European Tourists Return After 14 Years as Government Pushes for Regional Tourism Revival
A group of 160 European tourists arrived in the Tunisian city of Gafsa on Tuesday, marking the first significant visit of its kind in over 14 years and signaling a potential revival for the region’s tourism industry.
The arrival is a direct result of a strategic push by Tunisia’s Ministry of Tourism to diversify the nation’s tourism sector beyond its coastal resorts. A recent government directive has encouraged the promotion of lesser-known inland destinations, positioning Gafsa as a hub for authentic, sustainable travel.
“For years, tourism was concentrated on the coast. This delegation is the first tangible result of a new strategy to spread economic benefits and showcase Tunisia’s hidden cultural gems,” said a ministry representative.
The southern city offers a blend of historical and agricultural attractions, from Roman ruins and ancient oases to opportunities for hands-on farm stays. Its proximity to the otherworldly Chott el Jerid salt flat also positions it for growth in ecotourism.
Officials emphasize that the visit is not an isolated event but the start of a long-term plan focused on sustainable growth that involves local communities and preserves the region’s environment. Further promotional campaigns and tourist groups are expected to follow.
TunisianMonitorOnline (NejiMed)
