How safe is it to visit Tunisia?

Posted: 24/09/2017

24 September 2017 - RPS Partenrship

We provide training to your staff to prepare them for domestic and international travel - general crisis management training, security awareness and hostile environment training. Crisis management ensures that you carry out your duty of care to your staff and stakeholders and your reputation remains credible and intact as a result. We also provide support to your business travellers prior to their trips and during their trips if required.

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How safe is it to visit Tunisia? RPS Partnership's, Ryan Swindale contributed to Safetravels magazinehere he assesses how safe he thought it was in an article published recently.

This is an abridged version of his interesting insight.

The feeling you get varies from place to place but in general things are very settled and stable. Historically our fears are centred around the “lone gunman on the beach” attack a little over two years ago. However, if sensible attitudes are applied and we limit our exposure to potential problem areas and threats we can easily enjoy a short-term business trip or even a consider a holiday if we’re comfortable with travel to low to medium risk areas.

Efforts are being made to improve security and in particular large hotels are trying to put in place measures to lure back the western holiday makers that have largely deserted the country in recent times.

What are the biggest risks?

In light of recent events you could argue that you’re at more risk in the UK than Tunisia, although this may be due in part to the greatly reduced numbers of westerners visiting the country.  There is still a feeling that the response to the beach attack highlighted a lack of willingness by the local police to confront the gunman.  Whilst it is very easy to deploy a visible presence and have various security checks in place, the reaction to extreme terrorist attacks remains unproven.  It’s going to take some time for confidence to return.

The threat remains from both Lone Wolf attacks as well as complex and multi-faceted attacks by organised teams with relatively easy access from neighbouring Libya and Algeria.

What are the overlooked risks?

In Tunisia, as in almost any hostile or at-risk environment, the most likely form of injury is going to be from being involved in a road accident. Driving yourself will be challenging for the most and the norm is to rely on taxis or organised transport.  Stick with recommendations even if it’s only from the hotel concierge and if you find a driver you’re happy with get his card and use him for your trip.

Airport - you can exchange money within the airport it is advised to shop around for the best exchange rate, but be aware of people watching you and how you carry your cash.

Taxis - agree a price as they may overcharge you for luggage and try to get a taxi with a meter that works. Most hotels will have a shuttle service so check before you fly.

Credit Cards - ensure your credit cards work and are accepted in the hotel or you will be running around looking for a working ATM.

Checking out - we would advise check-out early, even the night before as the in the morning the chip and pin machines are slow; also ensure to check your bil,  as service charges often get added.  

Tipping - most places will add a service charge to your bill, however the staff may look for a tip as well.

Street crime and culture - because of the lone attack threat, some street crime has spiked. If they can't see it they wont want it !!  We would advise reading about local customs and culture as the Tunisians are very proud of their culture and way of life.

Security - there is an increase in security and you will see Police check points and private security around hotels and on the access to the beaches. We would always recommend you to inform your local Embassy and check your travel and medical insurance policies cover Tunisia.

Contact us for more information or to attend one of our training courses; the next one is 20-22 November 2017. Download our brochure below and contact us to reserve your place.

Photos: RPS Partnership in Tunisia.

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