Cómo es la Vida en TÚNEZ te va a sorprender mucho

Life in Tunis, the capital of Tunisia, and its surrounding areas, such as Ariana and La Marsa, is notably different from that of inland cities like Sfax, Sousse, or Kairouan, due to its cosmopolitan nature, economic and political importance, and greater exposure to international influences. The city of Tunis is the political, cultural, and economic center of the country, with a population of approximately 1.2 million in the metropolitan area in 2025. It combines a historic medina, declared a World Heritage Site, with modern neighborhoods like Berges du Lac and intense commercial areas. The capital of Tunis and its suburbs are at the forefront of social change, using education, art, and social media to update behaviors in a changing world. Tunisia, without abandoning its religious beliefs and values, is an example of a country moving forward in its own way, and that is pleasing to see during a visit. The city of Tunis is the hub of the country's economic activity, housing ministries, embassies, universities, and multinational companies. Although it is a Muslim country, women here have access to a wide range of jobs in sectors such as banking, technology, education, and public administration. The capital is more liberal than other regions. Young women tend to adopt modern lifestyles, wearing Western clothing and participating in social life in cafes, restaurants, and cultural spaces such as Habib Bourguiba Avenue. Wearing the hijab is common but not the majority, reflecting the diversity of religious practices. The medina and souks are centers of commerce and socializing, where women buy, sell, and socialize alongside men. Women in Tunisia have greater access to higher education—more than 60% of university graduates are women—and more professional opportunities than in the countryside. However, they face inequalities in the workplace as they have greater domestic responsibilities than men. Economically, life in the capital is expensive, with high rents in areas such as Berges du Lac or Ennasr. The persistent economic and political crisis since 2021 generates uncertainty, affecting employment and stability for many men and women, especially those from the lower classes. The capital is a center of art and culture, with events such as the Carthage Festival, where local artists have gained prominence. Tunisians are also active in the digital world on platforms such as X, discussing current affairs geared toward political reforms. The northern suburbs of Tunis, such as Ariana, La Marsa, Gammarth, and Carthage, are residential and tourist areas that contrast with the hectic life of the capital. These areas are more affluent and oriented toward tourism and the upper-middle class. La Marsa and Gammarth are known for their luxury villas, hotels, and beachfront restaurants, which generate jobs in tourism and services, where many women work as waitresses, guides, or in boutiques. Ariana is more residential and middle-class, with a diversified but less dynamic labor market than the capital. Carthage, with its rich history, attracts cultural tourism. These areas are more liberal and Westernized. In La Marsa and Gammarth, young women enjoy a modern lifestyle, with access to beaches, clubs, and cultural events. The European influence is noticeable, with many young women wearing fashionable clothing and participating in recreational activities. The population in these areas has better access to services such as schools and hospitals than in the interior of the country, but economic inequality is evident. Upper-class women have more autonomy and resources, while in poorer neighborhoods many face challenges similar to those in the capital. The cost of living in these areas is high, especially in La Marsa and Gammarth, where rents and services are unaffordable for many workers. Furthermore, Gammarth's dependence on tourism makes jobs vulnerable to seasonal fluctuations or global crises. Indeed, tourism in Tunisia is not going through a good period. President Kais Saied's consolidation of power since 2021 has generated uncertainty in the capital, a center of protests and political debate. Men and women, especially activists, are concerned about possible setbacks in rights, although there have been no significant legal changes so far.