October 23 Tunis

Had a quick breakfast at The Terasses then checked in for our tour at 9:30. It was super efficient. They’d prepared entry visas for us and left them in our room. It was then a quick walk through the Nautical Lounge showing passports, getting our visa stamped and receiving a card with the number of our bus.
There were 28 people on board - none of whom we knew. Our guide wasn’t my fav - very militaristic, trying too hard to be “liked”. Personality zero. He did give us lots of facts though, most of which I’ve forgotten.
Our 1st stop was Carthage founded by the Phoenicians in the 9th century, it was destroyed by the Romans in 146 BC, later rebuilt it lavishly. Initially I was disappointed - masses of people all following guides with flags 😠 and nothing much to see just tiny pieces of the ancient wall.
Next stop was a view of the ports, calm & lovely, then finally saw what I was hoping for - Antoninian Baths built in 145-162 - A world Heritage Site. Fortunately he released us to wander freely and avoid the crowds.

Then it was on to Sidi Bou Said - known for its cobbled streets & blue & white houses that overlook the Mediterranean. Problem - masses of people. Fortunately we could break free and explore on our own. Peter got into some chats in French with a couple of the vendors. On route back we stopped at the American Cemetary - beautifully maintained.

We got back at 2:30 in time for a light lunch at The Waves. Got some fab pics of the sunset and ship in the evening, then went for drinks in Horizons where a band was playing. We were joined by Val, Rose, Sy & Colleen. Dinner was at The Terrace - warm but windy, followed by a 2nd guitar performance by Declan - impressive.Read more