Tamerza: Oasis of Serenity in Tunisia's Desert

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaa']
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aadhara]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa haaluk?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa-ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al-inglizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [laa afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [uriidu an araa al-qaima, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا أأكل اللحوم
  [ana la aakul al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtik!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [uriidu an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [al-najda!]
• Go away!ارحل!
  [irhal!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itassil bial-shurtah!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بطبيب!
  [itassil bitalib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضاعت طريقي
  [laqad da'at tariqi]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [uriidu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam sa'ruhu?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuka khafd al-sa'ra?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالواحدة
  [al-wahida]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [al-ashira wal-nisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [al-sabah]
• Afternoonالمساء
  [al-masa']
• Eveningالمساء
  [al-masa']
• Yesterdayالبارحة
  [al-barah]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'a]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين...؟
  [ayn...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al-unwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuka an tureeni (ala al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata yaati al-hafilat al-taliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tadhkirah (ila ....)]

Tamerza, also known as Tameghza, is one of the oldest mountain oases in Tunisia. The area has been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence of early Berber settlements. These indigenous people laid the foundation for a rich cultural tapestry that would evolve over millennia.

During the Roman era, Tamerza was part of the Roman province of Africa Proconsularis. The Romans left an indelible mark on the region, constructing roads, aqueducts, and fortifications. Artifacts from this period, including coins and pottery, have been unearthed, providing a glimpse into the daily life and trade practices of the time.

The Islamic conquest of North Africa in the 7th century brought significant changes to Tamerza. The spread of Islam introduced new architectural styles, religious practices, and social norms. The remnants of ancient mosques and other Islamic structures still stand as a testament to this transformative period.

Under Ottoman rule, Tamerza experienced a period of relative stability and prosperity. The Ottomans fortified the region, ensuring its strategic importance. They also facilitated trade routes that connected Tamerza to other parts of the Ottoman Empire, enriching its cultural and economic landscape.

The French colonization of Tunisia in the late 19th and early 20th centuries brought new administrative and infrastructural developments to Tamerza. French influence is evident in the architectural styles of the period, as well as in the introduction of modern amenities and educational institutions.

One of the most dramatic events in Tamerza’s recent history was the devastating flood of 1969. Heavy rains caused the Oued El Hadef river to overflow, leading to widespread destruction. The old village of Tamerza was abandoned as residents relocated to a newly built settlement nearby. The ruins of the old village remain a poignant reminder of this natural disaster.

Today, Tamerza is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning landscapes, including palm groves, waterfalls, and canyon-like gorges. Efforts have been made to preserve its historical sites while promoting sustainable tourism. Visitors can explore the remnants of ancient civilizations, hike through scenic trails, and experience the unique blend of cultures that define this remarkable oasis.

Tamerza is located in the Tozeur Governorate of Tunisia. The closest international airport is Tozeur-Nefta International Airport, approximately 70 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Tamerza. There are no direct public transportation options, so planning your journey in advance is recommended.

Within Tamerza, the most convenient way to get around is by car. Rental cars are available in Tozeur, and taxis can also be hired for day trips. Walking is feasible for exploring the immediate area, but for visiting nearby attractions like the Tamerza Waterfalls, a vehicle is recommended.

The official currency in Tunisia is the Tunisian Dinar (TND). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Tozeur, so it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to Tamerza.

Tamerza is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Tamerza has a low crime rate, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 197 for police assistance and 190 for medical emergencies. The nearest medical facilities are located in Tozeur, approximately an hour's drive away. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Tozeur where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your shoulders and knees when visiting 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. A slight nod of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Tamerza like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Tunisian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area’s history and culture. Don't miss the Tamerza Waterfalls and the abandoned old village, which offer unique insights into the region's past. For a unique experience, take a guided tour to explore the surrounding desert landscapes and ancient ruins.