What are the issues affecting travelers in Tunisia? Read the latest travel warnings and alerts.
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State of Emergency - October 2018
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.
Is it safe to go to Tunisia?
How safe is Tunisia for travelers? Travel writer, Sarah Woods, answers questions about crime, etiquette and safety for families and LGBTQ+ visitors.
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.
What to do in a terror attack
Make yourself aware of a few tips on what to do if you're unfortunate enough to be caught up in a terror attack.
- Stay within the confines of your residence or accommodation
- Do not go out into the public streets
- Be alert to local news developments
- Adhere to any imposed curfews or security restrictions
- Be aware of unusual behavior or devices and report them to police or security personnel promptly
- If you are in a building located close to the site of a terrorist attack, stay away from the windows
- 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.
If there's a bomb blast
- Leave the area as soon as possible
- Don't run you may be suspected as the bomber. If you are in a crowd, stay at the fringes
- Stay clear of glass shop fronts
- If you are injured attend to yourself before others
- Obey all instructions and orders that are given by local authorities such as police
- Make your way to a pre-planned secure area
- If you return to your hotel stay away from the windows
- Listen to television and radio reports or check online for information (where possible)
- Contact family or friends and let them know your situation
- Write down what you saw before and after the blast it may help the authorities in their investigation.
Preparing for terrorism
- 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"
- When you arrive, stay away from those areas that may have been the target of terrorism in the past
- Identify the main tourist areas and try to stick to those which are most secure
- Make yourself aware of your surroundings and the people around you
- Stay away from large gatherings or demonstrations should they occur
- Know the telephone numbers of local police, hospitals and your Embassy
- If you are with friends, identify a rendezvous point to meet should there be an incident
- Prepare a plan to evacuate should there be an incident
- Know the telephone numbers of local transport and hire car companies.
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.
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