Tattooine is a place on earth

Whilst travelling it soon becomes normal to find yourself amongst ancient ruins that, with a little imagination, could transport you back to Roman times. Or let yourself get caught up in the maelstrom of a foreign souk, religious ceremony or some other alien experience.

Then you get to southern Tunisia and find yourself in a town called Matmata, which is very close to another small town - Tataouine. Those familiar with George Lucas' penchant for thinly masking his inspirations might recognise this name as being remarkably similar to Luke Skywalker's home planet - Tatooine.

The resemblance is no mistake. In Matmata we stayed at the Hotel Sidi Driss, which served as the set for both Luke's uncle's house (on 'Tatooine') and the entrance to the famous 'bar scene'. It's actually a remarkably small space, but it's amazing what you can do with some cunning camera angles.

It's the first time I've been transported to another planet on my travels, hopefully it's not the last.

A long time ago in a place far, far away

April 2006, Southern Tunisia