I've stayed in the Marhaba a couple of times and thoroughly enjoyed it. The best tip I can give you is to remember that Tunisians are friendly people and you will be safe out there, though obviously take the normal precautions against theft as you would anywhere. They all love children and go out of their way to amuse them, particularly the entertainment team in the hotel. Most of them are fairly poor and the person trying to sell you trips or souvenirs is probably supporting his parents and helping put his sister or brother through education, so they do want your custom, but it is usually good natured and they expect you to haggle, particularly in the Medina. They do accept a firm "no thank you" (or preferably "la shokran") If you don't enjoy this type of shopping go to the Soula Centre or other fixed-price shops. On various parts of this forum there are useful Tunisian Arabic phrases which will certainly be useful, though most locals speak English or French.

Take the children to the Water Park at Port el Kantaoui for a good day out. Have a look at the following site : http://www.acquapalace.com/

If you want to explore on your own you can get a train from Sousse to Tunis, Mahdia and various other places and the fares are dirt cheap. You will find train timetables on the following: http://www.seat61.com/Tunisia2.htm

As you are a big party the louages (shared taxis) may be a good option as you would fill one on your own. They go from the louage station to most towns.

Hope you all have a lovely time and if you want any further help don't hesitate to ask.

thanks thats a great help i realy do belive we will have a great time

I think you will, it's a lovely place and the staff are fantastic