Tunisia Tunis

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  • Day 101

    La Marsa, dort wo die Reise begann

    February 15 in Tunisia ⋅ 🌬 16 °C

    Nach ein paar schönen Tagen in Bizerte machen wir uns gemütlich auf den Rückweg Richtung Tunis. Eigentlich war der Plan, heute Morgen wieder nach La Marsa an den Strand zu fahren, um dort unseren letzten Tag in Tunesien entspannt ausklingen zu lassen – Sonne, Meerblick und ein Abschieds-Cappuccino inklusive. Am Abend sollte es dann zum Hafen gehen.

    Aber wie das mit Plänen so ist… Gestern kam eine Nachricht von GNV: "Überfahrt nach Palermo verschoben – wegen schlechter Wetterbedingungen erst am Sonntag." Ganz ehrlich? Uns ist das sogar ganz recht! So können wir morgen am Tag bei Helligkeit zum Hafen fahren. Da soll es nämlich recht turbulent zugehen.

    Von einigen Wohnmobilisten, die wir unterwegs kennengelernt haben, hörten wir Geschichten, die nach Abenteuer klingen, aber auf die wir gerne verzichten würden: Viele Flüchtlinge sollen versuchen, sich in oder unter Fahrzeuge zu schmuggeln, um nach Europa zu gelangen. Da möchte man ungern beim morgendlichen Fahrzeugcheck plötzlich jemanden mitnehmen, der nicht auf der Passagierliste steht!

    Dank der Verschiebung hatten wir nun aber die Gelegenheit, uns La Marsa – dort, wo unsere Reise begann – noch einmal in aller Ruhe anzusehen. Ein bisschen nostalgisch, so am Ende dieser wunderbaren Zeit in Tunesien. Der Nachmittag wurde nochmal richtig genossen: bestes Wetter, entspannter Blick aufs Meer und ein letzter Spaziergang am Strand.

    Jetzt hoffen wir einfach auf eine ruhige letzte Nacht in Tunesien und eine ebenso ruhige Überfahrt. Palermo, wir kommen – hoffentlich ohne blinde Passagiere!
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  • Day 25

    Sidi Bou Said – Das blaue Dorf

    December 1, 2024 in Tunisia ⋅ ⛅ 17 °C

    Nach einer kurzen, aber ruhigen Nacht machten wir uns am späten Vormittag mit dem Rad auf den Weg ins nahegelegene Sidi Bou Said, ein charmantes Künstlerdorf oberhalb des Golfs von Tunis. Unser erster Halt war der beeindruckende Ennejma Ezzahra Palace.

    Der Palast, erbaut in den 1920er Jahren, war einst die Residenz des französischen Barons Rodolphe d’Erlanger, eines Orientalisten, Musikethnologen und Malers. Das Bauwerk kombiniert auf beeindruckende Weise maurische und andalusische Architekturstile. Die Innenräume des Palastes sind ein wahres Kunstwerk: kunstvolle Stuckarbeiten, fein verzierte Holzdecken und detailreiche Mosaike ziehen jeden Besucher in ihren Bann. Besonders faszinierend ist die Sammlung traditioneller Musikinstrumente, die der Baron im Rahmen seiner Forschung zur arabischen Musik zusammentrug. Der Palast ist heute ein nationales Denkmal und bietet nicht nur einen Einblick in die Architektur, sondern auch in die kulturelle Vielfalt der Region.
    Nach dem Besuch des Palastes schlenderten wir durch die malerischen Gassen von Sidi Bou Said. Die weiß getünchten Häuser mit ihren leuchtend blauen Fensterläden und Türen sind ein wahrer Blickfang. Die Gassen sind gesäumt von Bougainvillea-Pflanzen, kleinen Boutiquen und Cafés, die dem Ort seinen besonderen Charme verleihen.

    Ein Highlight war unser Besuch im berühmten Café des Délices, das auf einer Anhöhe mit spektakulärem Blick auf das tiefblaue Meer und den darunterliegenden Hafen thront. Bei einer Tasse Cappuccino und Kuchen genossen wir die entspannte Atmosphäre und das mediterrane Flair.
    Nach unserem Ausflug ging es zurück nach Marsa, wo wir am Nachmittag noch einige Besorgungen erledigten. Da in Tunesien sonntags fast alle Geschäfte geöffnet haben, konnten wir im Orange-Shop eine SIM-Karte für Andreas Handy kaufen und direkt einrichten lassen – 75 Gigabyte für 60 Tage kosten umgerechnet gerade einmal 18 €.

    Morgen früh steht noch etwas Büroarbeit an, bevor wir unsere Reise fortsetzen. Tunesien hat uns bereits mit seiner Vielfalt und Gastfreundschaft beeindruckt, und wir freuen uns auf die kommenden Erlebnisse.
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  • Day 2

    Sidi Bou Said - Café des Délices

    April 23 in Tunisia ⋅ ☀️ 19 °C

    Café des Délices, originally named Café Sidi Chaabane, is a well-known café in the charming, blue-and-white village of Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia. Perched at the top of the village, it boasts remarkable panoramic views of the Gulf of Tunis.
    Established in the 1960s, the café gained significant popularity after it was featured in the 1999 music video for Patrick Bruel's song "Au Café des Délices." This led to its renaming, although it still retains its original name as well. The blue parasols that shade its terraces match the distinctive doors and shutters of Sidi Bou Said, adding to its picturesque appeal.
    While the view is undeniably a major draw, some reviews suggest that the prices can be high and the service inconsistent. There have also been reports of issues with pricing and service quality in the past. However, many visitors still consider it a must-visit for the stunning scenery and the chance to soak in the atmosphere of Sidi Bou Said.
    In summary, Café des Délices offers:
    * Breathtaking views of the Gulf of Tunis.
    * A prime location in the beautiful village of Sidi Bou Said.
    * A connection to popular culture through Patrick Bruel's song.
    However, potential visitors might want to be aware of some reviews mentioning high prices and variable service.
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  • Day 2

    Sidi Bou Said - The doors

    April 23 in Tunisia ⋅ ☀️ 19 °C

    Ah, Tunisian doors! They're so much more than just entryways; they really tell a story about the country's history and artistry. You'll notice such a wonderful variety as you wander through the medinas and even in more modern areas.
    In the older parts of cities like Tunis, Sousse, and Kairouan, you often see these grand, heavy wooden doors, sometimes studded with large nails. These aren't just for security; they're a real statement of the family's status and history. Often, you'll find intricate carvings, geometric patterns, or even inscriptions from the Quran adorning them. Each region can have its own distinct style, which is fascinating to observe.
    Then you have the vibrant painted doors, especially in places like Sidi Bou Said. The bright blues are iconic, contrasting beautifully with the white walls. But you'll also see other colors used, each with its own significance, sometimes reflecting the beliefs or even the profession of the inhabitants.
    It's also interesting to note the different types of knockers you might encounter. Often, there are two – one for men and one for women, each with a distinct sound so the person inside knows who is at the door.
    Even in more contemporary Tunisian architecture, you'll often see nods to these traditional designs, perhaps in the use of materials or decorative elements. It's a lovely way that Tunisians have kept their heritage alive while embracing the modern world.
    Have you noticed any particular doors that caught your eye while you've been here in Carthage? I'd love to hear about them!
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  • Day 2

    Sidi Bou Said

    April 23 in Tunisia ⋅ ☀️ 19 °C

    Sidi Bou Said is a captivating village perched on a cliff overlooking the Gulf of Tunis. It's renowned for its striking beauty, characterized by its Andalusian-style architecture with whitewashed houses and vibrant blue doors and window shutters. Bougainvillea cascades down the walls, adding splashes of color to the serene blue and white palette.
    Beyond its picturesque appearance, Sidi Bou Said exudes a charming and artistic atmosphere. For centuries, it has attracted artists, writers, and intellectuals who were inspired by its tranquil ambiance and stunning Mediterranean views. You'll find numerous art galleries, artisan shops, and traditional cafés where you can soak in the local culture.
    Historically, the village was once called Jabal el-Menar, meaning "mountain of the lighthouse." Its name changed in honor of a Sufi saint, Abu Said al-Baji, who settled there in the 13th century. His mausoleum remains a significant site in the village.
    Some key things that make Sidi Bou Said special:
    * The views: The panoramic vistas of the Mediterranean Sea are simply breathtaking.
    * The architecture: The consistent blue and white color scheme creates a unique and harmonious aesthetic.
    * The atmosphere: It has a relaxed, almost bohemian feel, distinct from the bustling city of Tunis nearby.
    * Café des Nattes: This iconic traditional café is a must-visit for its ambiance and views.
    * Ennejma Ezzahra Palace: This stunning early 20th-century mansion, built by Baron Rodolphe d'Erlanger, now houses the Centre for Arab and Mediterranean Music.
    * Dar el-Annabi Museum: A traditional Tunisian house museum offering a glimpse into the local way of life.
    Sidi Bou Said is often described as a "jewel" or a "postcard-perfect" village and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking beauty, tranquility, and a touch of history.
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  • Day 19

    Sidi-Bou-Said

    October 16, 2024 in Tunisia ⋅ ☁️ 25 °C

    Heute haben wir uns spontan entschlossen noch eine weitere Attraktion zu besichtigen ein Blaues Dorf am Meer in der Nähe von Tunis.
    Sidi-Bou-Said, ist ein Touristenmagnet aber total entspannt.
    Es erinnert uns etwas an Chefchaouen in Marokko.
    Hier geniessen wir noch unseren letzten Abend und übernachten auf dem Parkplatz am Hafen.
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  • Day 12

    Sidi Bou Said

    May 19, 2024 in Tunisia ⋅ ☀️ 26 °C

    Today needed to drive north all the way back towards Tunis because we were flying the next day at noon. But first we went to the Mahdia medina for some shopping for Soni. And apparently for me too cuz i bought a few things as well

    Then drove about 1.5 hours to Sousse which has a huge endless fortification around the medina. We walked into the medina and it was like an indiana jones movie. Narrow cute passageways with market shops throughout with really unique arabic stuff. Found an awesome restaurant in the middle of it and had an awesome lunch before taking off again.

    Drove another 90 minutes to Hammamet and visited their medina too. This medina was like a disney medina. Modern and made to look authentic but definitely contrived. Still, lots of shopping for soni while i relaxed on endless pillows and a beer. Seafronts of both sousse and hammamet were beautiful sandy beaches and resorts all along the coast.

    Drove another 90 minutes south of Tunis to absolutely gorgeous Sidi Bou Said. It was like being on a greek island. All the buildings were white and blue, narrow cobblestone roads, full of restaurants and shops on hills overlooking the Mediterranean sea. So beautiful and quaint.

    Had an amazing traditional fish meal there and some really good tunisian wine. I had no idea tunisia even made wine but we both loved it. Things closed down semi early so got back to the hotel at a good hour to rest up before the long flight home.

    I absolutely loved tunisia. Its beautiful with awesome roman history. There's so much i didn't get to see and i feel this is part 1 and to be continued. Tunisia's biggest treasure are the people though. Soooo incredibly kind and warm. Genuinely sad to leave.
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  • Day 4

    Sidi Bou Said

    January 9 in Tunisia ⋅ ⛅ 15 °C

    Named after a religious figure who lived there, Abu Said al-Baji, it was previously called Jbel el-Menar. The town itself is a tourist attraction and is known for its extensive use of blue and white.
    The city follows the Mediterranean colors of White House’s with blue highlights. We took a taxi there and started wandering through the tourist concessions areas to find the Ennejma Ezzahra ("Star of Venus") a historical palace at Sidi Bou Said, in northern Tunisia, built from 1912–1922 by Baron Rodolphe d'Erlanger (1872–1932) as his home in Tunisia.[1] It is considered to be an outstanding example of Arab-Islamic architecture in Tunisia and was built historic elements by craftsmen from Tunisia. After the independence of Tunisia in 1956, it was the first museum to be opened in the country.

    We enjoyed the Royal Palais and walking the colorful streets. Visiting shops and vendors. We grabbed coffee at a ‘tourist trap’ cafe with an amazing view and spent $27 on 3 cappuccinos and 1 tea.

    Our lunch was great. Kebab sandwiches + fries with three dips - hummus, sour cream / garlic and Tunisian ketchup. This was about $5.00 per person + a drink!

    Walked a bit and back to the airbnb to pack, cleanup, nap and check and check emails.
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  • Day 2

    Carthage

    January 7 in Tunisia ⋅ ☀️ 17 °C

    Carthage was built and destroyed many times since its founding in the 6th century BCE. Many remnants have been u earthed over the years and the government of Tunisia tries to make them readily accessible. The archeological park of Carthage has 10-12 sites all over the city ranging from Phoenician through Roman, and now modern.
    Interpretation of these sites has changed over time. Originally Phoenicians were thought to be savages with child sacrifice common. It’s been found they were cremating their dead children as a public health precaution to reduce the spread of diseases and curb epidemics. We went from the arena to Roman baths to villas to learn about the area.
    We wound up at the North African American Cemetery where 2,800 World War One and two servicemen and women are buried, along with 3,800 missing. While there, I introduced Jesse and Meredith to Find a Grave, the cemetery tracking app used by many genealogists. There are over 600 photo requests for this cemetery, many from the “missing” who are listed on a long wall. We fulfilled 10 requests and by the time we got back, already had a “thank you” from one of the requestors.
    When back at the apartment, we wandered the neighborhood to find a restaurant finally finding the Domacilia, a Syrian restaurant recommended by our host. We ordered the meal for 4, which could have easily fed 6-8, then took home the leftovers and dropped off for a brief food coma.
    What a great day!
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  • Day 5

    Sidi Bou Said

    July 20, 2024 in Tunisia ⋅ ☀️ 32 °C

    Ein anstrengender Tag. Letztes Ziel für heute die Blaue Stadt von Tunesien.
    Wunderschöne, alte weiß blaue Häuschen. Überall Blumen in leuchtenden Farben und eine wunderbare Aussicht auf das Meer mit Hafen. In den Gassen kleine Souvenir Läden oder KaffeesRead more

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