La Marsa: The Jewel of Tunis' Coastline

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [la]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [a3rifa]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhir. wa anta?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتكلم الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatakallam 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 al-qaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la akl al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأود أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [awad an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [al-najdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itasil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [itasil bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [urid an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarrag]
• How much is it?كم هو ثمنه؟
  [kam huwa thamanuh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك تخفيض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk takhfid al-si'r?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [al-sa'ah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشر والنصف
  [al-ashir wal-nisf]
• Morningصباح
  [sabah]
• Afternoonمساء
  [masa]
• Eveningمساء
  [masa]
• Yesterdayالبارحة
  [al-barahah]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaniya]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'a]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين يوجد...؟
  [ayn yujad...?]
• 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 yumkinuk an tarini (ala al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata yati al-hafila al-taliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tazkirah (ila ...)]

La Marsa, located along the Mediterranean coast, has a history that dates back to ancient times. The area was known as 'Marsa' in Arabic, meaning 'port' or 'harbor', highlighting its significance in maritime trade. The Phoenicians and later the Romans utilized this coastal location for trade and fishing, establishing it as a vital port in the region.

During the Ottoman Empire's reign in the 16th century, La Marsa became a favored retreat for the wealthy elites of Tunis. The area saw the construction of opulent villas and palaces, reflecting the architectural styles of the time. The Ottoman influence is evident in the local culture, with traditional coffee houses and vibrant bazaars that continue to attract both residents and tourists.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries marked a significant transformation for La Marsa during the French protectorate. The French established a series of modern infrastructures, including roads and public buildings, which integrated La Marsa into the wider Tunis metropolitan area. This period also saw the establishment of beach resorts and leisure activities, making La Marsa a popular destination for both locals and European visitors.

Following Tunisia's independence in 1956, La Marsa experienced considerable urbanization and development. The area became a cultural hub, with a blend of traditional Tunisian and contemporary influences shaping its identity. The establishment of art galleries, cultural festivals, and local markets has made La Marsa a vibrant neighborhood that celebrates its rich heritage while embracing modernity.

In recent years, La Marsa has emerged as a center for the arts and culture in Tunisia. The neighborhood hosts various cultural events, including music festivals and art exhibitions, showcasing local talent and international artists. The picturesque waterfront, combined with historic sites and a lively atmosphere, continues to draw visitors, making La Marsa a key player in the cultural landscape of Tunis.

La Marsa is well-connected to the rest of Tunis. You can reach La Marsa by taking the TGM (Tunis-Goulette-Marsa) train from Tunis city center, which takes about 20-30 minutes. Buses and shared taxis are also available from various neighborhoods in Tunis, including the Medina and Carthage, making it easy to access this coastal area.

Once in La Marsa, the best way to get around is on foot, as many attractions are close to each other. The TGM train also serves La Marsa and can be used to travel along the coast. Bicycles can be rented from local shops for a leisurely ride along the waterfront. Local taxis are available, but it is advisable to agree on a fare before starting your journey.

La Marsa is generally safe for tourists, but it is wise to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, especially near the beach. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded places. Stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

In case of emergency, dial 19 for police assistance and 71 340 100 for medical emergencies. Local hospitals and pharmacies are available throughout La Marsa. It is advisable to have travel insurance to cover any potential medical costs. Familiarize yourself with the locations of local hospitals upon arrival.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local mosques. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs; be mindful when taking photographs in religious sites. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for the elderly; don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with 'Salam' (peace) and a warm smile; don't be overly familiar with strangers. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as brik and seafood; don’t refuse hospitality, as it may offend your hosts.

To experience La Marsa like a local, visit the local markets for fresh seafood and produce. Engage with local cafe culture by enjoying a coffee at one of the many seaside cafes. Try to attend local events or festivals if your visit coincides with them. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the nearby ruins of Carthage and the picturesque village of Sidi Bou Saïd, which are easily accessible.

Tunisia is a Muslim country, so it is essential to be respectful of local customs. When greeting someone, a handshake is common, but wait for the other person to extend their hand first. During Ramadan, be mindful of eating or drinking in public during daylight hours as it may be considered disrespectful. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people.

Public transport in La Marsa is affordable. A ticket on the TGM train costs around 1 TND (Tunisian Dinar), while bus fares are similarly priced. Taxis operate on a meter, and a typical ride within La Marsa may cost between 5-10 TND. Renting a bicycle is also a cost-effective option for exploring the area.