Hammamet

Tunisia's classic seaside town: a small medina by the water, long sandy beaches and the villa of Georges Sebastian, now a cultural centre with an open-air theatre.

History

The Kasbah dates to the 15th century. Artists like Klee and later many writers made the town famous.

Customs

Buy a jasmine "machmoum" from the street sellers in the evening.

Food

Grilled fish and "salade méchouia", a smoky salad of grilled peppers and tomatoes.

Best time

May to October. The International Festival runs in July and August.

Men in Hammamet traditionally tuck a small bouquet of jasmine behind the ear: on the left if they are single, on the right if they are taken.