Conclusions et remarques

In Tunisia, I noticed that they only thing the French really left was their language- and even that hasn't been acquired by everyone. French culture is so different from Tunisian culture. Even after having studied in Aix for a semester (I know, it's not a lot), I still was not prepared for the culture shock that I received in Tunisia. I think that Tunisia culture is a lot more oriental than people think. Even if Tunisia is supposed to be the most modern, and western of the Maghreb countries, we witnessed ruptures between the theory and the practice.

There, I met a Swiss German that was trying to find a way to get his girlfriend out of the country so he could marry her. The family of the young girl did not want her to marry a European; rather, they wanted her to have an arranged marriage. Sure, the girl could divorce her husband later, but that would mean alienating herself from her family, friends, her in-laws, etc.- it would mean giving up her life as she has come to know it.

I've already talked about the political situation, and how troubling that is. In my opinion, it was going to Tunisia that I received a real culture shock! I didn't have one here in Aix. In France, it was just a matter of adjusting to different habits and slight variations in lifestyle. In Tunisia, it's a completely different way on viewing the world. It is completely different from anything I've ever encountered!

In all though, I loved my stay there, and I don't think I'll ever forget it! And there was a beach, so, at the end of the day, it was more than worth it!

The least you need to know:

1. Knowing French helps, but you should learn Arabic.
2. Don't talk about politics. Ever. "They're" watching...
3. I was serious about number 2.
4. Some people say it's a small world. I think the world's a lot bigger than people give it credit for.