When we first sailed into Tunisia, we weren’t quite sure what to expect. We had chosen it for practical reasons — affordable marinas, a good base for winter — but almost immediately we realized that living here was about so much more than ticking boxes on a sailor’s checklist. Tunisia surprised us, not just with its low cost of living, but with its warmth, energy, and richness of daily life.

What we loved most was how everyday moments turned into experiences. Trips to the market weren’t errands; they were adventures. Stalls overflowed with oranges, herbs, olives, and freshly caught fish, and we often came back to the boat with bags heavier than our arms could carry — plus stories about the people who sold them to us. A simple stop for tea became a slow ritual, with pine nuts floating in our glass and locals eager to chat. Even walking through the souks, chaotic with spices, textiles, and shouts of bargaining, felt like stepping into a living museum.

The kids turned Tunisia into their playground. Narrow medina streets became mazes for them to explore, while beaches — even covered in winter seaweed — became fort-building arenas. History wasn’t something they read in books; it was something they climbed, touched, and ran through, from the stone corridors of the Ribat to the towering amphitheater of El Jem. They played gladiators while we stood in awe of how freely the past still breathes here.

Life in the Marina

Life in the marina added another layer to the experience. There was a real sense of community among sailors from all over the world, a constant exchange of tools, tips, and laughter. Locals welcomed us not as visitors passing through but as neighbors, always ready to help or share food. Tunisia’s hospitality is quiet but powerful — the kind that makes you feel you belong, even if you’ve just arrived.