Health and Safety Travel Tips for Tunisia

Don’t Let Street Sellers Put Something in Your Hand

Be alert when visiting the souks. While sellers in the souks in Tunisia are a lot less pushy than many of the other Muslim countries we’ve visited over the years, you still need to keep some of the pushy sales tactics in mind. Notably, do not let street sellers put anything in your hand. If you mindlessly take it, they’ll push you heavily to buy it.

Always Carry Toilet Paper and Hand Sanitizer

Most public bathrooms in Tunisia do not have toilet paper or soap. So, always carry both with you! You’ll find many street sellers selling both if you don’t have any.

Be Careful with Your Things in Crowded Areas

While Tunisia is a relatively safe country, it’s always best to practice caution when in crowded areas. It only takes one bad egg, after all. Keep your belongings close, and if you have a backpack, wear it on your front until you are free from the crowds, especially in the medina.

Don’t Follow People Who “Know the Way”

If you look lost in and around the medina, don’t be surprised if someone approaches you to “show you the way” or “take you to a once-in-a-lifetime art show.” They’ll take a very convoluted route to your “destination,” which includes a lot of stops on the way. These “stops” will be at perfume stores and carpet stores where you’ll be pressured to purchase something. We fell for this and couldn’t get out until we paid for a perfume. So, if someone approaches you, just say, “No, thank you,” or “Marrajeya.”