Tunisia: Coastal Resort Region

Score: 54

"Incredible archaeological sites" and "overdeveloped resort enclaves" both attract visitors to Tunisia's fertile northwestern coast. Construction has taken off in recent years and caused ecological damage.

Here is a representative sampling of additional anonymous comments from the panelists. They are not necessarily the views of the National Geographic Society:

"Incredible archaeological sites and great culture and cities to see—the resorts are less of an attraction, Sidi bou Said is delightful, but the real treasures are past the coast and at sites other than Carthage such as Dougga and El Jem, in from the coast. The Bardo Museum is a must-see."

"The main coastal resort region between Nabeul and Monastir has seen a lot of development in recent years. The nature of the area has changed dramatically. It has become urban and built up. Areas of pasture and unspoiled coastline have disappeared. There are now serious issues of water supply and quality—exacerbated by inappropriate development of golf course construction—and social issues relating to resorts' negative impact on cultural integrity."

"Kind and friendly locals lend the region a good feeling. Although, if you have a problem with bargaining for everything it may be quite annoying for you to visit shops."

"Overdeveloped resort enclaves—Africa's own Benidorm. However, the enclaves may be a way of protecting the remaining coastal areas from sprawl."

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