7 nights in Hammamet, Tunisia

The Jewel in Tunisia’s Tourist Crown, is what they say. Just over 3 hours flying time from London to Enfidha and as you step off the plane you are enveloped by the warmth of the sun, somehow this always gives me a thrill. The airport is quiet impressive with water features and not many people, perfect! We were met by a charming driver who tried to engage with us, but his English and our Arabic were both of poor standards, so we drove with nods and smiles. I later found out the French is widely spoken here and that’s a bit more familiar with me, phew. The transfer time to our hotel was just 35 minutes across barren land with the occasional olive grove. Any tall structure was claimed as a nesting spot for storks, and there were a lot. Our home for the week was the Les Orangers Garden Resort Hotel and we received a warm welcome and a cocktail, lime I seem to remember, quite refreshing! The reception area has cool water running through it and interesting pieces of artwork which all make for a smart arrival, yes, a week here will be just fine. There are countless, (really countless) places to sit, relax, read or chat, throughout the landscaped gardens and reception areas, I quite like that. The garden boasts a 500 year old olive tree, wow that’s seen some stuff and around this tree evening entertainment and curious cocktails are offered. The hotel resort is on the beach with a stunning pool alongside. Shaded canopy beds line the beach and billow in the warm sea breeze. The beach bar serves all you could want on the beach… chilled rose wine! Plenty of staff ensure that you don’t have to wait to get served and they do it with a smile. Just feel the sand… never have I felt softer sand, the sea is warm in September. You may be sharing your beach with a camel but they are tended and make for a good picture. There's daily yoga for those who want to and it was really good. For a trip out take a taxi to the medina dating back to 1474 and constructed on the site of an Aghlabid (that’s an Arab dynasty) structure at the end of the 9th century. Go back in time in the souqs around the kasbah for souvenirs and get a real feel for this ancient country. Cocktails by the pool, roof top bar, slow cooked tagine and moonlit beach walks all the ingredients of a perfect holiday and Les Orangers did not disappoint and I for one will be back!