Midoun: The Jewel of Djerba

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaan]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعفوا
  [afwan]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bkheir. wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'inglizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid an ara alqa'ima, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la akul allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [urid an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [annajda!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atassil bialshurtah!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atassil bitabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [liqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود أن أشتري...
  [awad an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atata'la]
• How much is it?بكم؟
  [bikam?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk kaff alsi'r?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaa'a alwahida]
• Half past (10)النصف بعد العاشرة
  [alnusf ba'd alaashirah]
• Morningصباح
  [sabah]
• Afternoonمساء
  [masa']
• Eveningمساء
  [masa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنين
  [ithnayn]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'a]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين ال...؟
  [ayn al...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa alaunwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tarini (ala alkhareeta)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يصل الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata yusil alhafilat altaliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tadhkirah (ila ....)]

Midoun, like much of Djerba, has roots that trace back to the Berber tribes who inhabited the island long before the arrival of the Phoenicians and Romans. The Berbers established settlements in this fertile region, utilizing the land for agriculture and trade. The cultural influences of these early inhabitants are still evident in Midoun's traditions and local dialect.

During the Roman Empire, Djerba became an important trading hub due to its strategic location in the Mediterranean. Midoun, benefiting from this trade, saw increased economic activity and the establishment of villas and farms. The remnants of Roman architecture and artifacts found in the area serve as a testament to this prosperous period.

The Islamic conquest in the 7th century marked a significant shift in the cultural landscape of Djerba, including Midoun. The integration of Arab culture brought new architectural styles, agricultural practices, and religious influences. The coexistence of various communities, including Berbers, Arabs, and Jews, fostered a unique cultural tapestry that continues to characterize Midoun today.

Midoun is notable for its historical Jewish community, which has roots dating back to antiquity. The presence of synagogues and historical sites, such as the El Ghriba Synagogue, highlights the rich Jewish heritage in the area. This community has contributed to the cultural diversity of Djerba, influencing local customs, cuisine, and festivals.

In recent decades, Midoun has transformed into a prominent tourist destination, attracting visitors with its beautiful beaches, traditional markets, and vibrant culture. The development of hotels and resorts has led to an economic shift, with tourism becoming a vital part of Midoun's economy. Efforts to preserve the area's historical and cultural identity continue alongside modernization.

Midoun is easily accessible from various parts of Djerba. From Houmt Souk, the island's capital, you can take a taxi or a local bus (taxis are more convenient but pricier) which typically takes around 20-30 minutes. Public buses run frequently between Houmt Souk and Midoun, offering a budget-friendly option. If you're arriving from Djerba–Zarzis International Airport, taxis are available and will take approximately 30 minutes to reach Midoun.

Midoun is a small and walkable town, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer distances, local taxis are readily available. Alternatively, you can rent bicycles from local shops to discover the scenic landscapes at your own pace. Buses connect Midoun to other towns and villages on the island, providing an economical means of transport.

Midoun is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to remain vigilant. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, petty crime can occur, particularly in crowded marketplaces.

In case of emergency, dial 190 for police assistance or 190 for ambulance services. The local hospital and clinics are equipped to handle minor to moderate medical issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in Midoun for over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting mosques or rural areas. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and practices; it’s polite to greet with 'As-salamu alaykum.' Public Transport: Do give up your seat to the elderly; don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a handshake; avoid overly personal questions. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like brik and couscous; don’t refuse food or drink offered to you, as it is seen as disrespectful.

To experience Midoun like a local, visit the souks (markets) for authentic crafts and fresh produce. Engage with local vendors, who are often eager to share stories. Try to learn a few phrases in Arabic or French, as it helps build rapport. Don’t miss the nearby beaches, which are less crowded than those in Houmt Souk, and consider visiting local cafes to savor traditional mint tea.

Understanding local customs can enhance your experience. During Ramadan, it is respectful to refrain from eating or drinking in public during daylight hours. When visiting homes, it's customary to remove your shoes at the entrance. Always ask before taking photographs of locals or their property.