Actual dates are based on the lunar calendar and vary from year to year. Sfax, Tunisia's second largest city and a large commercial center, can also handle a limited amount of container traffic. The road network is fairly well developed, with major highways constructed or in the planning stages between major coastal population centers. Municipal power and water are generally reliable. The Tunisian government's policies in this area reflect an ongoing effort to balance its political and security concerns with the growing demand for Internet access and other new information technologies.
Expatriate housing is very comfortable, although prices have been rising.
Houses in the Tunis neighborhoods of Mutuelleville, Notre Dame, Carthage, Sidi Bou Said, La Soukra, La Marsa, and Gammarth are comparable to or better than many suburban U.S. communities. Medical and dental services are adequate in the major cities. Tunis has several large, well-equipped private clinics. Except for specialized care, most illnesses can be treated locally. Food standards are fair and the water in the coastal area is potable.