Tunisia is facing increased terrorism threats, prompting a significant travel advisory. The U.S. Department of State recommends travelers exercise heightened caution, especially near the Algerian and Libyan borders and in mountainous areas.
The alert comes amidst ongoing security concerns in specific regions prone to terrorist activities.
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Tunisia Raises Travel Alert Over Terrorism Threats
In Tunisia, regions close to the Algerian and Libyan borders are considered particularly dangerous due to the threat of terrorism.
According to Travel and Tour World, tourists are advised to avoid these areas, along with Mount Chaambi National Park, Mount Salloum, Mount Sammamma, and Mount Mghila in Kasserine Governorate, as well as the Mount Orbata area in Gafsa Governorate.
These areas are known for frequent terrorist plotting and activities, which can occur without warning and may target tourist locations, transportation hubs, and public gatherings.
The U.S. government's ability to assist American citizens in Tunisia is limited in these high-risk zones. U.S. government employees need special authorization to travel outside the greater Tunis area.
The state of emergency currently in effect in Tunisia grants security forces greater authority to maintain order and respond to terrorism threats.
Travelers planning to visit Tunisia are urged to remain vigilant, especially when using public transportation and staying outside main cities and tourist spots. It is also recommended to avoid demonstrations and large crowds which can escalate quickly.
Travelers should ensure they have comprehensive medical insurance that includes medical evacuation and are advised to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive updates and facilitate assistance in case of emergency.
By staying informed and cautious, visitors can better protect themselves during their travels in Tunisia.
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Tunisia Tourism Sees Remarkable Growth in 2023
Tunisia has witnessed a significant rebound in its tourism sector in 2023, with 8.8 million visitors marking a 49.3% increase from the previous year. The surge places the nation on track to surpass the peak tourism figures of 2019, before the Covid pandemic hit.
Aymen Rahmani, Director of Studies and Cooperation at the Tunisian National Tourist Office, expressed optimism about achieving and even exceeding pre-pandemic visitor numbers.
As of Dec. 10, 2023, Tunisia had already topped its target for the year, drawing more visitors than the 8.7 million recorded during the same period in 2019.
As reported by Africa News, Rahmani projected that if the current trend continues, the total number of visitors could reach 9.6 million by the end of the year.
Tourism revenue has also shown impressive growth, with earnings reaching 6.7 billion dinars (about 2 billion euros) by early December, and expectations of hitting 6.9 billion dinars by year-end.
The rebound in tourism has been crucial for Tunisia, especially given the economic challenges posed by persistent drought and the impacts of the Ukraine war, which have strained the country's agriculture and increased its dependency on imported cereals and energy.
The World Bank noted that the boost in tourism has helped mitigate some of the adverse effects on Tunisia's economy, which still faces significant hurdles with a forecasted growth of just 1.2% for 2023.
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