Tunis in the summer is all about contrasts that click—medina chaos and beachside calm, French façades and jasmine-scented souks, fresh mint tea and late-night brik. Just a two-hour flight from Paris, this North African gem feels worlds away. Whether you’re hopping vintage trams, treasure-hunting in Sidi Bou Said, or dancing till dawn on the coastline, Tunis serves history and hedonism in equal measure. Bring your sunglasses and your appetite—this city doesn’t do half measures.
This week, KHAMSA explores Tunis with Ameni Esseibi (@ameniesseibi on Instagram) a Tunisian fashion model and entrepreneur who has made history as the first plus-size model from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Raised in Dubai, Ameni has become a prominent advocate for body positivity and inclusivity in the fashion industry.
Ameni has graced the runways of prestigious fashion events, including Paris Fashion Week, where she walked for designers such as Victor Weinsanto and Georges Hobeika. Her presence on these international stages underscores her commitment to challenging traditional beauty standards and promoting diversity.
Beyond the runway, Ameni serves as an ambassador for the Arab Fashion Council, where she advocates for greater representation and inclusivity within the industry. Her journey from a young woman facing societal challenges to a trailblazer in the fashion industry exemplifies her resilience and dedication. She continues to inspire many by breaking barriers and redefining beauty standards in the Arab world and beyond.
Top must-visit food spots?
Café Mrabet in La Medina – Breakfast (Traditional)
Restaurant El Mansoura – Lunch (@restaurant_el_mansourah)
Ghar El Melh – Bizerte
Foundok Al Attarine in La Medina – Lunch (Traditional) (@fondoukelattarine)
Blu Four Seasons in Gammarth – Dinner (@blutunis)
Brik Street Food in La Medina
Bambaloni in Sidi Bou Said
Must-visit cultural spots?
Bardo Museum
Baths of Antoninus
Punic Ports of Carthage
Medina
Best places for sundowners/roof-top places?
Dar El Jeld Rooftop in La Medina
Habibi – Medina
Four Season – Sunset Time
Sunset View from Sidi Bou Said
Best places for shopping?
Souk in La Medina
Mall of Sousse
Best boutique hotels to stay in?
Maison Dedine – Sidi Bou Said
Africa Jade Hotel – Korba
L’hôtel Particulier in La Marsa
Dar Ommi in Djerba
Underrated places?
Hawaria Beaches
Tataouine in the South of Tunis
Star Wars was filmed there!
Matmata in the South Desert Oasis
What should you avoid?
Avoid public transportation and book with a concierge a private driver.
Must-pack items?
A lot of sunscreen, aloe Vera gel , bikinis, shoes for the water (some beaches are rocky).
Summer wardrobe with a light scarf at night. You won’t need makeup and your tan will be flawless!
Any tips and tricks to tackle the city?
Best time to come is in the Summer.
- Book in advance the beach destinations as it gets crowded during the summer.
- Book a private driver as some of the best beaches are an hour drive from the capital.
- Have some cash works better than credit cards.
Best Beaches?
Kelibia Plage – La Mansoura
Bizerte Beach
Djerba
