What are the goals of the trip? We aim to offer a unique and transformational French language immersion experience. Throughout the trip, French language educators will gain an increased cultural, historical, and contemporary understanding of Tunisia. The trip will focus on various topics such as education, literature, history, world cultural heritage sites, environment, global issues, and more. Participants will have various opportunities to interact 1-1 and in small groups with Tunisian students, educators, writers, researchers, artists, and more.
Who can join this program? Participants should be current, past, or retired French language educators. Those who pay deposits and submit completed applications and paperwork may be approved to travel with us. We will maintain a waitlist for any interested candidates in case a spot becomes available.
Is Tunisia safe? According to the US State Department, the current Tunisia advisory level is 2 (exercise increased cautions) as of 04/29/25.
What will it cost? See the details of each Program to see costs. Once in Tunisia, you will spend money on personal snacks, souvenirs, some meals, and tips. Program costs include the following expenses during the travel dates of the Program:
* All lodging in country, in double rooms (infrequently triples) with your own bed
* Most meals in country and bottled water
* All transportation in country
* All event entrance fees in country
How do I obtain Tunisian dinars? Participants can withdraw money at local ATMs in Tunisia. We recommend bringing approximately $200 USD in case you need more cash. Credit cards can be used for purchases in a store, but typically cash is required in markets. Typically $200-$300 is sufficient for souvenirs.
What do I need to know re paperwork to enter Tunisia? See this link from the US State Department for passport, entry requirements, and safety information. Participants from other countries should check on their requirements.
What health concerns should I be aware of? According to the US CDC, the current health advisory alert level for Tunisia is 2 (practice enhanced cautions). You should have all regular vaccinations up-to-date as well as others as recommended by your doctor, the CDC, or a travel clinic. Other known anaphylactic issues or other serious health issues should be discussed with your doctor. Food allergies, sensitivities, or preferences may be difficult to accommodate.
Can I drink alcohol during the trip? What drugs are legal? Participants should avoid drinking alcohol. Marijuana is not legal in Tunisia. Other prescription drugs are permitted in original packaging.
What is the main religion in Tunisia? Tunisia is around 99% Muslim with the majority Sunni. There are some important historical Jewish and Christian sites in Tunisia as well.
What should one know about LGBTQ+ travel in Tunisia? As per the US State Department under Safety and Security, “Consensual same-sex sexual relations are criminalized in Tunisia. Penalties include sentences of up to three years in prison.”
What sort of insurance do I need? Participants must purchase their own travel and medical evacuation insurance, including Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) whenever possible for the dates of the Program. Note that some insurance companies require signing up for CFAR policies promptly after your first program payment; we recommend you do this within 7-14 days after signing up. Contact your insurance company for more information.
What safety measures will be taken during the trip? We will have a local Tunisian guide with us and a Vive Trip Leader. U.S. citizens should register at the US Embassy in Tunis through the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for alerts and updates. We will travel in a private vehicle solely for our use, avoiding nighttime travel; when on foot, we will recommend being aware of our surroundings. Our local guides and Trip Leaders will have phones for emergencies.
How much time will I spend outside? A lot! We will be doing outdoor activities on a daily basis. We will visit UNESCO World Heritage sites of Tunisia on our visit as well as several other proposed sites. We will also explore medinas and souks, local oases, the Sahara Desert, and beaches. We will spend time in our bus, but we will also spend time in 4WDs and perhaps a camel or ATV ride. You may have the opportunity to swim in hotel pools and in the Mediterranean Sea, as well as some oasis waterfalls. We will be walking a lot as well. Sunscreen, hats, reusable water bottles & insect repellent will be essential.
What about Wi-Fi and charging electronics? International phone plans may be very pricey. Sometimes Wi-Fi access may be limited to our lodgings in the evening, which may be unreliable. We recommend bringing a notebook, phone/small camera, and French-style (types C & E) adapters for the electrical outlets. You recommend you leave laptop computers at home. Sometimes there are power surges and electrical outages, so consider using a European surge protector. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
What can I wear/pack? Every participant should only bring one small to medium suitcase and one smaller backpack. A smaller day bag such as a waist-pack or fanny pack can be useful. Avoid valuables. With temperatures in the 80s-90s or higher during summer trips, lightweight, long cotton or linen pants, or long skirts/dresses are recommended. Clothes should be tidy and without holes, and knee-length or longer, except at beaches or poolside. You may need a lightweight sweater for cooler nights or in locations with more air-conditioning. Women will need a scarf for visits to mosques. You can hand wash some clothes as needed. A specific packing list will be provided to Participants closer to departure.
What sort of documents will I need? A valid passport six months beyond our return date with at least two blank pages will be required. Be sure that you can leave and re-enter your home country on your passport. Currently, US citizens do not need special tourist visas to enter the country.
What special preparation and resources will Vive provide prior to departure? Vive offers free pre-departure meetings to help you prepare for your trip, focusing not just on logistics, but also cultural and linguistic information to help you get the most out of your trip.