From the ancient to the modern, Sousse is a great place to unwind, and while Tunisia is a Muslim nation, Western visitors should not feel intimidated in the least when visiting Tunisia. In general the country is very welcoming to tourists from around the world, and this is especially true in the resort areas such as Sousse. The traditional, but otherwise unwritten dress codes are not as strict in many of the city’s tourist areas. Swimwear for males and females is generally acceptable by the resorts around the pools or on the beaches.

If you’re visiting the Medina, it is probably a good idea to dress a little more conservatively. Men can wear shorts, but women travelers should avoid short skirts or low cut tops. And a bare midriff should probably be avoided.

Alcohol, while typically banned in many Muslims nations, is available in Tunisia and of course in Sousse. They locals do look the other way to the occasional drink, and even the locals will be known to take a sample, but they do take public drunkenness quite seriously, so you know not to over indulge.

It is fairly common for upscale restaurants and even some cafes to serve beer, but there are even local brews; the most popular being Celtia. Of course various imported beers will also be for sale in many establishments. Generally in Sousse beers will be available at the hotels in the resort area, and its regarded as being rather weak. Of course never drink on the public streets!

In addition to beer, Tunisia has a small but successful wine industry, which is in part a holdover from the days of French colonialism and rule. But winemaking in North Africa actually dates back to the days of Carthage of course, and the tradition has continued for some 2000 years.

Smoking is popular and the locals do smoke quite heavily and just about everywhere they can. It does not seem like “no smoking” sections will be added any time soon.