Guernsey, Channel Islands – British Independent
Guernsey has been affiliated with the United Kingdom since Norman times. Guernsey is today independent and has its own system of currency and postage. The pound sterling is welcome in Guernsey, however the Guernsey pound is not spendable in Great Britain.
Traditional industries such as fishing, dairy farming and flower farming still thrive on Guernsey, however they are being supplemented by other, more modern industries. Due to Guernsey’s tax policies, a highly favorable tax climate has been created. Some of the industries that have called Guernsey home include offshore banks, insurance companies and fund managers. Additionally, other companies outside of the financial spectrum have established themselves in Guernsey. These include Specsavers, Healthspan and Healthy Direct.
Guernsey’s unique climate, when combined with over 25 miles of cliff-side trails, gives walking enthusiasts the chance to explore and see the wonders of nature. Guernsey’s climate provides an opportunity to see different varieties of plants growing in the wild. These include Madeira geraniums, aloes, and Kaffir figs. Walking tours generally take place in late spring and early fall, from April to September. Walking festivals are held during the fall and spring months. If a visitor chooses an “off-season” walking tour, walking guides can be hired on demand.
Guernsey’s capital has been occupied since Roman times. St. Peter Port offers a deep, safe harbor and anchorage. This geographic asset has made St. Peter Port home to shipbuilders, sailboats, privateers, and merchants. Today all styles of buildings can be seen at ST Peter Port. Georgian and Regency building styles sit side by side with buildings created with a more French influence. St Peter Port offers low tax shopping on many different types of products. Electronics, cameras and lenses, jewelry and perfumes can be had at low prices. Clothing, shoes and accessories along with antiques are also available.
Whilst Guernsey is physically close to the UK, it provides the UK visitor with the opportunity to enter another country with little time or monetary expense. The history and people of Guernsey welcome the visitor to the UK who will feel right at home during their visit to Guernsey.
