Today we went to see the ruins at Carthage and Sidi Bou Said. Both are now resort towns that really feel Mediterranian. White washed walls; blue shutters and ironwork; against a beautiful sea and sky. We had to imagine the sky as blue since it was a bit overcast. We learned a lot about the eras prior to Roman times and all the influences in this center of commerce: Punic; Etruscan; Egyptian; Turkish; Spanish and Greek. There were many artifacts in the museum from all of these. We took the train which seems to break down frequently but people were very kind and helpful to get us on our way again. Speaking French seems to bridge the gap. People are excited to meet Americans which is reassuring.
Last night we had a cooking lesson and feast. The food is phenomenal. Tonight we are going to a a dinner hosted by a local family and there will be a musician known for his expertise in playing traditional music on an instrument from a time before Christ. I imagine belly dancing will be involved.
Tomorrow we are off to the oasis of Tozeur.
One small correction: The evening meal was hosted by one of the Tunisian student's families. The food was incredible, and, since the mother is a music professor, she performed with two Iraqi musicians who had come to Tunisia, but were unable to return home due to the war. They great gentlemen were so joyful and passionate about their music. One played the Lute, and the other played the hammer dulcimer and drum. Our hostess also played the hammer dulcimer. The speed of their fingers and soulfulness of their voices, combined with the wonderful dancing that the music evoked filled the senses. There is such joy in the musicians faces when they perform.
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