Star Wars, TUNISIA
Airing Date: May 23rd, 2005
Tunisia is a very small country yet somehow manages to boast a huge number of attractions. History and culture fans will love the ancient ruins of Carthage, outdoors types come to see the stunning oases, sun seekers come for the glorious beaches, and film buffs alike will love the many Star Wars settings of Tunisia's south.
Southern Tunisia is literally out of this world, on the edge of the Sahara Desert is where George Lucas shot many Star Wars scenes. One of the most famous landscapes used for Star Wars is the massive salt lake called Chott el Jerid. Covering 5000 sq km, the salt lake is mirage central in the heat of the summer - no wonder Luke Skywalker saw two moons there!
Near the Chott is Sidi Bhoulel, nicknamed Star Wars Canyon. This is where R2D2 wandered in the desert and almost ended up as scrap metal. On the edge of the cliff is where Ben Kenobi uttered the famous words 'you will never find a more wretched hive of scum and villany'- standing where Ben Kenobi once stood will transport you to planet Tatooine in no time.
In reality, the village of Tataouine is three hundred kilometres east of the canyon. Lucas liked the name so much he called a whole planet after it! But as far as filming went he preferred a village three hours north west of here - Matmata. This is where you will find the traditional Berber style Sidi Dris Hotel, a place Star Wars fans would recognise anywhere. It was the underground home of Luke Skywalker. And some of the original set is still here!!
The village of Chenine is also worth a look. Chenine, 18km west of Tataouine, is the best known of the hill villages and is another superb spot. It's also the most visited and can get quite crowded in summer. The ruins of the original kala, dating from the 12th century AD, stand at the junction of two ridges. The settlement tumbles down and out from here, built into the rock along a series of small terraces that lead around the steep hillside.
Even if you haven't seen Star Wars, Southern Tunisisa is a place of breathtaking landscapes, amazing architecture and fascinating history.
Further Information:
Thai Airways International will fly you to Bangkok from $2214 ex east coast, $2108 ex west coast.
Includes taxes, subject to exchange rates and conditions apply.
Connections to Tunis with Tunis Air from $440
International Destinations will take you on a 15 day tour from $2900 a person, which includes transfers, accommodation, excursions and breakfast daily. Conditions apply.
International Destinations Sydney: Ph. (02) 9267 8552.
Thai International: Ph. 1300 651 960.
Prices correct at 23/05/05.
