Guernsey has been my home for over thirty-two years now. Unfairly criticized in the media as being a ‘Tax Haven’, Guernsey really is anything but. Measuring just 9 miles long and 3 wide and covering some 26sq miles, one might imagine Guernsey to be a place where there is little to do or see. This couldn’t be further from the truth.
Guernsey (and its sister islands of Sark, Alderney and Herm) enjoys more hours of sunshine per year than anywhere else in the British Isles, and Guernsey beaches are amongst the best found anywhere. An abundance of top-class restaurants, with locally caught shellfish a specialty, are a delight as are the spectacular cliff top walks with views of the neighboring islands.
A rich French heritage can be found in Guernsey, a major legacy being the majority of streets in the island retaining their French names. and many cafe’s offering al fresco dining in the summer, much like a Parisian side street.
Due to the occupation of the Channel Islands by the Germans during World War II, there are many bunkers, forts and emplacements to be found in Guernsey. A particular highlight being the German Underground Hospital – built by slaves during the war and carefully restored as a reminder or Channel Island History.
May 9th is a national holiday in Guernsey. Marked by Winston Churchill as the day ‘Our Dear Channel Islands are also to be freed today’. May 9th is a special day for Islanders as they celebrate the end of the oppressive occupation of the Island by German forces, which lasted almost 5 years.
Guernsey has a far more relaxed way of life than anywhere else in Britain, and is the ideal place to relax and unwind. Culture, history, wonderful scenery, fantastic beaches and top class restaurants make Guernsey a place you will definitely want to visit and return to time and time again. There really is something for everyone.
I’ll see you there!
