The Enchanting Tunisian Sahara: A Desert Wonderland

• Helloسلام
  [Salam]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [Wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [Naam]
• Noلا
  [La]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [Min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [Shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [A'dhra]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [Kif halak?]
• 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 رؤية القائمة، من فضلك
  [Aridu ru'ya al-qaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا أتناول اللحم
  [Ana la atnawal al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [Fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [Aridu an adfa', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [Al-najdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [Insarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [Itasal bil-shurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [Itasal bil-tabib!]
• I'm lostضاعت طريقي
  [Da'at tariqi]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [Ana mariid]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [Aridu an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [Ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [Kam si'ruh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [Hatha ghalin jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [Hal yumkinuka khafd al-si'ur?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [Kam al-sa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [Al-sa'ah al-wahidah]
• Half past (10)العاشرة والنصف
  [Al-'ashirah wa al-nisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [Al-sabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [Al-dhuhur]
• Eveningالمساء
  [Al-masa']
• Yesterdayالبارحة
  [Al-barihah]
• Todayاليوم
  [Al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [Ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [Wahid]
• 2اثنين
  [Ithnayn]
• 3ثلاثة
  [Thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [Arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [Khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [Sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [Sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [Thamaniah]
• 9تسعة
  [Tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [Asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين...
  [Ayna...]
• 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 tarini (ala al-kharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى القادم (الحافلة)؟
  [Mata al-qadim (al-hafilah)?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [Tazkirah (ila ...)]

The Berber tribes, also known as Amazigh, were the earliest inhabitants of the Tunisian Sahara. Their settlements date back to prehistoric times, with evidence of their presence found in rock art and ancient artifacts. The Berbers were known for their unique culture, language, and architectural styles, which include the distinctive underground homes of Matmata.

During the Roman Empire, the region that is now the Tunisian Sahara was an important part of the province of Africa Proconsularis. The Romans introduced advanced agricultural techniques, built roads, and established military outposts. Remnants of Roman architecture, such as the amphitheater in El Djem, bear witness to this period of prosperity and integration into the Roman world.

In the 7th century, the Arab conquest brought Islam to the Tunisian Sahara. This period marked a significant cultural and religious transformation as the Berber tribes gradually converted to Islam. The introduction of Arabic language and Islamic customs deeply influenced the region's cultural and social fabric. The Ksar Ouled Soltane and other fortified granaries (ksour) were built during this period, showcasing the blend of Berber and Arab architectural styles.

The Ottoman Empire controlled the Tunisian Sahara from the 16th to the 19th centuries. This era saw the establishment of new trade routes and the fortification of key towns. The Ottomans also introduced administrative changes and military garrisons. The legacy of Ottoman rule is still visible in the region's architecture, including the medina of Tozeur with its distinctive brickwork.

In the late 19th century, Tunisia became a French protectorate. The French presence in the Tunisian Sahara led to the development of infrastructure such as railways and roads, aimed at exploiting the region's natural resources. The colonial period also brought about significant social and economic changes. The influence of French culture can still be seen in the architecture and urban planning of Saharan towns like Douz and Tataouine.

Following Tunisia's independence from France in 1956, the Tunisian Sahara experienced a period of modernization and development. The government invested in tourism, promoting the region's unique landscapes and cultural heritage. The Sahara's oases, such as those in Nefta and Tozeur, became popular tourist destinations. Efforts to preserve traditional Berber culture and promote sustainable tourism have been ongoing, reflecting the region's rich history and vibrant future.

The Tunisian Sahara is accessible from various entry points in Tunisia. The nearest international airport is Djerba-Zarzis International Airport (DJE), which is well-connected with major European cities. From Djerba, you can take a domestic flight to Tozeur-Nefta International Airport (TOE), which is situated closer to the Sahara. Alternatively, you can reach the Sahara by road from major Tunisian cities like Tunis or Sfax. The drive offers a scenic view of Tunisia's diverse landscapes.

Once in the Tunisian Sahara, transportation options include rental cars, 4x4 vehicles for desert tours, and local buses. 4x4 vehicles are highly recommended for navigating the desert terrain. Organized tours often provide transportation and guides, making it easier to explore the area. Taxis are available in towns and cities, but always agree on a fare beforehand. Camel rides are a traditional and popular way to experience the desert.

The official currency in Tunisia is the Tunisian Dinar (TND). Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and some restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in rural areas and smaller establishments. ATMs are available in larger towns such as Tozeur, Douz, and Kebili. It is recommended to exchange money at official exchange bureaus or banks.

The Tunisian Sahara is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid traveling alone in remote areas, especially at night. Stay in well-populated and well-lit areas. Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure. Currently, there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always stay vigilant.

In case of emergency, dial 197 for police assistance and 190 for medical emergencies. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. In towns like Tozeur and Douz, there are medical facilities available. Pharmacies are also accessible for minor health issues. For more serious conditions, you may need to travel to a larger city for better medical facilities.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas and when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes when entering a mosque. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow 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 the Tunisian Sahara like a local, visit the markets (souks) to buy traditional crafts and local produce. Engage with the local Bedouin communities, who are often willing to share stories about their nomadic lifestyle. Don’t miss visiting the Star Wars filming locations in Matmata and the ancient troglodyte dwellings. For a unique experience, attend a traditional desert festival such as the Festival of the Sahara in Douz.