Sun, Sand, and Ancient Stories: Why Tunisia is Your Next Must-Visit Mediterranean Escape
If you’re looking to ditch the usual European summer crowds for something a bit more exotic, the Tunisian coast is calling. Known affectionately as the ‘island of a thousand palm trees’, Djerba sits just off the southern coast, offering a slice of paradise where the Mediterranean meets North African charm. It’s a place where crystal-clear waters lap against fine sandy beaches, and the pace of life slows down to a gentle crawl.
But there is more to this region than just sunbaking. Djerba is a unique multicultural melting pot. Here, Arabic, Muslim, Jewish, and African influences have blended over centuries, creating a peaceful atmosphere where different cultures don’t just exist—they thrive side-by-side.
Stepping Back in Time in Houmt Souk
To really get a feel for the island, you’ve got to head into the capital, Houmt Souk. The air here is thick with the scent of spices and the sound of lively haggling. The open-air markets are a vibrant maze of colour, with traders showing off everything from hand-woven carpets and traditional caftans to intricate gold and silver jewellery.
If you wander away from the main stalls, you’ll find yourself in a labyrinth of whitewashed alleyways draped in bright purple bougainvillea. It’s the perfect spot to grab a local bite at a street-side café and just watch the world go by. For the history buffs, a trip to the Borj El Kebir Fortress is a non-negotiable. This 13th-century stronghold once belonged to the notorious Turkish pirate Dragut. Crossing the drawbridge and walking the ancient ramparts gives you a pretty spectacular vantage point over the Mediterranean and the Fatimid port.
Ancient Traditions and Hidden Street Art
While the island is steeped in Greek mythology—often cited as the legendary ‘Land of the Lotus-Eaters’—its living history is just as fascinating. In the village of Hara Seghira, you’ll find the El Ghriba synagogue. As the oldest synagogue in Africa, it’s home to one of the most ancient Torah scrolls on the planet and remains a major pilgrimage site.
For a bit of a modern twist, the nearby village of Erriadh is a must-see. In 2014, a street art festival called ‘Djerbahood’ turned the traditional white walls of the medina into an open-air gallery. Today, you can find over 100 stunning murals painted by international artists tucked away in the quiet streets, making it a dream for anyone with a camera.
A Premium Beachfront Deal for the Savvy Traveller
If you’re keen to see it for yourself, there are some cracking deals popping up for the 2026 season. One standout is a week-long stay at the TUI BLUE Palm Beach, located on the mainland in Hammamet. It’s sitting at a solid 4.5/5 on Tripadvisor and offers that classic beachfront vibe.
Currently, you can snag a package starting from around €680 (approx. $1,100 AUD) per person. This isn’t just a room-only deal; it’s the full works—flights, transfers, and all-inclusive meals. For those who like a bit of a safety net, there’s a flex option for a small extra fee that lets you cancel up to 15 days before you fly.
The hotel itself is about three kilometres from the centre of Hammamet and is stacked with perks. We’re talking four pools, three restaurants, and four bars, plus a wellness centre if you need to zen out. They even run local language and cooking classes if you want to bring a bit of Tunisia back home with you.
Value for Money Under the North African Sun
When you crunch the numbers, booking this as a package is a bit of a no-brainer. If you tried to book the hotel and flights separately, you’d be looking at a much higher price tag, and that’s before you even think about airport transfers.
Whether you’re exploring the traditional heritage museums, learning about the local pottery and fishing trade, or just reclining on a sun-kissed beach with the azure sea at your feet, Tunisia offers a lot of bang for your buck. With no current entry restrictions for many international travellers, it’s a hassle-free way to experience a culture that feels worlds away from the daily grind.
