For such a tiny country – the smallest in North Africa – Tunisia packs a lot in. It is a truly kaleidoscopic nation, ranging from Mediterranean beaches to the Sahara desert, from ancient souks to Star Wars film sets. This Arab-Berber nation is one of the most liberal in the Islamic world; alcohol is freely available and women need not feel intimidated.

The capital, Tunis, reflects the country’s diversity. Its French colonial past has a far-reaching influence (it only gained independence in 1956), most obviously in its cuisine that blends sophisticated French styles with Arab spice. Older history is evident in the remains of what was Roman Carthage, while the Roman ruins at Dougga and El Jem are some of the finest in Africa.

Since independence, Tunisia, first under the 30-year rule of Habib Bourgiba, and now under a government led by Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, currently in his fourth five-year term as president, has pursued a policy aimed at prevention of Islamic fundamentalism. It is also one of the most advanced Arab nations in terms of women’s rights, and has by far the most successful economy in the region. This is bolstered by an annual influx of millions of tourists.

Despite its location, edging the Sahara, Tunisia is a surprisingly fertile land. It has six national parks; that around Lac Ichkeul is one of only two UNESCO-protected Biosphere Reserves in the world. If you are feeling energetic, the view from the near-deserted village of Takrouna over the mountainous north is stunning. Alternatively, visit a central desert oasis like Zaafrane, Tozeur or Kebili with its hot pools. Finally, when you tire of culture, history and nature, simply lie on the beach and relax at some point along its 1400km (875 miles) stretch of Mediterranean coastline.

Geography
The Republic of Tunisia lies on the Mediterranean coast of Africa, 130km (80 miles) southwest of Sicily and 160km (100 miles) due south of Sardinia. It is bordered by Algeria to the west and Libya to the southeast. The landscape varies from the cliffs of the north coast to the woodlands of the interior, from deep valleys of rich arable land to desert, and from towering mountains to salt pans lower than sea level. South of Gafsa and Gabès is the Sahara desert. The 1100km (700 miles) of coastline is dotted with small islands, notably Jerba in the south and Kerkennah in the east, and from the northwest to the southeast the coastline is backed successively by pine-clad hills, lush pasture, orchards, vineyards and olive groves.