Destination Of The Day: Tunisia (PHOTOS)

When planning a trip to North Africa, the Mediterranean country of Tunisia is easily dwarfed by tourist hot spots Morocco and Egypt. But this tiny, underrated destination is packed with enough history and natural beauty to rival its formidable neighbors - from the ancient Roman city of Carthage to the quaint artist town of Sidi Bou Said, the fascinating troglodyte homes of Matmata to lush oases, enormous salt lakes, luxurious beach resorts, and remarkably well-preserved medinas or old towns, Tunisia is the Sahara's hidden jewel.

Tunisia has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Visiting is best in springtime, between mid-March and mid-May, while the summers are great for beach vacations and the fall for desert trips.