Travelling to North Africa – protected or not – query about touristry

Tunisia and Egypt – two of the most popular destinations for vactions in North Africa. After terrorism acts in Tunisia (26th of June 2015, 38 foreign tourist were killed) and news about ISIS (The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant) growth many Europeans are wondering is it safe to pick these countries for their holidays. Tunisia – paradise for tourists, warm climate, beautiful beaches, lots of luxury hotels.

Tourism is extremelyserious thing for Tunisia, because it provides 6,5 % of its GDP. Nowadays Tunisian experts do whatever they can to persuade people to keep coming to the country (there are lot of police patrols on the streets and public service announcement in the newspapers). Sadly for them most of the European ministries of foreign affairs warn their citizens from travelling to Tunisia.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all travel to South Tunisia, the Tunisia-Algeria border crossing points, 5 km of the Libya border area and against all but essential travel to the rest of Tunisia. U.S. Department of State recommends U.S. citizens maintain a high level of vigilance, especially in areas, which are visited by large numbers of people (hotels, shopping centers, tourists sites and restaurants). Visitiors have to stay focused and constantly carry a copy of their passport in case of uncertain cases. Nowadays holidays in Tunisia are low-cost, but they are still a lottery: you can go there and have a awesome time, but also you can get wounded lying on the beach or visiting the museum.

Egypt – country of Sphinx and ancient history, wish of many foreign travelers. In Egypt situation is more stable than in Tunisia. The possibility of terrorism attack is lower than in another countries in the zone, but the political situation is unsteady. There have been manifestations since 2011. They can occur without warning anywhere in Egypt (in big towns like Cairo and Alexiandria – tourism centers, but also in Luxor, Fayoum, Ismailia and other).

Protests are usually peaceful, but they can also be very risky, you can’t foresee people’s performance at those meetings. Police may use water cannon, tear gas, birdshot and live ammunition to control the crowd. On 14 August 2013 security forces brutally finished sit-in demonstration in Cairo (many people were killed). Being in Egypt tourists have to follow the news on television, radio and Internet. It is advisable to take local guide to visit the Sphinx and other ancient attractions. Seaside resorts are mostly safe, although you should be heedful. Nowadays travelling to North Africa is economical, but not reliable. There is a high threat from terrorism in Egypt and in Tunisia. It is believed that terrorists will go on attacks. It is not advisable to go there in nearest time.