 Article: Christopher George A stone’s throw away from the UK, with just a two and a half hour flight, Tunisia proves to be a bolthole for relaxation. With city life becoming ever more challenging, escaping the rat-race to recharge the batteries, doesn’t have to cost an arm or a leg - if you head in the right direction. Guaranteed sun all year around, the temperature is more constant than the rest of the Mediterranean, even out of season, and prices for luxury hotels and spas are well within the budget traveller or spa seeker’s range. If you’re like 55employees and just need to get away from work, to actually do some work, take a tip from us… A long weekend, or preferably a week, at a retreat will get that next commission finished without the usual petty distractions. And in between the gruelling tapping at the computer, the pool, sun, world famous Thalasso spas and therapeutic treatments, are guaranteed to get you inspired and working a lot faster than in the dull UK climate, where you struggle to get out of bed and crack the ice on the carpet. Believe me, a quick dip in the pool at 8am really does promote some hardy work before a buffet breakfast. Sometimes, it’s not all about racing around on a vacation, and that’s just what we headed to Tunisia for, to get some work finished, eat well, get some sun and see some sights. This idyllic resort of Cartharge, on the Mediterranean coast has a host of luxury hotels with 5 star services. And most importantly sun and swimming in abundance! If like 55employees, you sway between sordid and glamtastic; you should look to book into the Royal Kenz Hotel for a truly glamorous experience. One of the benefits of the Royal Kenz, is that it is an all-inclusive hotel. So even having to think about food or your alcohol intake becomes one less burden (anything for an easy life). The Royal Kenz Hotel also boasts an impressive Thalasso spa with a huge natural saltwater swimming pool, in line with top Europeans resorts, but at a fraction of the price. Also a further two outdoor pools set in the lush surroundings of manicured grounds, along with a host of bars and entertainment areas. Leaving here was not hugely necessary- which was handy, as we could crack on with the mounting editing that comes with publishing a magazine as incredible as 55pages. Moving between the kitsch bars and sunshades was our only dilemma! After a turbulent few years around the globe, it’s good to see that Tunisia is taking security seriously, by screening guests and visitors, with a police presence visible right throughout the country. Reassuring for visitors and locals. Where to visit. The beautiful fishing village of Prot El Kantaoui, 15 minutes from resort, has a range of family run restaurants, serving fresh, locally caught fish. I was slightly concerned with my piscatorial nature, that the choice of food would be too heavy with meat options. But I was pleasantly surprised at the delicious vegetable dishes on offer. For great fish and vegetarian options visit Restaurant `La Daurade’ located in the port, directly opposite the marina. Prot El Kantaoui also offers a good range of bars and evening entertainment if you are looking for some night time action. Sidi Bou Said. Perched on the top of the cliffs, with spectacular view over the Mediterranean Sea, wonderful shopping at very reasonable prices. Traffic free, very relaxing with some 5 star restaurants, to simple coffee and lunch cafes. Visit Café des Delices, perched in the mountain with views over to marina and beyond. Take lunch in the Marina at Le Pirate, very Ibiza and beautiful foods and Tunisian wines. This is a truly stunning trip for a long lunch, spot of bartering and a leisurely saunter for a few hours. Medina To escape the hot sun and traffic of this busy city, there is nowhere better then the Medina. Set in the old town, and once at the foot of the Mediterranean Sea, it is a haven of tranquillity shade and shopping. Dating back to 698AD, the Median now is a main attraction for visitors and locals. With lots to see and shop for, as well as great coffee bars and restaurants, its can take hours to get around or find your direction after getting lost! Shopping varies from general tourist gifts to traditional new and vintage jewellery, antiques, leather goods, shoes, tiles and the fabulous Tunisian birdcages. But if you’re tempted to buy the bird cages, (and anyone in their right mind will!!) Just make sure you don’t go all the way and get a human size one. It will never get on the plane, so resist that temptation; I should know, I tried it…. FACTBOX Royal Kenz Hotel Restaurant La Daurade - Port El Kantaoul 4089 Hammam Sousse Tunisian National Tourist Office: www.discovertunisia.com/en Tunisair: www.tunisair.com
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