Weather, Time :
Tunisia has a typical Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters, when there is the most rainfall. Best periods are spring and autumn.
Currency, Banking :
Electricity :
Electrical current is 220V, 50 Hz. Electric plugs have two round pins (as in continental Europe).
Communications :
Gastronomy :
Tunisian food combines Arabic, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern and French influences.
Dishes are cooked with olive oil, spiced with aniseed, coriander, cumin, caraway, cinnamon or saffron and flavoured with mint, orange blossom or rose water; many are accompanied by harissa, a chili and garlic condiment.
Fresh fish and seafood are often splendid, as are roast chicken and baked lamb dishes.
Shopping :
Special purchases include copper and brassware (engraved trays, ashtrays and other utensils), articles sculpted in olive wood, leather goods (wallets, purses, handbags), clothing (kaftans, jelabas), perfume oils, vibrantly painted pottery and ceramics, silver and enamelled jewellery.
Rugs and carpets are a good buy. The two major types are woven (non-pile) and knotted (pile). Look out for traditional Berber pieces. The quality of all carpets is strictly controlled by the National Handicrafts Office, and a label attached to the carpet shows its quality seal and grading.
The medina of Tunisia’s larger towns, are great places to buy Tunisian crafts, with an amazing range, but you will have to haggle.
If you prefer not to enter the fray, there are Société de Commercialisation des Produits de l’Artisanat (SOCOPA; website: www.socopa.com.tn) workshops and stores throughout the country where visitors can buy items at fixed prices.
Tipping :
Tipping is not a requirement; It is your choice as a reward for good service. Waiters and taxi drivers are usually tipped a few coins; waiters in tourist restaurants are accustomed to 5-10%.