Sfax: The Hidden Gem of Tunisia

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aadhra]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa halik?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. 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
  [uridu an ara alqaima, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul allahm]
• Cheers!صحتين!
  [sahhtayn]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [uridu an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!مساعدة!
  [musaa'da!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atassil bilshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [atassil bittabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mariid]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [uridu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatlau]
• How much is it?كم هو ثمنه؟
  [kam huwa thamanu?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuka khafd alsu'ur?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaa'at alwaahida]
• Half past (10)الساعة العاشرة والنصف
  [alsaa'at al'ashira walnisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [assabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [adhuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [waahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnaan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaniya]
• 9تسعة
  [tisa'a]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين هو/هي...؟
  [ayn huwa/hyy...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al'anaan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuka an tureeni (ala alkharita)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى القادم (الحافلة)؟
  [mata alqadim (alhafilah)?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tazkirah (ila ....)]

Sfax, located on the eastern coast of Tunisia, was founded in 849 AD on the ruins of the ancient Roman town of Taparura. The city quickly flourished as a vital center for agriculture, trade, and fishing due to its strategic location on the Mediterranean Sea.

During the 10th and 11th centuries, Sfax came under the rule of the Fatimid Caliphate and later, the Zirid dynasty. This period was marked by the construction of the city's iconic medina, which still stands today as a testament to its medieval heritage. The Great Mosque, built in the 9th century and later expanded, is a key architectural highlight from this era.

In the 12th century, Sfax briefly fell under Norman control before being recaptured by the Almohads and later the Hafsids. The Hafsid period (13th to 16th centuries) was a time of economic prosperity and cultural development for Sfax, as the city became known for its skilled artisans and bustling markets.

In 1574, Sfax became part of the Ottoman Empire, which brought about significant changes in the city's administration and infrastructure. The Ottomans fortified the city walls and built new structures, including baths and caravanserais, which enhanced Sfax's status as a regional hub for commerce and trade.

The late 19th century saw Tunisia, including Sfax, fall under French control as part of the French Protectorate established in 1881. This period introduced modern infrastructure, including railways and port facilities, transforming Sfax into a key industrial and commercial center. However, this era also saw significant resistance from local populations, culminating in the struggle for independence.

During World War II, Sfax was a strategic objective due to its port and transportation links. The city witnessed significant military action during the North African Campaign, particularly during Operation Pugilist in 1943 when Allied forces fought to liberate Tunisia from Axis control. The war left lasting scars on the city, but also paved the way for post-war reconstruction and development.

After Tunisia gained independence in 1956, Sfax embarked on a path of rapid modernization and growth. The city expanded its industrial base, particularly in phosphate processing and olive oil production, becoming an economic powerhouse in the region. Today, Sfax is known not only for its rich history but also for its vibrant cultural scene and dynamic economy.

Sfax is located in the southeastern part of Tunisia. The city is served by Sfax–Thyna International Airport (SFA), which offers flights to and from various destinations in Europe and North Africa. Alternatively, you can fly into Tunis-Carthage International Airport (TUN) in Tunis, the capital city, and then take a domestic flight, train, or bus to Sfax. The train from Tunis to Sfax takes about 4 hours and provides a comfortable and scenic journey.

In Sfax, you can get around using taxis, which are plentiful and relatively inexpensive. The city also has a network of public buses and minibuses (louages) that connect various parts of the city and neighboring towns. For short distances, walking is a viable option, especially in the Medina and central areas. Renting a car is another option if you prefer to explore the surrounding regions at your own pace.

The official currency in Tunisia is the Tunisian Dinar (TND). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available throughout Sfax, making it convenient to withdraw cash as needed. It is also a good idea to have some smaller denominations for everyday transactions.

Sfax is generally a safe city for tourists, but as with any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded places like markets. The Medina can be busy and disorienting, so stay alert. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always recommended.

In case of emergency, dial 197 for the police and 190 for medical emergencies. Sfax has several hospitals and clinics that offer medical assistance. Pharmacies are also available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Knowing a few basic phrases in French or Arabic can also be helpful in emergency situations.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting mosques, dress conservatively and remove your shoes. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Avoid eating or drinking on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake; it is customary. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Avoid public displays of affection, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Sfax like a local, visit the Medina, where you can explore traditional markets (souks) and buy local crafts and produce. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their city. Don't miss trying local dishes such as 'brik' and 'lablabi.' For a unique experience, visit the El Jem Amphitheatre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located a short drive from Sfax. Additionally, consider taking a day trip to the Kerkennah Islands for a relaxing escape.