Hello everyone! So far I have written about some of my travels in Europe. This time I will share with you my experience from an interesting country I have visited in Africa. Africa has fascinated me through stories from childhood. Since then I have become a “traveler in Africa” in my imagination until I traveled for the first time on this continent. Its name means “sunny place” in the Berber tongue. Africa is a collection of some of the most amazing countries and cultures on earth. There's nowhere like it on the planet for wildlife, wild lands and rich traditions that endure.
“Africa changes you forever, like nowhere on earth. Once you have been there, you will never be the same. But how do you begin to describe its magic to someone who has never felt it?" Brian Jackman
I chose to visit Tunisia, a country so beautiful that there are not enough words to describe it. Tunisia has always represented a gateway into the world of North Africa, being a part of Sahara, the largest hot desert. It’s a thrilling destination with wide sandy beaches on Mediterranean coast. The incredible landscapes, forested coastlines and Saharan sand seas can be explored in just a few days.
I spent some wonderful days in Sousse which is a glistening town on the East Coast of Tunisia, located about 150 km south of the capital. It is the most popular city on the coast and probably the most beautiful old place in Tunisia. Here you have the impression that time has stopped, but at the same time the modern and the luxury have not ceased to appear in fascinating resorts. Sousse is famous for its blue waters, warm weather and unprecedented tourism development. You will find a white, idyllic haven of natural waterfront beauty.
There are a huge number of hotels in Sousse to suit all budgets. At the top of the chain are five star hotels, which provide large amounts of luxury. I can tell you that since the arrival, I was amazed by the special architecture of the hotels.
We stayed at the Riadh Palms Hotel. The 9-storey hotel is among the largest hotels in Sousse, surrounded by palm trees and next to one of the most beautiful beaches in Tunisia.
The majestic interior of Riadh Palms Hotel.
Every day, the hotel's staff pleasantly surprised us with their own towels creation.
The garden with palm trees and swimming pool gives a special atmosphere. Guests can have fun and relax at the pools. The outdoor swimming pool is snake-shaped, surrounds a small central island and has three bridges. The hotel has several restaurants and bars where you can enjoy tasty food and drinks. Riadh Palms is a real “palace”.
The showers at the pool were statue-shaped. So unique.
A trip to Sousse wouldn't be complete without a taste of the savory fusion of food and flavor it does so well. You already know that I love food, so from the first day I began to taste their culinary delights. The Tunisian cuisine is a combination of French, Arabic, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors. Most of the plates are based on sea food and lamb, with plenty of olive oil and spices thrown in for good measure. Their traditional dishes are predominantly spicy. I like this type of food and here I discovered the taste of harissa, a red and extremely hot sauce and also the interesting meatballs with mint. The Tunisian sweets are also impressive. I tried these doughnuts or "yo-yos", which are soaked in honey, lemon syrup and fragrant orange blossom water. I was gladly surprised by Tunisian cuisine.
We visited the famous El Kantaoui port. Located onto the coast 14 km north of Sousse and called as ‘the pleasure port of the Mediterranean’, is a playground of chic boutiques, beaches, golf courses and waterfront restaurants. Cobblestone streets and Moorish-Andalusian architecture come with North African charm in a tourist-friendly environment.
Did I tell you that I love animals? For this reason we chose to visit the famous zoo park in this area called Friguia, located at about 30 km north of Sousse. It stretches over an area of 36 acres and has over 400 animals. Its main purpose is to ensure the reproduction of endangered animal species and its reintroduction into the wild.
It was so hot that day that I thought he was thirsty.
I found a real joy discovering the various animal species that live in a very special environment. The employees of the park try to offer them conditions close to those offered by the natural environment and after a period of accommodation in the park, they try to reintroduce the animals into the natural environment. I made a selection of pictures with some adorable animals.
We walked along a raised platform that took us right over head of the big cats and therefore we had a fantastic view at close range.
In the park are lots of shady places to sit, comfortable seats and you can just enjoy the wonderful views over the park. The path has led us to the sea lion pool. The show was excellent.
All week I wanted to try parasailing, and on the last day I decided to experience the feeling of floating on the air and the adrenaline of a quick drop. Sousse is the perfect setting for parasailing and all sorts of aerial sports. I admit I'm afraid of heights but I did not want to leave Tunisia without trying this recreational activity. The sensation is unique, and the top view leaves you speechless. I would definitely try it again, it's worth it.
I left Tunisia with memorable memories, it is the first country on the African continent I visited.
Sousse is a must visit destination for everyone, whether you want to laze about on the beach, or immerse yourself in history.
With love,
Krystine