A 52-year-old British mother's vacation turned into a nightmare when she was sexually violated while parasailing in Tunisia. Michelle Wilson experienced unwanted touching and inappropriate behavior from a young operator who was strapped in with her during what should have been an enjoyable aerial excursion.

According to the New York Post, Wilson reported that the male operator, who appeared to be around 20 years old, pressed himself against her and groped her while they were suspended high above the beach in Sousse. The incident occurred after Wilson and her friend were told they couldn't parasail together due to windy conditions.

Wilson described how the operator pulled at her bikini bottoms under the guise of adjusting her harness, then proceeded to touch her inappropriately while speaking to her in Arabic. The terrified woman said she kept arching her back to create distance between them, but remained trapped in the harness until they returned to the ground.

Tourist's Frightening Midair Experience Detailed

Wilson explained that the operator straddled his legs around her while they were in the air, using one hand to control the parachute while using his other hand inappropriately. She felt him pressing against her body in a sexual manner during the parasailing excursion, making her feel violated and frightened.

"I felt violated and dirty and was scared," Wilson told reporters, describing how the young man continued groping her and moving against her throughout the ride. The incident stood in stark contrast to her friend's experience, who went parasailing separately with a different operator and "had a great time with no problems."

The $8,000 vacation, which Wilson had planned with her 17-year-old daughter, her friend, and her 16-year-old twin sons, was completely ruined by the traumatic experience. What was meant to be a relaxing family trip turned into a deeply distressing ordeal that required police involvement.

Immediate Action Taken Following Sexual Assault

As soon as Wilson returned to solid ground after the parasailing ride, she broke down in tears and immediately reported the sexual assault to local authorities. The traumatized mother made it clear this wasn't merely unwanted attention but a criminal act.

"As women, you expect a bit of banter from men in these countries, but this wasn't banter, it was a sexual assault," Wilson stated firmly when discussing the incident. Her statement highlights the distinction between cultural differences in communication and outright criminal behavior.

Wilson believes the parasailing operator has since been arrested, though complete details about any charges or legal proceedings were not fully confirmed in initial reports. The incident has prompted involvement from multiple organizations seeking to provide support and justice.

Multiple Agencies Working To Address The Incident

British authorities are now assisting Wilson with her case, working alongside her insurance company to provide necessary support following the traumatic experience. The cooperation between international agencies demonstrates the seriousness with which the incident is being treated.

EasyJet, the company through which Wilson booked her Tunisian vacation, has also launched an investigation into the assault. The travel company's involvement suggests a potential review of their partnerships with local excursion providers in tourist destinations.

The case highlights potential safety concerns for tourists participating in activities where they may be placed in vulnerable positions with unfamiliar operators. Solo travelers or those separated from their companions might face particular risks that aren't always evident when booking excursions.

Why This Story Matters

This story brings international attention to tourist safety, especially for women participating in recreational activities abroad. It underscores the importance of accountability in tourism industries operating globally. Most importantly, it gives voice to a survivor of alleged assault while prompting important conversations about travel safety and victim advocacy.

Conclusion

Michelle Wilson, a 52-year-old mother from the UK, was allegedly sexually assaulted while parasailing with a young operator during a family holiday in Sousse, Tunisia. She immediately reported the incident to local police and is receiving assistance from British authorities and her travel insurer.

Though her friend had a vastly different experience on a separate flight, Wilson says the event left her emotionally scarred and ruined what was meant to be a special $8,000 vacation. EasyJet, the company she booked the trip through, has begun an investigation into the case. International authorities are working to address the situation as the story continues to unfold.