Sousse: The Pearl of the Sahel

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aadhara]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa haluk?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa'ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatakallam al'injlizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد رؤية القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid ru'ya alqaima, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la akul allaham]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد الدفع، من فضلك
  [urid aldaff, min fadlik]

• Help!مساعدة!
  [musa'ada!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [insarf!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itassil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [itassil bitalib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت
  [liqad dalalt]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد شراء...
  [urid shira...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatalla]
• How much is it?كم الثمن؟
  [kam althaman?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk takhfiz alsar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaa'a alwahida]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al'ashira walnusf]
• Morningالصباح
  [assabah]
• Afternoonبعد الظهر
  [ba'd aldhuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [saba'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tase'a]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين هو/هي...؟
  [ayn hu/hyi...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al'unnwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tureeni (ala alkharyta)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى الحافلة القادمة؟
  [mata alhafilat alqadima?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tathkira (ila ...)]

Sousse, known in antiquity as Hadrumetum, was founded by the Phoenicians in the 11th century BCE. It quickly became a major trading hub due to its strategic coastal location, serving as an important link between the Mediterranean and the African hinterlands.

During the Roman era, Hadrumetum flourished as a prominent city in the province of Africa Proconsularis. It gained significance not only for its agricultural richness but also as a vital military and naval base. The city was heavily involved in the Punic Wars, siding with Rome during the conflicts with Carthage.

Following the decline of the Roman Empire, Hadrumetum came under Byzantine control in the 6th century CE. The Byzantines fortified the city, developing it as a stronghold against the Vandals and later the Arab invaders. The remnants of Byzantine architecture are still visible in the region.

In the 7th century, Sousse fell to the Arab forces during their expansion across North Africa. It was renamed Sūsa and became part of the burgeoning Islamic world. The city was integrated into the Umayyad and then the Abbasid Caliphates, which brought about significant cultural and architectural developments.

During the 9th century, Sousse became one of the most important cities under the Aghlabid dynasty, which ruled Ifriqiya. The construction of the Ribat of Sousse, a fortified Islamic monastery, during this period is a testament to the city's strategic and religious importance. The Ribat remains one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in the Muslim world.

In the 12th century, Sousse was briefly occupied by the Normans of Sicily before being recaptured by the Almohads and later becoming part of the Hafsid dynasty's territory. During Hafsid rule, Sousse continued to prosper as a center of commerce and learning, evidenced by its thriving medina, which retains much of its medieval character.

Sousse came under Ottoman control in the 16th century, becoming part of the Ottoman province of Tunisia. The city benefited from the stability provided by Ottoman rule and saw the construction of numerous mosques, madrasas, and other public buildings that enriched its architectural heritage.

In 1881, Tunisia became a French protectorate, marking the beginning of a significant European influence on Sousse. The French introduced modern infrastructure, including railways and ports, which facilitated the growth of the city's economy. However, this period also saw the rise of nationalist movements seeking independence.

Following Tunisia's independence in 1956, Sousse emerged as a key city in the new republic. The city has since developed into a major tourist destination, renowned for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant culture. The medina of Sousse, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, continues to attract visitors from around the world.

Sousse is accessible via Habib Bourguiba International Airport, located about 20 km from the city. The airport serves various international and domestic flights. Alternatively, Tunis-Carthage International Airport, around 140 km away, offers more flight options. From either airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use airport shuttle services to reach Sousse. The city is also well-connected by train and bus services from Tunis and other major cities in Tunisia.

Local transportation in Sousse includes taxis, buses, and louages (shared taxis). Taxis are metered and relatively inexpensive, making them a convenient option for getting around the city. Buses are a more economical choice, with routes covering most of Sousse. Louages provide a quick way to travel to nearby towns and cities. For a more immersive experience, consider renting a bicycle or walking, especially within the Medina, where many attractions are located close to each other.

The official currency in Tunisia is the Tunisian Dinar (TND). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but cash is preferred in smaller shops and local markets. ATMs are readily available throughout Sousse, and it's advisable to carry some cash for convenience. Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and authorized exchange offices.

Sousse is generally safe for tourists, but it is wise to take standard precautions. Avoid isolated areas after dark and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. The Medina is a popular spot for tourists and can be crowded, so be vigilant against pickpockets. Specific areas with higher crime rates include the outskirts of the city and some poorly lit neighborhoods. Always use registered taxis and avoid accepting rides from strangers.

In case of an emergency, dial 197 for police assistance, 190 for medical emergencies, and 198 for fire services. Major hospitals in Sousse include Farhat Hached University Hospital and Sahloul Hospital, both of which provide comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are widely available, and many operate 24/7. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. Men should wait for women to initiate handshakes. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Sousse like a local, visit the traditional markets (souks) in the Medina, where you can buy spices, textiles, and crafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and eager to share their culture. Try the local cuisine at family-run restaurants or street stalls. Don't miss the Ribat of Sousse, an ancient fortress offering stunning views of the city. For a unique experience, take a stroll along the Corniche, a seaside promenade popular with locals.