Djerba: A Treasure Island

I had the chance to recently visit the Island of Djerba, right before summer (i.e. the touristic season), and I discovered a place filled with kind, welcoming people, architectural gems, breathtaking scenery, and delicious food (they have the best harissa in the world!). Djerba is one of Tunisia’s 11 islands, and is the biggest, most populated one. Known mostly for its all-inclusive hotels, club med, and dromedary rides, Djerba has a reputation of being a cheap holiday destination for numerous Europeans. But, I can assure you that this island offers alternative tourism as well. I visited countless typical Djerbian houses (houch(es)) in the Jewish neighbourhood of Erriadh, a lovely quarter full of street art, artisan shops, and the beautiful Ghriba synagogue. I also went to the West side of the island, which is still virgin, with its palm tree forests and stunning lagoons. I ate fresh fish on the beach, explored the souks and food markets, met wonderful human beings, watched stunning sunsets, and learned all about the island’s history, anecdotes and rumors.

What I appreciate about Djerba is how Muslims and Jews cohabit peacefully. There is no tension, no rivalry… only peace and harmony! This small Mediterranean island is colourful, and both modern and traditional, which offers a nice contrast. It has an area of 514 km2, and the official language is arabic, but almost everyone speaks French, and workers of the touristic field can speak English too. There are approximately 165 000 inhabitants on the island, and a large number of them are great artists or artisans.

If you want to bring a little souvenir from Djerba, then I would recommend looking at their jewels, clothing items, and carrycots. If you love food and want to try typical Djerbian recipes, the musts are the Djerban rice, Zammita, their fish couscous, and their delicious bread (kesra). If you love fruit, you will be more than satisfied. Indeed, the island is famous for its dates, olives, figs, and almonds. Djerba is also a historically-rich island. If you ever visit the island, you can go to the Traditional Heritage Museum, the Guellala Museum, and of course, you should walk the streets of the village of Erriadh, coloured by amazing street art since 2014.

There are three ways to reach the Island of Djerba : by car, by boat or by plane. Djerba has an international airport for European and Tunisian travelers. If you are in Tunisia or Libya and want to drive to Djerba, you can. There are two access points. The first one is the Roman roadway, a 7,5 km bridge, built by the Carthaginians 2300 years ago (it’s very solid, don’t worry). The second way to access the island by car is by taking a ferry to cross the sea.

I had such a good time in Djerba. Being surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea is peaceful and beautiful. I wish more people would take the time to truly discover Djerba. So many tourists go there to simply stay in an all-inclusive resort, without ever discovering the culture, tasting the multi-flavoured-meals, and exploring the island’s streets. If you are in the area and have anywhere between 3 to 7 days off, then go, don’t miss the opportunity to discover this Tunisian gem! Once there, instead of booking a tour-operated hotel room, please, try to stay in one of the many gorgeous boutique hotels and guest houses the island offers. Your travel will become a cherished journey, you’ll learn all about the culture and the traditions, and will have a unique culinary experience.