Dar Hayder

The building itself is really special, and the area gives you a proper local feel. What made the stay, though, was how open and supportive everyone was. The welcome and hospitality at Der Hayder were so warm, it was moving.

I spent a good hour on the rooftop at night, just taking in the view over the neighborhood. It was fantastic. The staff were friendly and helpful, and even offered to answer questions about Tunis beyond the hotel stay. There’s plenty of parking on nearby streets, and the neighborhood felt very safe. It’s a good place for a night or two. Just keep in mind that the entrance is very low, so you have to duck down, and the rooms and reception are upstairs on the first floor. There’s no elevator.

We had a delicious evening meal, and they were very happy to have our baby with us too. Jamil was a wonderful host, passionate about the place and glad to share its history. Dar Hayder is a lovingly restored palace at the edge of the Tunis Medina. The tiling is exquisite, and the welcome was exceptional. It’s the kind of place you hope to find by chance, but rarely do.

I wouldn’t recommend this place at all. If the rating allowed zero or less, that’s what I’d give. The way customers are treated felt condescending, with no professionalism or respect. Places like this should keep improving their service and work to satisfy guests so they’ll want to return. What I saw here made me feel these people have no interest in developing at all. I’d advise the owner to build a team with good communication and customer service skills, and to treat customers respectfully. Those things should come naturally, but this could be a step in the right direction.