A flight of just under three hours from the UK takes travellers into year-round sunshine; 700 miles of sandy beaches; some of the best hotels in the world; simple or exotic food, mostly fresh, particularly the fish; low crime; friendly people; archaeological sites and museums like the Bardo, which holds the finest of Roman mosaics.

There are old and new markets and souks; golf at affordable prices, on courses with 100 year-old eucalyptus trees; together with the contrasts of sea, mountains, desert and woodlands. In short, variety and spice together.

Tunis is on the southern side of the Mediterranean and shares most of the advantages of cities on the north coast. It is possible to stay in five-star hotels in Tunis and enjoy the timeless Mediterranean art of living at a very reasonable cost.

This laid-back Muslim country, composed of French, Arabic and English speakers, is a perfect weekend break for anyone.