I was not looking forward to going back through Tunis Carthage airport, viewing it as the low part of the whole trip. We arrived more or less on time and, although standing at immigration in a chaotic line with mostly older Saudi women, everything went well and was civilised. No questions from the police, or customs, although it was easy to see who the hard guys were. I had a bit of time before being able to check in for the Nouvelair flight to Geneva, because the counter opened 3 hours before departure, not more. So I went outside into the surprisingly chilly Tunis air (forgive the pun, I haven't tried the airline Tunisair yet) to walk around the front grounds of the airport and get a bit of exercise. I was immediately assailed by 56 taxi drivers offering to take me anywhere I wanted, but the technique of being calm, polite and nice meant that they let go of me in a couple of minutes.

I managed to check in for the BJ flight to Geneva and go through immigration and security without any further issues. Airside was not too chaotic and my Swiss Diner's Club let me into the Privilege Lounge free of charge (this requires CHF6,000 of spend within a calendar year in order to get 5 free entries worldwide). The lunchtime food offer was much better than I expected (in contrast to what I read on Flyertalk). Although I began serving myself, it was gently pointed out that I would be served and this was done very classily (maybe it was because of my charm!). I enjoyed some Tunisian coffee, but the highlight was the Tunisian white wine served to me by the young barman. It tasted a bit like Arneis in Northern Italy although, as I downed the glasses, I began to think it was like a nice Gewürztraminer. I made a pact of friendship with the young Arab barman, Abdul*, who wants to show me around Tunis when I next come to the city.

* name has been changed



Exterior of the terminal building of Tunis airport TUN, while I was doing my walk


Food offering in the Tunis airport business lounge


The hot dishes were really quite palatable


General view of the interior of the Tunis airport business lounge


Excellent Tunisian white wine