We slept like logs.  The trip has been a cornucopia of sounds, flavours and textures.  We have seen rivers, valleys, deserts, ruins, mosques, tattoos, heads on sticks, bugs, blue buildings, white buildings, sand buildings, blue water. We rode trains, trucks, camels. We climbed stairs, mountains, sand dunes. We didn't miss much.  Almost 1700 kms behind us we have one more day to take in the wonders of this country.

As we roll along the busy streets of Sfax, en route to El Jem, the only sound is city around us, the crew inside the truck is silent.  My mind is filing through the adventure we have just experienced, I think it will take some time to truly reflect on the power of the places we visited.  I do know this, I am mentally burnt out, I need some time to process the details....that will come later.

El Jem's amphitheatre is by far the largest in North Africa.  With seating for 35,000 it is the third largest in the world, behind Rome's and Capua.  Built in the 2nd century, it is believed that it was used mainly for Gladiator shows and chariot races.  It remained relatively unchanged until the 17th century, at which time stones were removed for building in other areas, including the Great Mosque of Kairouan.  In 1978 is was declared a UNESCO heritage site.  It is an impressive site.

The father of independence, Habib Bourguiba was born in Monastir, which is our next stop.  Bourguiba has an impressive resume.  The first President of the Republic of Tunisia from 1957 to 1978.  Among his accomplishments is the abolishment of polygamy and the introduction of education for everyone including woman.  He fought gender inequality his entire life.  The development of industry and a neural foreign policy.  Many of his views put him squarely against the Arab leadership in the region.  We visited his mausoleum.

Having left our traveling companions at their hotel (same one we spent the week at before this safari, The Ryad in Sousse), Ali delivered us to Hammamet.  We have come full circle, tomorrow we leave for Dubai.  Final thoughts regarding Tunisia.  It is a country rich in history, gentle in nature, easy to like.  It is a place we will return to, it takes more then one visit to come close to understanding its complexities.

We are almost six months into our extraordinary adventure.  A quick read through the blog today makes me realize just how much we have accomplished.  We have been blessed to be able to experience this journey.  We truly hope you are enjoying the reading of our escapades.  It continues to be a joy to be able to share them with you.  Thanks to all for your messages of encouragement. Keep them coming, so we know you are listening.

Some random photos just because.....

Be Well

Cheers