Tunisia

Tunisiahttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-africa/tunisiaTunisiahttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-africa/tunisia/terror-attacks-am-I-coveredWhat are the issues affecting travelers in Tunisia? Read the latest travel warnings and alerts.2020-11-18T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-africa/tunisia/terror-attacks-am-I-coveredhttps://www.worldnomads.com<h2>State of Emergency - October 2018</h2> <div class="AccordionSection nst-component nst-is-collapsed"> <div class="nst-content"> <div class="AccordionSection-inner"> <p>Since the country was impacted by several terror-related incidents in June 2015; the Tunisian government declared a state of emergency which has been extended several times. In early October 2018. the government extended it by a month. </p> <h2>Is it safe to go to Tunisia?</h2> <p><a href="/travel-safety/north-africa/tunisia/tunisia-crime-and-scams">How safe is Tunisia for travelers?</a> Travel writer, Sarah Woods, answers questions about crime, etiquette and safety for families and LGBTQ+ visitors.</p> <p>Ultimately, it's up to you to research and weigh up any potential risks before traveling to any country. And always consider your government's travel advice.</p> <h2>What to do in a terror attack</h2> <p>Make yourself aware of a few tips on what to do if you're unfortunate enough to be caught up in a terror attack.</p> <ul> <li>Stay within the confines of your residence or accommodation</li> <li>Do not go out into the public streets</li> <li>Be alert to local news developments</li> <li>Adhere to any imposed curfews or security restrictions</li> <li>Be aware of unusual behavior or devices and report them to police or security personnel promptly</li> <li>If you are in a building located close to the site of a terrorist attack, stay away from the windows</li> <li>If in the vicinity of an attack, do not stay to watch what is happening, as you will only get in the way of the emergency services. There is also a risk that additional attacks may occur.</li> </ul> <h2>If there's a bomb blast</h2> <ul> <li>Leave the area as soon as possible</li> <li>Don't run you may be suspected as the bomber. If you are in a crowd, stay at the fringes</li> <li>Stay clear of glass shop fronts</li> <li>If you are injured attend to yourself before others</li> <li>Obey all instructions and orders that are given by local authorities such as police</li> <li>Make your way to a pre-planned secure area</li> <li>If you return to your hotel stay away from the windows</li> <li>Listen to television and radio reports or check online for information (where possible)</li> <li>Contact family or friends and let them know your situation</li> <li>Write down what you saw before and after the blast it may help the authorities in their investigation.</li> </ul> <h2>Preparing for terrorism</h2> <ul> <li>Before visiting a country where there is a risk of terrorism, obtain as much information on that country particularly any areas which are advised as 'Do Not Travel" or 'Reconsider all but essential travel"</li> <li>When you arrive, stay away from those areas that may have been the target of terrorism in the past</li> <li>Identify the main tourist areas and try to stick to those which are most secure</li> <li>Make yourself aware of your surroundings and the people around you</li> <li>Stay away from large gatherings or demonstrations should they occur</li> <li>Know the telephone numbers of local police, hospitals and your Embassy</li> <li>If you are with friends, identify a rendezvous point to meet should there be an incident</li> <li>Prepare a plan to evacuate should there be an incident</li> <li>Know the telephone numbers of local transport and hire car companies.</li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> <p><em>Before you buy a travel insurance policy, check your government travel warnings and health advice – there may be no travel insurance cover for locations with a government travel ban or health advice against travel.</em></p>Getty Images/y-serge 1 Getty Images

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-africa/tunisia/women-in-tunisiaFind out how safe Tunisia is for women traveling alone, from what to wear to local customs and etiquette, here's everything solo female travelers need to know.2019-12-05T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-africa/tunisia/women-in-tunisiahttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Tunisia is one of the African countries where women can travel solo in relative safety, however there are still reports of occasional harassment towards travelers. Here's what you can do to stay safe.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#women">Women in Tunisia</a></li> <li><a href="#lgbtqi">LGBTQI+ laws in Tunisia</a></li> <li><a href="#hassle">Harassment hassles</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="women">Women in Tunisia</h2> <p>Tunisia is a conservative country, and gender roles of men and women will likely be different to what you may be used to back at home. However, women in Tunisia do have more opportunities than other countries in the region, as they are able to study and work. In July 2017, gender equality took another massive leap forward in the form of the Tunisian government repealing Article 227 in its criminal code. The law previously had allowed a rapist to escape prosecution if they married their victim.</p> <p>The new legislation criminalizes all violence and discrimination against women, including marital rape. Police are now also required by law to refer women who have been raped to a forensic doctor at a hospital for treatment. Previously, police would not take complaints from domestic violence or rape victims seriously; now it's a criminal offense for them not to take a report and refer the victim.</p> <p>While there is still much more to do, this is an important step for womens safety in Tunisia, and considered by human rights experts to be one of the best examples of taking action to protect women in the region.</p> <h2 id="lgbtqi">LGBTQ+ laws in Tunisia</h2> <p>Legal challenges face people who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender (LGBT) in Tunisia.</p> <p>Same-sex relationships between both men and women are illegal. Since the Tunisian revolution in 2011, a growing number of gay men have been jailed.</p> <p>Keep public displays of affection to a minimum in Tunisia, and avoid expressing your feelings or opinions on these laws to locals.</p> <h2 id="hassle">Harassment hassles</h2> <p>While most locals are friendly and welcoming, harassment of women travelers tends to occur due a few factors. Partly due to the fact that Tunisian men don‘t associate all that much with women before they get married, and the sexualisation of women in western media gives some Tunisian men the perception that foreign women will do just about anything if someone asks them. So, they ask.</p> <p>Some Tunisian men are particularly prone to asking young foreign women to kiss them, and seem honestly confused when a woman says they aren't interested. The freedom of foreign women can also be mistaken as promiscuity.</p> <p>Showing that you’re familiar with Muslim culture and etiquette can help tone down negative interactions with the locals.</p> <p>Most of the time, the unwanted attention comes from local men staring at women travelers or trying to drum up a conversation. Seeing a woman traveling alone can be somewhat a novelty for local men.</p> <p>A polite, firm <em>non merci</em> (no, thank you) or <em>la shukran </em>and continuing on your way tends to work.</p> <p>If you happen to encounter unwanted attention, particularly of the physical kind, a good phrase to remember is "<em>Harem alek"</em>. That‘s Arabic for "shame on you" and tends to work quite well with the shopkeepers who may touch your elbow to try to get you to shop in their store. Feign deep offence that a man who is not a family member has touched you. But usually a polite and firm <em>non merci</em> does the trick to avoid these unpleasant situations.</p> <h2>Dress conservatively in Tunisia</h2> <p>As Tunisia is an Islamic country, you will see the local women dressed conservatively, so when in Tunisia, do as the locals do: wear long sleeved clothing, making sure your shoulders and knees are covered. This can hopefully minimize those unwanted comments. <span>If you feel you’re getting lots of attention, pop a scarf over your hair. It's handy to carry one even if you don't wear it if you plan to visit any important monuments or buildings such as mosques, where covering your head may be required. Sunnies are also handy, not just for blocking out the sun but to avoid unwanted eye contact.</span></p> <h2>A few handy safety tips</h2> <p>As you would in many other countries while traveling around, take basic precautions such as sitting in the back of taxis, sitting next to other women on public transport, avoid walking around alone at night and avoiding the dodgy hotels (these tend to be nearest souks or bars).</p> <p>If you are traveling solo, another good way to feel safe and meet other people is by joining a local tour. Your accommodation will have suggestions on what to do and it can be a great way to socialize.</p>Getty Images/Mehdi Majoul / EyeEm 1575418739 Getty Images A woman stands beneath the large columns at Dougga, Tunisia

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/north-africa/tunisia/tunisia-crime-and-scamsHow safe is Tunisia for travelers? We answer your questions about crime, etiquette, and safety for families, women, and LGBTQ+ visitors.2024-11-06T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/north-africa/tunisia/tunisia-crime-and-scamshttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>With a landscape that runs from Mediterranean coastal zones to vast sweeps of Sahara, from densely-populated cities to Berber villages and Roman ruins, Tunisia is gaining popularity as a destination – it saw 9.37 million visitors in 2023. But visiting here is not without risks. Here’s what you need to know to keep your trip to Tunisia trouble-free.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#safe">Is Tunisia safe?</a></li> <li><a href="#crime">Crime in Tunisia</a></li> <li><a href="#families">Is Tunisia safe for families?</a></li> <li><a href="#women">Are woman travelers safe in Tunisia?</a></li> <li><a href="#lgbtq">Is Tunisia LGBTQ+ friendly?</a></li> <li><a href="#laws">Local laws and etiquette tips</a></li> <li><a href="#food">Food safety and water hygiene in Tunisia</a></li> <li><a href="#transport">Transport safety in Tunisia</a></li> <li><a href="#outdoors">Staying safe outdoors in Tunisia</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="safe">Is Tunisia safe?</h2> <p>Tunisia is ranked <a href="https://www.visionofhumanity.org/maps/global-terrorism-index/#/" target="_blank">36 on the Global Terrorism Index</a>, slightly lower than the UK and France and significantly lower than the US.</p> <p>But terrorism is a risk, unfortunately. In 2015, three major incidents, claimed by the Islamic State, took the lives of dozens of people: an <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-31941672" target="_blank">attack at the Bardo National Museum</a> in Tunis, one at a <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-33304897" target="_blank">beach hotel in Sousse</a>, and an <a href="https://www.france24.com/en/20151124-blast-strikes-bus-carrying-tunisia-presidential-security" target="_blank">explosion on a bus</a> carrying members of the president’s security guard. Nearly 60 tourists died in the Bardo and Sousse attacks.</p> <p>While more recent attacks have targeted police or foreign embassies rather than tourists, and security has been beefed up in major cities and resorts, travelers should still exercise caution.</p> <p>Several state departments have issued <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/tunisia-travel-advisory.html" target="_blank">do-not-travel warnings</a> for areas along the borders with Algeria and Libya and for Kasserine governorate due to the threat of terrorism and kidnapping.</p> <p><a href="/travel-insurance/whats-covered/terrorism">A terror attack</a> in the more touristed areas of Tunisia can’t be ruled out, but overall, the country should be considered a safe place to vacation.</p> <h2 id="crime">Crime in Tunisia</h2> <p>According to Statista, the <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/1220955/crime-index-in-tunisia/" target="_blank">crime index for Tunisia in 2023 was 44.6</a> (with 0 being the lowest and 100 being the highest.) It has increased somewhat in recent years but overall Tunisia has the lowest levels of crime in North Africa.</p> <p>Crimes against tourists tend to be opportunistic incidents, <a href="/travel-insurance/whats-covered/baggage">such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching</a>. Care should be taken in crowded places. Exercise the same precautions as at home and remain alert in souks and busy city shopping streets.</p> <ul> <li>Wear handbags strapped cross-body-style close to your body, or opt for money belt that can be worn under clothing.</li> <li>Carry only small amounts of cash to cover what you need.</li> <li>Keep ID, credit cards, passports, driver licenses and other valuables in the hotel safe.</li> <li>Request small denomination notes in currency to avoid attracting attention with large notes.</li> <li>Pickpockets often rely on catching you off guard, so stay alert in markets and shopping streets.</li> <li>In restaurants and cafes, keep your handbag off the floor or back of the chair – keep it on your lap.</li> <li>Don’t walk alone after dark – book a taxi and ask the driver to take you right to the door.</li> <li><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/worldwide/safety-advice-civil-unrest">Protests and demonstrations</a> can turn ugly quickly, and are best avoided – even those that are meant to be peaceful.</li> <li>Be aware that romantic overtures are often more about getting money, a European visa and a ticket out of the country, than about love.</li> <li>Unless you’re an expert, avoid buying “antiques”, as they may be just poorly-made trinkets with a coating of dust. (And be aware that removing antiques without government permission can <a href="/explore/north-africa/tunisia/local-laws-and-customs-tunisia">land you in trouble</a>).</li> </ul> <h3>Emergency numbers</h3> <ul> <li><strong>Police emergency:</strong> 197</li> <li><strong>Fire department:</strong> 198</li> <li><strong>Ambulance:</strong> 190</li> </ul> <h2 id="families">Is Tunisia safe for families?</h2> <p>Societal values place family life at the heart of Tunisian culture, and families make up a large percentage of all holidaymakers.</p> <p>Clean, safe waters, sandy beaches, camel rides in the desert, and water parks offer plenty of options for families with children. Few countries this easily accessible from Europe can compete on affordability, not to mention warm waters, sunny skies, and 800mi (1,200km) of coastline.</p> <h2 id="women">Are women travelers safe in Tunisia?</h2> <p>Tunisia is overall a safe place for women travelers, though harassment can sometimes occur. While many women in larger cities wear Western clothing and don't wear headscarves, Tunisian society values modesty.</p> <p>To avoid stares and unwanted attention, women should opt for loose-fitting outfits that cover shoulders, cleavage, and midriff. Shorts and tight trousers should be avoided. Knee-length skirts are best. Outside of the main tourist resorts, and capital city Tunis, <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/north-africa/tunisia/women-in-tunisia">women should avoid going out alone after after dark.</a></p> <figure><a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/north-africa/tunisia/women-in-tunisia"><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/tunisia/tunis-souk-crop.jpg" alt="Shoppers walk through the narrow alleys of the souk in Tunis medina." /> </a><figcaption>The souk in Tunis medina. Image credit: Ellen Hall</figcaption></figure> <h2 id="lgbtq">Is Tunisia LGBTQ+ friendly?</h2> <p>Same-sex relationships are illegal in Tunisia and punishable by up to three years in prison. There are no anti-discrimination laws in place.</p> <p>Despite this, Tunisia does have an active LGBTQ+ community, staging an LGBTQ+ film festival in Tunis in 2018 and 2019. Gay-friendly bars exist, but aren’t easy to find. Public displays of affection and talking publicly about homosexuality are taboo.</p> <h2 id="laws">Local laws and etiquette tips</h2> <ul> <li>Formal greetings are characterized by a handshake followed by a light touch of the heart with your right hand. Foreign men should wait for Tunisian women to offer handshakes.</li> <li>Don't handle food with your left hand, especially if eating from a communal dish as the left hand is considered unclean, only for toilet duties.</li> <li>Avoid eating, drinking and smoking in public <a href="/explore/worldwide/traveling-muslim-countries-ramadan">during the month of Ramadan</a>.</li> <li>When visiting mosques, mausoleums and other religious sites, women should wear headscarves, long sleeves, and ankle-length skirts or pants. Men should wear long pants. At some sites such as the Great Mosque in Kairouan, robes and scarves can be rented at the entrance.</li> <li>It is legal to purchase and consume alcohol in Tunisa, but alcohol sales in supermarkets are prohibited on Fridays and many establishments won't sell alcohol during Ramadan. Alcohol should not be consumed in public places such as parks.</li> </ul> <h2 id="food">Food safety and water hygiene in Tunisia</h2> <ul> <li>Tap water is safe to drink throughout Tunisia</li> <li>Avoid buffet food that has been standing for some time</li> <li>Squat toilets are common</li> </ul> <h2 id="transport">Transport safety in Tunisia</h2> <p>According to the <a href="https://data.who.int/indicators/i/B9D9E6A/D6176E2?m49=788" target="_blank">World Health Organization (WHO)</a>, Tunisia has a high road traffic mortality rate compared to Europe, North America or Australia. Most visitors are happy to allow experienced local drivers to transport them over potholes and poorly lit roads.</p> <p>If you choose to drive yourself, avoid driving at night or in rainy conditions. Cars travel on the right, seat belts are mandatory and a valid driver's license, registration documents and insurance documents should be carried at all times.</p> <p>Taxis are plentiful and cheap and can be booked easily using ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Heetch.</p> <h2 id="outdoors">Staying safe outdoors in Tunisia</h2> <p>Climate change has led to increased summer temperatures, with highs reaching above 122°F (50°C).</p> <p><a href="/travel-wiser/survival/how-to-stay-safe-and-hydrated">Dehydration is the biggest danger</a> when taking part in activities and sports in Tunisia. Carry water with you at all times and book excursions with accredited Tunisia Ministry of Tourism licensed guides who carry first aid kits and GPS.</p>Getty Images/Leonid Andronov 1 Getty Images