Base Tour

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: Most sight-seeing is done by air-conditioned motorcoach with guides. Moderately challenging walking required at archaeological sites due to rough terrain, steps, and some hills; generally walking in the towns is flat but there are occasional steps and the medinas and markets are crowded. Sidi Bou Said is an exception with a steep hill up to the main village. Guests will also ride the Red Lizard train, climb in and out of 4x4 Jeeps, ride in a horse-drawn buggy, and have the option to ride a camel.

CULTURAL FOCUS: This is a gentle introduction to Arab life with a French twist. The tour is busy at the start when travellers are fresh, and gradually slows down during the second week. Guests are accompanied throughout by a Tunisian local guide and by a Vantage Program Manager. Tunisia is a well-touristed country for Europeans, particularly Germans, Italians, and the British; Eastern European and Russian visitors are becoming more numerous. Food is generally mild, with Italian and French the favorite international cuisines among locals. Several of the meals are buffets, which are well stocked with international selections. Guests will sample typical Tunisian food on included set menu meals, at the home-hosted dinner and buffet dinners.

SPECIAL FACTORS: Temperatures are at their highest in April, May, and September. (Vantage does not travel to Tunisia in the hottest summer months of June, July, August, and September.) Bottled water is provided on motorcoaches on arrival and then on transfer days only. Water is readily available to purchase throughout the country.

PACING: 5 destinations in 14 days, with three 3-night stays (Tunis, Tozeur & Sousse), a 2-night stay on the island of Djerba, and a 1-night stay in Douz. Three long scenic motorcoach transfers between destinations, with stops and sightseeing enroute. Some guests will have an early morning transfer for flights back to the USA on Day 14.

Optional Extension

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: Sightseeing is done by air-conditioned motorcoach , public sightseeing boat, and on foot.There are some steps in and out of buildings and at the Tarxien Temples, a gang-plank up into the Capt. Morgan boat, and stone sidewalks that can be slippery. If you choose to take the Seaplane optional tour over Malta and Gozo, there are steps up into the plane.

CULTURAL FOCUS: Malta has a fascinating allure due to the mix of cultures on the island, and it is regarded as quite magnificent in some places.

SPECIAL FACTORS: Temperatures are at their highest in April, May, and September. Easter is particularly important in Malta, with special processions and church services.

PACING: Pacing is considered gentle, with 3 nights in Sliema, Malta and 1 night in Tunis prior to the flight back to the USA.