence. It contains an entry hall,
large living room, formal dining room seating up to 26 people,
library opening onto a terrace, two powder rooms, family dining
room, and kitchen/pantry on the first floor. The second floor has a
master bedroom and adjoining study and bath, three twin bedrooms and
two baths, plus two smaller rooms and bath. A large balcony runs
across the front with a wonderful view of the Bay of Tunis and the
Mediterranean beyond. The house has a large, shady garden and a
terrace for entertaining. Small servants' quarters and a large
carport are behind the house.
The living room and dining room have traditional furnishings. The
library/sitting room has a fireplace and is more informal. The
residence is furnished with all necessary major appliances.
Other Government-owned and Government-leased Quarters. The
general level of housing for Americans is very good. Senior officers
with representational responsibilities will find their quarters more
than adequate for the entertaining their positions require. All
agencies at post participate in the Housing pool, and all State
offices participate in a furniture pool. All agencies except
Treasury provide a full set of appliances and furniture for
occupants.
Post has some government-owned houses that are normally assigned
only to employees of foreign affairs agencies. More than
three-quarters of post employees are assigned to leased residences.
All residences are assigned by an Inter-agency Housing Board before
the arrival of incoming employees in accordance with grade and
family size and, to the extent possible, considering special needs
or wishes of the employee if they have been provided to CLO in
writing prior to assignment. Each residence has central heating with
air-conditioners in occupied bedrooms and in the living room. Nearly
all homes are located in the northern suburbs of Gammarth, La Marsa,
and other surrounding communities; a few are located near downtown
Tunis. Homes typically have many of the elegant Tunisian touches
such as balconies and marble floors and countertops, while offering
both comfort and modern amenities for the occupants.
China, glassware, kitchen and eating utensils, and bed and
bathroom linens are not furnished and should be included in your
household shipment. Include some of the most important items in your
airfreight. If possible, bring 220v, 50-cycle appliances and
electronics. However, note that every residence is issued three 220v
to 110v step-down transformers. 220v equipment of all kinds is
readily available locally, but is significantly more expensive than
in the U.S.
There are private video clubs in Tunis as well as a growing DVD
lending library at the USGERA commissary. Toys, children's birthday
party presents, beach toys, and a child's pool are other important
items you might want to include. Toys are available locally but may
not meet standard U.S. requirements. Locally made stuffed animals,
for example, do not generally meet U.S. safety standards. If you
have an infant, be sure to include in your shipment all baby items
that you might need, such as a stroller, high chair, crib, etc.
A Welcome Kit of blankets, pillows, bed and bath linens, dishes,
and pots and pans is available to all employees until their effects
arrive.
Marine Security Guard Detachment. The Marine House is located on
the Embassy compound. The house consists of a kitchen, dining room,
TV room, living room (with bar), and bedrooms. The living room and
bar open onto a terrace and backyard. The house is completely
furnished and has central heating and A/C.
The Detachment Commander is assigned by the Inter-agency Housing
Board to a fully furnished residence from the Mission housing pool.
Furnishings Last Updated: 12/30/2004 5:31 AM
The Ambassador and DCM occupy fully furnished residences with
representational silver, china, glassware, and linens. The officer
and staff quarters have basic furniture and equipment. Bring china,
pictures, and knickknacks to make your home more livable.
Inexpensive chaise lounges will be useful in Tunisia with its
beautiful summer weather and proximity to beaches. Most Tunisian
furniture is expensive, although both indoor and outdoor wrought
iron furniture are good and relatively inexpensive.
Most floors are marble and mosaic tile; therefore, rugs are
necessary. Rugs are provided in all living rooms and occupied
bedrooms. Many people buy traditional handmade Tunisian rugs, which
are attractive and available in a wide range of colors, patterns,
and prices.
Utilities and Equipment Last Updated: 12/30/2004 5:31 AM
All quarters have hot and cold running water, toilet facilities,
central hot-water heating, and air-conditioners in the living room
and occupied bedrooms. All agencies except Treasury provide a full
set of kitchen appliances and furniture for residents. Appliances
include a stand-up freezer, refrigerator, range (usually gas),
microwave, and washer and dryer. Dishwashers are usually provided,
unless the kitchen cannot accommodate one.
All electric current in Tunis and its suburbs is 220v, 50 cycles.
Most houses have sufficient electric supply to carry a 32 amp
electric load. Most three and four-bedroom homes have enough
electric supply to air condition only the bedrooms and the living
room.
Telephones are permanently installed in all U.S. Government
quarters. The subscriber pays telephone charges. Charges for calls
within the metropolitan area are computed on a time basis and can
add up quickly. The telephone company offers direct-dial
international service with itemized telephone bills. Embassy
employees may also access the Embassy's IVG lines after-hours for
personal calls to the U.S.
Electric clocks requiring 60-cycle current cannot be used in
Tunisia. Stereo equipment and other electric equipment that run on
60-cycle current should be adapted to 50 cycles before arrival in
Tunisia. Repair and maintenance of U.S. equipment and appliances are
very difficult in Tunis, because of the scarcity of spare parts.
Food Last Updated: 3/10/2005 10:07 AM
Meat, poultry, fish, and a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables
are available year round. Seasonal fruits and vegetables, such as
oranges, tangerines, dates, strawberries, pomegranates, watermelon,
fennel and asparagus, are especially delicious. Pasteurized and
sterilized milk, eggs, and other dairy products are available.
Tunisia has a limited commercial frozen food industry and limited
selection of canned fruits and vegetables. Imported consumer
products are becoming more available and less expensive as Tunisia's
free-trade agreement with the EU is being implemented.
Prices for milk, sugar, bread, cereals and pasta, and gas are set
by the Government. Fruit and vegetable prices are not fixed, but
must be displayed in the market. During Ramadan and Aid, the
Government fixes the kilo price of meat and sheep.
Some specialty food products, especially Asian products such as
soy sauce, oyster sauce, coconut milk, etc., can be difficult to
find, and others such as basmati and jasmine rice are available, but
disappear quickly. There is no fresh ginger in Tunisia.
The opening of the French hypermarche, Carrefour, has greatly
increased shopping options in Tunis. Carrefour rivals any large U.S.
supermarket and is attached to a food court and a small gallery of
clothing and other specialty stores. It is located 5 minutes from
the Embassy. Other supermarket chains include Touta, Monoprix, and
Bonprix. A Casino hypermarché (French chain), with attached
100-store mall, is being built on the outskirts of Tunis on the road
to Bizerte.
The central market in downtown Tunis, though not practical for
daily shopping for most Embassy families, has hundreds of stalls
where produce, meat, fish, dairy products, etc., are sold. Pork can
be purchased there and at a few other locations in the Tunis area,
including Carrefour and the USGERA Commissary. Many neighborhoods
have small central markets where produce, and sometimes meat or
fish, can be purchased. The market in the northern suburb of La
Marsa is popular with Embassy employees. Nearly every neighborhood
has a small bakery where inexpensive, but fresh and delicious
French-style breads and pastries can be purchased.
The U.S Government Employees Recreation Association (USGERA),
open to all American U.S. Government employees, provides American
items either not available locally or unusually expensive on the
local market. An initial deposit of $250 for singles and $500 for
families is required for membership and is refundable on departure.
The commissary usually has a variety of canned fruits and
vegetables, sugar, flour, coffee, tea, condiments, salad dressings,
soups, cooking oil, shortening, crackers, cookies, peanut butter,
jellies, rice, cake mixes, frosting, milk, soft drinks, liquor,
paper products, sanitary items, laundry supplies, cleansers,
polishes, pet food, film and disposable cameras, cigarettes,
aspirin, toothpaste, shaving cream, shampoo, and other items. Large
freezer chests are stocked with frozen meats, hot dogs, cheeses,
tortillas, vegetables, pizzas, English muffins, bagels, orange
juice, etc.
Commissary prices are higher than in U.S. supermarkets due to
transportation charges and supplier surcharge imposed by the DOD
commissary system. Shortages can occur from time to time because of
unavoidable shipping problems, so you may wish to bring a supply of
your favorite food items. Tunis does not have a consumables
allowance. Under Tunisian Government regulations, individual orders
for food and liquor are not permitted for personnel not on the
diplomatic list.
U.S. Government employees on the diplomatic list are allowed to
shop at two local duty-free shops that sell imported and local
products, including food, liquor, household decorations, and
electronic equipment.
Clothing Last Updated: 1/11/2005 7:32 AM
A normal Washington, D.C., wardrobe is suitable for Tunis.
Lightweight, washable clothing can be worn from May through October.
Lightweight woolens can be worn the rest of the year. Winters are
cold, damp, rainy, and windy so a warm jacket, raincoat, and
umbrella are essential.
Clothing can be purchased locally, and while the choice is
growing, prices are relatively high for imported clothes. Many
employees order clothing from the U.S. via catalogs and the
internet. A wide variety of mail-order catalogs are available at the
CLO office.
Good seamstresses and tailors are available in Tunis, but they
can be expensive. The cost of having a long dress made may be more
than $100, not including fabric. A good suit may cost more than
$200. Locally made sandals and summer shoes are inexpensive and
comfortable, but not durable.
DoD Personnel. Since civilian clothing is the duty uniform in
Tunisia, you will need more civilian clothes than usual.
Summer/winter civilian clothing allowance is Civilian clothing is
the duty uniform in Tunisia, so you will need more civilian clothes
than usual. Summer/winter civilian clothing allowance is authorized
for enlisted personnel. See also Special Information.
Men Last Updated: 1/11/2005 7:13 AM
Day and evening dress is comparable to Washington, D.C. Bring
three to six year-round suits and three summer suits/sports coats in
wash-and-wear fabrics. Include a dark suit for evening wear. Black
tie is only needed on special occasions and even then, it is usually
optional. Bring a good supply of shoes, shirts, underwear, socks,
and bathing suits.
Women Last Updated: 1/11/2005 7:13 AM
Female employees normally dress as they would in the Washington,
D.C., area, although daytime apparel for non-working women is
casual. Street-length dresses or formal pants suits are usually worn
to dinner parties. Cocktail dresses or suits are also useful for
late day or evening occasions. Dresses with jackets are especially
useful in this climate, as are sweaters, shawls, and coats. Winter
jackets are also needed. Bring a good supply of shoes, stockings,
underwear, and bathing suits.
Children Last Updated: 1/11/2005 7:14 AM
Children need the same kind of clothes here that they need in the
Washington, D.C., area. Few heavy garments are needed, but bring
plenty of sweaters, warm jackets or coats, umbrellas and rainboots.
Bring plenty of clothes, shoes, and boots for children.
Supplies and Services
Supplies Last Updated: 1/27/2005 7:19 AM
Bring a sufficient supply of your favorite toiletries and
cosmetics and make arrangements for resupply. Many brands are sold
locally, but they are expensive. The U.S. Government Employees'
Recreation Association (USGERA) Commissary stocks toothpaste,
deodorants, body lotions, razor blades, hairspray, shampoo, shaving
cream, mouthwash, and some vitamins. Bring basic household
medicines, baby bottles, a thermometer, baby furniture (crib,
stroller, playpen), contact lens solution, stationery, toys,
household linens, and baby formula. The latter is not stocked by
Commissary and can be ordered by individuals only by caselot.
Reliable baby formula can, however, be bought locally at pharmacies.
Major brand diapers and baby wipes are available. Many Embassy
families order these items online. Since local availability is
sporadic, plan to bring any favorite entertainment items,
housekeeping and gardening items, tools, electric kitchen
appliances, picnic equipment, folding lawn chairs, batteries, and
camping and sports equipment.
The more common sizes of black-and-white and color film (Kodak
and Agfa) are available locally but are expensive. The Commissary
carries Kodak color film and disposable cameras,and offers a photo
processing service. Developing of black and white film is poor.
Many employees use the internet to buy needed supplies and
clothing.
You should bring basic spare parts, such as air and oil filters,
for American or certain makes of Japanese cars not sold locally,
e.g. Honda. Tires can be purchased locally. Prices for
locally-manufactured tires are reasonable, but better quality,
imported tires, such as Michelin and Goodyear, can cost $150-200
each to install.
Tunisian wines are inexpensive. Many are excellent, but some,
particularly white wines, are inconsistently good. Soft drinks are
made and sold locally, including Coca Cola. Liquor, European and
American beers and soft drinks are available at the Commissary, the
duty-free shops. Many local grocery stores carry some alcoholic
beverages, but anything produced outside the country will cost 5-10
times what one might pay duty-free, and the selection will be less
extensive. Bring favorite brands of pipe tobacco and cigars.
Basic Services Last Updated: 1/27/2005 7:23 AM
Shoe repair is adequate and inexpensive. Dry cleaning is
available and reasonable. Beauty salons and barbershops are
plentiful and inexpensive; service ranges from unsatisfactory to
outstanding, and most are inexpensive by Washington, D.C.,
standards. Labor costs for automobile repair are very low. It may be
difficult to have complicated work done. For American and certain
Japanese cars, e.g Honda, parts may need to be imported.
The USGERA commissary offers an "Errand Day" every Friday which
brings local services to the Embassy, including dry cleaning,
framing, photo developing, shoe repair, and dressmaking/mending. A
tailor also visits occasionally.
Domestic Help Last Updated: 1/6/2005 9:10 AM
Domestic help costs approximately $350 per month for a
housekeeper who works full-time (five days a week, 8-2 p.m.),
although salaries vary. Most domestics speak some French, but few
speak English. Work-accident insurance for household help and
gardeners is mandatory. The employer is expected to provide lunch
for a housekeeper or nanny who works a full day. Salary will need to
include the cost of transportation to your home, and holiday
gratuities are a locally accepted custom.
Gardeners typically work one or two shifts of 2-3 hours each week
for $80-100 per month. Most will do basic horticulture, although
skill level varies. Some will also clean terraces and wash cars.
The CLO maintains a file of domestics seeking employment with
Americans. It is generally difficult, but not impossible, to find
live-in help. Although domestics are not included in the Tunisian
Government's social security system, some Tunisian customs must be
respected e.g., provision for one day off a week for full-time help,
and 12 days paid vacation after one year of employment. No
regulation exists for separation pay, but it is usual to give one
week's salary for each year of employment.
Religious Activities Last Updated: 3/14/2005 10:16 AM
Tunis has Muslim, Roman Catholic, Anglican, Jewish, and Greek and
Russian Orthodox congregations. Catholic and Protestant services are
available in French and English. Most observant Roman Catholics
attend St. Augustin-St. Fidele Catholic Church in La Goulette. St.
George's Anglican Church, located in downtown Tunis near the medina,
is the principal Protestant church and offers English services and a
small English-language Sunday school. The only Jewish synagogue
operating in the Tunis area is in the suburb of La Goulette. For
those who keep kosher, there is a hallal butcher who comes on a
regular basis.
See the Embassy newsletter, The Mosaic, for mass and service
schedules.
Education
Dependent Education
At Post Last Updated: 1/6/2005 9:00 AM
The American Cooperative School of Tunis (ACST) was established in
1959 and has facilities for more than 450 children from pre-school
through 12th grade. The Middle States Association of Colleges and
Schools accredited it through Grade 12 in 1998. The school has a web
site: http://www.acst.net/.
Instructors are certified teachers from the U.S. and
international communities. Instruction at the school is in English.
French and Arabic (optional) are taught in grades 1 to 12. The
school's curriculum is similar to and compares favorably with those
in U.S public schools. Almost all American children attend the
school, as do children from other diplomatic missions.
As soon as you know you will be enrolling a child in ACST, advise
the school of the number of children and age/grade level expected to
enter. All new students are tested before admission to determine
grade placement. A registration form with its attached health sheet
must be completed and presented along with academic records from
former schools.
School begins in late August or early September, and continues
until mid-June. Hours are 8 a.m.-3:15 p.m.; pre-schoolers can go
until noon or a full day. Bus transportation at an extra fee is
available except for the return trip of half-day kindergarten and
pre-K students.
Public Tunisian and private French schools are available at all
levels, including high school. Preschools are usually operated in
converted rooms in private houses. This can amount to a limited play
area by American standards. There is one English-speaking preschool
(Jardin) in the northern suburbs area. The monthly tuition is about
$180. French-language preschools in town are $90 per month. A few
private French nurseries are open in Tunis and its suburbs for 3-
and 4-year-olds. They operate from September to June, five mornings
and four afternoons a week, and cost about $60 a month. French is
not required for entry.
Tunisian public and private schools are similar to those in
France. From a U.S. point of view, the French and Tunisian schools
have a rigid curriculum and long hours of class work. Fluency in
French is imperative. Primary school instruction is in Arabic;
secondary school instruction is in both Arabic and French.
Americans have sent their children, with mixed results, to one of
the two French lycées operating in Tunis (Mutuelleville) and La
Marsa. Lycées start in mid-September and run through June. Annual
tuition is considerably less than at ACST; however, parents must pay
for textbooks and supplies.
Away From Post Last Updated: 1/6/2005 9:00 AM
In 2004, one high school student attended school away from post in
the U.S. Children of Americans posted to Tunis often attend high
school in England, Switzerland, or Italy. The away-from-post
allowance generally covers expenses at U.S. boarding schools plus
two roundtrips to Tunis. Brochures for boarding schools are
available at post, as well as at FLO in the Department.
Special Needs Education Last Updated: 1/6/2005 9:01 AM
Because of the American Cooperative School's size, no special
education classes are offered. However, some limited assistance is
available for children with learning disabilities.
Higher Education Opportunities Last Updated: 1/6/2005 9:02 AM
Adults can take intensive language courses at the Bourguiba
Institute and the French cultural center, and regular classes at the
University of Tunis, although required proficiency in French could
be a limiting factor. The Community Liaison Office in the Embassy
has brochures on a wide range of correspondence courses available in
the U.S.
Recreation and Social Life
Sports Last Updated: 2/4/2005 7:02 AM
The Embassy and American Cooperative School of Tunis (ACST) are
jointly funding the construction of a new recreation facility on the
Embassy grounds, which will be managed by U.S. Government Employees'
Recreation Association (USGERA). The project is scheduled for
completion by June 2005. The facility will include a fitness center,
a small playground, a 25-meter swimming pool
(recreational/competitive), a children's pool, dressing rooms,
restrooms, a covered pavilion, an outdoor patio, grassy areas, and a
snack bar.
Swimming. There is an indoor, Olympic-size municipal pool in La
Marsa, which is heated in winter. Low-cost monthly memberships are
available. Many hotels allow non-guests to swim in their pools for a
small fee. Beaches close to Tunis and its suburbs occasionally have
been found to be contaminated and unsafe for swimming, but there are
good swimming/picnicking beaches located 45 minutes to an hour
outside town. The Health Unit can advise on current conditions.
Gyms. The Embassy currently has a small exercise room with
several pieces of equipment and some free weights available for use
by employees. There are a number of gyms in the northern suburbs,
and hotels often allow non-guests access to their fitness centers
for a fee. Aerobics, yoga and pilates classes are available at some
locations.
Tennis. The La Marsa Tennis Club near the Embassy has several
tennis courts. The Hotel Cap Carthage in Gammarth has 25 courts.
Memberships are not required to use the courts or to take lessons.
Prices are comparable at both locations - court fees TD 5
(approximately $4.50) per hour; lessons TD 15 (approximately $13.00)
per hour. There is a court at the Ambassador's Residence available
for employee use during specific days/hours. Bring tennis balls to
post; local ones are expensive and of poor quality.
Golf. There is an 18-hole golf course in La Soukra - about 3
miles from the Embassy - that is popular with Embassy employees. The
course is good from October to June, but is dry in summer. Annual
dues are about TD 800 (approximately $678) per person. Anyone can
play at the course, but non-members must pay a green fee, which is
relatively expensive. Lessons can be arranged with the resident golf
pros and prices are reasonable. There are numerous golf courses
located in outside of Tunis, including Hammamet (a beach resort less
than one hour south of Tunis), Port El-Kantaoui and Monastir (both
near Sousse), Tabarka, and on the island of Djerba.
Other. Many Embassy employees enjoy jogging. Some manage to
successfully negotiate routes along city streets despite the
traffic, while others run in quieter areas adjacent to the Embassy
grounds. The Hash House Harriers host runs every Saturday and
organize several weekend trips during the year. Adult sports such as
softball, handball, volleyball, ultimate frisbee, tennis,
basketball, and soccer are often available depending on interest.
Horseback riding, including instruction for adults and children, is
available at a variety stables in and around Tunis.
Hunting. Wild game is in season from September to June. You can
use a shotgun for small game hunting. Open season dates vary only
slightly each year and are published in August. Quail, duck, snipe,
partridge, and wild boar are the most common game. Hunters are
limited exclusively to shotguns in the pursuit of game, and 12-gauge
is the most common. Rifle slugs are required for boar hunting;
buckshot is prohibited. Hunters must have a permit for the weapon, a
hunting license, and insurance. See Also-Firearms and Ammunition.
Fishing. Although fishing is popular among Tunisians, especially
from nearby beaches and harbors, a lack of bottom structure, such as
coral reefs or rocky bottom, contributes to poor catches. Tackle
shops offer only poor quality basic equipment, imported from France
or Italy, at considerably higher prices than in the U.S.
Children's activities. Basketball, soccer, hockey, judo, choir,
ballet, and various craft classes are available at ACST. There is
T-ball and Little League baseball on Saturdays at the ACST school
grounds. There are several bowling alleys in the northern suburbs of
Tunis.
Touring and Outdoor Activities Last Updated: 2/4/2005 7:06 AM
Opportunities for touring and outdoor activities in Tunisia are
endless - sightseeing trips to Punic, Roman, Byzantine, and Berber
ruins scattered throughout the country, desert treks, national
parks, museums, exploring the Medina - to name a few, as well as
more simple pursuits such as relaxing at the beach, swimming,
tennis, golf, horseback riding and other organized activities.
The CLO organizes frequent group outings and tours to local
points of interest and out-of-town locations. Past trips have
included visits to an olive oil factory, a chocolate factory, and a
winery. Each December, the CLO organizes a trip through southern
Tunisia to attend the camel festival in Douz, gateway to the Sahara,
and to visit some of the many historical and cultural points of
interest in the area.
There are many activities possible in the greater Tunis area. A
playground and a zoo are located in Belvedere Park in downtown
Tunis. The Bardo Museum in Tunis contains the largest and most
beautiful collection of Roman mosaics in the world as well as Punic
and Roman statues, coins, and jewelry. In Berges du Lac, near the
Embassy, there is a large amusement park as well as many restaurants
and cafes. This area is particularly lively in summer. Carthage has
Roman and Punic ruins and archeological museums to visit. Facilities
for swimming, tennis, golf and horseback riding are available. The
Hash House Harriers host runs every Saturday and organize several
weekend trips during the year, including a camping trip on Cap Bon.
The American Battle Monuments Commission cemetery and memorial
are located in Carthage, and the staff provides personal guided
tours for visitors.
Tunisia's main cities are all within easy driving distance of
Tunis and are connected by good, paved roads:
About one hour south of Tunis are the towns of Hammamet and
Nabeul, where you can swim at broad sandy beaches. Hammamet is a
well-developed beach resort town with many hotels offering
diversions and activities for singles and families. It is a frequent
weekend getaway destination for Embassy employees. In Nabeul, you
can watch Tunisian artisans work on rugs, baskets, and their famous
pottery.
To the south, Sousse (87 miles) and Sfax (166 miles) are central
Tunisian seaports. The old Arab sections (medinas) of both cities
are still encircled by ancient ramparts and watchtowers. Sousse is a
popular tourist spot with beautiful beaches. It has a small but
excellent museum devoted to Roman and early Christian mosaics, and
nearby are catacombs as extensive as those in Rome. Sfax is
Tunisia's second largest city and a bustling commercial center. Just
north of Sousse is Port El Kantaoui with an 18-hole golf course,
picturesque harbor, luxury hotels, villas, riding school, tennis
courts, pools, and beaches. Tunisian President Ben Ali's hometown of
Hammam Sousse is nearby. The fortified town of Monastir is the site
of an early Christian monastery. It is the birth and burial place of
Tunisia's first President, Habib Bourguiba. Monastir has a fine
beach and waterfront, many beachfront hotels, and a ribat (fort)
(used as a setting in the Monty Python movie, "The Life of Brian").
Kairouan, 100 miles southwest of Tunis, is located in the center of
a vast plain. Long a holy city to Muslims, it was founded in A.D.
670. The Great Mosque of Kairouan is the most interesting Islamic
structure in Tunisia. Kairouan is also a renowned rug-making center.
About 350 miles south of Tunis is the palm-covered, white sand
island of of Djerba, which retains much of the original Arab
architecture. It has become a year-round destination for sun-seeking
Europeans. The island is home to a long-standing Jewish community,
and its beautiful synagogue at Ghriba is well worth a visit. The
oases of Tozeur and Nefta, which produce fine dates, are 320 miles
southwest of Tunis on the Algerian border and on the edge of the
extensive Chott el Jerid, a dry salt lake. Trips into the nearby
Sahara can be arranged through hotels and travel agencies.
Excursions into the desert are becoming more and more popular, and
it is easy to find companies offering camel treks and other kinds of
excursions into the Sahara. Flights to both Djerba and Tozeur from
Tunis are available year round. The best time of year to visit
southern Tunisia is late fall to early spring when temperatures are
cooler.
To the northwest of Tunis is the port city of Bizerte (40 miles),
a short drive through pleasant countryside. Along the way you can
visit the ruins of ancient Utica, just off the Bizerte highway. A
few miles south of Bizerte is Lake Ichkeul, a nature reserve and
stopping point for migratory birds. In far northwest, Ain Draham, in
the cork and oak forests of the Kroumirie Mountains, and the coastal
town of Tabarka offer a change of scenery and climate. At an
altitude of 2,600 feet, Ain Draham is pleasantly cool in summer and
often has snow in winter. The Roman ruins of Bulla Regia and Chemtou
are located about 30 miles south. Tabarka is a picturesque town with
good hotels, beaches, and a golf course. It is home to a summer jazz
festival.
For several hundred years, Carthage was the premier trading
center of the Mediterranean and Rome's chief rival. After Rome
conquered the Carthaginians, Tunisia became the center of the Roman
province of Africa. As the supplier of much of the food, wine and
olive oil consumed in Rome itself, the area became quite wealthy. As
a result, Roman and Punic ruins, some of them excellent, are
scattered throughout Tunisia. Carthage is no more than 10 minutes by
car from most Embassy homes. Extensive ruins are located within easy
driving distance of Tunis at Dougga (70 miles), Thuburbo Majus (32
miles)(parts of the Roman aqueduct can be seen along the way),
Sbeitla (160 miles) and El Djem (125 miles). El Djem has a coliseum
second only to the one in Rome.
Berber dwellings can be seen and visited in the south, including
the ksours around Tataouine and the hillside village of Chenini, and
the still-occupied underground ("troglodyte") houses in Matmata.
(The ksours and troglodyte houses may look familiar - sites in both
Tataouine and Matmata were used as locales for the "Star Wars"
movies.)
Tunisia is continuing an intensive program to improve tourist
facilities throughout the country, including attractive modern
hotels ranging from deluxe to economy. Train and bus transportation
is available to most places of interest, but public transportation
may be uncomfortable or inconvenient for longer distances. Many
local travel agencies and hotels now operate modern air-conditioned
buses, but to enjoy all that Tunisia has to offer outside the
capital, you should have your own car.
After seeing all the great sites in Tunisia, there are many
reasonably-priced, direct flights to locations throughout Europe,
North Africa, the Middle East, and the rest of the African
Continent. Rome, Malta, the southern coast of France, and other
Mediterranean destinations are enjoyable vacation spots for many on
the Embassy staff.
Entertainment Last Updated: 2/8/2005 2:37 PM
The theater season in Tunis is November through May. Two
companies present a series of 6-8 well-known French-language plays.
The Tunis Symphony Orchestra gives monthly concerts from November
through May. Guest soloists and touring groups appear occasionally.
Theater and symphony performances take place at the municipal
Theater in downtown Tunis. There are often local and touring art
exhibits at the Bardo museum and others in and around Tunis. Music,
theater, and dance festivals occur throughout the year at many
venues, including Hammamet, El Djem, Dougga, Bizerte, Tabarka, and
Djerba during the summer, the International Cultural Festival of
Carthage in JulySeptember, a concert series at the Acropolium in
Carthage in October, and Monastir's Drama Festival in August.
Other festivals celebrated in Tunisia during the year include the
Orange Festival of Cap Bon in March, the Festival of the Hawks in El
Haouaria (also Cap Bon) in April, and the Camel Festival in Douz in
December.
Tunis and its suburbs have about 20 movie theaters that offer a
wide selection of American and English films, dubbed in French.
Italian, Spanish, and Egyptian films are also occasionally shown.
Only a handful of the theaters are suitable for family outings.
Cultural centers, notably the French and German, offer films at
little or no charge to the public.
The Berges Du Lac area near the Embassy is an entertainment and
commercial complex with a collection of shops, entertainment
facilities, and restaurants. It is located on Lake Tunis and
includes two bowling alleys, a water park, and an amusement park.
There is a large shopping complex that features a supermarket and
many clothing and jewelry stores, including a number of stores
selling Western brands ranging from Benetton to Max Mara.
Restaurants range from fast food to the more elegant and formal.
Restaurants in Tunis and environs are attractive and generally
reasonablypriced. Tunisian restaurants usually serve good, but
relatively simple fare such as grilled meat or fresh fish or
traditional dishes such as couscous, chorba (soup), and tajine (a
quiche-like egg dish, not the rich stew of Moroccan cuisine). The
national dish is couscous — semolina (a specially processed wheat)
prepared with vegetables, meat, fowl, or fish, and “harissa,” a
sauce made of dried cayenne peppers, garlic, olive oil, and spices.
Harissa, with an extra bit of fresh olive oil and French bread for
dipping, is served as a starter with most meals. Another favorite
dish is “brik,” a thin fried pastry envelope with a runny egg, meat
or tuna filling. Chwarma is a popular fast food. There are a few
French, Italian and Asian restaurants. Popular restaurants in the
city are: Dar El Jeld (in an old Arab house in the Medina), Chez
Slah, and L’Astragale. In the beach area, Les Ombrelles, Le Golfe,
Au Bon Vieux Temps, Dar Zarouk, and the White Elephant (Thai) are
among the many to
choose from which to choose.
Social Activities
Among Americans Last Updated: 2/4/2005 7:07 AM
Embassy employees frequently entertain at home. Barbeques are
popular in the summer when the weather is ideal for outdoor
activities. Other popular options are getting together at a
restaurant, or at a café for a "café direct" and a croissant.
Tunisian restaurants usually serve relatively simple fare such as
grilled meat or fresh fish or traditional dishes such as couscous,
chorba (soup) and tajine (a quiche-like egg dish, not the rich stew
of Moroccan cuisine). Pasta dishes are common, as is pizza. There
are a few French, Italian and Asian restaurants.
The CLO sponsors activities for Embassy employees and families,
including day trips to local points of interest, longer trips to
destinations outside of Tunis and out of the country (e.g. Egypt),
wine and cheese parties, restaurant outings, and evenings at the
Embassy featuring special cuisine and movies.
The Marine Security Guard Detachment hosts family-friendly "Happy
Hours" most Friday nights as well as occasional movie nights. Each
November, they host the annual Marine Corps Birthday Ball at a local
hotel. During football season, the Marines often open their home
informally to Embassy employees to join in watching games on TV.
The Ambassador hosts Christmas and Easter parties for Embassy
children every year at the Residence. (Santa arrives at the
Christmas party on a camel!) There is also an Embassy holiday party
attended by both Tunisian and American staff.
The U.S. Government Employees' Recreation Association (USGERA)
hosts special theme nights throughout the year, an annual hail and
farewell event, "Maghrebian Nights," featuring Tunisian cuisine,
music and dancing, and a weekly darts night during the winter
months.
The new Embassy recreation facility, scheduled to open in June
2005, will provide a gathering place for informal get-togethers as
well as special events and activities.
Families. Play dates are a popular way for Embassy children to
get together. There is T-ball and Little League on Saturdays at the
American Cooperative School of Tunis (ACST). ACST is the center of
social activity for most school-aged children and plans many
activities, including sporting events, trips, dances, picnics, and
special events and celebrations.
International Contacts Last Updated: 4/4/2005 4:28 AM
The Embassy and American Cooperative School of Tunis (ACST) are
jointly funding the construction of a new recreation facility on the
Embassy grounds, which will be managed by U.S. Government Employees'
Recreation Association (USGERA). The project is scheduled for
completion by June 2005. The facility will include a fitness center,
a small playground, a 25-meter swimming pool
(recreational/competitive), a children's pool, dressing rooms,
restrooms, a covered pavilion, an outdoor patio, grassy areas, and a
snack bar.
Swimming. There is an indoor, Olympic-size municipal pool in La
Marsa, which is heated in winter. Low-cost monthly memberships are
available. Many hotels allow non-guests to swim in their pools for a
small fee. Beaches close to Tunis and its suburbs occasionally have
been found to be contaminated and unsafe for swimming, but there are
good swimming/picnicking beaches located 45 minutes to an hour
outside town. The Health Unit can advise on current conditions.
Gyms. The Embassy currently has a small exercise room with
several pieces of equipment and some free weights available for use
by employees. There are a number of gyms in the northern suburbs,
and hotels often allow non-guests access to their fitness centers
for a fee. Aerobics, yoga and pilates classes are available at some
locations.
Tennis. The La Marsa Tennis Club near the Embassy has several
tennis courts. The Hotel Cap Carthage in Gammarth has 25 courts.
Memberships are not required to use the courts or to take lessons.
Prices are comparable at both locations - court fees TD 5
(approximately $4.50) per hour; lessons TD 15 (approximately $13.00)
per hour. There is a court at the Ambassador's Residence available
for employee use during specific days/hours. Bring tennis balls to
post; local ones are expensive and of poor quality.
Golf. There is an 18-hole golf course in La Soukra - about 3
miles from the Embassy - that is popular with Embassy employees. The
course is good from October to June, but is dry in summer. Annual
dues are about TD 800 (approximately $678) per person. Anyone can
play at the course, but non-members must pay a green fee, which is
relatively expensive. Lessons can be arranged with the resident golf
pros and prices are reasonable. There are numerous golf courses
located in outside of Tunis, including Hammamet (a beach resort less
than one hour south of Tunis), Port El-Kantaoui and Monastir (both
near Sousse), Tabarka, and on the island of Djerba.
Other. Many Embassy employees enjoy jogging. Some manage to
successfully negotiate routes along city streets despite the
traffic, while others run in quieter areas adjacent to the Embassy
grounds. The Hash House Harriers host runs every Saturday and
organize several weekend trips during the year. Adult sports such as
softball, handball, volleyball, ultimate frisbee, tennis,
basketball, and soccer are often available depending on interest.
Horseback riding, including instruction for adults and children, is
available at a variety stables in and around Tunis.
Hunting. Wild game is in season from September to June. You can
use a shotgun for small game hunting. Open season dates vary only
slightly each year and are published in August. Quail, duck, snipe,
partridge, and wild boar are the most common game. Hunters are
limited exclusively to shotguns in the pursuit of game, and 12-gauge
is the most common. Rifle slugs are required for boar hunting;
buckshot is prohibited. Hunters must have a permit for the weapon, a
hunting license, and insurance. See Also-Firearms and Ammunition.
Fishing. Although fishing is popular among Tunisians, especially
from nearby beaches and harbors, a lack of bottom structure, such as
coral reefs or rocky bottom, contributes to poor catches. Tackle
shops offer only poor quality basic equipment, imported from France
or Italy, at considerably higher prices than in the U.S.
Children's activities. Basketball, soccer, hockey, judo, choir,
ballet, and various craft classes are available at ACST. There is
T-ball and Little League baseball on Saturdays at the ACST school
grounds. There are several bowling alleys in the northern suburbs of
Tunis.
Official Functions
Nature of Functions Last Updated: 1/5/2005 9:46 AM
The Ambassador and DCM regularly host official receptions,
dinners, and luncheons at their residences. Other officers host
official functions less frequently, and these events tend to be
small dinners or working lunches at local restaurants.
Employees attending official functions are expected to assist the
host and hostess in making the affair a success. Officers should
arrive 10 minutes ahead of scheduled official functions at the
Ambassador's residence.
Standards of Social Conduct Last Updated: 1/5/2005 9:47 AM
A briefing on protocol at post will be provided as part of the
newcomer's orientation. Additional information on local protocol,
official calls and general social procedure is available on arrival
at post.
The Ambassador should bring at least 500 calling cards. The DCM
and the section chiefs should bring about 300 cards. Many officers
have cards printed at post in French and English or Arabic. Officers
should also bring with them, or have printed at post, engraved
invitation cards.
Arrival and departure announcements of diplomatic-list personnel
are sent to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other diplomatic
missions by the Embassy protocol office by diplomatic note.
Special Information Last Updated: 2/8/2005 1:11 PM
Visitors to Tunisia will find no restrictions on travel within
the country, but care must be exercised in visiting the desert and
certain frontier regions.
Department of Defense (DOD) Personnel
No U.S. military facilities (APO/FPO, PX/BX, etc.) exist in
Tunisia and no military aircraft are assigned. The Defense Attaché
Office (DAO) and the Office of Defense Cooperation-Tunisia (ODC) are
the main U.S. military organizations, along with the Embassy Marine
Security Guard. Also, some DOD military personnel, foreign area
officers (FAOs), are assigned to the Foreign Service Institute in
Tunis for Arabic-language studies and Middle East orientation travel
and to the Command and Staff School. These students are attached to
DAO for administrative purposes.
Housing. Some DAO personnel live in U.S. Government-owned
quarters. Floor plans, pictures, and property listings for these
quarters are on file with the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA)
Housing Office in Washington, D.C. Other DAO and all ODC personnel
and FAO students are provided U.S. Government-leased quarters.
Temporary lodging allowance is authorized for all DOD personnel
until they are located in temporary or permanent quarters.
Furnishings. U.S. Government-owned basic furniture is available
for DAO, DOD/FAO, and ODC personnel. Therefore, only shipment of 25%
JTR HHG weight allowance plus 1,000 pounds hold baggage is
authorized. Furnishings also include major appliances (stove,
refrigerator, freezer, microwave, washer and dryer, and
air-conditioning units). China, glassware, bed and bath linens,
ironing boards, and kitchen utensils are not furnished.
If you are assigned to ODC, write to that office when you receive
your orders for specific details on Government housing and
furnishings. The address is: ODC Tunisia, 6360 Tunis Place,
Washington, D.C. 20521-6360.
Uniform Requirements. Uniforms are worn frequently for official and
social occasions in Tunisia and are required for temporary duty
purposes in Europe. DOD personnel must arrive in Tunisia wearing
civilian clothing. The normal duty uniform is civilian attire.
Uniform requirements for the services are as follows:
Army Officers
Army Green (lightweight preferred)
Army Dress Blue (lightweight preferred)
Army Mess Blue (optional for officers; lightweight preferred)
Raincoat
Army Battle Dress Uniform
Army Enlisted
Army Green (lightweight preferred)
Army Blue (optional, lightweight preferred)
Raincoat
Army Battle Dress Uniform
Navy Officers
Service Dress Blue
Summer White
Service Dress White
Mess Dress
USMC Enlisted
Dress Blue A
Summer/Winter Service A
Summer Service C
Utility Uniform, Raincoat
Air Force Officers
Class A
Combination 1
Mess Dress
Raincoat
Air Force Enlisted
Class A
White shirt/bow tie
Raincoat
No field equipment is required for DAO or ODC personnel. However,
DAO and ODC Army personnel should bring at least one BDU uniform
with cap, boots, and field jackets; Navy personnel, one dungaree or
working uniform. FSI military students should bring two sets of
field uniforms, worn on occasional temporary duty and orientation
tours outside Tunisia. FSI military students should bring all their
uniforms because they may not return to the U.S. before
reassignment.
Clothing. Since civilian clothing is the duty uniform in Tunisia,
you will need more civilian clothes than usual. Civilian clothing
allowance is authorized for enlisted and officer personnel. For DAO
and ODC, civilian business suit or sport coat is duty uniform.
Dependent Education. Primary school-age children attend the
American Cooperative School of Tunis, which offers preschool through
Grade 12. High school has a small student population. Kindergarten
is not a prerequisite for entry into first grade. The service pays
tuition and fees for all DOD students attending this school. The
service does not pay for Pre-K classes. High school dependents may
be enrolled as dormitory students in the DOD high school at High
Wycombe, U.K. Room and board and three round trips a year are paid
by the service.
Language requirements. Defense Attaché personnel, the ODC Chief,
and ODC Program officers must be proficient in French; attachés and
their spouses should know conversational French. Most military
conversations involving the DAO and ODC are in French, and French is
usually spoken at diplomatic functions. It is desirable, but not
essential, that the attachés be qualified in Arabic.
Dependents are encouraged to learn at least some French for a
more enjoyable tour. Funds, if available, are authorized for
language training of ODC and DAO attaché spouses at post.
Transportation for DOD Personnel. DOD personnel and their
dependents performing PCS travel to Tunisia are required to make
travel arrangements through the servicing transportation office.
Automobiles. See “Automobiles.” These apply to all DOD personnel.
Postal and Pouch. See “Mail and Pouch.”
Calling Cards. The Defense and Service attachés and their spouses
will need calling cards. Suitable cards in French and Arabic are
useful and can be obtained locally. The DAO Operations Coordinator
needs no more than 200 cards. Diplomatically accredited ODC
personnel and their spouses are required to have calling cards.
Other personnel will probably use calling cards here as often as
they would on other military assignments. Suitable invitations can
be printed locally.
Money. Establish a U.S. checking account before leaving the U.S.
and have at least $1,000 cash in the account, in cash, or in
traveler’s checks, when you arrive. The direct deposit option is
recommended for payroll, and also a bank with on-line internet
banking/bill payment services.
Shipment. Depending on the origin of the shipment, household
effects are normally routed via the New Orleans or Bayonne
terminals. The transportation officer at your current post makes
this decision. Privately owned vehicles are normally turned in to
the Bayonne, New Jersey, Military Ocean Terminal for shipment to
Tunis. Transit time may be as much as 90 days.
Personnel arriving from Europe may want to drive to Marseilles,
France, or Genoa, Italy, and take the car ferry to Tunis.
Transient Personnel. The uniform is not routinely worn in
Tunisia. Arrive in civilian clothing unless specifically authorized
to wear the uniform. Military aircrews that remain at the airport in
the aircraft stay in uniform. Aircrews entering the civilian airport
terminal must be in civilian attire unless specifically authorized
to wear the uniform. Navy personnel are authorized to wear the
uniform while ashore during ship visits for official calls only.
Navy personnel on shore leave must be in civilian clothing. U.S.
military personnel on leave in Tunisia need to register with the
DAO, American Embassy. U.S. military personnel on temporary duty in
Tunisia will normally be met either by a member of the DAO or ODC.
No lending facilities exist here, nor does a military finance
office. On a case-by-case basis, per diem advance of less than $200
may be paid. Visitors should have enough funds for all their
expenses. A branch office of a local bank is located at the Embassy
and will cash personal checks drawn on U.S. banks. Major credit
cards (American Express, Visa) are generally honored in large
hotels, restaurants, and many business establishments. Cash machines
are available but not consistently reliable.
Hotels in Tunisia are often full, especially in the summer.
Personnel coming to Tunisia on temporary duty should assure their
lodging needs are stated in the country clearance request.
Reservations should be canceled 48 hours in advance or you may be
charged for the first day.
Post Orientation Program
The Embassy schedules orientation sessions dealing with the
programs and activities of all agencies.
The Community Liaison Office serves as a focal point for
community-related services and activities, and offers counseling and
referral information in such areas as travel, education, and family
member employment.
An active sponsor program and special newcomer activities have
been developed to help meet the needs of all incoming personnel and
their families. CLO services and activities include tours of Tunis
and surrounding towns; markets and archeological sites; a “Put and
Take” library; files on available domestic help; orientation
sessions with various agencies; literature on cultural adaptation,
etc. Prospective arrivals in Tunis are encouraged to visit the FLO
Office in the State Department (Harry S. Truman Building) and the
Overseas Briefing Center at the National Foreign Affairs Training
Center in Arlington or write to the CLO office in Tunis.
Related Internet Sites Last Updated: 1/6/2005 7:39 AM
The following internet sites are good sources of information and
pictures about life in Tunisia: www.tunisie.com, www.planet.tn,
www.tourismtunisia.com, and www.tunisiaonline.com.
The following Embassy internet and intranet sites can be visited
for more information about the Embassy and current programs and
activities:
Embassy Internet: http://tunisia.usembassy.gov/
Background Notes (internet): www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/5439.htm
Embassy Intranet: http://10.192.192.10/
Notes For Travelers
Getting to the Post Last Updated: 1/14/2005 6:44 AM
Sea travel via Marseilles, Genoa, or Naples is considered direct
when traveling from the U.S. to Tunis. Direct air travel from
Washington to Tunis is via Milan, Rome, Paris, London, or Frankfurt.
Shipment of Effects. Household effects (HHE) and airfreight (UAB)
should be marked and consigned to:
American Ambassador
(Employee's Initials)
American Embassy
Tunis, Tunisia
Household effects (HHE) may be transshipped through ELSO in
Antwerp. Only the employee's initials, not the employee's name,
should appear on HHE and UAB containers. Privately owned vehicles
(POVs) may be transshipped via ELSO Antwerp. POVs should be marked
for:
American Embassy
Tunis, Tunisia
For: (Name)
For POV's, employees should ensure that the correct vehicle
engine number and/or serial number appears on shipping documents and
should hand-carry one set of POV keys and originals of the vehicle
registration and title to post. Please note: motorized vehicles must
be shipped as POV. Motorcycles, mopeds, etc., must be crated and
shipped separately from HHE. Please mail copies of shipping
documents (Airway bill, Government Bill of Lading, etc.) to post as
soon as effects are shipped and bring additional copies of all
shipping documents with you.
Unaccompanied air baggage may be cleared before an employee's
arrival, usually within five to ten days after it arrives at
Tunis-Carthage Airport. It will be stored at the warehouse of a
contractor after clearance. You should include in your luggage any
medicines, checks, clothing or other necessities for your immediate
needs on arrival pending receipt of unaccompanied air baggage. You
should also arrive with a minimum of four passport-sized pictures
for each family member. These will be used for Tunisian visa and
identity cards.
The above information on shipping is subject to change. Please
contact post for the most current instructions. For people who would
like to pick up their POVs in Antwerp and bring them in by ferry,
notify Post early so that we can coordinate with Antwerp.
Arrival. You and your family members will be met on arrival and
assisted through customs by someone from the Embassy. Usually, other
officers are on hand to welcome and offer assistance. If plans
change unexpectedly and you are not met, taxi service is available
from the airport or seaport.
On the first workday after arrival, you will be picked up at your
residence by an official car and driven to the office. You should
report directly to the Human Resources Office for processing. The
Embassy provides an information and orientation kit to all new
employees.
Customs, Duties, and Passage Last Updated: 1/5/2005 2:57 AM
Customs and Duties Last Updated: 1/5/2005 2:57 AM
Officers and employees of all agencies are granted free entry of
all unaccompanied baggage, including household and personal effects.
Employees without diplomatic title at post are entitled to duty-free
entry during the first year after arrival at post (see section on
import restrictions). Items imported duty free must be for the
personal use or consumption of the employee or Eligible Family
Members and may only be sold to others with duty-free privileges.
Commissary items cannot be resold or given away except to other
commissary members. American personnel do not pay customs duties on
automobiles at initial entry.
Clearance of HHE can be initiated prior to your arrival if
shipment is correctly consigned. Clearance is normally obtained
within 1 week after initiation. A privately owned vehicle can be
cleared quickly after its arrival, provided it has valid license
plates, and the owner is at post; has a valid driver's license; has
Tunisian third-party insurance; and has the original vehicle title
and registration.
Import Restrictions. Non-diplomatic staff is granted duty-free
importation privileges during the first year after entry into
Tunisia and are limited to duty-free importation or purchase of one
POV, HHE shipment, one unaccompanied air baggage shipment, and one
parcel post package. This must all be done within the first year of
arrival at post.
The Government of Tunisia places no restrictions on the type of
automobiles that may be imported into the country. Before being
registered, however, vehicles must pass a routine inspection. All
vehicles must be outfitted with front seatbelts.
Weapons. See Firearms and Ammunition.
Alcohol/tobacco/food. There is no consumables allowance for
Tunisia. A wide selection of food, alcohol, and tobacco is available
in the post commissary and at the local duty-free outlet.
Passage Last Updated: 12/30/2004 5:58 AM
A valid passport is required for all Americans arriving in
Tunisia. A Tunisian visa is not required for a stay of 4 months or
less. A residence visa and a Tunisian identity card for all
personnel assigned to Tunisia will be obtained through the Travel
Office of the Embassy upon arrival.
If you plan to drive to Tunisia, you must have a valid drivers
license and registration papers. Insurance valid in Tunisia may be
purchased at the GSO Shipping Unit.
Pets Last Updated: 12/30/2004 5:59 AM
There are no restrictions on importing pets. However, to avoid
administrative delays, pets should accompany owners when possible.
Owners should have documents indicating that the pet has been
vaccinated against rabies and that the vaccination is at least 30
days but no more than one year old. A health certificate not more
than 14 days old is also required. Adequate veterinary services are
available in Tunis. Most veterinarians have studied or practiced
abroad and offer full animal vaccinations and services for a
relatively inexpensive price.
Firearms and Ammunition Last Updated: 12/30/2004 5:54 AM
The Tunisian Government limits the importation of firearms to one
hunting shotgun per employee. The importation of all other firearms
or weapons is prohibited. Newly assigned employees are discouraged
from bringing a hunting shotgun to post due to the difficulty in
obtaining a permit for its use. If you wish to bring a hunting
shotgun to post, write in advance to the regional security officer
for specific, up-to-date instructions.
Prior approval of the Chief of Mission is required to bring a
shotgun to post. Importation of any other weapon is prohibited.
However, should you elect to ship a shotgun to post, it must be
packed in a separate unmarked box with your airfreight to facilitate
clearance. To facilitate registration, the type, make, gauge, and
serial number of each firearm should be listed on the inventory of
personal effects. Registration of the shotgun will generally take at
least 6 months and can take up to a year. Firearms may be sent to
post without an export license provided that they are consigned to
American personnel for their personal use and are not for resale.
Tunisian and European cartridges for hunting shotguns are
available locally. Do not send ammunition with your shotgun or pack
it elsewhere in your airfreight or seafreight. After arrival,
employees must obtain a firearms permit. This requires four
passport-sized photos. Insurance and a hunting license are also
required if you plan to hunt.
Currency, Banking, and Weights and Measures Last Updated: 12/30/2004
5:37 AM
Tunisia's money unit is the dinar. In 2004, the dinar and dollar
exchange rate has fluctuated between 1.150 to 1.250 TD to US $1. A
dinar coin, about the size of a Kennedy half-dollar, is Tunisia's
largest denomination coin. It is subdivided into 1,000 millimes,
with coins in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 100 and 500 millimes.
Dinar notes are denominated in 5, 10, 20, and 30 dinars. The prefix
symbol "TD" is used for Tunisian dinars, with one dinar 350 millimes
written as TD 1.350 or 1,350. Tunisians most commonly use the latter
form with a comma instead of a period.
The GOT exercises strict controls over import and export of
dinars and foreign currencies. Generally, travelers with official or
diplomatic passports are not requested to declare their currency
upon entry or exit. Dollar transactions are permitted only at
official banks, government stores, major hotel cashiers, and the
American Embassy for authorized persons. Citibank Tunis provides a
cashier at the Embassy and provides dinars in exchange for personal
dollar checks from authorized Americans. Limited amounts of dollars,
foreign currencies, and traveler's checks may also be purchased with
a normal bank commission. Americans assigned to Embassy Tunis should
maintain a checking account in the U.S., preferably with provision
for automatic overdraft coverage. Citibank is the only U.S. bank
operating in Tunis, but it still does not provide all banking
services, such as ATM withdrawals and cash advances normally
available at U.S. banks. ATM service from several other local banks
is possible at very limited locations but has been found to be
occasionally unreliable. Cash advances on credit cards generally are
not available anywhere.
Tunisia uses the metric system of weights and measures.
Taxes, Exchange, and Sale of Property Last Updated: 2/4/2005 7:11 AM
Restrictions
All personnel pay transaction taxes and other indirect taxes on
purchases. However, most taxes on gasoline may be avoided by
purchasing tax-free coupons at the Commissary.
Local law and customs regulations drastically limit the sale of
personal effects in Tunisia. All U.S. Government personnel on the
diplomatic list may import goods duty-free throughout their tour of
duty. Single officers may import only one privately owned vehicle,
while married officers, accompanied by their spouse, may import two.
Administrative and Technical staff may import goods duty-free only
during their first year at post, and may import only one POV
regardless of marital status. The post can arrange for an exemption
of value added tax (VAT) for most major purchases of durable goods
(e.g., television, furniture, etc.). Tax-free coupons are available
at the USGERA Commissary for the purchase of gasoline.
Local law and customs regulations require that an employee export
all goods that entered Tunisia duty free, unless the items can be
sold to another person with duty-free privileges. As an exception to
the preceding rule, automobiles may be sold to a person who does not
have duty-free privileges, if that person first pays all customs
duty that might be due. Depending on make and model, customs duty on
automobiles can be very high, some cases as much as 150% or more of
the original (new) retail cost of the vehicle. Complete details
concerning the sale of personal property are on file at the post.
Facilities
The Embassy branch of Citibank provides accommodation exchange
and cashes personal and U.S. Government checks for all official
Americans. With written documentation and approval from the
Financial Management Officer (FMO), the Embassy will convert dinars
into dollars for departing American employees. All Americans on
official business should exchange money with Citibank or with the
Embassy cashier. Citibank also sells U.S. dollar traveler's checks
and can provide "hard currencies," such as Euro, UK pound sterling
and Italian lira with advance request.
Recommended Reading Last Updated: 3/18/2005 8:39 AM
These titles are provided as a general indication of the material
published on this country. The Department of State does not endorse
unofficial publications.
Country Reports on Human Rights Practices for 2004, Tunisia,
North Africa. Available at:
http://www.state.gov/g/drl/rls/hrrpt/2004/.
El-Chebbi, Abul-Kacem. Songs of Life. Beit El Hikma, 1987.
Abun-Nasr, Jamil M. A History of the Maghreb. Cambridge, UK:
Cambridge University Press, 1978.
Lisa Anderson. The State and Social Transformation in Tunisia and
Libya, 1830-1980. Princeton, NJ: Princeton U.P., 1986.
Atkinson, Rick. An Army at Dawn: The War in Africa, 1942-1943.
Henry Holt and Co., 1st Edition (October 2, 2002).
Ben Abdallah, Chedly. Fetes Religieuses et Rythmes de Tunisie.
JPS Editions, 1988.
Boulares, Habib. Nous Partons Pour la Tunisie. Presses
Universitaires de France, 1978.
CERES. Antique Cities in Tunisia. Tunis: Ceres Productions, 1971.
Charles-Picard, Colette and Gilbert. Life and Death of Carthage:
A Survey of Punic History and Culture From Its Birth to the Final
Tragedy. New York: Taplinger, 1969.
Charles-Picard, Colette and Gilbert. Daily Life in Carthage at
the Time of Hannibal. New York: Macmillan, 1961.
Duvignaud, Jean. Change At Chebika. Gallimard, 1988.
Flaubert, Gustave. Salammbo. A.J. Krailsheimer, trans. New York:
Penguin Books, 1977.
Geyer, Georgie Anne. Tunisia: The Story of a Country That Works.
Stacey International Publisher, 2003.
Hejaiej, Monia (ed.). Behind Closed Doors: Tales of Tunisian
Women. Quartet Books Ltd, 1996.
Hamdi, Mohamed Elhachmi. Politicization of Islam. Westview Press,
1998.
Hopkins, Michael. Tunisia to 1993: Steering for Stability.
London; New York: Economist Intelligence Unit, 1989.
Holmes-Eber, Paula. Daughters of Tunis. Boulder, Co; Westview,
2003.
Kaplan, Robert D. Mediterranean Winter: The Pleasures of History
and Landscape in Tunisia, Sicily, Dalmatia, and Greece. Random
House, 2004.
Khader, Aïcha Ben Abed and David Soren, eds. Carthage: A Mosaic
of Ancient Tunisia. Photographs by Martha Cooper. [1st American ed.]
New York: American Museum of Natural History in association with
W.W.Norton, 1987.
Lancel, Serge. and Antonia Nevill (translator). Carthage: A
History. Antonia Nevill, transBlackwell Publishers, 1995.
Moore, Clement Henry. Tunisia Since Independence: The Dynamics of
One-Party Government. Westport, Conn: Greenwood Press, [1982], 1965.
Parker, Richard B. Tunisia: Crossroads of the Islamic and
European Worlds. Westview Press, 1984.
Perkins, Kenneth. A History of Modern Tunisia. Cambridge, UK:
Cambridge University Press, 2004.
Perkins, Kenneth. Tunisia: Crossroads of the Islamic and European
Worlds. Boulder, Co.: Westview Press, 1986.
Revault, Jacques. Designs and Patterns From North African Carpets
and Textiles. New York: Dover Publications, 1973.
St. George's Anglican Church of Tunis. Living in Tunis for
Expatriates, 1st Edition. Tunis: l'Imprimerie Finzi, 2000.
Tunisia, A Country Study. Area Handbook Series, 1988.
World Bank. Tunisia’s Global Integration and Sustainable
Development: Strategic Choices for the 21st Century. Washington,
D.C.: World Bank, 1996.
Williams, Christopher. Craftsmen of Necessity. Random House,
1974.
Yetiv, Isaac. 1001 Proverbs From Tunisia. Three Continents Press,
1987.
Zartman, I. William, ed. Tunisia: The Political Economy of
Reform. Boulder, Co: L. Rienner, © 1991.
Travel Guides
Insight Guide to Tunisia. APA Publicatons, 2002.
McGuinness, Justin. Footprint Tunisia Handbook. Footprint
Handbooks, 2002.
Morris, Peter and Jacobs, Daniel. The Rough Guide to Tunisia.
Rough Guides, 2005.
Local Holidays Last Updated: 2/8/2005 1:53 PM
Tunisia celebrates the following secular holidays:
New Year’s Day January 1
Independence Day March 20
Youth Day March 21
Veteran’s Day April 9
Labor Day May 1
Republic Day July 25
Women’s Day August 13
Commemoration Day November 7
Religious Holidays. Four Islamic religious holidays are observed
throughout the country but their dates are variable as they are
based on the lunar calendar. These holidays are: Aid El Kebir, Aid
Seghir, Mouled, and Ras El Am El Hejri.
Most Tunisians observe the holy month of Ramadan, the ninth month of
the lunar calendar, when Moslems abstain from eating and drinking
between sunrise and sunset.
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