Essential Tunisia - Issue 17

Page 1


Welcome, To this new issue of our monthly digital lifestyle magazine for friends of Tunisia. Our magazines are now also published as part of the bluuprint publishing library, where you can find all our latest editions as well as past issues, plus many more free magazines and books to read. In the Tunisia Topics pages we look at the human tragedy behind the unrest in Tunisia and the effect on tourism and flights as hopefully the situation returns to some sort of “normality”. With all our regular lifestyle features and tourist information pages, we hope it won’t be long before regular visitors and tourists will be returning to this beautiful country. In our interactive magazine, you can turn pages, adjust the size, plus access adverts or further information instantly by clicking on any items of interest that are highlighted by “Follow Link”.

From all of our regular readers in the UK to all of our friends in Tunisia, we hope you stay safe and look forward to seeing you soon. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and “Like” our page or “Suggest to Your Friends” Thankyou

Ed

Read all our past issues here on bluuprint.com 2

Essential Tunisia

Essential Tunisia Magazine Published by : Distributed by : Information: Advertising: Design & Editing: Contibutors :

LiveTunisia bluuprint.com info@livetunisia.net ads@livetunisia.net LiveTunisia.com LiveTunisia.com

Whilst every effort is made to ensure accuracy and legality, the Publisher accepts no liability or responsibility for the material published herein, the views of our contributors are not necessarily the views of the Editor. The Publisher further accepts no liability or responsibility for errors in content or quality that occur beyond all reasonable control of the Editor. Furthermore the publisher accepts no liability or responsibility for the publicity content which in all cases remains under the ownership of the advertiser, and can not be held responsible for the content or actions resulting from accessing webpages outside the control of this publication. The contents of this publication are the property of the publisher and nothing may be reproduced, stored in a retrival system or transmitted in any form without express permission in writing from the editor.



08

In This Issue LIFESTYLE 08

Tunisia Topics How did it come to this? The human tragedy behind the unrest in Tunisia

12

Tunisia: flights and tourism affected

14

Jet 2 criticised for cancelling all of it’s summer flights to Tunisia

16

24

30

38

12

Places Discovering Tunisia’s History Dougga (Part III): Archaeological treasures Healthy Living Essential Exercise Tips (for people who don’t want to)

23

Tunisian & Mediterranean Cooking Tunisian Tagine Music The Promise - Bruce Sprinsteen

30

4

Essential Tunisia



February 2011

38

LIFESTYLE 34 40

Books Tunisia: AA Essential Guide Sport Faouzi Benzarti retuns as national team coach of Tunisia

42

“Behind closed doors� ban for Esperance

43

Davis Cup decision against Tunisia put on the backburner for now

43

FEATURES 44

Tunisia Tourist Map

45

Places of interest in Tunisia

54

Business Tunisia Directory

58

48

Money 12 Ways to make some extra momey in your spare time REGULARS

6

66

Weekly Horoscope

70

Monthly Horoscope

72

The Birthday File

77

Sudoku

Essential Tunisia

58



Tunisia Topics How did it come to this? The human tragedy behind the unrest in Tunisia In Sidi Bouzid, Mohamed Bouazizi had spent his whole life on a dusty street in a tiny, three-room house. By the time he was 26, his living as a fruit vendor had earned him just enough money to feed his mother, uncle and five brothers and sisters. His dreams were simple, he would like one day to own a van. In the same poor provincial town, Faida Hamdy, a 45-yearold municipal inspector and a police officer’s daughter, inspected buildings, investigated noise complaints and supervised vendors and itinerant traders like Mr. Bouazizi. During the morning of December 17th, Ms. Hamdy tried to confiscate Mr. Bouazizi’s fruit, and is then said to have slapped him in the face when he tried to take back his produce. It was this moment when he became a hero and she became the villain, that proved to be the catalyst in a remarkable series of events in which Tunisians rose up to topple a 23-year dictatorship and are now demanding radical change in their government and the way their country is run.

8

Essential Tunisia

In fact, the effects of this moment have spread beyond the borders of Tunisia, shaking other authoritarian Arab states, whose frustrated young people are often dismissed in the face of stifling bureaucracy and an intimidating security apparatus. It was this moment, described by other vendors as a seemingly routine, almost daily confrontation, that had set off a revolution. They said that Mr. Bouazizi, who was embarrassed and angry, had wrestled with Ms. Hamdy and was beaten by two of her colleagues, who also took his electronic scale. He is then said to have walked to the municipal building to demand the return of his property, and was beaten again. He then is said to have walked to the governor’s office to demand an audience and was turned away. Humiliated, and with seemingly no hope left, standing around noon, in the street in front of the governor’s high gate, he drenched himself in paint thinner then set fire to himself.


Tunisia Topics “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing” ... English philosopher Edmund Burke A doctor at the hospital where he was treated said the burns covered 90 percent of his body. By the time he died on January 4th, the protests which had started over Mr. Bouazizi’s treatment in Sidi Bouzid had spread to towns and cities through the rest of the country. On January 14th, the president, Zine el-Abidine Ben Ali, fled the country, taking haven in Saudi Arabia. The country’s official unemployment rate is 14 percent, concentrated mainly among the young, but the rate is much higher in Sidi Bouzid, probably in the region of 30 percent. Neglected by successive central governments seized with corruption and rife with nepotism, Sidi Bouzid and the small towns surrounding it are filled with young men, jobless, underemployed or just plain poor.

Educated people with college degrees, where possible, head for the more affluent coastal cities or settle for less by finding work where they can. On the rare occasion that Mr. Ben Ali would visit Sidi Bouzid, or any town for that matter, local authorities would quickly clean up the roads, arrange for the planting of fully-grown trees and line the streets with a barrage of flags to hide their neglect.

Essential Tunisia

9


Tunisia Topics How did it come to this? It seems that people were accustomed to seeing injustice and staying silent, and everyone would have a different story about a bribe: to get a loan, to start a business or to land a job. In the world of the fruit and vegetable vendors, the bribes were small, around 10 dinars, about 6€. When the inspectors would arrive, the vendors had three options: to run and leave the fruit that some of them had bought on credit, to offer a bribe, or to pay the official fine of 20 dinars, the equivalent of about 12€, or several day’s wages. Mr. Bouazizi had received two fines in the last two years, but was frequently harassed. He had been a vendor since he was a teenager, and had worked odd jobs since he was 10. Despite his struggles to work, he was easygoing and liked to laugh, with no hint of depression. Although his friends said that Mr. Bouazizi refused to pay bribes, they could not recall any time where he had made such an unyielding and defiant stand.

10

Essential Tunisia

The protests in Sidi Bouzid were small at first, with the vendor’s relatives and friends outside the governor’s office that afternoon, throwing coins at the gate and shouting “Here is your bribe”. Over the next few days, the protests grew and the police started beating protesters, and firing tear gas. At the same time, news of the unrest was spread throughout the internet by people with Facebook accounts (one of the few social media tools allowed by the repressive regime), and then through the wider media, particularly Al Jazeera, the Arabic channel, almost alone, carried the news abroad.


Tunisia Topics The human tragedy behind the unrest in Tunisia Labour leaders and their members quickly joined the demonstrations, which grew violent in the face of increasingly brutal police retaliation. In the hospitals the number of patients rose sharply during the unrest, injured from beatings or bullets. Two men who had been shot in Sidi Bouzid in the early days died of their wounds. Today, the city is transformed. The main avenue now bears the name Mohamed Bouazizi in spray paint. A sculpture that carries his picture is the site of frequent demonstrations and open and free political arguments. The vendors no longer run. Things that Tunisians say Mr. Bouazizi made possible. Ms. Hamdy, arrested on orders from the now-deposed president himself, is in jail in another town. Her colleagues maintain that she is honest and did not take bribes. Her brother was among the first to join the protests in Sidi Bouzid and although elated by the revolution, says he did not believe his sister had mistreated Mr. Bouazizi.

Those closest to his personal rebellion seemed to focus on the embarrassment and despair Mr. Bouazizi suffered on that fateful day. The other young men in town, armed with their own tales of injustice, marveled at his example. And now, as the story moves beyond the olive groves that surround Sidi Bouzid, others saw a tale of oppression, despair and recovered dignity. People in their own impoverished districts and countries have started mimicking Mr. Bouazizi’s act. There is a new hope to be found on the streets. Maybe it was the lack of hope that caused those fateful events in the first place.

Essential Tunisia

11


Tunisia Topics Tunisia: flights and tourism affected

At the time of going to press, travel warnings are still in place for Tunisia. As the protests spread from Tunis to other cities, countries such as the UK and the US, issued travel warnings against non-essential travel to Tunisia in mid-January and repatriated their customers. Sources say that UK tour operators alone repatriated 3,000 customers the weekend of 15th January and began cancelling flights. Thomas Cook has thus far cancelled flights through to 27th February, while Thomson Airways has cancelled flights through to the 16th February. Operators are allowing tourists travelling to Tunisia through February to change their travel plans without charge. French tour operators announced the cancellation of their trips through January but are said to be re-evaluating February departures.

12

Essential Tunisia

German tour operators, TUI and Rewe cancelled departures through to 15th February and those booked for travel through to 15th April can change their bookings without a change fee. While the situation in Tunisia seems calmer, tour operators are waiting for governments to lift their travel warnings before returning to normal operations. The interim government has six months to hold new elections, so the short term will likely involve a lot of uncertainty as a new government forms. Even if calm is restored, it is likely that tourist figures will be down for the summer holidays in 2011, although it is thought that subject to the restoration of some sort of normality continuing, there could be some attractive bargain breaks to be had come May and June.



Jet2 criticised for cancelling all of its summer flights to Tunisia Budget airline Jet2 has come under fire for its decision to cancel its entire summer flights programme to Tunisia. Jet2 said in a statement yesterday that it would not run any of its planned flights from Leeds Bradford, Newcastle, Manchester or Glasgow airports this year after the recent unrest in the country.

The Foreign Office warned against 'all but essential travel' to Tunisia last month after the North African country appeared to be on the very brinl of chaos, but the situation appears to have been calmer since the country's controversial leader Zine El Abidine Ben Ali fled to Saudi Arabia, although there are still demonstrations taking place throughout the country amid calls for a democratically elected government .

The Leeds-based carrier said it was in the process of contacting passengers to organise alternative arrangements. 'The safety of our customers is our number one priority and we also don’t want them to face the stressful uncertainty over whether their holiday will go ahead as planned. We are, therefore, giving them the opportunity to plan an alternative holiday now, so they can sit back, relax and look forward to their summer break.'

Holiday operators Thomson and Thomas Cook flew thousands of British holidaymakers who were stranded in Tunisia back to the UK on emergency flights and both operators have cancelled all further flights for the moment until the third week in February. However, Jet2's approach is widely being viewed as overcautious, especially as the company's summer programme isn't due to start until April.

'Jet2.com and Jet2holidays sincerely apologise to our customers affected by this situation which is entirely outside of our control.'

14

Essential Tunisia

Travel expert Bob Atkinson of Travelsupermarket.com said Jet2 shouldn't underestimate the resilience of tourist destinations affected by domestic problems. 'Quite rightly, at the moment tour operators should be bringing anyone home who wants to come home and stop people going out there while the FCO advice remains.'


Tunisia Topics

He continued: 'However, the fact that Jet2 doesn't actually have flights running yet means it seems a little premature to be making a decision about continuing to operate to Tunisia. 'Customers are a lot more resilient than you'd expect them to be. And Tunisians want holidaymakers back because they spend money and that money is integral to the economy. They will welcome them back with open arms. Generally, when there are problems in holiday destinations it doesn't put travellers off for long.' And Atkinson predicts that when the FCO does change its advice, there could be a boom for travel as operators cut prices. 'Tunisia will be even better value when it gets back on its feet. I would expect to see in the early days of flights resuming some very, very good deals out there.

The question will be how long will those deals continue before normal service is resumed'. Tunisia's location out of the Eurozone has proved attractive to holidaymakers looking for a cost effective break and visitor figures were up by 29 per cent in 2010. ABTA, The Travel Association, named the North African country as the 10th most popular destination for UK travellers at its October conference and the island of Djerba, just off the Tunisian coast, has been tipped by many travel experts as a hot destination for 2011.

Essential Tunisia

15


Places: Discovering Tunisia’s History

Continuing our look at Dougga, one of the greatest archaeological sites of the ancient world, in part four, we take a tour around some of the recreational buildings and monuments which show a different side to this archeological site. Dougga itself (or Thugga as it was often referred to in Latin texts), is actually an ancient Roman city in northern Tunisian.

16

Essential Tunisia


Dougga

(Part III) : Archaeological Treasure

UNESCO qualified Dougga as a World Heritage Site in 1997, believing that it represents “the best-preserved Roman small town in North Africa�. The site has been protected from the encroachment of modern urbanisation, in contrast, to nearby Carthage for example, which is a suburb of modern Tunis It is the shear size of Dougga, as well as its wellpreserved monuments and rich Punic, Numidian, ancient Roman and Byzantine history, that make it exceptional.

Essential Tunisia

17


Places

The theatre at the start of the 20th century

The history of the settlement of Dougga is best known from the time of the Roman conquest, even though numerous pre-Roman monuments have been discovered during archaeological digs. Although not so well documented, these monuments are an indication of the site's importance long before the arrival of the Romans.

The following is a more detailed description of the recreational facilities you will find upon visiting the ruins at Dougga along with some background information, where known.

The original city appears to have been founded in the 6th century BC, and was always an early and important human settlement, and although our knowledge of the city before the Roman conquest remains very limited, recent archaeological finds have revolutionised the image that we had of this period.

Theatres were a fundamental element of the monumental make-up of a city from the reign of Augustus.

18

Essential Tunisia

Theatre

The theatre at Dougga, which was built around 168 AD, is one of the best preserved examples in Roman Africa.


Dougga

A theatre performance in 1953

It could seat 3500 spectators, even though Dougga only had 5000 inhabitants. It was one of a series of imperial buildings constructed over the course of two centuries at Dougga which deviate from the classic “blueprints” in as much as they have been adapted to take account of the local terrain. Some minor adjustments have been made and the local architects had a certain freedom with regard to the ornamentation of the buildings.

A dedication engraved into the pediment of the stage and on the portico that dominates the city, recalls the building’s commissioner, P. Marcius Quadratus, who “built it for his homeland with his own denarii”; the dedication was celebrated with “scenic representations, distributions of life, a festival and athletic games”. The theatre is still used for performances of classic theatre, particularly during the festival of Dougga, and some considerable conservation work has been carried out on it over the years.

Essential Tunisia

19


Dougga

(Part III: continued)

Auditorium The site known as the auditorium is an annex of the Temple of Liber, which probably served for the initiation of novices. Despite its modern description, the auditorium was not a site for spectacles; only its form suggests otherwise. Circus The city has a circus designed for chariot racing, but it is barely visible nowadays. Originally, the circus consisted of nothing more than a field; an inscription in the temple in honour of Caracalla’s victory in Germany notes that the land was donated by the Gabinii in 214 and describes it as an ager qui appellatur circus (field that serves as a circus). In 225 though, the site was prepared and the circus was constructed. It was financed by the magistrates after they had promised to do so following in response to a request from the entire population of the city. The circus was built to take the maximum possible advantage of the surrounding landscape, in reflection of an understandable need to limit costs in a medium-sized city with limited resources, but certainly also out of desire to finish the construction works as quickly as possible, given that magistrates’ mandates were limited to one year. The construction was nonetheless expected to have “a certain magnitude”; at 393 metres long with a spina 190 metres long and 6 metres wide, the circus is quite extraordinary in Roman Africa.

20

Essential Tunisia


Dougga

Mosaic of a charioteer found at Dougga; on display at the Bardo National Museum The circus marks Dougga out as one of the most important cities in the province, alongside Carthage, Thysdrus, Leptis Magna, Hadrumet and Utica. The donation of the land for the pleasure of the general populace (ad voluptatem populi) and its development following a request from the entire population (postulante universo populo) are a reminder of the importance of spectacles in the social life of Roman cities and the demand for popular entertainment.

Amphitheatre The question of whether there was an amphitheatre at Dougga has not been conclusively answered. Traditionally, a large elliptic depression to the northwest of the site has been interpreted as the site of an amphitheatre. Archeologists have however become much more cautious on this subject.

Essential Tunisia

21


Places

Dougga

(Part III: continued)

Baths Three Roman baths have been completely excavated at Dougga; a fourth has so far only been partially uncovered. Of these four baths, one (“the bath of the house to the west of the Temple of Tellus”) belongs to a private residence, two, the Aïn Doura bath and the bath known for a long time as the “Licinian bath”, were, judging by their size, open to the public, while the nature of the last bath, the bath of the Cyclopses, is more difficult to interpret. Bath of the Cyclopses During the excavation of the Bath of the Cyclopses, a mosaic of cyclopses forging Jupiter’s thunderbolts was uncovered. It is now on display at the Bardo National Museum, where several very well preserved latrines are also on display. The building has been dated to the 3rd century AD on the basis of a study of the mosaic. The size of the building (its frigidarium is less than 30 m²) has led some experts to believe that it was a private bath, but the identification of a villa in the immediate vicinity has made this difficult to prove. The “trifolium villa” is quite distant, and the closest ruins are hard to identify as they have not been well preserved. It is often suggested therefore that the bath served the local quarter.

22

Essential Tunisia

The Bath of the Cyclopses


Dougga

Aïn Doura Bath

Antonian or Licinian Bath

Aïn Doura Bath

The Antonian Bath, which dates from the 3rd century CE, was known as the Licinian Bath (after emperor Publius Licinius Egnatius Gallienus) and has several storeys. It’s identification as a bath dating to Gallienus’ reign on the basis of incomplete inscriptions and Dougga’s prosperity at this time has been called into question by recent research, which suggested that the bath dates from the reign of Caracalla; based on the anlysis of further inscriptions. Others have even suggested that the bath dates from the reign of the Severan dynasty, because of a peculiarity which became common a century later in the west: where the columns feature daises bearing arches.

In the immediate vicinity of Aïn Doura is a partially excavated complex that could turn out to be the largest bath in the city. On the basis of the mosaics that have been found here, it has been suggested that the bath dates from the end of the 2nd century or the start of the 3rd century AD, and that the mosaic décor was renewed in the 4th century AD. The complex remains largely unexposed, but it seems, according that it has a symmetrical design, of which only a section of the cold rooms has been excavated.

The symmetrical building is medium-sized, with an area of 1700 m² excluding the palaestra, of which 175 m² are taken up by the frigidarium. The construction of the bath required work both to lower and to raise sections of the slope on which it stood, which may explain why parts of the building have been better preserved than others; the section built on raised ground has for the most part been lost.

The bath of the house to the west of the Temple of Tellus This bath, measuring 75m², which can be accessed from the house and from the street, was uncovered at the start of the 20th century. The archaeological analysis of the bath’s relationship with the house in which it is located has led to suggestions that it was a later addition to the original construction.

Essential Tunisia

23


Essential Exercise Tips

for people who don’t want to ...

24

Essential Tunisia


LIFESTYLE

Ok, so the sky is blue, the sun is shining and there are a million things you'd rather do than exercise. At one time or another you've probably used every excuse in the book. Sometimes all you need is to hear the voice of reason, so here it is....

It’s Not So Bad Exercise does not have to be a chore! If you look hard enough you can find a form of exercise that you will actually look forward to. It may take a while, but you will. Some experts say the most successful exercisers usually work out for about an hour a day. If you're going to spend an hour of your time doing it, you might as well be doing something you enjoy.

Trying something new or going back to an old favourite will often do the trick. Were you a real water baby in younger days? Well, why not go back to it, as there are probably an abundance of pools where you live so give it a try. Swimming strengthens your muscles and works the cardiovascular system, so why not take a dip? The pool will also provide resistance for exercise, help tone you up and provides a safety net for joints.

Essential Tunisia

25


LIFESTYLE Were you more of a ball game person at school? Then why not pick it up again. Sports such as tennis can be played to almost any age, and can strengthen and tone your whole body with plenty of sprinting and jumping, while enjoying the glorious weather outside. Just getting more active in general will go a long way in helping you get fit. Even throwing a ball for your dog, gardening, or playing with the kids will all help in the long-run.

Balance If you're worried about joining an exercise class because your balance isn't too good, you can work on it at home before ever stepping foot in the health club or fitness centre. Try standing on one leg at a time while bending the other up. Hold on to the bending leg if need be. Try it first in front of a full-length mirror, then try closing your eyes. Rest a hand on nearby furniture if you need to, but don't use it to help balance yourself. Close your eyes and try bending down with your raised leg and then start over again. After you've done this a few times, try alternating legs. Finally, try starting a really easy exercise video in your own home. You will be surprised at how much more coordinated you can become in just a short time.

26

Essential Tunisia



LIFESTYLE Morning Person? Maybe the reason you don't want to work out is because you're a night person, and trying to exercise in the morning just doesn’t appeal to you. Despite the fact that we've heard for years that the morning is better for exercising to increase calorie-burning all day long, there are also those who say other times of the day offer their own benefits. For example, exercising in the afternoon can be beneficial because your flexibility and strength are naturally higher then. Those factors can lead to a reduced risk of injury as well, which is important for beginners. The best time to work out is when it's right for you, not the experts. And the best time for you is any time you're going to consistently do it.

Progress Stay motivated by keeping a fitness diary and you're less likely to put off working out for another day. Seeing success in black and white is a great way to stay on track whether you're recording workouts or food intake. Write down the type of exercise you did, the duration, the intensity, your feelings before and after, and any other helpful notes. Chances are, that when you read how great you felt after most of your work outs, you'll want to get that feeling back today, too.

28

Essential Tunisia

Variety There will be some days when you may not have the urge to get moving because you're just plain tired or burnt-out. If you find you're feeling run-down, try varying your exercise routine. Nothing brings on burn-out faster than doing the same old thing every day. By varying your choice of exercise, you will give your muscles (and yourself) time to recover. Alternate easier and tougher workouts to help build back up. And don't forget the importance of getting eight full hours of sleep every night. The correct amount of sleep can do wonders for your mind and body.



LIFESTYLE Tunisian Tagine Now when we say “tajine�, most people would picture a typical Berber dish named after the special pot in which it is cooked. The traditional tajine pot is formed entirely of a heavy clay, which is sometimes painted or glazed. It consists of two parts: a base unit that is flat and circular with low sides, and a large cone or dome-shaped cover that rests inside the base during cooking. The cover is so designed to promote the return of all condensation to the bottom. With the cover removed, the base can be taken to the table for serving. What some Tunisians refer to as a "tajine" can be very different from the more well-known Berber dish. Tunisian tajine in some ways is more like an Italian frittata. Often a simple ragout is prepared, of meat cut into very small pieces, cooked with onions and various spices. Then something starchy is added to thicken the juices, such as potatoes, chickpeas, or breadcrumbs . When the meat is tender, it is combined with whatever ingredient has been chosen to be the flavouring such as

30

Essential Tunisia


Tunisian & Mediterranean Cooking

fresh parsley, dried mint, saffron, sundried tomatoes or cooked vegetables.

Tunisian tajines can also be made with seafood, or even as a completely vegetarian dish.

Next, this is enriched with cheese and eggs, then baked in a deep pie dish, either on the stove or in the oven until both top and bottom are crisply cooked and the eggs are just set.

In rural parts of Tunisia, home cooks place a shallow earthenware dish over glowing olive wood, fill it, cover it with a flat earthen pan, and then pile hot coals on top.

When the tajine is ready, it is turned out onto a plate and sliced into squares.

The resulting tajine is crusty on top and bottom, moist within, and is infused with a subtle smoky fragrance.

Essential Tunisia

31


Tunisian & Mediterranean Cooking And so to a typically delicious recipe for your own Tunisian Tajine. This is very simple to make and can be altered slightl to suit your own individual tastes or ingredients.

INGREDIENTS 1 ½ lb. chicken breast, boneless and skinless ½ tsp ground coriander seed ½ tsp turmeric Salt& pepper 2-3 tbsp olive oil 1-2 potato, sliced into 1/8 inch slices 1 tbsp olive oil 9 eggs

32

Essential Tunisia

1 large onion, chopped 1 cup parsley, chopped 2 tbsp crushed tomatoes ¾ cup mozzarella cut into ½ inch cubes 1 tsp dried mint ½ tsp ground coriander ½ tsp salt ¼ tsp black pepper


Tunisian Tagine

STEP- BY-STEP . Cut the chicken into 1 inch square pieces, marinate it with coriander, turmeric, salt and pepper for a few hours or preferably, if possible overnight.

Add the cooked and cooled chicken to the combined mixture, and pour over the potatoes.

SautĂŠ the marinated chicken cubes in a large pan with a little olive oil, and when cooked through, set aside to cool to room temperature.

Bake in an oven preheated to 350F for about an hour or until it looks golden brown.

Grease a large baking dish with olive oil, and place the thin potato slices on the bottom of the baking dish evenly.

Serve by cutting the tajine into squares and serve either warm or at room temperature.

In a separate large bowl, whisk the eggs, then add the rest of the ingredients, and combine together.

This recipe makes a mildly spiced tajine, but you can adjust the spices to suit your own taste.

Essential Tunisia

33


BOOKS Tunisia AA Essential Guide Available from:

amazon.co.uk Tunisia (AA Essential Guide) [Paperback] AA Publishing (Author)

34

X

RRP:

ÂŁ5.99

Price:

ÂŁ4.13

Essential Tunisia

First published in 2009, this is a great, vaue-formoney guide to Tunisia, both iformative and and full of detail! Recommended.



Kindle is Amazon.com's #1 bestselling item for two years running. It's the most-wished-for, mostgifted, and has the most 5-star reviews of any product on Amazon.com.

Now it's even better. All-New, High-Contrast E-Ink Screen 50% better contrast than any other e-reader Read in Bright Sunlight - No glare New and Improved Fonts - New crisper, darker fonts New Sleek Design – 21% smaller body while keeping the same 6" size reading area 17% Lighter - Only 241 grams, weighs less than a paperback

Built-In Wi-Fi - Connect at home or on the road Books in 60 Seconds - Download books anytime, anywhere 20% Faster Page Turns - Seamless reading

Battery Life of One Month - A single charge lasts up to one month with wireless off

Enhanced PDF Reader - With dictionary lookup, notes, and highlights New WebKit-Based Browser - Browse the web over Wi-Fi (experimental)

Double the Storage - Up to 3,500 books

36

Essential Tunisia


Essential Tunisia

37


MUSIC The Promise: Bruce Springsteen

Back in the late 70’s, Bruce Springsteen was being written off by many, as his breakthrough, iconic Born to Run was already three years in the distant past, at a time when such absences were all but unthinkable. In fact Springsteen had already fallen victim to his own success as the "future of rock ‘n’ roll", a label he quickly grew to hate. The facts were, that following Born to Run’s release, Springsteen became embroiled in a legal dispute with his then-manager, Mike Appel, which kept him out of the studio for almost two years, and informed the introspected sound of its belated successor. That follow-up was called Darkness on the Edge of Town and remains perhaps the pivotal work in The Boss’ emphatic repertoire, surpressing the optimism of Born to Run for a record dealing with small-town frustrations and innocence he was just coming to understand.

38

Essential Tunisia

Darkness… may just be his finest record, and the figures certainly bear this out, but during this acrimonious period Springsteen had amassed a formidable repertoire of some 70plus songs, whittled down in accordance with his wishes to make a record reflecting downbeat social realities. That means The Promise – an album collecting some of the songs never to make the cut – has an embarrassment of riches to draw from, since many of the tracks here were left off the album not for quality-control purposes but simply because they didn’t fit in with the albums direction.


MUSIC The Promise

Click here to go to the website and play a sample of all the songs

Bruce Springsteen Format: Audio CD

Price:

£9.46

Format: MP3 (Download) Price:

£8.49

Album Savings: £10.20 compared to buying all songs individually

Click here to go to the website and play a sample of individual songs

Available from:

amazon.co.uk The two most obvious cases in point are Because the Night and Fire, a pair of tracks turned into hits by Patti Smith and The Pointer Sisters respectively, which capture Springsteen at the very peak of his pop-songwriting game. Songs like Outside Looking In and The Brokenhearted reflect Springsteen’s love of early rock‘n’rollers like Buddy Holly and Roy Orbison, then there’s the small matter of the stunning title-track, a sombre mid-tempo ballad omitted from Darkness for fear that listeners would associate it with his legal troubles: "when the promise was broken, I cashed in a few of my dreams". The Promise is as compelling an advert for the Boss’s beautiful, blue-collar soul as you’re likely to find outside of the hits; an indispensible portrait of an artist at the top of his game.

Essential Tunisia

39


SPORT Faouzi Benzarti returns as national team coach Tunisia have appointed 61 year-old Faouzi Benzarti as national team coach for the third time, tasking him with taking Tunisia to the 2012 African Cup of Nations. He took the Carthage Eagles to the Africa Cup of Nations in Angola in 2010 and was previously in charge in 1994. Previous boss Bertrand Marchand left in December, after a double defeat by Botswana in the current 2012 Nations Cup qualifying competition, the 1-0 defeat to Botswana in November proving to be the final straw.

“Benzerti was selected by the majority of board members to lead Tunisia to the ACN 2012 finals,” Spokesman of the Tunisian football Association (TFA) Mohamed El Hady said in a press conference recently.

Benzarti's hopes of staying in the post beyond 2011 rest upon qualifying for next year's Nations Cup finals.

Tunisia currently lie second in Group K of qualifying for Equatorial Guinea and Gabon, one point ahead of Malawi.

40

Essential Tunisia

“If he manages to achieve this target, he will remain in his position until the 2014 World Cup in Brazil,” he added.

Two teams will progress from this group because it comprises five countries.


SPORT at Tunisia Between his spells with the national team, Benzarti led Tunisian club side Esperance to the African Champions League final, where they suffered a humiliating defeat to TP Mazembe (6-1 on aggregate). He left Esperance shortly afterwards after falling out with the club's chairman.

He will be assisted in the national job by compatriots Farid Ben Belgacem, who coaches League 1 side El-Gouafel Gafsa, and Sami Trabelsi, a former Club Sfaxien player who worked as an assistant to Marchand. The three will sign what the Tunisian federation has called a 'contract of objectives', which is effectively based upon a successful qualification for the finals in Equatorial Guinea and Gabon 2012. In his first press conference on Tuesday, Benzarti said his objective "is very tough" and will need Tunisia to win their next three qualifiers. The Carthage Eagles will resume their qualifying campaign this summer when they play host to Chad in June.

Essential Tunisia

41


SPORT “Behind closed doors” ban for Esperance Top Tunisian club Esperance will have to play their next two home African Champions League matches behind closed doors following their conduct during last year's final. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has also slapped a six-game ban and 7,500€ fine on their player Aymen Ben Amour. The midfielder was sent off in the second leg of November's final against eventual champions TP Mazembe after spitting at an opponent. Esperance have also been fined a combined total of 39,500€ for a variety of incidents, including throwing bottles and seats during the decisive final match. The Tunisian club were also charged with failing to control their fans, not abiding with CAF instructions during the game and using 'abusive and offensive language and gestures towards CAF and its President'.

The decision to force Esperance to play behind closed doors came as a result of repeated incidents of violence and crowd misbehaviour in the final stages of 2010 Champions League matches. In November, Esperance were fined 48,500€ by CAF due to violence by their fans and the aggressive behaviour of their players during ties against Al Ahly in the semis and Mazembe in the first leg of the final. This means that the Tunisian side, who were crowned African champions back in 1994, have been fined in excess of 100,000€ in the space of two months. This year's second-round clash with either Benin's ASPAC or Monvomo of Equatorial Guinea, due to be played next month (March) will now be played without any fans at all, as will their third round tie should they reach that stage.

42

Essential Tunisia


SPORT Davis Cup decision against Tunisia put on the backburner for now After reaching the finals of the Australian Open again, but failing at the final hurdle once more, Andy Murray admits he is still to decide if he will play for Britain in their Davis Cup tie against Tunisia in March. The world No.4 chose to miss the competition in 2010, hoping some other Great Britain players would step up and make a name for themselves. However, in his absence, Britain lost 3-2 in Lithuania, but got the win they needed, a 5-0 whitewash over Turkey in their Europe/Africa Group II paly-off at Wimbledon in July, to stop them slipping to the bottom level of the tennis world’s premier team event. The defeat in Lithuania cost John Lloyd his job as captain, and Murray revealed he would discuss the situation with the new team boss Leon Smith during the Australian Open at Melbourne, while practicing at the Hopman Cup in the run up to the first major of the year, where he and Laura Robson were representing Team GB. "I'll make a decision probably nearer the time but I'll sit down and chat with him because obviously we've got a few home matches coming up and that makes it a lot easier to decide." The match with Tunisia is scheduled to be played at the Bolton Arena from March 4th to 6th, with the winners due to play Ireland or Luxembourg during the week after Wimbledon. There is room in his schedule in theory but Murray may decide again that the team should be capable of beating a Tunisia side who have only one player, Malek Jiziri (420), in the world's top 1000.

Andy is also set to help his brother Jamie climb the doubles rankings from his present position of 57. The Murray brothers won the ATP title in Valencia at the beginning of November and will reunite early next month. Andy said: "I'm going to play with him in Rotterdam and then it just depends if he finds a consistent partner. "He doesn't have anyone set for the year but hopefully we can get off to a good start. If he can get himself up to 40 in the world he'll find himself a good partner."

Essential Tunisia

43


TUNISIA is a beautiful country with many places of interest well worth a visit. The information on these pages is a quick guide to just some of those, but by no means a comprehensive list of all that Tunisia has to offer.

TUNISIA is situated on the Mediterranean coast of North Africa, bordered by Algeria in the west and Libya in the southeast. An abrupt southern turn of its shoreline gives Tunisia two faces on the Mediterranean with a coastline 1,148 kilometres in length. Despite its relatively small size, Tunisia has great geographical and climatic diversity. An extension of the Atlas Mountains, traverses Tunisia in the north to the Cape Bon peninsula. The Sahil is along Tunisia's eastern Mediterranean coast famous for its olive groves and beaches. Inland from the Sahil are the Steppes. Much of the southern region is semi-arid and desert leading into the Sahara.

TUNIS

Tunisia


Tourist Guide TUNIS is the capital of Tunisia, and is divided into the old city, known as the medina, and the new city (ville nouvelle in French). Although located on the Mediterranean coast, it is spared much of the tourist beaches and resorts, which lay to the north and south. With a population of over 1,500,000, the city still has the feel of being small and compact.The must-see attractions of the capital are The Souq, which is known as one of the most authentic and hassle-free in all of Northern Africa.

TUNIS

Zitouna Mosque

Bardo Museum, occupying the 13th century palace of the Ottoman-era ruler and renowned for its extensive collection of Roman mosaics. Cathedral of St. Vincent de Paul. Built in 1882, this is the largest surviving building from the colonial era, in the neo-Romanesque style. Zitouna Mosque. The largest mosque in Tunisia and an important landmark, dating from the 8th century, although the distinctive square minaret is a later 19th century addition.

Essential Tunisia

45


Tourist Guide The ruins of CARTHAGE, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a former city of the Pheonician and Punic periods dating from the 6th Century BC, and are situated 12 km north of Tunis. This was the base of a powerful empire spanning the entire south Mediterranean and home to a population of the order of half a million people. Its most famous general was Hannibal who famously crossed the Alps to battle the Romans. In 146BC the city finally fell to Rome and its destruction ordered by the Senate. The site was later redeveloped by the Romans and Carthage became the capital of the province of Africa. CARTHAGE

SFAX is the country’s second city by virtue of it’s population and it’s prowess as a large industrial centre. Situated on the east coast of Tunisia, 270 km south of Tunis, the city was founded in AD 849 and is a thriving Mediterranean port sited on the Gulf of Gabes. From here, you can also take the ferry to Kerkennah Island where you can wander around in a land, virtually unspoilt by modern standards.

46

Essential Tunisia



Tourist Guide SOUSSE is a popular destination, with tourists from Britain, Germany and many East European counties visiting the area. It is one of Tunisia’s oldest cities, and boasts an authentic medina, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. SOUSSE

MONASTIR is a city situated 165km southeast of Tunis and 24 km east of Sousse, on the eastern Mediterranean coast. It is an ancient city dating from Phonecian times, and it is believed it takes it’s name from the French "monastère" (monastery). It is the site of a busy international airport which caters mainly for tourist flights from Europe. Sights to see are theimposing Ribat, which is a fortified monastery located next to the sea with great views from its walls and towers. It has been used in several films as a stand in for Jerusalem, most notably "Monty Python's Life of Brian". MONASTIR

Situated on the Mediterranean coast it has good beaches and many first class hotels. Most of Sousse's sights are located within the medina, the labyrinth which is at the heart of the city. The Great Mosque is a tranquil place despite its location in the middle of the city. Built in 850 AD, it is simple and austere in the Aghlabite style. The Ribat, whilst not as impressive or extensive as the one in Monastir, is a fortified holy site well worth visit. It served as home to a branch of Islamic warriors very similar in nature to the Hospitaller Knights that lived in Rhodes. Climbing to the top of the watch tower affords you fantastic views over the Medina.

48

Essential Tunisia

Also, there is the impressive Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba in the centre of a large cemetery in Monastir, which is the resting place and home of the founding president of modern Tunisia.



Tourist Guide HAMMAMET is a resort town located in the south east of the northern peninsula of Cap Bon in the Governorate of Nabeul, on the northern edge of the Gulf of Hammamet.It lies just 65km south of Tunis and 85km north of Sousse and was one of the first tourist destinations in Tunisia. Due to its fine beaches it has become a popular destination for European visitors particularly for it’s swimming and water sports, with a population that regularly quadruples due to tourists in the summer months. The area is particularly known for its jasmine, and this is how the more recent, adjacent tourist resort of Yasmine Hammamet came by its name. HAMMAMET

BIZERTE is located on the north coast of Tunisia, 65 km north of Tunis and 15 km from Cap Blanc (the northern-most point in Africa). Noted for its beautiful forests, beaches and scenery, it is known as the oldest and most European city in Tunisia. Originally founded around 1000 BC by Phoenicians from Tyre, it is was also the last town under French control after the rest of the country won its independence.

50

Essential Tunisia


Tourist Guide SIDI BOU SAID

PORT EL KANTAOUI is a purpose built tourist and residential area began in 1979. It is situated 8km north of Sousse and 65km south of Hammamet, centered around a marina and traditional-style buildings with narrow streets. There is the waterfront with walkway, jetty and yacht pier, the open “square� in front of the "gate", followed by another pedestrian area containing a musical fountain, shops and restaurants. To the north, there is a golf course as well as a number of hotels. To the south, there is an amusement park and more hotels. PORT EL KANTAOUI

SIDI BOU SAID is a beautiful and typical Tunisian village just 20km north of the capital Tunis. The best time to visit is autumn or spring, out of the tourist season, when you can still walk the narrow streets, around white and blue traditional houses, enjoying the views. The village is quite small, and perched on a hill, you can enjoy amazing views of the Mediterranean and Bay of Tunis. EL KEF is a small city in northwest Tunisia, built onto the southern face of the Jebel Dyr Mountain, which is part of the Tebersouk Mountains, at the east end of the High Atlas Mountains. It is a relaxed town, offering an authentic taste of Tunisia with some interesting sights to see. The main attraction is the Byzantine Kasbah. Noticeable from almost any part of the city, it rises out of the old medina and used to be a site of a series of fortresses dating back to the 5th century BC.

Essential Tunisia

51


Tourist Guide KAIROUAN, a Muslim holy city, ranks 4th after Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem as a place of pilgrimage. Situated 55km inland from Sousse, it's mosques and cultural history have seen it added to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It’s main sights are The Great Mosque, one of the finest Islamic buildings in North Africa, and Bi'r Barouta, which is a Well at the place where the city was founded, and one of the holiest sites in the city for Muslims. The Medina in general is a nice place to wander around, although it may well look familiar as it was used in Raiders of the Lost Ark to double for Cairo. KAIROUAN

TOZEUR is a city in south west Tunisia, around 450km from Tunis. With thousands of palm trees, Tozeur is a large oasis from which exported dates are very well known. In ancient times, the oasis was important for the caravan routes through the Sahara, and was an important Roman outpost. From Tozeur there are a selection of camel trips available to explore the edge of the Sahara.

52

Essential Tunisia


Tourist Guide EL JEM

EL JEM is a small town in the east of Tunisia, 60km south of Sousse, that houses the remains of a UNESCO World Heritage listed Roman amphitheatre. Formerly the Roman town of Thysdrus, one of the most important in N. Africa after Carthage. The Amphitheatre was built in the middle of the 3rd century AD, but fell into disrepair, with its blocks being used for building the surrounding town and also the Great Mosque in Kairouan. Declared a World Heritage site in 1979, it was more recently used for filming scenes from the Oscar winning film Gladiator. DOUZ is a small town in south-central Tunisia, often known as the "Gateway to the Sahara". The town has grown up around a large palm oasis that is a large producer of "diglat noor" dates.

Regions of Tunisia

Tunisia is made up of 24 Governates (administrative regions) (1) Ariana (Aryana), (2) Beja (Baja), (3) Ben Arous (Bin 'Arus), (4) Bizerte (Banzart), (5) Gabes (Gabis), (6) Gafsa (Gafsah), (7) Jendouba (Jandouba), (8) Kairouan (Al Qayrawan), (9) Kasserine (Gasryn), (10) Kebili (Guebilli), (11) El Kef (El Kaf), (12) Mahdia (Al Mahdiya), (13) Mannouba (Mannouba), (14) Medenine (Midnin), (15) Monastir (Munastir), (16) Nabeul (Nabul), (17) Sfax (Safaqis), (18) Sidi BouZid (Sidi BouZid), (19) Siliana (Siliana), (20) Sousse (Soussa), (21) Tataouine (Tatawin), (22) Tozeur (Touzer), (23) Tunis, (24) Zaghouan (Zaghwen)

Essential Tunisia

53


Email: contact@top-immotunisie.com

Property Sales & Rentals

Top Immo International Specialists in property sales and rentals with multilingual offices in Sousse, Tunis & Hergla, plus France & Belgium.

Contact Owners Direct

Tunisian Property Database in English

Email: info@tunisiahomesdirect.com

We list properties for sale, long & short term rental and holiday lets in an easy-to use searchable database.

Tunisia

British Registered Estate Agent in Tunisia

Tel: 00216 25225205

The Tunisian House

Email: info@ thetunisianhouse.co.uk

We are the longest established British registered estate agents, based in Tunisia, giving us on-the spot access to all properties.

At your Place of Work or Home

Cleaning Services

Tel: 00216 98228611 Tel: 00216 25036036

Competitive prices with peace of mind for free! Our business is personally recommended by our current European clients. Tel: (0216) 279 35 220

Tunisia Homes Direct

CHEMLI PRO Specialist cleaners and pressure washers of high glass structues. Also cleaning of car interiors and home carpets.

Most week days available, no job too big or small.

English Standard Cleaning Are you too tired or too busy to clean your house/apartment/office yourself? Do you need someone who is friendly, who you can depend on and trust fully?

Kantaoui Sousse Tunisia

English Language Website for Tunisia

Tel: 00216 26017138 Email: info@livetunisia.net

English language website to promote all things Tunisian. Travel, Holidays, Property (sales & rentals), Golf, Spas & information.

54

Essential Tunisia

PROPERTY

We are specialists in all aspects of property sales and rentals in the areas of Kantaoui and Hammam Sousse. We speak English.

PROPERTY

Tel: 00216 73817190

Prestige Immobilier

PROPERTY

Route Touristique El Kantaoui

Property Sales & Rentals

PROPERTY

Email: prestige.immobilier@topnet.tn

We can offer advice thatyou can depend on. Clients can speak to an Engish Solicitor who works in association with a Tunisian Lawyer.

SERVICES

Bld 7 Novembre 4089, El Kantaoui Sousse Tel: 00216 73 347 097

Malek Rejiba & Associate

LiveTunisia.com

SERVICES

Email: rejibamalek@myway.com

English Speaking Lawyers in Tunisia

WEBSITES

Rue 22 Janvier 1952, Immeuble Gloulou II, 4000 Sousse Tel: 00216 73211637

LEGAL SERVICES

Tunisia Directory


13, Avenue les Orangers Khezama Sousse Tel: 00216 73276903 Tel: 00216 98400196 Email: infohelp@topnet.tn

Advice and Help Centre

Now mobile in the Sousse area

The English Nail Bar

Infohelp Network and cabling consultants. Computer & Accessories Sales & Service. Agents for TopNet Internet Providers

Nail enhancements for your holiday treat. Acrylic natural & white tips, plus repair.

Sousse Tunisia

Forum & Social Network Website for Tunisia

Email: nomarmiteintunisia @yahoo.fr

Monastir Skanes Airport Monastir Tel: 00216 73521031

Monastir Airport Skanes International Airport, Monastir

For Friends of Tunisia and all things Tunisian. Members groups, messages, photos, blogs and magazines.

Life In Tunisia For British Expats WEBSITES

Tunisia

Tunisia Buzz

No Marmite In Tunisia The website in Tunisia dedicated to English speaking expats resident in Tunisia, featuring news, forums and noticeboards.

Car Hire - Car Rental

AVIS

CAR RENTAL

Tel: 00216 26017138 Email: info@livetunisia.net

WEBSITES

Call us and we’ll come to you

BEAUTY

Nailed It

Offices for collection and drop off within the airport. Out of hours return, child seats, roof rack, available on request.

Car Hire - Car Rental CAR RENTAL

Tel: (00216) 279 35 220

PC & INTERNET

Tunisia Directory

auto europe

Uk & Worldwide

Travel Insurance for the flexible traveller

Find us on the web at flexicover.co.uk

flexicoverdirect

List your business here and get noticed

Tel. No.

Your Business

RADIO

Flexicover Direct offers Travel & Holiday Insurance at affordable prices. Single Trip, Annual-Multi Trip, Long Stay etc...

Address

Email:

TRAVELINSURANCE

OPEN Mondays - Sundays 07:00 AM-11:00 PM Lowest prices. Upgrades available

Take a listing like this in the Business Pages from only 9 â‚Ź (20 TND) per month*, and get your business noticed. (*For 6 months) Essential Tunisia

55


Tunisia Directory

Flying to Monastir International Airort, Tunisia

Jet2.com

Now flying from Manchester, Newcastle and Leeds Bradford direct to Monastir (flight only specialists).

UK, Europe & International

International & Same Day Flower Deliveries

Find us on the web at flowersdirect.co.uk

flowersdirect The website for flowers, gifts, wine & champagne, plus hampers for all occasions. Flowers sent anywhere in the world through our partner Flora2000

UK, Europe & International

Online UK & International Flower Deliveries

Find us on the web at iflorist.co.uk

iflorist The online order website for same day UK flower and gift deliveries for any occasion, plus international service.

Did you know that many travellers pour their hard-earned spending money down the drain by not hunting down market-leading currency exchange rates? The FairFX Prepaid MasterCard® is a prepaid card which gives market-leading Euro and US Dollar exchange rates, low cash withdrawal fees and doesn't charge for purchases made in the card currency. What makes this card different from other debit or credit card alternatives? It allows UK residents to own a pre-paid currency card in Euros or US Dollars. Unlike most credit or debit cards issued in the UK, because the FairFX Card is denominated in a foreign currency, when you use it abroad to pay for goods you won't be charged any transaction fee. There is a low fee of €1.50 or $2.00 for cash withdrawals. Also, because money is stored in Euros or Dollars you won't suffer from uncompetitive exchange rates when using the card. Card users can typically expect to save as much as 10% on Euro and US Dollar exchange rates. The lifespan of the card is 3 years. You can load it as many times as you want during that spell. It's normally £9.95, but FREE* if you order through this special link!! (*Subject to a minimum load of just €10 or $20 which is added to the card balance.) Apart from that the only charge for normal use of the card is a €1.50 or $2.00 fee for cash withdrawals. See website for full details. >>> CLICK HERE

56

Essential Tunisia

HOLIDAYS

Flight Only + Holidays FLIGHTS

Uk to Tunisia & Worldwide

sunshine.co.uk sunshine.co.uk offers you low cost holidays, budget flights and discounted hotels all bookable online with no hidden extras

GIFTS

Flying from all major UK airports to Monastir, Tunisia

Travel & Holidays

GIFTS

Uk & Tunisia Worldwide



MONEY

In the current economic climate, making your money go further, and the tightening of the purse strings are the modern-day necessities of life. But, while sticking to a budget and finding ways to cut back are always advisable, with a little effort you could find there are ways you can actually make some money.

58

Essential Tunisia


12 ways to make some extra money in your spare time

Essential Tunisia

59


MONEY 12 ways to make some extra money in your spare time Take another look at your savings Are your savings working as hard as they might be? If you've had the same savings account for years, it might be worth shopping around because new customers tend to get the most competitive rates. Good rates come and go, but if you've had a savings account for more than a year the chances are the interest you are earning is not the best there is. If you have a lump sum that you are prepared to lock away for 12 months or longer, then a fixed-rate account might be best. If you want to start saving for something, then a regular savings account is a good way to ensure you put a set amount of money away each month. However, if you haven't yet used your ISA allowance for the current tax year then this sort of account should be the first home for any of your savings, as you can save up to ÂŁ5,100 each tax year as cash in an ISA and this will not be taxed.

60

Essential Tunisia


MONEY MONEY Cashback credit cards If you pay off your credit bill in full each month, a cashback credit card could be the way to go. These offer you moneyback on purchases in certain shops or on goods such as petrol. In many cases you can earn extra cash without even having to change your shopping habits. Cashback websites You can even earn money from shopping online! Cashback websites will automatically pay you every time you buy a product or a service from a selected list of retailers. These can include anything from your weekly groceries to switching your utility provider. Track down that old account According to the British Bankers' Association, there is an amazing ÂŁ15 billion sitting forgotten in bank and savings accounts throughout the UK, with the average balance estimated to be around ÂŁ600. Tracing these lost funds has just become easier with Mylostaccount.org.uk which is a free online service that covers all UK bank and building society accounts. All you need to do is to go to the website and type in your details.

Essential Tunisia

61


MONEY Claiming tax credits It is always worthwhile having a quick check that you are receiving all the tax credits that you are eligible for, especially as the rules and entitlements are always changing and you may be eligible now whereas your circumstances were deemed ineligible before. Entitledto.co.uk found that people in the UK are missing out on benefits and tax credits worth more than ÂŁ8 billion a year. So, why not visit the entitledto.co.uk website and work out how much you could claim.

62

Essential Tunisia


Earn from web research Any Question Answered (Issuebits.com), are often on the lookout for internet researchers. Once a customer asks a question through their mobile phone, it's the researcher's job to hunt out the answer and reply online. You can choose your own hours and the questions you answer, and can earn around 30p for every question you answer correctly. Get paid for your opinions The web also offers a wealth of opportunities for those who can give a few minutes of their time. Survey websites such as Ipsos Mori, Global Test Market, New Vista and Toluna will all reward you for your opinions, either through cash or reward vouchers. These are probably among the easiest and most straightforward ways to make a little extra money online. Once you've registered on the website, you'll be sent surveys tailored to your personal profile, which will tell you what you will get in return and how long they will take. Get money for your old mobile Instead of your old mobile phone gathering dust in a drawer somewhere, you could easily turn it into cash, even if it is slightly damaged. Websites such as Mopay.co.uk, Fonebank.com and Envirofone.com will tell you how much your phone is worth. An iPhone 3G, for example, could fetch around ÂŁ130.

Essential Tunisia

63


MONEY Mystery shopper If you're longing for some retail therapy, why not earn a few pounds as a mystery shopper? Websites such as Retaileyes.co.uk employ mystery shoppers to drop in unannounced in shops and restaurants and rate their experience. After you send in your feedback, you'll be paid for your time and reimbursed for any purchases you made. You could make £10 a day, and get a meal or a night in a nice hotel thrown in for good measure. Rent out your parking space Although this only applies in certain circumstances, for example, if you live close to a city centre, train station or football stadium and don't use your parking space or garage, you could be sitting on a goldmine. Renting an empty parking place to a commuter or football fan could see you rake as much as taking in a lodger. Parkatmyhouse.com is a website where you can advertise your space free of charge and let frustrated drivers get in touch. A parking space in the West End of London, for example, can fetch £500 a month, while in a leafy suburb of Leeds a space could net you £100.

64

Essential Tunisia

Auctions We're all guilty of hoarding items that "could come in handy one day". But one man's rubbish could be another man's treasure, which is why online auction website eBay.co.uk is so successful. In fact, eBay estimates the average British house has about £450 worth of unwanted items that could be sold on the site. For more valuable items, it could be worth going to an auction, and you should contact a local auctioneer if you think an item could be valuable. Car boot sales If you'd prefer money in your palm instantly, a car boot sale is the place to go. Thousands of people flock to car boot sales every weekend, with pitches costing about £10 a day. Just collect up all those unwanted items, sort out the loft or garage, and set up a stall from the back of your car.



Your Weekly Horoscope to 7th February ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) You will do extremely well if you get involved in competitive activities this month. You will enjoy these physical activities more than you think. False information from someone trying to start problems is likely. Don't hesitate to take a short trip.

TAURUS (Apr. 21- may 21) You have made an accurate assessment of the situation and have come up with ideas that will save money. Family outings that aren't expensive will be enjoyable and help strengthen ties, but don't let children or elders put demands on your time. Be aware of what you say or you'll regret every word for some time to come.

GEMINI (May 22-June 21) Use your creative flair. Maybe take a look at the possibilities of starting a small part time business with friends or relatives. Communication will be the source of your knowledge and you must be sure to spend time with those who have more experience. Make plans to do the things you enjoy.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) Much knowledge can be obtained through the experiences you have. Mingle with those who have similar interests, and you should be able to start something worthwhile. Compromise may be necessary if you wish to have any fun at all. Dealing with in-laws or relatives will not be in your best interest.

LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Inharmonious situations at home may be extremely upsetting for you this month. Be careful that you don't overextend yourself as you may be considering moving to somewhere larger. Try to get out and socialize more and maybe join a club.

VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Career changes may not be your choice right now, but in the long run they will be to your advantage. It's a good time for long awaited relationships to begin. Join a club to work off that excess energ, but consider ways of doing that without spending too much money.

66

Essential Tunisia



Your Weekly Horoscope to 7th February LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Large organizations may try to talk you out of your hard-earned cash. You can take advantage of opportunities if you are quick to make a move. The information that you gain can be used in every aspect of your life. You'll find travel or involvement in large groups gratifying.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Raise your self esteem and your confidence if you want to get back into the mainstream again. Listen, but don't make any rash decisions as you may not see your situation clearly. You will have a blowup this month if your partner does things that you feel are not aboveboard.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) This will not be the best time to initiate change. Secret affairs may be brought out in the open. Organize your time well if you wish to accomplish all you set out to do. Be sure to get involved with those who can introduce you to unusual forms of entertainment.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) You will find that social activities will be enjoyable and will promote new connections. Do your own research and be prepared, as positive changes regarding your personal status are evident, and you may need to spend some time getting to know this person in your life all over again.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) Don't give out any personal information that you don't want spread around. Put your energy into moneymaking ventures, but think twice before you pursue an unrealistic endeavour. Spend time with youngsters this month.

PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Minor health problems may flare up if you haven't been taking care of yourself or have been burning the candle at both ends. Assist a relative or good friend by setting of a budget for them. You should be able to get involved in an interesting proposition this month. Avoid any over indulgences.

68

Essential Tunisia



70

Essential Tunisia


FOR THE BEST DEALS

CLICK HERE


If it’s your birthday this month . . . Feb. 1st: Clark Gable (1901) Don Everly (1937) Lisa Marie Presley (1968) Boris Yeltsin (1931) John Ford (1895) Sherilyn Fenn (1965) Brandon Lee (1965)

2nd: James Joyce (1882) Christie Brinkley (1954) Farrah Fawcett (1947) Nell Gwynne (1650) David Jason (1940) Shakira (1977) David Jason (1940) Les Dawson (1934) 3rd: Morgan Fairchild (1950) Nathan Lane (1956) James A Michener (1907) Felix Mendelssohn (1809) 4th: Charles Lindbergh (1902) Alice Cooper (1948) Natalie Imbruglia (1975) Norman Wisdom (1918) 5th: Jennifer Jason Leigh (1962) John Carradine (1906) Red Buttons (Aaron Schwatt) (1919) Barbara Hershey (1948) Laura Linney (1964) Charlotte Rampling (1946) 6th: Ronald Reagan (1911) Eva Braun (1912) Zsa Zsa Gabor (1917) Bob Marley (1945) Natalie Cole (1950)

72

Essential Tunisia

7th: Garth Brooks (1962) Chris Rock (1966) Charles Dickens (1812) James Spader (1960) Ashton Kutcher (1978) 8th: James Dean (1931) John Williams (1932) Jack Lemmon (1925) Jules Verne (1828) John Grisham (1955) Lana Turner (1920) Nick Nolte (1940) 9th: Carole King (1942) Carmen Miranda (1909) Gypsy Rose Lee (1914) Joe Pesci (1943) Mia Farrow (1945) 10th: Greg Norman (1955) Mark Spitz (1950) Robert Wagner (1930) Jimmy Durante (1893) Roberta Flack (1939) Laura Dern (1967) Lon Chaney Jr. (1906) Donovan (1946)

11th: Leslie Nielsen (1926) Jennifer Aniston (1969) Burt Reynolds (1936) Sheryl Crowe (1962) Kelly Rowland (1981) 12th: Abraham Lincoln (1809) Charles Darwin (1809) Lorne Greene (1915) Christina Ricci (1980) Franco Zeffirelli (1923) 13th: Chuck Yeager (1923) George Segal (1924) Kim Novak (1933) Jerry Springer (1944) Peter Gabriel (1950) Robbie Williams (1974) Oliver Reed (1938) 14th: Jimmy Hoffa (1913) Jack Benny (1894)


Flights, Hotels and Holiday Deals Direct - Just A Click Away


Who do you share yours with . . . 15th: Galileo (1564) John Barrymore (1882) Claire Bloom (1931) Jane Seymour (1951) 16th: John McEnroe (1959) Sonny Bono (1935) Ice-T (1958) 17th: Michael Jordan (1963) Alan Bates (1934) Brenda Fricker (1945) Rene Russo (1954) Lou Diamond Phillips (1962) Denise Richards (1972) 18th: John Travolta (1954) Yoko Ono (1933) Matt Dillon (1964) Jack Palance (1920) Cybill Shepherd (1950) Molly Ringwald (1968) John Hughes (1950) 19th: Smokey Robinson (1940) Copernicus (1473) Lee Marvin (1924) Jeff Daniels (1955) Benicio Del Toro (1967) Seal (1963) 20th: Sidney Poitier (1924) Gloria Vanderbilt (1924) Patty Hearst (1954) Robert Altman (1925) Kurt Cobain (1967) Cindy Crawford (1966) Brenda Blethyn (1946) Ivana Trump (1949) Kelsey Grammer (1955) 21st: Alan Rickman (1946) Jennifer Love Hewitt (1979) Nina Simone (1933) Sam Peckinpah (1925) Charlotte Church (1986)

22nd: George Washington (1732) Sir John Mills (1908) Robert Young (1907) Ted Kennedy (1932) Frédéric Chopin (1810) Robert Baden-Powell (1857) Drew Barrymore (1975) Kyle MacLachlan (1959)

74

Essential Tunisia

23rd: George Frideric Handel (1685) Dakota Fanning (1994) Peter Fonda (1939) Howard Jones (1955) 24th: Billy Zane (1966) Edward James Olmos (1947) Alain Prost (1955) Enrico Caruso (1873)

25th: Pierre-Auguste Renoir (1841) George Harrison (1943) Anthony Burgess (1917) Zeppo Marx (1901) Téa Leoni (1966) 26th: Johnny Cash (1932) Victor Hugo (1802) Levi Strauss (1829) Fats (Antoine)Domino (1928) William "Buffalo Bill" Cody (1845) Tony Randall (1920) Jackie Gleason (1916) Michael Bolton (1954) Sandie Shaw (1947) 27th: Elizabeth Taylor (1932) Joanne Woodward (1930) John Steinbeck (1902) Chelsea Clinton (1980) Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807) 28th: Mario Andretti (1940) Queen Mary I ("Bloody Mary") (1516) Bugsy Siegel (1906) Vincente Minnelli (1913) 29th: Joss Ackland (1928) Jimmy Dorsey (1904)




Essential Sudoku Each Sudoku has a unique solution that can only be solved logically without guessing. Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column, as must every 3x3 square.

Level of this puzzle : Easy

Essential Tunisia

77



Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.