My 100th country odyssey continued as we headed on a train south out of Tunis, Tunisia’s capital city. We were heading for the coastal town of Monastir and were pleasantly surprised. As well as being my 100th country, Tunisia was also the first place I decided to try couchsurfing. Our host in Monastir was Wicem and after meeting him at Monastir train station, we headed out to explore the sights of this surprising city.
Monastir, is a city on the central coast of Tunisia, in the Sahel area. Traditionally a fishing port, Monastir is now a major tourist resort. Its population is about 104,535.
Above photo credit: looklex.
1. Shrine and Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba
This shrine is the reason alone as to why you should visit Habib Bourguiba. Being his home town here in Monastir, Habib’s shrine, mausoleum and museum is a must visit. You’ll get your bags checked on the way in but be ready for a treat.
Outside the Habib Bourguiba shrine
Quite simply, as far as Tunisian Independence goes (dating back to 1956) Habib was the man at the forefront of the whole movement. In fact Habib Bourguiba was the First ever Tunisian citizen. When the country became independent in 1956, he had the identity card number 1.
You also see Habib’s shrine and a mini museum dedicated to his life.
2. Monastir Fort
Sitting proudly by the ocean sits Monastir Fort. Well worth a jaunt for great views and historic architectural relevance.
3. The Old Mosque
Monastir like all Tunisian cities has quite a few Mosques, but my favourite was the Old Mosque down by the harbour. Religion stripped down to a building to practice it in.
The Old Mosque in Monastir, Tunisia
4. Monastir Harbour
Monastir Harbour reminded me of my hometown. The fact is, both Bangor in Northern Ireland and Monastir have an elaborate Marina complex by the sea. The restaurants and cafes around it are licensed and can be pricey.
Gorgeous day at Monastir Harbour, Tunisia
5. Monastir Medina
As with my top sights in Kairouan, the Medina features again. Every Tunisian city has one and Monastirs is your usual mix of tiny poky streets within walls and a Mosque inside it.
And, well, the views of the harbor are beautiful!
On a negative note, Tunisia is a disorganised country. The public transport networks are horrendous and their national airline carrier, Tunis Air are the worst airline company I have ever flown with in my life. Not only did they lose my baggage, but their check in situation is appauling, and their website doesn’t allow flight bookings either. Take the hint and DO NOT fly with Tunis Air.
Jonny Blair is a self confessed traveling nomad who founded and blogs at Don’t Stop Living. He sees every day as an adventure. Since leaving behind his home town of Bangor in Northern Ireland ten years ago he has traveled to all seven continents, working his way through various jobs and funding it all with hard work and an appetite for travel. Don’t Stop Living, a lifestyle of travel’ contains over 1,000 stories and tips from his journeys round the globe. He wants to show others how easy it is to travel the world, give them some ideas and encourage them to do the same but most of all he aims to constantly live a lifestyle of travel. He is currently based in Hong Kong and on Twitter @jonnyblair.
