As UK temperatures continue to plummet as we head into the winter months, those desperate for some winter sunshine will be looking for the perfect place to escape to warmer climates.
One country that is quickly gaining international attention for its mild November and December temperatures and budget-friendly options is the North African country of Tunisia, which boasts beautiful beaches and relatively undiscovered destinations.
One such hidden gem is the large island of Djerba, which lies just off the coast in the south-east of Tunisia, near the Libyan border.
Set on the Gulf of Gabes in the Mediterranean Sea, the island is known for its breathtaking beaches and picturesque villages with pretty whitewashed houses.
What’s more, flights from London airports to Djerba in the last months of the year drop considerably, from nearly £400 in October to just around £45, according to Skyscanner.
Those willing to make the four-hour journey to the island have so many positive things to say about it – including travel bloggers.
Sam – who runs travel blog The Blonde Scout – said that the location should be popped straight onto your bucket list: “You’ve probably have never heard of this place and it’s likely that Tunisia is not a country on the top of your bucket list, but I’m about to change that for you in this travel guide!
“Djerba is a small haven for turquoise beaches, charming villages, a touch of history and lots of delicious food! This island is perfect for a short weekend getaway or a week-long retreat.”
Djerba, at 198 square miles, is the largest island of North Africa. It is home to approximately 183,000 inhabitants according to the 2022 census.
Citing its long and unique history, Tunisia has sought UNESCO World Heritage status protections for the island, and, in 2023, Djerba was officially designated as such.
The cost of living in the country is relatively low compared to other popular tourist destinations, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travellers. According to Tripadvisor, several four-star all-inclusive hotels are available for as little as £64 per person for a deluxe double with a garden view.
Legend has it that Djerba was the island of the lotus-eaters where Odysseus was stranded on his voyage through the Mediterranean.
Thankfully for today’s visitors, however, they can expect a much more refined palate of mostly steamed dishes, with tender meats coated in species, condiments, tomato paste and olive oil. The meat is often served with pasta, rice or couscous.
In their cuisine, a wide variety of herbs and leafy vegetables are used to flavour the dishes, including spinach, fennel green, chard leaves, mint, chives, parsley, dill. Added to this is a little known plant called “yazoul”, a herb with a subtle taste, which is collected at the beginning of winter at the foot of the olive trees and which resembles wild garlic.
Some key sights to behold include the beautiful ancient Orthodox Jewish El Ghriba Synagogue, located in the Jewish village of Hara Seghira (er-Riadh), several miles southwest of Houmt El Souk, the main town of Djerba. Besides being the centre of the island’s Jewish life, the synagogue is also a Jewish site of pilgrimage.
The synagogue was built at the end of the 19th century at the spot where the sixth-century building once stood. On the outside, the current synagogue is a modest building, whereas the interior is richly decorated with ceramic tiles with blue, white and brown ornaments.
Djerba Explore is a complex of three museums and a crocodile farm in the heart of the tourist area of Midoun, at the foot of the Tourgueness lighthouse. Quick and easy to access, the park is located less than ten minutes from the main hotels on the island of Djerba and about 12 miles from the airport and the main town. It is said to be home to about 800 crocodiles and is a highly rated attraction on Tripadvisor.
In recent years, Tunisia has focused on reviving its tourism industry, investing in infrastructure and safety measures. These efforts have created a more welcoming environment for tourists, contributing to the country’s renewed appeal as a travel destination.
As tourism in Tunisia gradually gains momentum, there is a growing attitude among travellers that now is the time to explore this hidden paradise before it becomes a well-known destination. With its welcoming locals, picturesque landscapes, and an inviting climate, Tunisia is poised to offer those in search of an authentic and affordable travel experience exactly what they paid for.