Before I jump back into my Japan travel diary (I know, I started it and somehow lost track along the way – oops!), here is a little detour: a quick summer travel diary from Tunisia!

This trip was once again with a very dear friend of mine – the one who always joins me on relaxing beach holidays (she was also my travel buddy in Mexico last year). This time, we spontaneously decided on Tunisia, and once again we found an amazing deal on Voyage Privé (seriously, this platform has never let us down!).

What made me even happier – especially after all the long-haul flights recently – was that Tunisia is only a 2 to 3-hour direct flight from Zurich to Tunis. The flight flew by and the transfer to our hotel – TUI Blue Palm Beach Club Hammamet, about an hour from Tunis Airport – was smooth and easy.

So what did we do all week? Haha, honestly – not much, and that was the best part. We slept, we ate, we soaked up the sun – sometimes by the pool, sometimes by the beach. Total chill mode. We had booked all-inclusive and while the cocktail selection wasn’t quite as exciting as in Mexico last year (I gave up and switched to beer haha), the buffet food was delicious and there was always something new to try. The daily and evening activities at the resort were surprisingly fun! The staff was amazing – super kind, helpful, and always smiling. We even got active and joined the aqua gym classes (a nice balance to all the lounging around).

Every evening at 8 PM, the DJ kicked off the night with a great mix – lots of nostalgic throwbacks and good vibes. Then, around 9 PM, the shows started and we actually really enjoyed them. They were lighthearted, entertaining and the perfect way to end a chill day.

There is just something magical about beach holidays in the summer – the warmth on your skin, the sound of the waves, sandy toes and that feeling of time slowing down just a bit. It is the kind of break that lets you fully reset, especially when you get to share it with someone who makes everything easy, lighthearted and fun.

We stayed for a total of one week, and it was such a beautifully relaxing experience. I truly appreciate my friend S♡ for always being up for spontaneous, easy-going adventures. Thank you for joining me on yet another memorable trip – I hope we keep this tradition going for years to come.

Thanks for reading!

Accommodation
Tui Blue Palm Beach Club Hammamet
Avenue Abu Dhabi, Rte Touristique, Hammamet
Tunisia
+216 72 280 741
tui.ch

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Useful Travel Tips for Tunisia

Entry Requirements for Swiss Citizens
Swiss citizens with a valid passport do not require a visa to enter Tunisia for tourism purposes for stays of up to 90 days.

Currency
The currency of Tunisia is the Tunisian Dinar (TND), often symbolized as “DT” or “د.ت”. As of January 2025, 1 TND is approximately equivalent to 0.30 EUR or 0.28 CHF.
Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants, but cash is recommended for local markets, taxis and smaller shops.

Adapter
Power sockets in Tunisia are of type C and E (the same as in most of Europe). The standard voltage is 230 V with a frequency of 50 Hz. Swiss and European plugs usually do not require an adapter.

Sightseeing & Attractions
During our stay in Tunisia, we didn’t venture out for sightseeing as we chose to fully relax at the resort and enjoy the peaceful surroundings and amenities. However, for those interested in exploring beyond the hotel grounds, Tunisia offers a rich blend of history, culture and natural beauty.

• Medina of Hammamet – A charming old town with white-washed walls, narrow alleys and local markets selling spices, crafts and souvenirs.
• Carthage (near Tunis) – Ancient ruins of a powerful Phoenician city, perfect for history lovers.
• Sidi Bou Said – A picturesque coastal village known for its white-and-blue buildings and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea
• El Jem Amphitheatre – One of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world, showcasing Tunisia’s ancient past.
• Sahara Desert Tour – Go camel trekking, spend the night in a desert camp or explore by 4×4 through the dunes.
• Star Wars Film Locations for Movie Lovers – Explore sites from the original trilogy, like Tataouine (inspiring the name Tatooine), Ong Jemel and the set at Hotel Sidi Driss.

Local Experiences
☆ Try Tunisian Cuisine – Don’t miss couscous, brik (a deep-fried pastry with egg), harissa, fresh seafood and mint tea!
☆ Take a Hammam – Experience a traditional Tunisian steam bath and body scrub.
☆ Shop in Souks – Buy handmade ceramics, leather goods, olive wood products and spices.