Tunisia, officially the Republic of Tunisia, is located in North Africa. Bordered by Algeria to the west and Libya to the southeast, Tunisia is the northernmost country in Africa. Despite its modest size, this vibrant nation offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Approximately 40% of the country is part of the Sahara Desert, while its fertile lands and a 1,300 km Mediterranean coastline make it an ideal destination for expats seeking a blend of adventure and comfort.

A Glimpse into History Tunisia gained independence from France in 1956, with Habib Bourguiba emerging as its first president. While initially hailed as a liberator, Bourguiba’s reign took on an increasingly authoritarian nature. His successor continued to suppress Islamic fundamentalism while maintaining strict control over political opposition and media. Today, Tunisia is steadily evolving while holding onto its rich historical and cultural roots.

Geography, Environment, & Climate: Tunisia’s location on the Mediterranean coast between the Atlantic Ocean and the Nile Valley gives it a unique position in North Africa. Its diverse landscape includes rolling hills, plains, and the Dorsal Mountains, part of the Atlas range. Tunisia’s natural beauty shines through its varied geography, from the sun-drenched deserts of the south to the fertile northern regions.

The climate here is typically Mediterranean, meaning hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. Springtime (mid-March to mid-May) is ideal for visitors and new arrivals, with pleasant temperatures and wildflowers blanketing the countryside.

Population: Tunisia has a population of around 12.3 million, predominantly made up of Berbers and Arabs. The Berbers, the indigenous people of North Africa, still speak their own languages, known as Shelha. This cultural mix makes Tunisia a fascinating place to live and explore.

Currency: The currency used in Tunisia is the Tunisian Dinar (TND), with 1,000 millimes equaling one dinar. Make sure you’re familiar with the exchange rates and cash handling, as some businesses may prefer local currency.

Living as an Expat: Housing: For expats looking to settle in Tunisia, the housing market operates on a pro-landlord basis, especially in free market segments. Rents are negotiable, and while there’s no legal limit on rent increases, any rise must be outlined in the rental contract. If you’re a non-Tunisian renter, you may need prior authorization for your tenancy contract. Most expat leases include a rental deposit, and contracts are usually renewed automatically unless notice is given. Though eviction is rare during the contract term, landlords can act through the courts if rent goes unpaid for an extended period.

Tunisia offers a good quality of life, with its Mediterranean climate, rich cultural traditions, and modern amenities. Whether you’re in Tunis or a coastal city like Sousse, you’ll find a warm, welcoming community of locals and fellow expats.

Getting There & Around: Tunisia is well connected via its main airports in Tunis-Carthage, Monastir, and Jerba, making international travel convenient. Tunis Air, the national airline, flies to numerous destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, although you’ll need to make connections if you’re traveling from North America, Asia, or Oceania.

Within Tunisia, getting around is easy. The national bus company, SNTRI, runs air-conditioned buses to most major towns, while regional buses offer a cheaper, slower alternative. For faster travel, shared taxis, or “louages,” are a popular option, providing quick and affordable transport between towns.