Where to stay in Tunisia

The concept of hosted homestays is still in an early stage in Tunisia, but can be a fantastic way of experiencing a side of the local culture that may otherwise remain hidden. A number of options do exist, particularly in Tunis, although it’s best to book a fair way in advance. Try www.homestayweb.com or www.homestaybooking.com.

There are two types of hostel in Tunisia. Auberges de jeunesse are part of Hostelling International (www.hihostels.com), of which you have to be a member (this can be arranged on arrival if needed). They offer excellent accommodation in Tunis, Djerba, Bizerte and Nabeul. Maisons des Jeunes are government-run and generally spartan, though some, such as the Hammamet hostel, have good locations.

Several splendid mansions have been restored and refashioned into stylish boutique hotels in and around Tunis, while on Jerba, there are converted funduqs (traditional inns). In Matmata, in southern Tunisia, you can lodge in troglodyte hotels, and farther south, even stay overnight in pre-erected tents in the Saharan desert.