Tunisia: 7 Reasons to Visit the Country, According to a Los Angeles Times Report
Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A Los Angeles Times report highlights Tunisia's growing international tourism appeal beyond its beaches.
- The country saw over 11 million international visitors, attracting travelers from Europe, Asia, and China.
- The report details seven key reasons for visiting, including historical medinas, Mediterranean beaches, ancient ruins, desert festivals, and Star Wars filming sites.
Tunisia is confirming its international tourism appeal, drawing visitors not just for its Mediterranean coastline but also for its rich cultural, historical, and natural diversity. A report published on June 30, 2026, by the Los Angeles Times, featuring journalist Paul Rogers, describes a country that exceeded the reporter's initial expectations.
Rogers, who visited Tunisia as part of a trip combining a cultural festival and tourism, noted a significant rebound in the sector, with over 11 million international visitors recorded. The country is emerging as a sought-after destination for travelers from various international markets, particularly Europe, Asia, and increasingly, China.
The Los Angeles Times report emphasizes the multifaceted experiences Tunisia offers within a relatively compact territory. Visitors can explore everything from sandy beaches and bustling historic medinas to ancient Roman and Punic ruins, vast desert landscapes, and national parks. The ease of travel between these diverse environments allows tourists to combine multiple experiences in a single trip.
According to the report, Rogers identified seven primary reasons contributing to Tunisia's growing attractiveness. These include the immersive experience of historical medinas, such as the one in Tunis, with their sensory richness and traditional markets. The extensive Mediterranean coastline boasts around a hundred seaside resorts, catering to various budgets. Ancient sites like Carthage, El Jem, and Dougga offer glimpses into the region's Roman and Punic heritage.
Further attractions highlighted are the Sahara International Festival in Douz, celebrating Bedouin traditions in a desert setting, and the iconic filming locations for the Star Wars saga, found in regions like Tozeur, Matmata, and Djerba. These diverse offerings collectively paint a picture of Tunisia as a destination with a wide array of experiences for international travelers.
Originally published by La Presse in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.