Tuesday, December 7/2010

In the lobby Julia, one of the few English speakers here, tells us that the hotel is 99% sure to close in January, apparently for major renovations, as has happened with a hotel down the block. She's booked to return after Christmas but may end up at the Tej Marhaba. But yes, it's less cosmopolitan.

Attempt to confirm our airport transfers for tomorrow, in accordance with the instructions on the internet booking info saying that confirmation 24 hours in advance is COMPULSORY and VERY IMPORTANT and easy (no capitals here). We'd tried online last night, but the site simply advised us to try later. Call off and on through the day - regular and emergency numbers both unanswered. Turns out it's a statutory holiday. Try emailing the company headquarters, presumably in the UK. No one in the office until Thursday says the automated reply. Also celebrating Tunisian holiday? But about 4 pm there is an answer at the emergency number. Yes, yes. They'll be here tomorrow - 10:20. No problem.