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In This Issue LIFESTYLE
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Places El Djem: Roman Amphitheatre and World Heritage Site International Festival of Symphonic Music
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Healthy Living Water: The Beverage Your Body Needs Most Health Matters How to Have Great Skin Tunisian & Mediterranean Cooking Tunisian Style Chicken with Pumpkin and Chickpeas
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Fashion Scottish Fashion Awards 2010 in association with VOGUE.com
REGULARS 62
Monthly Horoscope
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The Birthday File
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Famous Days in Tunisia
LiveTunisia.com
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August 2010 BOOKS 37
The Lonely Planet Guide to Tunisia MUSIC
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Shakira : She Wolf
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FEATURES 42
Tunisia Tourist Map
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Places of interest in Tunisia
HOMESTYLE 50
Choosing the Right Colour Scheme
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BUSINESS 54
The European Union funded Roman Empire Common Heritage Project in Italy, Rumania, Russia and Tunisia
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Business Directory
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Welcome, To the eleventh issue of our monthly digital magazine brought to you by LiveTunisia.com. We have re-designed the layout into a more traditional A4 magazine style format, but still retained features which allow easy reading online. However, should you wish to print a page or an article, the new layout is specially designed to make it easy to print. In this issue we take a closer look at El Djem, not forgetting the fantastic music festival, and highlight the importance of water to our health, particularly in this most unbelievably hot month. We also continue with our regular homestyle pages, Tunisian cuisine and business directory, plus introduce new sections on books and music. For those of you visiting Tunisia, there is our regular tourist guide and map, with a quick look at the main places of interest, so there really is something for everyone.... With our interactive magazine, you can access further information instantly by clicking on any items of interest, turn pages, adjust the size, etc. We hope you enjoy our magazine and it’s features, and are always interested in your comments and feedback, which you can send to us at ed@livetunisia.net. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook on which you can now access our page directly at . . . . . www.facebook.com/essentialtunisia Please “Suggest to Your Friends” to help get the word out! Thankyou.
Ed
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LIFESTYLE Places El Djem (sometimes El Jem) (Latin Name: Thysdrus) is a town in the Mahdia Governorate of Tunisia, with a small population of around 20,000. It is more or less equi-distant from Sousse and Sfax, lying just off the main road that links those two towns. El Djem was one of the most important towns in North Africa after Carthage (now to be found in the suburbs of modern Tunis) and is principally famous as home to some of the most impressive Roman remains in Africa. The city was built, like almost all Roman settlements in Tunisia, on a former Punic settlement. In a less arid climate than today's, Roman Thysdrus prospered especially in the 2nd century, when it became an important centre of olive oil manufacturing for export to the Roman Empire. It was also the seat of a Christian bishop which is still occupied by a titular Roman Catholic bishop today. By the early 3rd century AD, when the now famous amphitheatre was built, and which to this day still dominates the modern town, Thysdrus rivalled Hadrumetum (modern-day Sousse) as the second city of Roman North Africa, after Carthage. El Djem is famous for its amphitheatre (often incorrectly called "a colosseum"), capable of seating 35,000 spectators. Only Rome's Colosseum (about 45,000 spectators) and the ruined theatre of Capua are larger.
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El Djem
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LIFESTYLE The amphitheatre at El Djem was built by the Romans under proconsul Gordian, who was actually acclaimed Emperor at Thysdrus in 238.
Amphitheatre: To be specific, an amphitheatre is an open-air venue, often built by the ancient Romans, where large central performance spaces were surrounded by ascending seating, and were commonly used for spectator sports. They were given this name because their shape resembled that of two theatres joined together. The best-known amphitheatre in the world is called the Colosseum in Rome, which is more correctly termed the Flavian amphitheatre after the Flavian dynasty who had it built. The aforementioned Gordian had entered the Roman Senate relatively late in his life and as a military man, commanded the Legion IIII Scythica stationed in Syria. He served as governor of Roman Britain in 216 and gained popularity by the magnificent games and shows he produced. During the reign of Alexander Severus, Gordian (who was by then in his late sixties) was made Consul in 223 and then Governor of the African province, but soon after, Maximinus Thrax killed emperor Alexander Severus in Germania Inferior and assumed the throne.
Gordian I It was mainly used for gladiator shows and chariot races (similar to those immortilised in Ben-Hur).
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Maximinus was not a popular emperor and universal discontent roused by his oppressive rule culminated in a revolt in Africa in 238 led by Gordian.
El Djem
When Gordian entered the city of Carthage with the overwhelming support of the population and local political leaders, the senate confirmed him as the new emperor and most of the provinces gladly sided with the new order. However, Capelianus, governor of Numidia and a loyal supporter of Maximinus Thrax,
renewed his alliance to the former emperor and invaded the Africa province with the only legion stationed in the region, and other veteran units. Gordian II (son of the now Gordian I), at the head of a militia army of untrained soldiers, lost the Battle of Carthage and was killed, and Gordian took his own life by hanging himself. The Gordians had reigned only thirty-six days.
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El Djem
Following the abortive revolt, Roman troops loyal to the Emperor Maximinus Thrax destroyed the city, and from that moment on, it never really recovered it´s once great status.
The ruins of the amphitheatre were declared a World Heritage Site in 1979. More recently it has been used for filming some of the scenes from the Oscar winning film Gladiator.
However, until the 17th century, the amphitheatre remained more or less whole. From then on its stones were used for building the nearby village of El Djem and some were transported to the Great Mosque in Kairouan.
Another little bynote to the history of the area is that during World War II a major military airfield was located near El Djem, used by the German Luftwaffe. It was attacked on numerous occasions and later used by the United States Army Twelfth Air Force as a transport field. There are few, if any, remains of the airfield today with the land being returned to agricultural uses outside of the city.
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LIFESTYLE Today, El Djem is a relatively small town and everything that may be of interest to the visitor can be reached on foot. A ticket to the amphitheatre also includes entrance to the museum which has a selection of mosaics and a part restored Roman Villa.
Visit the basement of the amphitheatre beneath the centre of the arena and view the rooms where the animals for the fights would once would have been caged, and see the sloping passages that allowed gladiators and animals to be safely brought into the galleries below the arena.
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El Djem The main gallery is now exposed to view, but would originally have been enclosed within a wooden covering. Although not as highly decorated as some amphitheatres built around this time, much of the original decoration has survived, even after part destruction caused by cannon fire in 1695 and again in 1850 when troops under the Bey of Tunis put down rebel forces holding out in the amphitheatre. The amphitheatre itself is best seen at dawn or sunset, and this is also the best time for taking photographs. While the grounds may be closed at this hour, photographs of the site from the surrounding streets are certainly possible. If you are travelling by car head south from Sousse (north from Sfax) for about an hour. The amphitheatre is clearly visible as you approach the town and the turn off well signed.
Train is also a very convenient method as the trains are comfortable and the travel is short. You would be able to take an early morning train, take a few hours to see El Jem, and take the afternoon train back. There are a large number of cafes focused on tourists near to the entrance of the site, but accomodation options are limited. Most visitors to El Jem visit as a day trip from the nearby towns of Sousse or Sfax, or as part of an organized tour or excursion.
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LIFESTYLE El Djem’s International Festival of Symphonic Music As world renowned international cultural festivals go, El Djem’s International Festival of Symphonic Music is one of the biggest. This annual summer festival attracts classical musicians from all over the world who travel to El Djem to perform at the magnificent ancient amphitheatre. Built around the year 200 by ancient Rome, it was the scene of games and sports , often cruel and bloody, but today it is replaced by the haunting strains of a concerto or the beauty of a fugue. With its imposing structure and outstanding acoustics, this is a stunning venue for a festival of classical music. While the symphonic melodies are intoxicating , some visitors come solely for the venue.
The International Festival of Symphony Music El Djem was founded in 1985 ,as a festival with the intention to draw an international audience and performers from around the world. The festival draws many Tunisian and foreign music lovers. Those who have the opportunity to come to El Djem during the festival months of July and August each year, can let themselves be seduced by the rich combination of architectural splendor and the beauty of the music. Year after year, the festival has attracted big names from the musical world, clearly as eager to play in such amazing surroundings, as spectators are to enjoy them. The amphitheatre, when lit with candles on a balmy summer evening under a magnificent starry sky, creates a truly beautiful and romantic ambience. The spectacle can be truly amazing and provide the memory of a lifetime.
The Annual El Jem International Symphonic Festival El Jem Amphitheatre, Tunisia. 10 July - 7 August 2010 The El Jem International Symphonic Festival features performances of some of the finest classical works, set in the candle-lit surroundings of the fabulously preserved El Jem Amphitheatre. Year after year, the festival has attracted big names from the musical world.
Website: www.festivaleljem.com
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Drinking Water to Maintain Good Health Not just in the summer but all year round . . .
“many people do not know how much water they really need during a day�
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LIFESTYLE Water The Beverage your Body Needs Most People who do not drink enough water often feel lethargic, have headaches, muscle aches and cramps, yet many people do not know how much water they really need during a day. Although you can get some of your water need from the foods you eat, the best source for water is plain, fresh drinking water. Herbal (non-diuretic) teas, lowsugar soy beverages, rice beverages and milk are also good sources. Fruit juices are OK unless they have added sugar. Sugary soft drinks, canned or dry soups with high levels of sodium, caffeinated coffee or tea, and alcoholic beverages aren't as good. If you are getting enough water, your urine should be very light colored (almost clear) and you probably will be urinating more frequently than you are used to. There are some occasions when drinking too much water can be a problem: If you have any kidney or adrenal problems, or your doctor has you taking diuretics, you need to consult with your doctor about how much water to drink each day. Don't drink all of the water you need per day in one sitting. Divide the amount you need and drink that amount throughout the day. This is especially important if you engage in lots of heavy exercise.
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LIFESTYLE When we were at school, we learned that each molecule of water is made up of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. What we really didn't learn, however, was how much water we needed in order to be healthy human beings. Why We Need to Drink Water Our bodies are estimated to be about 60 to 70% water. Blood is mostly water, and our muscles, lungs, and brain all contain a lot of water. We need to drink water because water is needed to regulate body temperature and to provide the means for nutrients to travel to all our organs. Water also transports oxygen to our cells, removes waste, and protects our joints and organs.
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Signs of Dehydration We lose water through urination, respiration, and by sweating. If you are very active, you lose more water than if you are sedentary. Diuretics such as caffeine and alcohol result in the need to drink more water because they trick our bodies into thinking we have more water than we need. Symptoms of mild dehydration include chronic pains in joints and muscles,lower back pain, headaches, and constipation. A strong odor to your urine, along with a yellow or amber color indicates that you are not getting enough water. (Note that riboflavin, a B Vitamin, will make your urine bright yellow.) Thirst is an obvious sign of dehydration and in fact, you need water long before you feel thirsty.
Drinking Water to Maintain Good Health
How Much Water do we Need to Drink? A good estimate is to take your body weight in pounds and divide that number in half. That gives you the number of ounces of water per day that you need to drink. For example, if you weigh 160 pounds, you should drink at least 80 ounces of water per day. If you exercise you should drink another 8 ounce glass of water for every 20 minutes you are active. If you drink coffee or alcohol, you should drink at least an equal amount of water. When you are traveling on an airplane, it is good to drink 8 ounces of water for every hour you are on board the plane. If you live in an arid climate, you should add another 2 servings per day. As you can see, your daily need for water can add up to quite a lot. The best source of water is plain, pure drinking water. Sodas have a lot of sugar in them and aren't a good source, so if you drink them, they don't count towards your daily amount. Herbal teas that aren't diuretic are fine. Sports drinks contain electrolytes and may be beneficial, just look out for added sugar and calories that you don't need.
Carry A Water Bottle It may be difficult to drink enough water on a busy day. Be sure you have water handy at all times by keeping a bottle for water with you when you are working, traveling, or exercising. If you get bored with plain water, add a bit of lemon or lime for a touch of flavor. There are some brands of flavoured water available, but some of them have sugar or artificial sweeteners which you don't need.
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LIFESTYLE How To Have Great Skin Good health is first noticed on the outside of your body with glowing, clear skin and silky, shiny hair. Great skin is something that nearly everyone can achieve. Firstly be aware that your skin is affected not only by your genes and by your inner nutrition, what you eat and drink, how much you exercise and your general and emotional health and well being but also by how well you take care of it with cleansers and moisturisers. While you can not alter your genes, it is possible to improve your skin by making the necessary adjustments in the areas that you can influence. A healthy diet and regular exercise is recommended for your general good health anyway and will improve your skin tone, but there are a few other ways to ensure good glowing skin.
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If you want your skin to look and feel great, careful cleansing is very important. This should be done first thing in the morning and last thing at night to remove pore-clogging dirt. It's a careful balance that you need to find, if you don't cleanse enough you could find yourself prone to spots and if you cleanse too often you could be stripping away essential oils and be susceptible to dry skin or even eczema. Understanding your skin type (normal, dry or oily) and using a cleanser to match is the best foundation for great looking skin. Remember to rinse your face with warm water after using a cleanser, as any residue will continue to work on the skin and dry it out if not completely removed.
Many people recommend just soap and water but the problem is that soap is not very good at removing makeup because it does not contain enough oils to dissolve the staying power that most cosmetics have today. Also, some soaps can be very drying on your skin and may wash away essential oils. Another reason not to use soap is that it is not matched to the natural balance of our skin as soap is generally alkaline, whilst skin is naturally acidic.
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Great Skin The second step to great outer nutrition for your skin is to tone. Toners are designed to remove any last traces of cleanser, while also helping to tighten and refine pores and prevent the build-up of dead skin cells. After toning, your skin should feel and look revitalised, refreshed and ready to be moisturised. Again you will need to apply a toner that matches your skin type.
The third foundation step is to apply moisturiser to help restore the moisture loss caused by the drying effects of sunlight, central heating, wind, cold and pollution. A good daytime moisturiser would contain a sunscreen and will be easily absorbed into the skin. At night you should use a richer, more nourishing cream, as this is when your skin more readily absorbs moisture. 24
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Despite the plethora of products on the market and the myriad of additives they profess to contain, the most important ingredient of any moisturiser is water. Moisturisers are basically oil and water emulsions which contain a humectant (a substance added to another to make it moist), which attracts water and helps 'fix' it in the upper layers of your skin.
Moisture that is lost from the skin needs to be replaced quickly so that the surface of the skin is kept soft and smooth. The living cells in the layers of your skin need water so that they will not shrivel up and die. A moisturiser can protect the skin by providing a barrier between the skin and the external environment as well as preventing the loss of moisture from the deeper layers of the skin. Moisturisers are particularly recommended for people with dry skin but everyone, even those with oily skin, can benefit from using a moisturiser, you simply need to ensure that you choose the correct moisturiser for your skin type. People with oily skin should choose a moisturiser that hydrates their skin whilst helping to absorb any excess oil.
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LIFESTYLE Ingredients 500g pumpkins , with skin on and seeds in 4 tbsp olive oil 1 large onion , chopped ½ tsp ground ginger ½ tsp ground cinnamon 4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts, each cut into three pieces widthways 400g can whole peeled tomatoes , chopped 1-2 tsp sugar 2-3 tsp harissa 400g can chickpeas , drained and rinsed 3 tbsp chopped coriander
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Tunisian & Mediterranean Cooking Tunisian Style Chicken with Pumpkin & Chickpeas
This is a traditional take on a Tunisian dish, and this fragrantly spiced recipe takes a little over an hour to prepare. Chillies, tomatoes, peppers, aubergine and pumpkins are the most widely used vegetables in Tunisian cooking, and this recipe typically uses two different types as an accompaniment to meat.
Step by step Peel the pumpkin, remove any seeds and fibrous bits and cut the flesh into bitesized pieces. Heat the oil in a large pan and fry the onion for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden. Stir in the ginger, cinnamon and the chicken pieces and cook for 3-5 minutes, turning to brown them slightly all over. Add the tomatoes, sugar and harissa, season and stir well.
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Tunisian Style Chicken with Pumpkin & Chickpeas
Note Pumpkins are a particularly good source of fibre, as well as a range of vitamins and minerals. However, they can have very tough skins, and sometimes a lot of hard work is needed to get into them. Put the pumpkin on a thick teatowel to keep it steady, then use a large strong knife to cut it in half. This can be quite heavy going, so work in sections until you reach the bottom. If the skin is particularly thick, you may even need to hammer the knife in with something heavy. Once one side is cut, turn the pumpkin round and cut down on the other side, until it's split in two. Scoop out the seeds and any stringy parts. If the pumpkin is particularly big, cut it into quarters then, using a small, sharp knife, pare off the skin (unless you plan to roast it, in which case the skin can stay on). Then cut into chunks or wedges as required.
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Tunisian & Mediterranean Cooking Step by step (continued) Add the chickpeas, pumpkin pieces and 4-5 tbsp water. Cover and cook for 20- 30 minutes or until the chicken and pumpkin are tender (the pumpkin releases its own water, but if it becomes too dry, add a drop more during the cooking to give you a juicy sauce). Stir in the chopped coriander before serving. Plate up or serve in a bowl as shown with freshly baked bread. Serves 4-6 persons.
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Nathalie Colin - Creative Director of Swarovski with models wearing Swarovski Scotland's top fashion talent was honoured at the country's most glamorous red carpet event. The fashion world's front row players and A-List celebs alike left LA, London, New York, Paris and Milan for the night and gathered in Glasgow for the fifth anniversary Scottish Fashion Awards in association with Vogue.com. The presence of the great and good of the fashion world once again confirmed the Awards as a globally recognised and revered 'tartan' carpet event, and indeed it is now a fixture on Swarovski's Official Red Carpet Calendar alongside the Oscars, Golden Globes and Cannes Film Festival. Samantha Cameron, wife of the British Prime Minister David Cameron MP, recorded a special congratulatory message, which was screened to guests during the awards ceremony.
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Celebs including chart-topper Diana Vickers, supermodel Jade Parfitt, Paolo Nutini, international pop star Gabriella Cilmi, supermodel David Gandy who flew in from Milan, and a host of other names including Amanda Wakeley, Jonathan Saunders, Graeme Black, Antonio Berardi, Markus Lupfer, Peter Jensen, Nick Ede, John Amabile, John Michie, Atta Yaqub, Jean Johansson, Graeme Armour, Holly Fulton and Louise Gray paraded on the tartan carpet outside the stunning titanium silhouette of the Glasgow Science Centre. Global fashion industry high-flyers and esteemed judges such as, Dolly Jones Editor of Vogue.com, Hilary Alexander Fashion Director of The Daily Telegraph, Paula Reed Style Director Grazia and Brian Duffy President of Ralph Lauren Europe, were all in attendance to see the cream of the homegrown crop honoured for their achievements in the international fashion industry.
FASHION The Oscars of Scottisf Fashion celebrate a triumphant night for the industry as the winners take to the tartan carpet at the Glasgow Science Centre
Brian Duffy said: It is great to be back in Scotland for such an auspicious and indeed very glamorous occasion. I am thoroughly impressed at the caliber of this year's nominees from the textile brands to designers and up and coming talent. The Scottish Fashion Awards provide an important and now international platform for nurturing creative and innovative fashion talents from Scotland. These kind of opportunities are invaluable to up and coming young brands. Being from Glasgow myself, it's incredible see such a diverse range of innovators hailing from Scotland. I was delighted to be part of it as my role as a judge."
Nathalie Colin said: "Joining the jury as Creative Director of Swarovski has been a real honour for me and a responsibility I was delighted to fulfill. Swarovski has always been supportive of emerging talent of which there has been an abundance of this evening, I have been totally impressed by the immense creative talent from the nominees and of course the worthy winners. As we have added the Scottish Fashion Awards to our red carpet calendar it was only fitting that we created a few unique pieces especially for this evening - a Saltire encrusted Kiosque bag, which is one of our Iconic products and a Saltire Nirvana Ring. Having witnessed the glamour and sophistication on the tartan carpet at this wonderful event in Glasgow the Saltire Kiosque bag and Nirvana ring is a perfect homage to the 5th anniversary.
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FASHION Hosted by MTV presenter Laura Whitmore, the event included a VIP dinner and the spectacular runway show from Swarovski. Paris based Nathalie Colin, Creative Director of Swarovski, styled the show, which was its premiere in Europe - quite a coup for this Scottish event. Guests were also treated to a performance from new Scottish pop sensation Alex Gardner at the Galaxy after show party, where they danced until the early hours. Official Sponsors including Swarovski, Bobbi Brown, Toni&Guy, M&S and Mercedes-Benz ensured the event played out in suitable style. With Scotland firmly on the global fashion map, there was a wealth of talent on display from the nominees, who included Scotland's catwalk kings Graeme Black and Jonathan Saunders; rising stars Holly Fulton, Louise Gray and Rachel Barrett; accessories designers Keira Thorley and Bebaroque; legends like Pam Hogg; and home-grown beauty, model Lisa Omand who took the Scottish Model of the Year crown.
MTV’s Laura Whitmore
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The difficult task of crowning the winners came down to a panel of judges made up of the fashion world's most influential figures. Panel of Judges: · · · · · · · · · · ·
Dolly Jones - Editor of Vogue.com Nathalie Colin - Creative Director of Swarovski Hilary Alexander - Fashion Director of The Daily Telegraph Lucy Yeomans - Editor of Harpers Bazaar Amanda Wakeley - Designer Paula Reed - Style Director of Grazia Brian Duffy - President of Ralph Lauren Europe Professor Wendy Dagworthy Head of Fashion and Textiles at RCA, London Brigitte Stepputis - Head of Couture at Vivienne Westwood Richard Walker - Acting Editor in Chief of Herald Group Tessa Hartmann - Founder and Producer of The Scottish Fashion Awards and co-founder of The Scottish Fashion Council
Diana Vickers
The 2010 winners were: · · · · · · · · · · · ·
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Scottish Designer of the Year - sponsored by Vogue.com JONATHAN SAUNDERS Scottish Young Designer of the Year - sponsored by Glasgow: Scotland with Style - HOLLY FULTON Scottish Textile Brand of the Year - sponsored by The Herald ANGELA CASSIDY Scottish Accessory Designer of the Year - sponsored by Swarovski - WILLIAM CHAMBERS Scottish Fashion Icon - sponsored by Galaxy Radio PAOLO NUTINI Scottish Communicator of the Year - sponsored by Glasgow Airport - EILIDH MCASKILL Scottish Model of the Year - sponsored by Toni & Guy LISA OMOND Scottish Retailer of the Year - sponsored by Forth Wines CRUISE Scotland's New Face - sponsored by Boohoo.com TERRI MCGLONE Scottish Graduate of the Year - sponsored by Marks & Spencer JETT SWEENEY International Designer of the Year (for use of a Scottish fabric) sponsored by Mercedes Benz West of Scotland MARKUS LUPFER Scottish Hall of Fame 2010 - sponsored by Hotel Du Vin MALCOLM EDWARDS (session hair stylist)
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FASHION
Gabriella Climi
Iconic doll Barbie also made an appearance in the table centrepiece at the gala VIP dinner in a commissioned Saltire evening gown, courtesy of Mattel. These were auctioned off to raise money for the Princes Trust in Scotland. Tessa Hartmann founder and producer said: "Tonight the Scottish Fashion Awards have once more proudly showcased and celebrated the best of the country's fashion talent, talent that can be seen taking over the industry all over the world, in every role - from models to designers, photographers, hair stylists, textile designers, and more. The event has proved yet again that Scotland's so-called 'fashion moment' is in fact no such thing - Scots are ruling the runways and they're not going anywhere. I am extremely grateful to all our sponsors and international guests for supporting this special anniversary year. Scotland has never seen so much glamour in one night - that's for sure!" Essential Tunisia
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BOOKS The Lonely Planet Guide to Tunisia One of the latest books on Tunisia, guides you through the Sahara on camelback and reveals the best amber-sanded beaches. It'll help you navigate the tangled alleys of the Tunis medina, explore the enchanting Roman ruins of Dougga and hike the Kroumirie Mountains' famous cork oak forests. 76 Detailed & easy to use Maps INCLUDES in-depth chapter exploring the Sahara RELAX with the pick of the best beaches TASTE authentic local cuisine with the expert guide This edition was published in June 2010 and so is one of the more up-todate guidebooks on Tunisia
Available from:
amazon.co.uk Tunisia (Lonely Planet Country Guides) (Paperback - 18 Jun 2010) Donna Wheeler (Author) RRP: £14.99 Price: £11.01 & this item Delivered FREE in the UK with Super Saver Delivery. You Save: £3.98 (27%) In stock. Dispatched from and sold by Amazon.co.uk. Gift-wrap available.
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MUSIC Shakira: She Wolf Shakira really masters electropop on this album, even though she is probably better known as a Rock/Pop singer. This album turns out to be a good set of songs. Twelve tracks to be precise - short but sweet. The best songs on the album are probably Men In This Town, Mon Amour, Gypsy, Good Stuff and Why Wait, all very different in their own way. In fact the album delivers a diverse set of influences from different music cultures music, with a deft and often seductive touch. The new album, despite its many writers and producers, is a surprisingly coherent and consistent body of work. Every song is different, but the songs all go together as one album. The lyrics are smart and really catchy, and every song is so good, they could all be selected as singles. The album can feel a bit too short by modern standards, as only one song reaches four minutes, but this is a vibrant and well delivered piece of work. Unmissable in fact ! 8/10
Also available from Shakira; The 2010 FIFA World Cup Official Song
“Waka Waka� SHAKIRA Feat. FRESHLYGROUND As performed at the opening and closing ceremonies of the World Cup in Johannesburg, South Africa.
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MUSIC
Available from:
amazon.co.uk Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) Shakira Featuring Freshlyground (Artist) | Format: Audio CD Price: ÂŁ4.99 & this item Delivered FREE in the UK
She Wolf Shakira | Format: Audio CD Price: ÂŁ4.99 & this item Delivered FREE in the UK with Super Saver Delivery
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TUNISIA is a beautiful country with many places of interest well worth a visit. The information on these pages is a quick guide to just some of those, but by no means a comprehensive list of all that Tunisia has to offer. TUNISIA is situated on the Mediterranean coast of North Africa, bordered by Algeria in the west and Libya in the south-east. An abrupt southern turn of its shoreline gives Tunisia two faces on the Mediterranean with a coastline 1,148 kilometres in length. Despite its relatively small size, Tunisia has great geographical and climatic diversity. An extension of the Atlas Mountains, traverses Tunisia in the north to the Cape Bon peninsula. The Sahil is along Tunisia's eastern Mediterranean coast famous for its olive groves and beaches. Inland from the Sahil are the Steppes. Much of the southern region is semi-arid and desert leading into the Sahara. TUNIS is the capital of Tunisia, and is divided into the old city, known as the medina, and the new city (ville nouvelle in French). Although located on the Mediterranean coast, it is spared much of the tourist beaches and resorts, which lay to the north and south. TUNIS
Tunisia
Tourist Guide
With a population of over 1,500,000, the city still has the feel of being small and compact.The must-see attractions of the capital are The Souq, which is known as one of the most authentic and hassle-free in all of Northern Africa. Bardo Museum, occupying the 13th century palace of the Ottoman-era ruler and renowned for its extensive collection of Roman mosaics. Cathedral of St. Vincent de Paul. Built in 1882, this is the largest surviving building from the colonial era, in the neoRomanesque style.
TUNIS
Zitouna Mosque
Zitouna Mosque. The largest mosque in Tunisia and an important landmark, dating from the 8th century, although the distinctive square minaret is a later 19th century addition.
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Tourist Guide The ruins of CARTHAGE, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a former city of the Pheonician and Punic periods dating from the 6th Century BC, and are situated 12 km north of Tunis. This was the base of a powerful empire spanning the entire south Mediterranean and home to a population of the order of half a million people. Its most famous general was Hannibal who famously crossed the Alps to battle the Romans. In 146BC the city finally fell to Rome and its destruction ordered by the Senate. The site was later redeveloped by the Romans and Carthage became the capital of the province of Africa. CARTHAGE
SFAX is the country’s second city by virtue of it’s population and it’s prowess as an industrial centre. Situated on the east coast of Tunisia, 270 km south of Tunis, the city was founded in AD 849 and is a thriving Mediterranean port on the Gulf of Gabes. From here, you can also take the ferry to Kerkennah Island where you can wander around in a land, virtually unspoilt by modern standards. 44
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Tourist Guide SOUSSE
SOUSSE is a popular destination, with tourists from Britain, Germany and many East European counties visiting the area. It is one of Tunisia’s oldest cities, and boasts an authentic medina, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated on the Mediterranean coast it has good beaches and many first class hotels. Most of Sousse's sights are located within the medina, the labyrinth which is at the heart of the city. The Great Mosque is a tranquil place despite its location in the middle of the city. Built in 850 AD, it is simple and austere in the Aghlabite style. The Ribat, whilst not as impressive or extensive as the one in Monastir, is a fortified holy site well worth visit. It served as home to a branch of Islamic warriors very similar in nature to the Hospitaller Knights that lived in Rhodes. Climbing to the top of the watch tower affords you fantastic views over the Medina.
MONASTIR is a city situated 165km southeast of Tunis and 24 km east of Sousse, on the eastern Mediterranean coast. It is an ancient city dating from Phonecian times, and it is believed it takes it’s name from the French "monastère" (monastery). It is the site of a busy international airport which caters mainly for tourist flights from Europe. Sights to see are theimposing Ribat, which is a fortified monastery located next to the sea with great views from its walls and towers. It has been used in several films as a stand in for Jerusalem, most notably "Monty Python's Life of Brian". MONASTIR
Also, there is the impressive Mausoleum of Bourguiba in the centre of a large cemetery in Monastir, which is the resting place and home of the founding president of modern Tunisia.
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Tourist Guide HAMMAMET is a resort town located in the south east of the northern peninsula of Cap Bon in the Governorate of Nabeul, on the northern edge of the Gulf of Hammamet.It lies just 65km south of Tunis and 85km north of Sousse and was one of the first tourist destinations in Tunisia. Due to its fine beaches it has become a popular destination for European visitors particularly for it’s swimming and water sports, with a population that regularly quadruples due to tourists in the summer months. The area is particularly known for its jasmine, and this is how the more recent, adjacent tourist resort of Yasmine Hammamet came by its name. HAMMAMET
BIZERTE is located on the north coast of Tunisia, 65 km north of Tunis and 15 km away from Cap Blanc (the northernmost point in Africa). Noted for its beautiful forests, beaches and scenery, it is known as the oldest and most European city in Tunisia. Originally founded around 1000 BC by Phoenicians from Tyre, it is was also the last town under French control after the rest of the country won its independence. 46
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Tourist Guide SIDI BOU SAID
PORT EL KANTAOUI is a purpose built tourist and residential area began in 1979. It is situated 8km north of Sousse and 65km south of Hammamet, centered around a marina and traditional-style buildings with narrow streets. There is the waterfront with walkway, jetty and yacht pier, the open “square� in front of the "gate", followed by another pedestrian area containing a musical fountain, shops and restaurants. To the north, there is a golf course as well as a number of hotels. To the south, there is an amusement park and more hotels. PORT EL KANTAOUI
SIDI BOU SAID is a beautiful and typical Tunisian village just 20km north of the capital Tunis. The best time to visit is autumn or spring, out of the tourist season, when you can still walk the narrow streets, around white and blue traditional houses, enjoying the views. The village is quite small, and perched on a hill, you can enjoy amazing views of the Mediterranean and Bay of Tunis. EL KEF is a small city in northwest Tunisia, built onto the southern face of the Jebel Dyr Mountain, which is part of the Tebersouk Mountains, at the east end of the High Atlas Mountains. It is a relaxed town, offering an authentic taste of Tunisia with some interesting sights to see. The main attraction is the Byzantine Kasbah. Noticeable from almost any part of the city, it rises out of the old medina and used to be a site of a series of fortresses dating back to the 5th century BC.
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Tourist Guide KAIROUAN, a Muslim holy city, ranks 4th after Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem as a place of pilgrimage. Situated 55km inland from Sousse, it's mosques and cultural history have seen it added to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It’s main sights are The Great Mosque, one of the finest Islamic buildings in North Africa, and Bi'r Barouta, which is a Well at the place where the city was founded, and one of the holiest sites in the city for Muslims. The Medina in general is a nice place to wander around, although it may well look familiar as it was used in Raiders of the Lost Ark to double for Cairo.
KAIROUAN
TOZEUR is a city in south west Tunisia, around 450km from Tunis. With thousands of palm trees, Tozeur is a large oasis from which exported dates are very well known. In ancient times, the oasis was important for the caravan routes through the Sahara, and was an important Roman outpost. From Tozeur there are a selection of camel trips available to explore the edge of the Sahara.
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Tourist Guide EL JEM
EL JEM is a small town in the east of Tunisia, 60km south of Sousse, that houses the remains of a UNESCO World Heritage listed Roman amphitheatre. Formerly the Roman town of Thysdrus, one of the most important in N. Africa after Carthage. The Amphitheatre was built in the middle of the 3rd century AD, but fell into disrepair, with its blocks being used for building the surrounding town and also the Great Mosque in Kairouan. Declared a World Heritage site in 1979, it was more recently used for filming scenes from the Oscar winning film Gladiator. DOUZ is a small town in south-central Tunisia, often known as the "Gateway to the Sahara". The town has grown up around a large palm oasis that is a large producer of "diglat noor" dates.
Regions of Tunisia
Tunisia is made up of 24 Governates (administrative regions) (1) Ariana (Aryana), (2) Beja (Baja), (3) Ben Arous (Bin 'Arus), (4) Bizerte (Banzart), (5) Gabes (Gabis), (6) Gafsa (Gafsah), (7) Jendouba (Jandouba), (8) Kairouan (Al Qayrawan), (9) Kasserine (Gasryn), (10) Kebili (Guebilli), (11) El Kef (El Kaf), (12) Mahdia (Al Mahdiya), (13) Mannouba (Mannouba), (14) Medenine (Midnin), (15) Monastir (Munastir), (16) Nabeul (Nabul), (17) Sfax (Safaqis), (18) Sidi BouZid (Sidi BouZid), (19) Siliana (Siliana), (20) Sousse (Soussa), (21) Tataouine (Tatawin), (22) Tozeur (Touzer), (23) Tunis, (24) Zaghouan (Zaghwen)
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HOMESTYLE
The biggest challenge for most people when decorating is selecting a colour scheme. A colour scheme is a combination of colours that harmonize with each other and they come in various choices. Mono-chromatic: Using one colour throughout, utilizing that colours various tints, tones and shades. When using a mono-chromatic scheme using multiple textures creates character and maintains unity.
Analogous: Using three colours that are neighbouring each other on the colour wheel. These schemes can be warm or cool since colours are adjacent on the colour wheel.
Complimentary: Using two colours that are opposites such as red and green or violet and yellow. Choose varying tints, tones and shades which will give the bold dramatic effect you are looking for.
Triadic: Using three colours that are equal distance apart on the colour wheel, such as red, yellow and blue or using secondary colours yellow-green, blue-violet, and redorange.
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Choosing a colour scheme
The colour wheel shows the relationship of colours. There are three primary colours (red, blue, yellow), three secondary colours which are the result of mixing primary colours (purple, orange, green) and the tertiary colours which are a primary colour mixed with a secondary colour such as red-orange, yellow-green and blue-violet. When they colours are mixed with pure colours white or black it creates numerous different tints and shades.
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Choosing a colour scheme If you feel helpless when it comes to picking and blending colours, your answer could be as far away as your nearest pillow. Here is a quick way to create a colour scheme for your home. Firstly pick a pattern: Starting with a pattern is the easiest way to create a colour palette for your decor. Choose a pattern from any object you already have and love such as a pillow, picture or piece of furniture. This will be your colour palette! Next choose 3 colours: Select a light, medium and dark colour from your pattern to be used as your foundation. You may want to go to a DIY store and select colour
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chips from the paint department that match your pattern to carry with you in case you come across a great find and need to know if it matches.
HOME STYLE
Light, Medium and Dark How you use these colours can affect the overall appearance of your room. Light Is the Background- this is usually easy to achieve since most rentals are equipped with light to off-white walls.
Medium Large furniture and windows - Since the colour of these objects will blend with the above lighter selection, the medium furniture will ground the room and give it a foundation. Darker Accessories. Since your eye is drawn to a darker more intense colours you will be able to arrange your accessories in a manner to guide the eye flowing through your room.
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Business
SOUTH-EAST ARCHERITAGE begins the project Roman Empire Common Heritage in Southern and Eastern ENPI Countries An international partnership composed of Italian, Romanian, Tunisian and Russian partners is pleased to announce the start of the South-East Archeritage project, selected by the European Commission within the Programme Ciudad Cooperation In Urban Development And Dialogue and funded by the European Neighbourhood Partnership Instrument (ENPI). The project, presented in Cagliari (Italy), will contribute to the sustainable economic development of EU and Southern and Eastern ENPI urban areas, by creating stable relationships among operators in the field of archaeological and cultural sustainable tourism. South-East Archeritage aims to promote and develop tourism in the Province of Cagliari (Sardinia), the County of Hunedoara (Romania), Cap Bon (Tunisia), and in the region of Krasnodar, in the district of Temryuk (Russian Federation). These regions have a great potential to increase their growth in this type of tourism, and have a common history and cultural heritage due to the presence of the Roman Empire. The idea is to exploit the wealth of methods, products and materials left behind by the Roman era and insert them into the local tourism. The network of contacts between the four Countries will therefore collect craftsmen, enterprises and small local operators (particularly women and youth), inviting them to join training workshops and assisting them in the sale of their products through a joint plan of action.
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The total value of the initiative amounts to 617,251.00 euro of which 80%, amounting to 493,801.00 euro, is financed by the European Union. For more details, please: see: http://www.open-med.eu/portal/en/ms_ARCHERITAGE.wp join the group South-East Archeritage cooperation project on Facebook OpenMed, expert in the design, implementation and management of projects funded with European, national and regional contribution, manages the technical support to the project. Italian partners: Province of Cagliari; Department of Archaeological Sciences, History and Art, University of Cagliari, CRENoS, Centre for Economic Research NorthSouth, University of Cagliari, Cirem section. Romanian partners: Muzeul Civilizatiei Dacie si Romane Deva; Fundatia Institutul Multimedia Romano - Elvetian.
Business
Tunisina partners: University of Manouba - Department of Geography, Faculty of Letters of Arts and Humanities; AREG, Association des Recherches et des Etudes Géographiques; Municipality of Nabeul. Russian partners: District of Temryuk; Municipality of Akhtanizovskaya.
Aims of the project includes the following activities: 1.Analysis of the archaeological tourism sector and definition of a common strategy 2.Transfer of competences and exchange of experiences 3.Design of the initiative web site and promotion of “Roman Empire Common Heritage” touristic offer on international level 4.Diffusion of the project outcomes 5.Project management
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Business SOUTH-EAST ARCHERITAGE begins the project Roman Empire Common Heritage in Southern and Eastern ENPI Countries The main expected results are: 1.Knowledge and awareness of how archaeological-monumental resources of the 4 regions involved can be integrated in local tourism development 2.Promotion of good practices and models of excellence in cultural and archaeological heritage management and promotion 3.Development of common strategies and actions for the promotion of the Roman Empire common heritage. Contacts (in Tunisia) Commune de Nabeul Avenue Mongi Bali, 8000 Nabeul, Tunisia E-mail: contact@communenabeul.gov.tn Tel. +21 67 22 85 010 Fax. +21 67 22 71 482 Université de la Manouba Campus universitaire de Manouba, 2010 Tunisi, Tunisia http://www.uma.rnu.tn E-mail: Ghalinaim@yahoo.fr Tel. +21 69 85 12 712 Fax. +21 67 16 00 910 AREG – Association de Recherches et Études Géographiques Campus universitaire de Manouba, 2010 Tunisi, Tunisia E-mail: habibjelalia@yahoo.fr Tel. +21 67 16 00 700 Fax. +21 67 16 00 910
The project was presented to the European Commission by a partnership consisting of Italians, Romanian, Russian and Tunisians partners. The partnership: Italy Province of Cagliari Dipartimento di Scienze Archeologiche, Storiche e Artistiche, University of Cagliari Crenos, Centro Ricerche Economiche Nord-Sud, University of Cagliari, Cirem section Romania Muzeul Civilizatiei Dacie si Romane Deva Fundatia Institutul Multimedia Romano – Elvetian Russian Federation District of Temryuk Municipality of Akhtanizovskaya Tunisia University of Manouba - Department of Geography, Faculty of Letters of Arts and Humanities AREG, Association des Recherches et des Etudes Géographiques Municipality of Nabeul
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We are the longest established British registered estate agents, based in Tunisia, giving us on-the spot access to all properties.
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PROPERTY
We are specialists in all aspects of property sales and rentals in the areas of Kantaoui and Hammam Sousse. We speak English.
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We can offer advice thatyou can depend on. Clients can speak to an Engish Solicitor who works in association with a Tunisian Lawyer.
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13, Avenue les Orangers Khezama Sousse Tel: 00216 73276903 Tel: 00216 98400196 Email: infohelp@topnet.tn
Advice and Help Centre
Kantaoui Sousse Tunisia
English Language Website for Tunisia
Tel: 00216 26017138 Email: info@livetunisia.net
English language website to promote all things Tunisian. Travel, Holidays, Property (sales & rentals), Golf, Spas & information.
Sousse Tunisia
Forum & Social Network Website for Tunisia
Monastir Skanes Airport Monastir Tel: 00216 73521031
Monastir Airport Skanes International Airport, Monastir
WEBSITES WEBSITES
LiveTunisia.com
Tunisia Buzz For Friends of Tunisia and all things Tunisian. Members groups, messages, photos, blogs and magazines.
Life In Tunisia For British Expats WEBSITES
Email: nomarmiteintunisia @yahoo.fr
Network and cabling consultants. Computer & Accessories Sales & Service. Agents for TopNet Internet Providers
No Marmite In Tunisia The website in Tunisia dedicated to English speaking expats resident in Tunisia, featuring news, forums and noticeboards.
Car Hire - Car Rental
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Business Directory
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Your Monthly Horoscope ARIES (Mar. 21- April 20) This month is rich with potential for personal progress, though overall success won't come easily as some of your goals slip out of reach. Motivation is high and hope is in the air, but it's mixed with tension as your need for freedom battles with your responsibilities to others. TAURUS (Apr. 21- may 21) Delicacy reigns early this month as sensitivity and caution are in the spotlight. There is a strong potential to deepen your understanding of others this month, as long as you open your eyes to the unspoken signals of those around you. The long-lasting struggle between controlling your own life and responding to the life's little surprises can be alleviated now. GEMINI (May 22-June 21) The month gets off to a slow start, leaving you time to adjust to recent changes and disappointments. Still, much of this month may be spent dealing with one distraction after another. Yet between the distractions, you are being called to re-examine your core values and immediate needs, and take decisive action while you can. CANCER (June 22-July 22) The pace of change doesn't slow this month, as you are driven toward deep self-examination and aim to tackle unfinished emotional business. You may feel a need to separate yourself from others now, which can actually create enough distance and clarity that you can start to view your relationships more objectively. LEO (July 23-Aug 22) Your appearance and demeanor are sparkling this month, as is your relationship with money, your possessions and even your self-esteem. Nonetheless, it can't always be about you, and you are being called to improve the efficiency of your interactions with others on both a business and a personal level now. VIRGO (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Thinking gives way to feeling for much of this month. Focusing on personal matters first will allow you to have a good time later without being plagued by tiny details. This is a time to cut out what you no longer need and focus on how you can better work and play with others.
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What’s in store for you? LIBRA (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Part of you would rather avoid confrontation and conflict this month, yet there is still a push to speak your mind. Burying your feelings can leave you emotionally distraught, while revealing unexpressed vulnerability can lead to closer connections now. SCORPIO (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) A long process of change is finally culminating now, so you can expect radical shifts in your daily routine, your job and even your spiritual practice. You are more able to let go of outmoded beliefs and unrealistic expectations about your future, and should feel more certain about the current direction of your life. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You now realize the unproductive patterns that have been blocking your potential, but there's still hard work to do, and change won't come easily. Tensions mount between your personal independence and the demands of career-related responsibilities. Your whole life may feel at a tipping point, but all-or-nothing ultimatums won't prove as successful as sincere compromise now. CAPRICORN (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) This month brings a more solid foundation to your professional life by defining what's working, what isn't and what you can do about it. There's also a significant shift in relationships now, but while you may be confronted with issues you'd rather not face, riding these waves of emotion instead of repressing them suits you better now. This is an opportunity to take effective action. AQUARIUS (Jan. 21 -Feb. 19) You're tempted to take risks, yet reckless behavior won't accomplish as much as you hope this month. You are aware now of what's been holding you back, and now it's time to start gathering information to work toward positive transformations. PISCES (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Relationships roll into the foreground this month, and you feel more of a desire to express your feelings. This is a time to shed beliefs and goals that no longer apply, making you stronger and more able to climb higher later on.
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If it’s your birthday this month . . . Aug 1st: Claudius I (10BC) Herman Melville (1819) Yves Saint Laurent (1936) Sam Mendes (1965) 2nd: Myrna Loy (1905) Peter O'Toole (1932) Wes Craven (1939) Edward Furlong (1977) 3rd: Tony Bennett (1928) Martin Sheen (1940) John Landis (1950) 4th: Louis Armstrong (1901) Percy Bysshe Shelley (1792) Elizabeth, The Queen Mother (1900) Billy Bob Thornton (1955) 5th: Neil Armstrong (1930) John Huston (1906) 6th: Andy Warhol (1928) Alfred Tennyson (1809) Sir Alexander Fleming (1881) Lucille Ball (1910) Robert Mitchum (1917) Geri Halliwell (1972) 7th: Mata Hari (1876) David Duchovny (1960) Charlize Theron (1975)
8th: Esther Williams (1922) Dustin Hoffman (1937) Roger Federer (1981)
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9th: Whitney Houston (1963 ) Sam Elliott (1944) Melanie Griffith (1957) Gillian Anderson (1968) Eric Bana (1968) 10th: Antonio Banderas (1960) Ronnie Spector (Veronica Bennett) (1947) Rosanna Arquette (1959)
11th: Alex Haley (1921) Hulk Hogan (1953) Joe Jackson (1955) 12th: Cecil B. DeMille (1881) George Hamilton (1939) Pete Sampras (1971) 13th: Fidel Castro (1927) Annie Oakley (1860) Alfred Hitchcock (1899) 14th: Earvin "Magic" Johnson (1959) David Crosby (1941) Steve Martin (1945) Wim Wenders (1945) Danielle Steel (1947) Marcia Gay Harden (1959) Halle Berry (1968) 15th: Napoleon Bonaparte (1769) Oscar Peterson (1925) Princess Anne (1950) Ben Affleck (1972)
Who do you share yours with . . . 16th: Madonna (1958) Angela Bassett (1958 ) James Cameron (1954) 17th: Robert De Niro (1943) Mae West (1893) Davy Crockett (1786) Sean Penn (1960) 18th: Robert Redford (1937) Edward Norton (1965) Roman Polanski (1933) Patrick Swayze (1952) Christian Slater (1969) Madeleine Stowe (1958) 19th: Bill Clinton (1946) Orville Wright (1871) Gene Roddenberry (1921) Jill St. John (1940) Matthew Perry (1969) 20th: Don King (1931) Isaac Hayes (1942) Robert Plant (1948) Joan Allen (1956) 21st: Count Basie (1904) Princess Margaret (1930) Kenny Rogers (1938) Kim Cattrall (1956) Carrie-Anne Moss (1967)
25th: Sean Connery (1930) Leonard Bernstein (1918) Elvis Costello (1955) Claudia Schiffer (1970) Tim Burton (1958)
26th: Macauley Culkin (1980) 27th: Mother Teresa (1910) Samuel Goldwyn (1882) Confucius (551BC) 28th: Tolstoy (1828) Shania Twain (1965) Jason Priestley (1969) LeAnn Rimes (1982) David Soul (1943) 29th: Ingrid Bergman (1915) Richard Attenborough (1923) Dinah Washington (1924) Michael Jackson (1958) 30th: Mary Shelley (1797) Fred MacMurray (1908) Cameron Diaz (1972) Andy Roddick (1982) 31st: Van Morrison (1945) James Coburn (1928) Richard Gere (1949) Chris Tucker (1972)
22nd: Claude Debussy (1862) John Lee Hooker (1917) 23rd: Gene Kelly (1912) Keith Moon (1946) Shelley Long (1949) River Phoenix (1970) 24th: Yasser Arafat (1929)
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Also . . . In This Month in Tunisia Famous days in Tunisia 1954-08-02 - Tahar Ben Ammar appointed premier of Tunisia 1985-08-20 - Libya throws out 1000s Tunisian/Egyptian gas workers
Famous Birthdays 1902-08-03 - Habib Bourguiba, 1st president of Tunisia (1957-87) (1902 - 2000) 1975-08-30 - Radhi Jaidi, Tunisian footballer
Habib Bourguiba
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