Essential Tunisia - Issue 8 by Bluuprint

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Welcome, To this, the eighth issue of our monthly digital magazine brought to you online by LiveTunisia.com. With the summer season just around the corner, this months bumper 76-page edition starts off the first in a three part series, which takes an indepth look at the capital city Tunis, it’s history and development into one of the world’s great cities. There are all our usual lifestyle sections on health, cuisine, fashion, etc., with interesting features on massage, honey and a glimpse of the recent Tunis Fashion Week. Along with sport, motoring, plus our homestyle pages and business directory, there is something for everyone.. For those of you looking to holiday in Tunisia, there is our regular tourist guide and map, with a quick look at the main places of interest, with much more information available on our website. For anyone new to our magazine, don’t forget it is live digital media, so you can access further information instantly by clicking on any items of interest, turn pages, adjust the size, etc. We hope you enjoy our magazine and it’s features, and are always interested in your comments and feedback, which you can send to us at ed@livetunisia.net.

Essential Tunisia Magazine Published by : LiveTunisia.com Information : info@livetunisia.net Advertising : ads@livetunisia.net Design : Gary White Layout & Editing : Gary White Contibutors : Gary White, Melanie Benna, NoMarmiteInTunisia Photos : LiveTunisia Opportunites : you@livetunisia.net 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. 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.

PS: We are still looking for a few independent agents with good local contacts, who can help our promotion team by suggesting advertisers for our magazine. Excellent commissions paid.

The Editor

You can still read our past issues here

In This Issue LIFESTYLE

Places Tunis: A History Ancient to Modern City

Life John Ward The Arch Pirate of Tunis

Healthy Living Which Massage is Right For You?

Health Matters The Benefits of Honey

Tunisian & Mediterranean Cooking Lablabi Tunisian Chickpea Soup Events Tunisian Salsa Festival 2010

REGULARS

Tunisia Tourist Map

Places of interest in Tunisia

Monthly Horoscope

The Birthday File & Famous Days in Tunisia

May 2010 LIFESTYLE 38 42

Fashion Tunis Fashion Week 2010

Sports Fashion Goes Green

Sport Formula One arrives in Naples

Golf 3 Golf Facts That Will Change Your Game

Motoring Wallys Izis: The First Car Entirely 100% Tunisian

44 50

HOMESTYLE 58

Home Fashions: Constantly Changing

6 Pointers To A Successful Holiday Home Rental

Business Business Directory

Classifieds

LiveTunisia.com

LIFESTYLE This month we turn the spotlight on Tunis, capital city of Tunisia. Part One: Tunis, Ancient to Modern; A History To understand Tunis, it is important to understand it’s history and all the component parts that show how it came to be the great city it is today. This is far too much to cover in one issue, so over the coming months we will be looking at what went into the making of Tunis, a modern city.

Avenue Habib Bourguiba "the Tunisian Champs-Élysées"

Tunis is the capital city of Tunisia and the Tunis Governorate, and is by far the country’s largest city with a population of 1,500,000 and over 4,000,000 in the greater Tunis area.

The medina is found at the very heart of the city, with it’s close accumulation of alleys and covered passages. These are full of scents and colours, with trade of goods of all types on offer, from leather to tin, tourist souvenirs to the works of tiny crafts shops. Situated on a large gulf of the Mediterranean Sea (the Gulf of Tunis), behind the Lake of Tunis and the port of La Goulette (Halq al Wadi), the city extends along the coast and hills that surround it. 06

Essential Tunisia

Tunis

Places

"Porte de France" or "Sea Gate", Tunis

At the centre of the more recent modern development lies the old medina, with the suburbs of the greater Tunis area, including Carthage, La Marsa, and Sidi Bou Said, beyond this. Through the Sea Gate (known as the Bab el Bahr and the Porte de France) is the modern city, or Ville Nouvelle, dominated by the grand Avenue Habib Bourguiba (often referred to in travel guides as "the Tunisian Champs-Ă&#x2030;lysĂŠes"). Here, the colonial-era buildings provide a striking contrast to smaller, older structures.

As the capital city, Tunis is the centre of commercial activity, as well as the focus of political and administrative life in the country. The expansion of the Tunisian economy in the last few decades is clearly reflected in the development of the outer city, brought about by rapid modernization in Tunisia.

Essential Tunisia

LIFESTYLE There are many (but no definitive) explanations that exist for the origin of the name Tunis. Some relate it to the Phoenician lunar goddess Tanith (Tanit, Tanut), worshiped as the patron goddess at Carthage and also held as a goddess among the ancient Berber people. Some Arab scholars propose that the name derives from Arabic roots identified with the original town of Tarshish. Others claim that it originated from Tynes, which was mentioned by Diodoros and Polybius along descriptions that were very close to the present day Al-Kasba; one of Tunis's suburbs. Another possibility is that it was derived from Berber roots and is taken to mean "camp", or "stop". In Tunisia there are also some inscribed references in ancient Roman sources mentioning the names of nearby towns, such as Tuniza (currently El Kala), Thunusuda (currently Sidi Meskine), Thinissut (currently Bouregba Bir), Thunisa (currently Ras Jebel), etc. As all of these Berber villages were situated on Roman roads, they undoubtedly served as a rest point or stop. Tanit's symbol in Carthage's Tophet, found in the suburbs of Tunis

Some records show the existence of a settlement at Tunis, said to be originally named Tunes by the Berbers, but these are inconclusive, as in 146 BC, the town was destroyed along with Carthage at the end of the Third Punic War. Because all culture and records of Carthage, the Pheonicians and the Great Library were wiped out by the Romans, only a few ancient translations of Punic texts into Greek and Latin remain. However, the city was subsequently rebuilt under the rule of Emperor Augustus and became an important town under Roman control and a thriving centre of agricultural for the Roman Empire.

Essential Tunisia

Tunis The city is mentioned in the Roman Tabula Peutingeriana as Thuni, and in the system of Roman roads for the province of Africa, Tunis had the title of mutatio, which means“way station or resting place” giving extra creedence to the origins of it’s name. Over the years, Tunis became increasingly Romanized, and as part of the later empire, was also eventually Christianized, even becaming the seat of a bishop. Part of Tabula Peutingeriana (top to bottom: Dalmatian coast, Adriatic Sea, southern Italy, Sicily, African Mediterranean coast)

It was not until the 7th century, after the final destruction of it’s historically superior neighbour Carthage, that Tunis achieved its own importance under the control of Arab Muslims. The medina, the oldest section of the city, dates from this period. At this time the region was conquered by Arab troops led by the Ghassanid general Hassan Ibn Numan. The city had a military role due to the natural advantage of coastal access, via the Mediterranean, to the major ports of southern Europe. The occupying Arabs recognized the strategic importance of its proximity to the Strait of Sicily, and from the 8th century, Tunis became the Arabs' naval base in the western Mediterranean.

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Tunis Under the reign of the Aghlabids, the people of Tunis revolted many times, but Tunis profited from economic improvements and quickly became the second-most important city of the kingdom. It became the national capital at the end of the reign of Ibrahim II (902) and remained so until 909, when the Shi'ite Berbers took over Ifriqiya and founded the Fatimid Caliphate. With the rise of the Zirid dynasty, Tunis gained importance once again, but when, in 1048, the Zirid ruler AlMuizz ibn Badis rejected his city's obedience to the Fatimids, the Shi'ite caliph Al-Mustansir Billah punished the Zirids by putting a large part of Ifriqiya to the torch. The Zirid capital Kairouan was partly destroyed in 1057, and only a few coastal villages and towns, including Tunis and Mahdia, escaped destruction. Historic map of Tunis by Piri Reis

In 1059, the population of Tunis, no longer recognized the authority of the Zirids, and swore allegiance to the Hammadid prince El Nacer ibn Alennas, but once the new governor had established order in the country, he freed himself from the Hammadids and founded the Khourassanid dynasty with Tunis as its capital.

This small independent kingdom picked up the threads of trade and commerce with other nations, and brought the nation back to peace and prosperity. In 1159, the Almohad 'Abd al-Mumin overthrew the last Khourassanid leader and installed in its place a new government in the kasbah of Tunis.

Essential Tunisia

LIFESTYLE The early settlement which had played a minor role behind Kairouan and Mahdia, was now promoted to the rank of provincial capital. In 1228, it’s Governor Abû Zakariya Yahyâ seized power and took the title of Emir and founded the Hafsids dynasty, with the city going on to become the capital of a kingdom stretching towards Tripoli and Fez.

It was during this period that additional city walls were built to protect the emerging town of the kingdom, including a wall surrounding the Medina, the Kasbah and the new suburbs of Tunis. In 1270, Tunis was briefly taken by Louis IX of France, who was hoping to convert the Hafsid sovereign to Christianity, but his army fell victim to dysentery and was forced out. Also around this time, driven by the reconquest of Spain, the first Andalusian Muslims and Jews arrived in Tunis, and would become of fundamental importance to the economic prosperity and development of the Hafsid capital. From the 12th century to the 16th century, Tunis was one of the richest and grandest cities in the Islamic world, with a population of about 100,000, which was huge for that period.

Barbarossa Hayreddin

Essential Tunisia

In 1534, the Ottoman Empire took control of the city when Barbarossa Hayreddin captured it from the Hafsid Sultan, Mulai Hassan. The sultan escaped to Spain, where Charles V, who’s trade had repeatedly suffered at the hands of the corsairs (pirates) operating out of

Places

Entry of Charles V into Tunis in 1535

Djerba, Tunis and Algiers, agreed to help Mulai-Hassan in exchange for acceptance of Spanish sovereignty over Tunis. The following year, a naval expedition led by Charles himself quickly recaptured the city, the victory being recorded in a tapestry at the Royal Palace of Madrid.

The city sprang into new life, with itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s population swelled by additions from various ethnicities, among which were the Moors hounded from Spain, and the added activity of the Barbary pirates, then in their golden age.

The Spanish protectorate lasted until the Ottomans retook Tunis in 1574. After this, the Ottoman governors (Beys) became virtually independent, and with their new found autonomy, piracy and trade once again flourished.

By the early 18th century, Tunis entered into a new period in its history, with the advent of the Husseinites dynasty. Numerous rulers in successiion made great progress in developing the city and its buildings, and Tunis prospered as a centre of commerce.

Essential Tunisia

Places Throughout the next hundred years, despite growing in prominence, the city was not without itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s troubles. The Algerians captured Tunis in 1756 and put the country under their supervision, the city experienced a rebellion in 1811, then under the reign of Hussein Bey II, naval victories in 1827 saw the French become increasingly active in the city and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commercial activity. During the late 19th century, Tunis became increasingly populated by Europeans, particularly the French and Italians, and this influx of new population dramatically increased the size of the city. This resulted in the first demolition of the old city walls, from 1860, to accommodate for growth of the suburbs, spilling outside the site of the earlier town and the banks of the lake. Gradually the new areas of the city became modernised with water supply (1860), light and gas (1872) and roads (1873). It was during this period that local crafts and traditional trade began to decline, as the newcomers introduced modern industries and increased trade with Europe. The French went on to occupy Tunisia from 1881 to 1956, establishing a protectorate system of administration that recognized the nominal authority of local government.

Essential Tunisia

In those years there were huge European colonies in Tunis (like the Tunisian Italians), with the city rapidly expanding and creating new boulevards and neighbourhoods. The creation of the French protectorate in 1881 was a turning point for Tunis. The rapid redevelopment of the city out of its fortifications formed much of the Tunis we see today, when a traditional Arab-populated old city was engulfed by a new city populated by newcomers, with a vastly different structure than that of the traditional Medina. Tunis also benefited from French development of a water supply, natural gas, electricity networks, public transport services and infrastructures. At the start of the 20th century, Tunis remained relatively quiet, largely untouched by the upheavals of modern Europe during the First World War. However, after the war, there were new transformations, as the modern city grew in importance and extended its network of boulevards and streets in all directions. In addition, several satellite towns emerged on itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s outer rim, pushing the limits of the municipality still further. At an economic level, activities were expanding and diversifying as the modern industries continued to grow, while traditional industry continued to decline.

Tunis

View over Tunis, circa 1890

Tunis could not avoid the conflict during World War II, as the city was held by Axis forces from November 1942 to May 1943, and was the headquarters of German Field Marshall Rommel’s North Africa campaign. It also became their last foothold in Africa, after being pushed by Allied forces from Algeria in the west and Libya in the east, they were forced to withdraw to Italy.

Tunis finally fell to the Allies on 7 May 1943 with the defeat of the remains of the German Fifth Panzer Army left guarding the city. At midday on 20 May 1943, the Allies held a victory parade on the Avenue Maréchal Galliéni and Avenue Jules Ferry to signal the end of fighting in North Africa. The Allies went on to use Tunis as a base of operations to stage assaults against Sicily, and finally Italy itself.

Essential Tunisia

Places

After independence in 1956, Tunis consolidated its role as the state capital, with the establishment of a constitution stating that the Chamber of Deputies and the Presidency of the Republic must have their headquarters in Tunis. The city continued to grow as native Tunisians gradually began to replace the extensive European population. Along with an active policy of modernisation and industrialisation that followed, the rate of migration to the capital increased, putting pressure on the population, so that the city continued to grow, even with the creation of new districts in the suburbs.

H么tel de ville de Tunis (City Hall)

Extension of the city in the 1950s with the district of El Menzah

Many of the old buildings have gradually been renovated and upgraded and Tunis now has new buildings and developments that have come to influence the modern urban landscape.

Essential Tunisia

LIFE

John Ward:

aka

Yusuf Reis

While reading a short article entitled “Early Expats In Tunisia” on the NoMarmiteInTunisia site (see below), an interesting character from history came to light. His name was John Ward, and he lived in Tunis 400 years ago, eventually dying there at the grand old age (for the time) of 70, in 1622. He was known as “The Arch Pirate of Tunis”, and this is his story. Although little is known about his early life, he is said to have been born about 1552 in Faversham, Kent, and like many born in coastal areas, he spent his youth and early adult years working in the fisheries. After the Spanish Armada in 1588, he found work as a privateer, plundering Spanish ships with a license from the Queen. In 1603, when James I assumed the throne, he ended the war with Spain and in effect put the privateers out of business. However, many of them refused to give up their livelihood and simply continued to plunder, now considered pirates because they no longer had valid licenses (called letters of marque) issued by the state. Ward himself, appears not to have turned immediately to piracy but instead become a fisherman, working out of Plymouth, but was press-ganged in to

Essential Tunisia

Spanish Men-of-War Engaging Barbary Corsairs, 1615

the Royal Navy the same year. He served aboard a ship named the Lion's Whelp in the Channel, but after a few weeks, he and a group of about 30 of his shipmates deserted, stole a small 25-tonne barque, from Portsmouth Harbour, and sailed to the Isle of Wight. Here they captured another ship called the Violet, which the enterprising Ward used to cunningly capture a much larger French ship carring six guns. Ward soon established himself as the band's leader, and along with his men, sailed to the Mediterranean where he was able to acquire a warship of thirty-two guns which was renamed The Grift, and for the next two years proceeded to plunder several merchantmen loaded with spices & silks. In 1606, Ward arranged with Tunisian

Arch Pirate Of Tunis ruler Uthman Dey to use Tunis as a safe base of operations from where he could control his attacks on Mediterranean shipping, in exchange for one fifth of the value of the loot. From this base, Ward was easily able to capture several valuable merchant ships, including the Reniera e Soderina, a 60 ton ship loaded with ÂŁ100,000 worth of cargo. Ward was able to return to Tunis in 1607 assured of his fame & wealth. During the following winter, the now rotting Reniera e Soderina had begun to sink. With several of his officers, Ward deserted the ship which later sank off Greece, but 250 Muslim and 150 English sailors perished. Many in Tunisia were angered by Ward's desertion of the Muslim sailors, but Uthman Dey, having been made very wealthy from his dealings with Ward, continued to offer protection. However, in 1608, feeling insecure in Tunis, Ward offered James I of England ÂŁ40,000 for a royal pardon, but this was refused, so he returned to Tunis, where Uthman Dey kept his word and he remained for the rest his days. Ward continued raiding Mediterranean shipping, eventually commanding a whole fleet of corsairs. He converted to a muslim, took the name Yusuf Reis, and though marrying an Italian woman, he still sent money to his English wife.

James I King of England: 1603 to 1625

He profited well from his piracy, living out his life in luxury as well as lavishly entertaining guests at his magnificent palatial home. To his contemporaries Ward was an enigmatic figure, in some ways like a Robin Hood of the seas. It is said that he was supposed to have spared English ships while attacking "papist" vessels, and was known to free captured English sailors. He is also credited with introducing Barbary corsairs to the use of square-rigged ships of northern Europe. He reportedly died from the plague, but at his age, quite old for the times, this is open to question. An English sailor who saw him in Tunis in 1608 described Ward as "very short with little hair, and that quite white, bald in front; swarthy face and beard. Speaks little and almost always swearing. Drunk from morn till night...The habits of a thorough salt. A fool and an idiot out of his trade."

Essential Tunisia

Tunisian Adventure 8 DAYS FROM ÂŁ765 From bustling Berber cities and awesome historical architecture, to swathes of golden desert and spectacular rocky gorges, Tunisia is an enchanting blend of European sophistication and Arabian exoticism. All this included Sousse Visit Medina & Mosque Monastir Visit old town & Bourguiba Mausoleum El Djem Amphitheatre Sfax Visit Medina Gabes Maritime Oasis Matmata Cave dwellings Douz Visit Chott El Jerid Salt plains Tozeur Visit Dar Cherait Museum Red Lizard Train Train ride Sbeitla Roman ruins Kairouan Mosque Dougga Roman ruins Tunis Medina & Bardo museum Carthage Roman ruins Sidi Bou Said Visit Flights: UK - Tunis - UK Accommodation on tour in twin room with private facilities Meals on tour 7 breakfasts (B), 4 lunches (L) and 5 dinners (D) Professional tour director on tour and local representative in resort Porterage at hotels during tour (for one suitcase per person) Transfers between overseas airport and hotels All local and airport taxes/service charges Single share option (on tour only) no supplement to pay 20

Essential Tunisia

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This holiday has departures available between: 14th Mar 2010 to 19th Dec 2010

DAY 1: UK - Tunis. Fly to Tunis where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for one night. DAY 2: Tunis - Sousse Monastir - El Djem - Sfax. Morning drive to Sousse to stop in the medina, view the Mosque, before heading to Monastir to visit the old town and the Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba, Tunisia's first president. Afternoon, travel to El Djem's impressive heritage site and the imposing 3rd century Roman colosseum, before continuing to Sfax, a former stronghold of Barbary pirates and Tunisia's second largest city, where you'll stay for one night. (B, D) DAY 3: Sfax - Gabes - Matmata - Tamezret - Douz. After exploring Sfax medina, journey via the maritime oasis of Gabes to Matmata, an amazing subterranean cave-dwelling village used in the original 'Star Wars' film. Visit the pretty hilltop town of Tamezret for scenic views of the valley villages en route to the desert outpost of Douz, where you'll stay for one night. Optional camel ride in the desert. (B, L, D) DAY 4: Douz - Chott El Jerid - Tozeur. Travel to spectacular Chott El Jerid, the largest salt pan in the Sahara, and cross the impressive salt lake to Tozeur, an important oasis on the ancient caravan route. Visit the Dar Cherait Museum, to glimpse how a wealthy trading family lived during the late 19th century, plus optional jeep excursion to the mountain oasis of Chebikand folklore show with dinner. (B, L) DAY 5: Tozeur - Red Lizard Train - Gafsa - Sbeitla - Kairouan. Drive to Metlaoui Selja to board the 'Old Bey's' train, now called the Red Lizard Traina and take a spectacular two-hour rail journey through the Gorges of Selja. After lunch in Gafsa, we travel to Sbeitla for a visit to the Roman ruins before continuing to the sacred city of Kairouan for one night. (B, L, D) DAY 6: Kairouan - Dougga - Tunis. Visit Kairouan's Grand Mosque, drive to Dougga for lunch and a visit the Roman ruins, the most extensive in Tunisia, set against the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains. Later, head to Tunis, the capital city and your base for the next two nights. (B, L, D) DAY 7: Tunis - Carthage & Sidi-Bou-Said - Tunis. A delightful blend of ancient and modern, Tunis has a colourful medina and a contemporary city centre. Excursions take in the ancient ruins of Carthage and the traditional village of Sidi-BouSaid before returning to admire the famous Bardo Museum, which houses some of the finest Roman mosaics in the world. (B, D) DAY 8: Tunis - UK. Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK. (B) Essential Tunisia

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LIFESTYLE Which Massage Is Right For You? Tunisia has a reputation as a health resort destination, with numerous spa facilities, thalasso treatment and wellness centres. Even if you are on a package holiday or staying in a beach resort, that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean to say you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take advantage of the facilities nearby, and book a treatment to pamper yourself, if only for a day. But, what to choose? Your knowledge of massage may be limited, so here is a quick guide to some of the most popular types of massage to help you figure out which massage style is right for you. Swedish Massage Therapy Also known as Swedish massage or simply massage therapy. Massage therapists use long smooth strokes, kneading, and circular movements on superficial layers of muscle using massage lotion or oil. Swedish massage therapy can be very gentle and relaxing. If you've never had massage before, this is a good one to try first.

Essential Tunisia

Healthy Living All you ever wanted to know about massage but were afraid too ask..... Hot Stone Massage Heated, smooth stones are placed on certain points on the body to warm and loosen tight muscles and balance energy centers in the body. The massage therapist may also hold stones and apply gentle pressure with them. The warmth is comforting.

Shiatsu Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork that uses localized finger pressure in a rhythmic sequence on acupuncture meridians. Each point is held for for 2 to 8 seconds to improve the flow of energy and help the body regain balance. People are normally pleasantly surprised when they try shiatsu for the first time. It is relaxing yet the pressure is firm, and there is usually no soreness afterwards.

Hot stone massage is good for people who have muscle tension but prefer lighter massage.

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LIFESTYLE Reflexology Although reflexology is sometimes called foot massage, it is more than simple foot massage. Reflexology involves applying pressure to certain points on the foot that correspond to organs and systems in the body. Reflexology is very relaxing, especially for people who stand on their feet all day or just have tired, achy feet.

Aromatherapy Massage Aromatherapy massage is massage therapy with the addition of one or more scented plant oils called essential oils to address specific needs. The massage therapist can select oils that are relaxing, energizing, stress-reducing, balancing, etc.) One of the most common essential oils used in aromatherapy massage is lavender. Aromatherapy massage is particularly suited to stress-related conditions or conditions with an emotional component. Deep Tissue Massage Deep tissue massage targets the deeper layers of muscle and connective tissue. The massage therapist uses slower strokes or friction techniques across the grain of the muscle. Deep tissue massage is used for chronically tight or painful muscles, repetitive strain, postural problems, or recovery from injury. People often feel sore for one to two days after deep tissue massage.

Essential Tunisia

Which Massage Is Right For You?

Thai Massage Like shiatsu, Thai massage aligns the energies of the body using gentle pressure on specific points. Thai massage also includes compressions and stretches. You don't just lie there--the therapist moves and stretches you into a sequence of postures. It's like yoga without doing any work. Thai massage is more energizing than other forms of massage. It is also reduces stress and improves flexibility and range of motion.

Living

Sports Massage Sports massage is specifically designed for people who are involved in physical activity. But you don't have to be a professional athlete to have one. It's also used by people who are active and work out often. The focus isn't on relaxation but on preventing and treating injury and enhancing athletic performance. A combination of techniques are used. The strokes are generally faster than Swedish massage. Facilitated stretching is a common technique. It helps to loosen muscles and increase flexibility.

Essential Tunisia

Health Matters: Honey Honey is a sweet and viscous fluid produced by bees and other insects from the nectar of flowers. It has a distinctive flavour and is significantly sweeter than table sugar but with around 40% less calories. The flavour and colour of honey is largely determined by the bee's nectar source. While it is rare for any honey to be produced exclusively from one floral source, honey will often take on the flavour of the dominant flower in the region. In Tunisia their are many wonderful honeys to be found around the markets and souks. This is because the production is very much a local family or â&#x20AC;&#x153;cottageâ&#x20AC;? industry, but some of them are of a very high quality, and of course, an authentic and natural product of the area. Some local authorities are now catching on to the popularity and benefits of honey, and have begun regulating its production in an effort to standardize and improve the quality still further. One such governate, in the heart of an agricultural area is Zaghouan. located in north eastern Tunisia, some 70 km from the capital, that is carving out a place for itself as one of Tunisia finest honey making areas. A new initiative has been undertaken to bring over 500 new beehives into the area which will all be operational in 2011, with plans to increase this figure to 2,500 new hives over the next 5 years. In the vast expanse of mountainous woodland in the area, honey making is a growing industry, providing employment to the families of the region, and Zaghouanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s honey is considered as one of the tastiest and purest in the country. It is also much sought after locally due to its medicinal and curative qualities, most notably against colds and digestive problems.

Essential Tunisia

Honey is mankind's oldest sweetener. In many cultures, honey has associations that go far beyond its use as a food. In language and literature, religion and folk belief, honey is frequently a symbol or talisman for sweetness of every kind and although it can be a good substitute for sugar in our drinks and food, it also contains properties that make it good for treating many conditions.

Benefits Of Honey

LIFE

The definition of honey stipulates a pure product that does not allow for the addition of any other substance. This includes, but is not limited to, water or other sweeteners. Liquid honey does not spoil, because of its high sugar concentration, it kills bacteria by plasmolysis. Natural airborne yeasts cannot become active in it because the moisture content is too low. Natural, raw honey varies from 14% to 18% moisture content and as long as the moisture content remains under 18%, virtually no organism can successfully multiply to significant amounts in honey.

Honey contains a lot of minerals and vitamins that are beneficial to our health. It is composed of sugars like glucose and fructose and minerals like magnesium, potassium, calcium, sodium chlorine, sulphur, iron and phosphate.

It contains vitamins B1, B2, C, B6, B5 and B3 all of which change according to the qualities of the nectar and pollen.

Essential Tunisia

Health: Honey One of the most important properties of honey seems to be its antibiotic action, the healing powers of which has been recorded by man through the ages. The Holy Qur'an says: "And your Lord revealed to the bee saying: Make hives in the mountains and in the trees and in what they build: Then eat of all the fruits and walk in the ways of your Lord submissively. There comes forth from within it a beverage of many colours, in which there is healing for men; most surely there is a sign in this for a people who reflect." Honey acts as a natural antiseptic because it contains antimicrobial agents, which prevent infections by killing the bacteria in and around your wounds. It also has different phytochemicals (chemicals found in plants and different foods) that kill viruses, bacteria, and fungus making it a good substitute for wound dressings. In fact the anti-bacterial properties of honey were effective in the laboratory against MRSA strains of bacteria which are

notoriously resistant to antibiotics and are sometimes responsible for the closing of hospital wards. If you suffer from hay fever, honey can be beneficial, especially if you eat honey that is local to your area, because the bees use the pollen from local plants which ends up in your honey helping to prevent your seasonal allergies. In fact raw honey has been shown to be an excellent treatment for 90% of all allergies. Honey may also be good for your skin. Because of its amazing ability to attract water you can effectively use honey as a moisturising face mask with the added bonus of it being perfectly safe for sensitive skin.

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Benefits Of Honey You can also use it as a moisturizing mask for your hair. To use it as a conditioner, mix the honey with olive oil but be sure to wash your hair thoroughly before you go outside. If you have a sore throat, take some honey. It may not heal your sore throat but it will make it feel better as it heals. The taste may also take your mind off the pain. In Europe, honey has been used internally for many years to help cure ulcers, particularly stomach ulcers and there is evidence that honey diluted in water will help with stomach aches and dehydration in cases of diarrhoea. Honey promotes the dehydration of the body and quickly clears up diarrhoea and any vomiting and stomach upsets and because sugar molecules in honey can convert into other sugars (e.g. fructose to glucose), honey is easily digested by even the most sensitive stomachs, despite its high acid content.

It helps kidneys and intestines to function better. Honey provides an important part of the energy needed by the body for blood formation. In addition, it helps in cleansing the blood and it has some positive effects in regulating and facilitating blood circulation. It also functions as a protection against capillary problems and arteriosclerosis as well as being a good source of antioxidants playing a huge role in the prevention of cancer as well as heart disease. And last but by no means least when drunk with warm water, honey diffuses into the bloodstream in 7 minutes. Its free sugar molecules make the brain function better since the brain is the largest consumer of sugar, thus, reducing feelings of fatigue.

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Honey has been used as a home remedy and cure for any number of different types of ills for centuries. In addition to the aforementioned science of its many medicinal properties, the following is a list of ailments and healthy alternatives where honey has been found to alleviate any symptons and help in recovery. (These are set out as an aid and a guide only, and not meant to replace medical advice, and should also be used in moderation.) Sleeplessness: A dessert spoon of honey in a cup of hot milk before bedtime aids sleep and restlessness. Wounds or Grazes: Cover wound with honey and a bandage as a healing aid. Sore Throat: Let a teaspoon of honey melt in the back of the mouth and trickle down the throat as an anti-inflamatory. Stress: Honey in water is a stabilizer, which calms highs and raises lows (mix approx. 25 percent honey to water). Migraine: Try a dessert spoonful of honey dissolved in half a glass of warm water at the start of an attack. Repeat in 30 minutes if necessary.

Benefits Of Honey

Teething: Honey rubbed on a baby's gums is a mild sedative and anaesthetic.

Health: Honey Fatigue: Dissolve a desert spoon of honey in warm water or keep a mixture of water with 20% of honey in the fridge. Honey is primarily fructose and glucose and is quickly absorbed by the digestive system. Hyperactivity: Honey is a mild sedative with minerals, vitamins and amino acids. Replace all white sugar with honey, as white sugar is highly stimulating with no added food qualities. Nasal Congestion: Place a dessert spoon of honey in a basin of hot water and inhale fumes after covering your head with a towel over the basin. Facial Deep Cleanser: Mix honey with oatmeal (approx. 50/50) till a thick paste, then apply as a face-pack. Leave on for about 30 minutes then wash off. Is also said to be a beneficial deep cleanser for acne. Burns: Apply freely over mild burns. It can cool, remove pain and aid fast healing without scarring. Apart from being a salve and antibiotic, bacteria cannot live in honey. Food Preservative: Cakes with honey replacing sugar stay fresher longer due to natural antibiotics. When cooking with honey it is best to reduce liquids by approx. 20% to allow for moisture in the honey.

Digestion: Mix honey with apple cider vinegar (approx. 50/50) and dilute to taste with water to aid digestion. Hair Conditioner: For a natural alternative, mix honey with equal quantity of olive oil and cover head with a warm towel for about 30 minutes then wash out with shampoo and rinse thoroughly. Osteoporosis: Research has shown that a teaspoon of honey per day aids calcium utilization and can help to prevent osteoporosis. Anemia: Honey is a good en-richer of blood by raising corpuscle content. The darker the honey the more minerals it contains. Bed Wetting: A teaspoon of honey an hour before bedtime aids water retention and is said to calm children during sleep. Heart Patients: As an aid, are often advised to replace white sugar (sucrose) with honey, a source of natural fructose and glucose. Hay-fever: Local honey can be beneficial because the pollen from local plants in honey help to prevent seasonal allergies. Also effective and useful for asthma sufferers.

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LIFESTYLE “Lablabi” - Tunisian Chickpea Soup Ingredients ( Serves 8 ) 2 cups dried garbanzo beans or canned chick-peas 4-6 garlic cloves, minced 1 tablespoon harissa 1 tablespoon cumin Salt, to taste 1 lemon, juice of 6 tablespoons olive oil 3 slices of day-old bread, preferably day-old French bread, broken into small pieces Step by Step 1. Wash chickpeas and soak overnight (if using dried). 2. If desired, rinse them again. In a large soup pot, cover chickpeas with water, bring to a boil, and cook until tender (ten to twenty minutes). — Or start with two pounds of canned chick peas, drained and rinsed, and heated in four cups of water. 3. Add garlic, harissa sauce, ground cumin, and salt. Simmer for ten minutes.

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Tunisian & Mediterranean Cooking Simple, but tasty soup (preparation time 40 minutes excludes the time taken to soak chickpeas). This soup can also be served by placing portions of bread crumbs in each soup bowl, ladling the soup over the bread, and pouring equal portions of lemon juice and olive oil over the soup. Serve with additional harissa on the side. Partially-cooked egg is often added to the mix, along with olive oil, harissa, capers, tuna and/or olives A richer lablabi soup can be made by frying the garlic, some chopped red onion, a chopped carrot, and some chopped celery in olive oil, and adding this to the cooked chick peas. Additionally, the chick peas can be cooked in chicken broth or chicken stock.

To serve Immediately before serving: add lemon juice, olive oil, and bread crumbs. Serve hot. Can be served on its own or with pan-fried fish.

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Tunisian designers and models hit the catwalk

In the setting of the Tunis Municipal Theater, famous Tunisian designers and international fashion models displayed their creations on the catwalk at the Tunis Fashion Week during April. This relatively new event has gradually gained momentum over the years and is now attracting an increasing number of fashion houses and visitors. During Tunis Fashion Week 2010, Cacharel was invited as guest of honour. The French house, famous for its its flowery designs, showed pieces that were first seen during the recent Paris Fashion Week. A spokesperson for Cacharel said that the houseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decision to show in Tunis, would explore new markets, and show the exoticism of the French woman abroad.

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Cacharel has a history of accompanying young designers and projects, and were drawn to the idea of participating in a relatively young but growing fashion week, by its partnership

Cacharel

Tunis Fashion Week with local fashion schools, and by being invited to be guest of honour. It also provided an ideal opportunity to check out the local market, and to see the potential of Cacharel in the region.

Fashion Salah Barka

The clothes showen were a selection of pieces made with CĂŠdric Charlier, which are representative of those first shown in Paris, with printed colours and a flower bouquet. Although not trying to reinvent themselves for this new market, some adaptions were made to this very different fashion culture, showing longer cuts and dresses with long sleeves. The fashion in Tunis is different to that in France, and Cacharel definitely stood out during the fashion week. However Cacharel do believe that they can work here, because there is the idea of Parisian exoticism, elegance and style, and this is what Cedric creates: structural, subtle, architectural pieces that elegantly accompany movement.

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Tunis Fashion Week Salah Barka & Friends at Tunis Fashion Week

Some well-renowned designers are as famous for their cheeky designs and atmospheric shows, as their clothes, such as Andrea Crews of Paris, and Jeremy Scott of London. Now, we can add to that list Salah Barka of Tunis (Gabes in southern Tunisia actually). Salah surprised the audience during Tunis fashion week when his models took to the stage in enormous head pieces, fake eyelashes and Russian print harem pants-skirts matched with Berber jewelry. All to the sound of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Medusasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; by Prodigy.

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Fashion Salah is a 35 year-old, self-taught designer, who previously worked as a costume designer, hence the theatrical element to his clothes. His long standing infatuation with fashion, Dido the Queen of Carthage and Tunisian tradition are all elements of the cultural mix he tries to bring to his designs.

Salah Barka

He made everything on display himself, using his friends as models and has a small studio at his parents house. The show is called ‘Miles Away’ because he has tried to bring together references miles away from each other, from Arabic tradition to London designers, and also because he has never left Tunisia, so ‘Miles Away’ is about the way he learns about and studies fashion. Major fashion industry executives, manufacturers, local creators, international fashion designers, models and students were all present at the event, which featured, in addition to Cacharel, other international designers such as High Street Fashion, Eric Tibush, Phalaenopsis and Renato Nucci. A unique platform for networking opportunities linking North Africa to Western Africa, Europe and the Middle East, the 2010 “Tunis Fashion Week” will undoubtedly boost Tunisia’s position in terms of fashion, trade and tourism, and left everyone looking towards an even greater spectacle in 2011. Essential Tunisia

SPORTLIFESTYLE PUMA's New Packaging and Distribution System to Save More than 60% of Paper and Water Annually After more than ten years of successful implementation of its social and environmental standards (puma.safe) and the introduction of its company initiative PUMAVision last year, Sportlifestyle company PUMA launched the next pivotal phase of its ambitious long-term sustainability program last month at the Design Museum in London. By introducing its cuttingedge sustainable packaging and distribution system by renowned industrial designer Yves BĂŠhar, PUMA will set new standards within the Sportlifestyle retail industry. The new innovative solution will significantly reduce the amount of waste and CO2 emissions that traditional product packaging such as shoe-boxes and apparel polyethylene bags generate and underpins PUMA's target of reducing carbon, energy, water, and waste by 25%, and developing 50% of its international product collections in footwear, apparel and accessories according to best practice sustainability standards by 2015. This milestone in PUMA's mission to be the most desirable and sustainable Sportlifestyle company in the world, is the introduction of an innovative packaging and distribution system for

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PUMA products that will reduce the paper used for shoeboxes by 65% and carbon emissions by 10 tons per year the remaining packaging materials used will be fully sustainable by 2015. PUMA partnered with designer Yves BĂŠhar, to rethink the way the millions of pairs of shoes that it sells each year are packaged - less packaging means fewer raw materials, less use of water and energy to produce, and less weight to ship and to be disposed of. BĂŠhar designed a "Clever Little Bag" to replace the cardboard shoebox with a re-usable shoe bag, that protects each pair of shoes from damage from the point it leaves the factory until the consumer takes it home - thus generating savings on the production side due to less material used, reducing weight during transport and eliminating the need for extra plastic carrier bags.

Sports Fashion Goes Green As a result of the 65% paper reduction through the "Clever Little Bag" concept PUMA will reduce water, energy and diesel consumption on the manufacturing level by more than 60% per year. In other words: approximately 8,500 tons less paper will be consumed, 20 million Megajoules of electricity saved, 1 million litres less of fuel oil used and 1 million litres of water saved. This means that 720 tons of polyethylene bags can be avoided per year, which equals a saving of 29 million plastic bags - enough to cover an area the size of 1000 football pitches. Furthermore, PUMA T-shirts will be folded one more time to reduce the packaging size and thus saving CO2 emissions and costs during transport.

During transport 500,000 litres of diesel is saved and lastly, due to the replacement of traditional shopping bags with the lighter built-in bag the difference in weight can save up to 275 tons of plastic. PUMA's apparel collections will be bagged using sustainable material, replacing traditional polyethylene bags.

By switching out current plastic and paper shopping bags in PUMA stores and replacing them with sustainable biodegradable bags the sportlifestyle company is looking to save another 192 tons of plastic and 293 tons of paper annually. The roll out of the new packaging and distribution system is planned as of the second half of 2011.

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FORMULA ONE ARRIVES IN NAPLES The Australian F1 driver Mark Webber, fresh off the podium at the Malaysian GP, and after qualifying on the front row at the Chinese Grand Prix at Shanghai, made a pit stop in Naples at the end of April.

Mark Webber

This was on Formula 1â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s return to Europe after the Far Eastern leg of the 2010 campaign. During this stopover in the Neapolitan city, as close as the worldwide Formula 1 circus ever gets to Tunisia ( a mere 550 Km - 350 miles away) he delighted the crowds spinning his Red Bull Racing car around the narrow streets. So, if you were in the Italian city and saw a F1 car racing around the streets, don't worry! You didn't take a wrong turn onto a race track, you were simply witnessing the Red Bull F1 Show Run.

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SPORT

The star attraction of the event was the Australian Red Bull Racing driver Mark Webber, who was the winner of two races in the 2009 World Championship season. This one-off race 'session' was held in Via Caracciolo, along the seafront of this lively town, in the shadow of famous Mt. Vesuvio and near the imposing glare of "Ovo castle", a typical background of the famous Gulf landscape.

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The day included three show runs of the Red Bull Racing F1 car starting at 3.30 pm and finishing at 5.00 pm; setting off from the Diaz roundabout all the way to via caracciolo. But the surprises didn't end there: to complete the programme, Sebastian Buemi, the twenty-one year old Swiss Toro Rosso Driver, originally from Italy, was also at the wheel of the super fast Red Bull Racingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nascar Car. Special event guest was Chris Pfeiffer, the German four times Stunt riding World Champion (2003, 2007, 2008, 2009) giving one of his spectacular performances, this time on two wheels. " I have been looking forward to arriving in Italy and driving the Red Bull Racing car on the streets of Naples" declared Mark Webber.

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Red Bull F1 Show Run: Naples

" It was an unforgettable day thanks to the warmth of the local crowd - I'm glad we gave them a good show". said Sebastian Buemi , Toro Rosso's F1 driver said " Driving the Nascar in Naples was a really amazing and fun experience for me. I couldn't wait to speed by the seafront with this kind of fast car". Red Bull returned to Naples after an earlier visit this year by another F1 race winner; In February, Sebastian Vettel, Mark Webber's team-mate at Red Bull Racing, who won the Malaysian Grand Prix, and took pole postion in the Chinese Grand Prix, chose the slopes of Mt. Vesuvio for part of his physical training in the build-up to the 2010 F1 championship.

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Golf 5 Golf Facts That Will

Are you seeing the same decrease in your handicap that reflects your hard work and efforts? Do you consistently fall short on your drives or feel exhausted at the end of 18 holes? Do you carry the disappointment of a missed putt over into the next hole? If you are plagued with problems like these then it is time to give your golf game a boost. Change your golf game for the better by focusing on the following five areas: flexibility, strength, endurance, nutrition, and mental toughness. Flexibility: Have you ever rushed to the golf course, quickly stepped up to the tee and felt stiff when you swung your golf club? Warming up your muscles can help relieve stiffness, but it is better to be more proactive in your approach. Therefore, it is essential to stretch on a regular basis. This allows you to increase and maintain your flexibility. You only need a small investment of your time in order to see significant gains in your range of motion.

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Strength: Have you incorporated strength training into your exercise routine? Many golfers are tempted to swing as hard as possible when hitting the golf ball. There are several adverse side effects of doing this. Your muscles may not be physically prepared for the intense strain and you may become injured. Increasing strength will enable your body to tackle the demands of the golf swing and prepare it for the action ahead.

Change Your Game Endurance: Do you lose your intensity or feel tired after a few holes? If so, then focus on your endurance. At first glance, golf may not appear to be a game in which aerobic fitness is necessary. However, golfers that walk the course can walk nearly five miles over the course of 18 holes. Try to work in 20-45 minutes, 3-5 days per week of cardiovascular activity. Nutrition: Your body needs the proper fuel to work efficiently. Common sense dictates that loading up on junk food is a bad idea. So what exactly should you eat? An optimal sports nutrition menu plan will include high quality carbohydrates, lean protein, fruits, vegetables, and plenty of water. Mental Toughness: Are you still thinking about the drive you sliced on the first hole as you set up to tee off at the second hole? This negative thought pattern will adversely affect your game. How you perceive the situation affects each shot. One way to increase your mental toughness is not to relive missed shots. Visualize a good shot to help erase the missed shot from your mind.

SPORT Take these five facts into account and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll likely see better results with your game. It will take some time to make these activities a habit, but will be well worth the effort.

COURSES IN TUNISIA Tabarka Golf Course, Tabarka www.tabarkagolf.com The Residence Golf Course, Gammarth www.theresidence.com Carthage Golf Course, La Sourka/Tunis www.golfcarthage.com Citrus Golf Course, Hammamet www.golfcitrus.com Yasmine Golf Course, Hammamet www.golfyasmine.com Kantaoui Golf Course, Port El Kantaoui www.kantaouigolfcourse.com Palm Links Golf Course, Monastir www.golf-palmlinks.com Flamingo Golf Course, Monastir www.golfflamingo.com Tozeur Golf Course, Tozeur www.tozeuroasisgolf.com Djerba Golf Course, Djerba Island www.djerbagolf.com Essential Tunisia

Motoring

Wallys Izis The “Wallys Izis” is the first car entirely built in Tunisia. In collaboration with a 100% Tunisian team, Zied Guiga, a young Tunisian graduate from the School of Lausanne in Switzerland, has designed and manufactured a car, named "La Wally Izis, from his workshop at La Marsa, north of Tunis.

Inspired by Chrysler’s Jeep “Willys” series, the newcar was first seen 18 months ago at the Salon Mondial de l’Automobile (The Paris Auto Show) where it has attracted considerable interest from visitors. With the exception of the 1,4 litre petrol engine, manufactured by Peugeot, the car was not only made in Tunisia, but used Tunisian made car parts (cables, body, chassis, etc.), and all the manpower used in its design and build was also 100% Tunisian. The “Wallys Izis” is a 3,25 m long, plastic panelled car with a 75 horse power Peugeot 1, 4 litre petrol engine, which is Euro 4 compliant and has a NCAP rating. Also ideal for off road and leisure activities, the “Wally” boasts a 39 degree angle in climbing mode. Moreover, the car’s steel chassis has a 14 year anticorrosion guarantee and its plastic body a lifetime guarantee.

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The First Car Entirely 100% Tunisian Specifications Length: 3340 mm Width: 1680 mm Empty weight: 930 kg Displacement: 1360 cc Tank: 41 litres Power: 55 KW (75 HP) Fiscal power: 8 HP Gear Box: 5-speed Brakes: Front disc, rear drum Tyres: 175 X 65 R14 Speed: 140 km / h In these days of climate change and carbon consumption, it is interesting to note that an electric version is to be made available with an approximate range of 100 km. The consortium behind the car are hope to produce 500 to 600 vehicles per year with their 15 strong workforce, which they are aiming to double, depending on demand. The car comes at a price of 10,000 Euros (about 18,000 Tunisian dinars). www.wallyscar.com

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TUNISIA is situated on the Mediterranean coast of North Africa, bordered by Algeria in the west and Libya in the south-east. 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 semiarid and desert leading into the Sahara. 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.

Tunisia

Tourist Guide 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.

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. 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.

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. SFAX is the country’s second city by virtue of it’s population and it’s prowess as an 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 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.

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Tourist Guide SOUSSE

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. 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.

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MONASTIR is a city situated 165km south-east 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". Also, there is the impressive Mausoleum of Bourguiba in the centre of a large cemetery in Monastir, which is the resting place and home of the founding president of modern Tunisia.

MONASTIR

Tourist Guide SIDI BOU SAID

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. BIZERTE is located on the north coast of Tunisia, 65 km north of Tunis and 15 km away 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.

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 â&#x20AC;&#x153;squareâ&#x20AC;? 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

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.

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Tourist Guide 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. 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. 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.

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EL JEM

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. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

Tourist Guide HAMMAMET

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 itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

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)

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HOMESTYLE Home Fashions Home fashions, like clothing fashions, are constantly changing. There are updated silhouettes, new colour palettes, fresh fabric designs and just as with fashion, you need to find a way to personalize the latest trends in a way that fits your home and your lifestyle. It is that time of year again when you might feel the urge to purge, so once the spring cleaning is complete, what better time to breathe some fresh air into your decor? But think twice before trading in some of your home decor items. It is not always easy to readily get exactly what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for here in Tunisia, particularly at the right price, so instead, trade them up. By adding small details to what you already have, you can achieve a chic and rejuvenated look. Get rid of the dark colours and heavy fabrics that kept you cosy during the colder months and freshen things up for the summer.

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Before relinquishing boxes of trinkets, "clutter-creators" and damaged accessories, consider repurposing items such as plain lamps and window treatments, tattered pillows and throws, or unused vases and china. .

Small details help create a spring haven with a fresh perspective and affordable materials such as decorative trim, mirrors and faux-flowers. While taking inventory of the items you have to work with, begin visualizing your ideal dĂŠcor. If you need some inspiration, peruse the pages of your favourite magazines

Painting is an easy, inexpensive way to create a whole new feeling in a room. According to the experts, the newest trends are at opposite ends of the spectrum: naturals are all the rage, but so are various shades of orange, from orangey-red to coral and apricot. Choose a colour that complements your existing furniture and one that makes you feel relaxed.

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STYLE If you love bright colours, then add a dash of orange, pink or apple green. But if you find warm, natural tones more calming, then choose something like a nice mocha colour. Next, take a look at the other items in the room. Could the sofa use a new, lighter look for spring? But, before you start shopping for new furniture, consider slip covers. If the sofa is in good shape, but just needs a little pick-me-up, this is an inexpensive solution.

Gone are puffy, layered looks. In are simple valances and side panels, which are basically nothing more than large rectangles with hems on all sides. Throw pillows are another quick room brightener. If you can sew a square together, you can make a pillow.

Another quick, easy fix is new curtains. Interior designers are seeing a trend toward simplicity in window treatments, which is good news for home sewers. Add a few stylish embellishments and people will think you bought them at a fancy home furnishings store. Add some fringe or other trim for a final touch.

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HOMES

Whether replicating a designer pillow for the family room or fashioning an outdated lamp in the guest room into something trendier, upgrading existing pieces will breathe new life into the room.

And, with an investment of a little time, a liitle money, and some fabulous fabric, your home will be sporting a new, personalized look for summer that reflects the style of the season.

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HOMES

6 Pointers To A If you are going to spend money advertising your holiday rental property on rental websites, you want to make sure it is a success. Here are 6 things you can practice which will help ensure you receive the most exposure for your money. 1. Set Rental Rates Appropriately If you want your holiday property to rent, you must be realistic, optomistic, but not greedy! Set realistic rental rates for your property and ensure that the rates are correct on the site your listing on and regularly reviewed as the market changes. Search for comparable properties in the same location as yours. Only charge a premium if your property has some distinct features. Be willing to discount your property on occassion as needed. In this business, if you lose money for a week long rental, you can't make that up!

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Business Successful Holiday Home Rental 2. Check E-Mail Regularly When using an internet holiday rental property website such as www.tunisiahomesdirect.com, remember your users. They are typically internet "savvy" and probably check their e-mails frequently...especially if they have requested some info. Also, be sure your phone number is listed on sites that allow you to do so, as sometimes people choose to just call you directly, so be sure to check phone messages. 3. Respond Immediately Holidaymakers usually see a few properties that are of interest to them and then contact those owners. The faster you respond, the better chance (most of the time) you have of winning them over. A timely and efficient response gives the renter confidence that the rental experience will follow suit.

4. Your Listing Should Be Accurate And Complete Be sure that your listing details are kept up to date and are complete. Review your online listing frequently to be sure that your contact information is up-to-date. Also, be sure that it is accurate on the description of your property and its amenities. This will help you with repeat customers, but will also keep you out of trouble with rental contracts or laws in regards to such things.

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Business More Pointers For A Successful Holiday Home Rental 5. Great Photos It is true what they say, "a picture speaks a thousand words". Remember, renters are considering staying at your rental based (most of the time) solely on your pictures and your word. The more pictures to help them be comfortable with the decision, the better. Be sure to have pictures of your rental amenities such as a pool, the beach, a sea view, the lake or a golf course - these are top vacation rental sellers! 6. Boost Your Exposure There are many "hot spots" for holidaymakers throughout the world, and many thousands of all types of holiday rental properties in them. In areas like this, boost your exposure by using the most popular sites with a built-in price / area search engine. If it costs you a little more to do so, but gets you one extra rental a year, that makes it more than worth it.

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PROPERTY

LEGAL SERVICES

Business Directory Rue 22 Janvier 1952, Immeuble Gloulou II, 4000 Sousse Tel: 00216 73211637 Email: rejibamalek@myway.com

English Speaking Lawyers in Tunisia

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

Bld 7 Novembre 4089, El Kantaoui Sousse Tel: 00216 73 347 097 Email: prestige.immobilier@ topnet.tn

Property Sales & Rentals

Route Touristique El Kantaoui

Property Sales & Rentals

Tel: 00216 73817190 Email: contact@top-immotunisie.com

Contact Owners Direct Email: info@ tunisiahomesdirect.com

PROPERTY

Tunisia

SERVICES

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

Top Immo International Specialists in property sales and rentals with multi-lingual offices in Sousse, Tunis & Hergla, plus France & Belgium. Tunisian Property Database in English

Tunisia Homes Direct We list properties for sale, long & short term rental and holiday lets in an easy-to use searchable database. 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 Tel: 00216 98228611 Tel: 00216 25036036 66

Prestige Immobilier

Cleaning Services

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

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Business Directory Email: radio@livetunisia.net

Easy Listening Classic Tracks

Ten365 Internet Radio

RADIO

Tunisia

CD quality music, including classic tracks, soft rock & power ballads brought to you FREE by LiveTunisia.com

Sousse Tunisia Tel: 00216 26017138 Email: info@livetunisia.net

Tunisia Email: nomarmiteintunisia @yahoo.fr

Address Tel. No. Email:

PC & INTERNET

Network and cabling consultants. Computer & Accessories Sales & Service. Agents for TopNet Internet Providers English Language Website for Tunisia

WEBSITES

Tel: 00216 26017138 Email: info@livetunisia.net

Infohelp

LiveTunisia.com English language website to promote all things Tunisian. Travel, Holidays, Property (sales & rentals), Golf, Spas & information. Forum & Social Network Website for Tunisia

WEBSITES

Kantaoui Sousse Tunisia

Advice and Help Centre

Tunisia Buzz For Friends of Tunisia and all things Tunisian. Members groups, messages, photos, blogs and magazines. Life In Tunisia For British Expats

WEBSITES

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

No Marmite In Tunisia The website in Tunisia dedicated to English speaking expats resident in Tunisia, featuring news, forums and noticeboards. List your business here and get noticed

Your Business

Take a listing like this in the Business Pages for only 22,50â&#x201A;Ź (42 TND) per month, and get your business noticed. Essential Tunisia

Business GET YOUR BUSINESS LISTED ON OUR WEBSITE FOR

FREE! Contact Details Address & Email Included!

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Prestige Immobilier RENTAL Apartments

A 2 bedroom apartment in Chott Meriem, just north of Kantaoui. The property has a lounge which opens on to a terrace, plus kitchen and bathroom/toilet. 500 TND

A well positioned 2 bedroom apartment, second-line to the sea, in Hammam Sousse. The spacious 2 bedroom property has bathroom with shower, well equipped kitchen, central heating and balcony with sea views. 750 TND

Bld 7 Novembre, 4089 El Kantaoui www.prestige-immo-tn.com Essential Tunisia

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Your Monthly Horoscope ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) You are revitalized with fresh hope and energy this month, and you carry a renewed sense of faith in reaching your goals. Change is on your mind now, and while your main focus is placed on maintaining and bettering your finances, you may also find yourself re-evaluating your long-term aspirations in love. TAURUS (Apr. 21- may 21) Life shifts into high gear for you this month, and the spotlight shines on your self-confidence and outward appearance. While your communication skills receive a powerful boost now, precision and clarity are key, as mishaps and misunderstandings are highly possible. This month, it's about stepping out of the shadows and recognizing the leader in you. GEMINI (May 22-June 21) This month brings a bit of frustration your way, as progress is delayed and communication proves problematic. Your thoughts are drawn inward now, though keeping your best ideas secret may evoke mistrust from others. There's tension in the air between your professional aspirations and your personal obligations, and you're urged to find a balanced solution. CANCER (June 22-July 22) New responsibilities are coming your way. Still, a spark of motivation strikes this month that could help accelerate your climb up the ladder of success. Nonetheless, you'll face tension between your own personal self-expression and your obligations to others, urging you to find a quick and balanced solution. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Your life is on the move, but common sense is needed now, as great ideas and good intentions aren't enough to guarantee success. This month, the emphasis is on your professional goals and your success in the public eye, as you seek to polish your reputation and gain the recognition you feel is well deserved. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Your long-term goals are in the spotlight now, yet this month brings many revisions to your current plans and the impact they'll have on your bigger aspirations. Travel and education are especially susceptible to last-minute changes, demanding additional flexibility at this time.

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Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in store for you? LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) It's time to take greater responsibility for your own life, and this month you're offered a chance to break out of unhealthy patterns and take a well-earned break. An urge to revitalize old friendships is to the fore and an opportunity may arise to develop a promising new relationship. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) There's something alluring in the air this month. Reliable individuals enter your life and sweet conversations arise, as long as you keep your prying to a minimum. You have a chance to redefine your commitments to your dreams, your friends and colleagues now, yet be cautious, as conflict may eventually step in to take the credit for reshaping your relationships. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) The everyday grind of work can take over your life this month, yet you may feel relieved by this stability. As your thoughts are directed inward, you're able to develop skills that will increase your efficiency and consistency. It's time to set aside fun and games so you can concentrate on improving your physical health and your newest obligations. CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) Your ambitions may be slowed by unfinished business this month, as you have to double back, make adjustments and complete old tasks before you can take on new ones. Self-improvement is in the spotlight now, urging you to complete half-finished projects, eliminate unhealthy habits and re-evaluate your romance. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) You feel familiar tensions returning this month, Aquarius, yet while old conflicts may recur, a boost of creativity is also out there to help strengthen partnerships. Restrictive financial circumstances could cause you to rebel against unwelcomed limitations, but you are urged to reassess how you relate to your possessions. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) You can make more progress at work and in your personal life this month if you stick to the basics, keep your emotions in check and keep your feet planted solidly on the ground. Your skills in communication receive a boost now, yet at the same time, minor, careless errors are also common and more costly.

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If it’s your birthday this month . . . May 1st: Calamity Jane (1852) Judy Collins (1939) Rita Coolidge (1945) 2nd: Bing Crosby (1904) Engelbert Humperdinck (1936) David Beckham (1975) 3rd: James Brown (1928) Niccolo Machiavelli (1469) Mary Astor (1906) Frankie Valli (1937) 4th: Audrey Hepburn (1929) Randy Travis (1959) 5th: Karl Marx (1818) Michael Palin (1943) Tammy Wynette (1942) Craig David (1981) 6th: Sigmund Freud (1856) Valentino (1895) George Clooney (1961) Tony Blair (1953) Orson Welles (1915) 7th: Eva Peron (1919) Gary Cooper (1901) Brahms (1833) Tchaikovsky(1840) 8th: Harry S. Truman (1884) Oscar Hammerstein (1846) Roberto Rossellini (1906) Sonny Liston (1917) Enrique Iglesias (1975) 9th: Sir James Barrie (1860) Richard Adams (1920) Albert Finney (1936) Billy Joel (1949) Glenda Jackson (1936) Candice Bergen (1946) 10th: Fred Astaire (1899) Paul “Bono” Hewson (1960) Donovan (1943) 11th: Irving Berlin (1888) Salvador Dali (1904) Phil Silvers (1912) Natasha Richardson (1963) 12th: Katharine Hepburn (1907) Florence Nightingale (1820) Burt Bacharach (1929) Ving Rhames (1961)

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13th: Joe Louis (1914) Stevie Wonder (1951) Harvey Keitel (1939) Peter Gabriel (1950) 14th: George Lucas (1945) Bobby Darin (1936) Cate Blanchett (1969) Tim Roth (1961) 15th: Brian Eno (1948) James Mason (1909) 16th: Henry Fonda (1905) Pierce Brosnan (1952) Janet Jackson (1966) Liberace (1919) Olga Korbut (1956) 17th: "Sugar" Ray Leonard (1956) Dennis Hopper (1936) Maureen O'Sullivan (1911) Enya (1961) Andrea Corr (1974) 18th: Pope John Paul II (1920) Perry Como (1912) 19th: Anne Boleyn (1507) Ho Chi-Minh (1892) Frank Capra (1897) Pete Townshend (1945)

Who do you share yours with . . . 20th: Jimmy Stewart (1908) Cher (1946) Joe Cocker (1944) 21st: Harold Robbins (1916) Raymond Burr (1917) 22nd: Laurence Olivier (1907) Wagner (1813) Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (1859) Naomi Campbell (1970) 23rd: Joan Collins (1933) Douglas Fairbanks Sr. (1889) Rosemary Clooney (1928) Jewel (1974) 24th: Bob Dylan (1941) Priscilla Presley (1945) Queen Victoria (1819) Kristin Scott Thomas (1960) 25th: Miles Davis (1926) Sir Ian McKellen (1939) Anne Heche (1969) Mike Myers (1963) 26th: John Wayne (1907) Peter Cushing (1913) Peggy Lee (1920) Stevie Nicks (1948) Lenny Kravitz (1964) Al Jolson (1886) 27th: Henry Kissinger (1923) Vincent Price (1911) Wild Bill" Hickok (1837) Christopher Lee (1922) 28th: Ian Fleming (1908) Kylie Minogue (1968) Gladys Knight (1944)

29th: John F. Kennedy (1917) Bob Hope (1903) Annette Bening (1958) Noel Gallagher (1967) 30th: Benny Goodman (1909) Mel Blanc (1908) 31st: Clint Eastwood (1930) Brooke Shields (1965) Colin Farrell (1976)

Famous days in Tunisia ----------------------------May 12 - 1881 - France sign treaty of protection with Tunisia May 2 - 1943 - German troops vacate Jefna, Tunisia May 7 - 1943 - British 11th Huzaren occupies Tunis May 7 - 1943 - US 9th Infantry division occupies Bizerta/Bensert May 12 - 1943 - German troops in Tunisia and North Africa surrender May 20 - 1943 - French, British & US victory parade in Tunis May 30 - 1955 - Tunisia begins domestic self governing

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