Nice resort but not the medina (Sousse)

Member Name: ukboltonboy

Product:	Sousse
Date:	21/09/09 (25 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Nice resort, clean beaches, clear sea, friendly people

Disadvantages: medina attempted cons, smoking everywhere

Went to Sousse for the first time earlier this year and I enjoyed it although you do have to be a bit streetwise - I've outlined a bit about the place and some tips below.

You generally fly to Monastir airport and Sousse is a 30 minute coach journey away on which you see quite a bit of poverty and the scruffy side of Tunisia and honestly think "where have I come to?!". Once you reach the actual resort it is much better and the hotel I stayed in was just on the edge of Sousse. Again, it was very nice in the hotel complex and down by the private beach (most sea front hotels have a "private" beach although there is nothing to stop anyone using them), but outside of the complex wasn't as nice although I didn't feel threatened apart from....in the Sousse medina. Apparently you either like it or hate it, well I hated it. A few tips - 1) don't look at or pick up products because the sales people will be there straight away trying to haggle a price and they are not too happy if you walk away without buying. 2) Someone will probably approach you saying that they work in your hotel and will show you the best shops. This is absolute rubbish and apparently they take you to expensive shops and we heard stories of someone being kept in a shop until they bought something. As long as you have your wits about you its fine but the medina wasn't for me I'm afraid.

In response to some comments, I know that the haggling is part of the culture but I found that if you tried to have fun with the traders and banter about the haggling then can become quite angry if you don't buy anthing in the end. I'm sure some people will enjoy it but it just wasn't for me.

Sousse overall is nice enough particualrly the hotels. There is the usual array of water sports on the beaches and the sand is white and the sea is clear. Another thing to be aware of is that the tunisians expect you to tip for everything but once you get used to it, its not that bad - usually 1TD (50 English pence) will suffice. Had a great holiday and a trip to the Sahara desert is a must whilst you are there.

Summary: Nice resort but keep your wits about you when not in the complex