Fears Unrest Will Damage Tunisia's Tourism Industry

Local businessmen concerned that Tunisia's recent political crisis is hurting the country's tourism industry.

Published

3 months ago

Categories

World

Topics

Travel & Tourism, Middle East & North Africa

People

Chokri Belaid

Places

Tunisia, Carthage

Transcript

The picturesque town of Carthage in Tunisia - normally swarming with visitors - is quiet on Sunday. The ancient Roman town is just one of several sites here that have seen a dramatic downturn in tourists since the revolution two years ago. The recent assassination of opposition party leader Chokri Belaid has renewed fears about the impact the unrest is having on the country's tourism. (SOUNDBITE) (French) MOHAMED, A SALES CLERK, SAYING: "There is nothing anymore, there is no more work here and there are no tourists, there is no one." But some tourists who ventured into Carthage say there's no reason to feel unsafe. (SOUNDBITE) (English) MORTEN, DANISH TOURIST, SAYING: "We have seen a bit on TV about the demonstrations but it isn't something we're sort of afraid of." Tourist workers meanwhile say visitors will be welcomed. This man says tourists should understand that transition periods always come with problems but there is nothing to fear. "Our country is very beautiful and there are many things to be seen and learnt," he says. Tunisia has traditionally been famous for its beaches, sunny weather and affordable holiday resorts.