5 Shopping in Houmt Souk That You Shouldn't Miss

Reviewed By krishnaraji - Mumbai, India

"You're going to discover a part of yourself in Djerba, believe me!" said Sidi Ben Haj Yedder my affable host over an international call, in his warm and reassuring tone! Landing in Tunisia was nothing less than a dream come true and with Djerba Tourisme in charge of my trip, I felt more at home than ever before! Quaint and rustic, Djerba dazzles with its endearing legacy of music, cuisine and plurality, rightly deeming it 'The Island of Tolerance'- the legendary symbol of Jewish-Arab brotherhood. The most colorful part of my trip was Houmt Souk, Djerba's traditional market and one of the world's most dazzling kaleidoscopes of color and culture. Aymen El Omrani, my local guide from Djerba Tourisme fluent in French, classical Arabic and English guided me through the mesmerizing maze of little lanes and alleys of the old souk. Exquisite handicrafts, carpets, traditional local costumes, pottery and spices had me wandering through the souk like Alice in Wonderland! Friendly vendors, often gently correcting my French and teaching me local Tunisian Arabic phrases, exchanged warm hugs and mint tea, treating me with a tryst with Djerba's magical indigenous artisanal talent. Though bargaining is a feat, knowing the local language can help! Traditional 'Bakhour' incense is a must buy at Houmt Souk, with earthy exhilarating aromas captivating the senses. A trip to the tiny kiosk of Anan Turki can have you transcend time with his immense repertoire of essential oils. The polished perfumer will bathe you with geranium, rose, jasmine and eucalyptus all afternoon along with explaining their health benefits. A cup of tantalizing mint tea at Houmt Souk's traditional Tunisian Cafe Ben Yedder along with a snack or two will complete your experience. A visit to the historic St.Joseph's Cathedral at Houmt Souk with its cream structure and blue doors will envelope with in tranquility. It is a symbol of Djerba's pluralism. Djerba Tourisme's immaculately organised trip reflected their overwhelming hospitality, exemplary professionalism, ingenuity and undying passion for their motherland. They offered me a diverse bouquet of fascinating experiences on the beautiful island which I bring home with me as a cherished memory. Their willingness to go the extra mile in offering their guests the best is truly commendable! I thank the founder Sidi Adel Ben Haj Yedder for one of my most unforgettable sojourns ever! Thank you!