Travel guide Channel Islands

Until the early ^20th century, the islands were French-speaking territories. Two dialects derived from French are spoken: Jèrriais and Guernesiais, derived from the old Norman language and transmitted orally. Despite the predominance of English culture, the inhabitants don't see themselves as English, but as Normans.

Although the islands are not a free zone, there is no VAT, and each island has its own legislation. As a result, luxury goods are often offered at attractive prices. Some tourists don't hesitate to make a quick return trip during the day to take advantage of the duty-free stores on the boat, especially at Christmas time.

Islanders have a real passion for gardening, and every green corner of the islands is in bloom. The mild climate means that flowers can grow all year round, but it's in spring that the islands are at their most colorful. Horticulture has become one of the driving forces behind the island economy.

The islands of Jersey and Guernsey have established a solid reputation for jewelry-making. Numerous artists and craftsmen based here design superb luxury rings and necklaces, from the most sought-after to the most classic, elegantly presented in stores on the shopping streets of Saint-Peter-Port and Saint-Hélier.

Throughout their long history, the islands have had to contend with invaders far more dangerous than today's peaceful tourists. Their turbulent history has justified the construction of military edifices to protect the population from enemies. A history that can be read in these fortifications.

The U.S. state of New Jersey takes its name from the island. The name was given in honor of Jersey-born Sir George de Carteret, one of the state's founders, after King Charles II made him a gift of the island. Indeed, during the English Civil War, Charles II took refuge in Jersey, and the island's loyalty was rewarded.

The traditional English breakfast is an institution in the archipelago. In hotels and guesthouses, you can order eggs, bacon, beans, porridge and grilled tomatoes. If you're not used to it, you can of course have a "continental breakfast", or even combine the two... Bon appétit!

Located at the crossroads of Europe's most important sea route, the archipelago has long profited from piracy. Sark was a den of bandits until its conquest in the ^16th century. Many of the archipelago's houses were furnished with exotic woods, Dutch earthenware and Compagnie des Indes porcelain.

Over 200 km of coastline, 60 km of beaches: the Channel Islands are a pleasure for yachtsmen! The islanders are first and foremost a people of the sea, who fished, fought and traded on the water. As soon as the fine weather arrives, many yachtsmen come to anchor in the sheltered bays of the Channel Islands.

The English culture having taken the upper hand on the Norman origins of the islands, pubs flourish at every corner. Pubs that fill up from evening to morning with a heterogeneous population coming to have a drink or to eat. The best time to meet the locals is during the cup of tea or theafter work beer.

The proximity of Jersey and Guernsey makes them true enemies. In 1642, during the English Civil War, Guernsey sided with Cromwell, while Jersey remained loyal to King Charles ^I. Men banished from Jersey often found refuge in Guernsey, like Victor Hugo or, before him, Saint Patrick, the protector of Ireland.

The absence of pelicans in Herm and Sark is a real delight. On the other hand, their omnipresence in Jersey, Guernsey and Alderney is a real problem. In the two largest islands there are no less than two cars per inhabitant, which is a record. Not to mention the 4x4s, which clutter up the narrow roads and village lanes!