The Channel Islands are a group of islands in the Atlantic Ocean. They include Alderney, Jersey, Sark, and Guernsey. Each island has its own history, cuisine, and culture, so if you’re planning a vacation, you’ll want to check out these unique islands.
Guernsey
Guernsey is one of the Channel Islands located in the English Channel, near the French coast. The Island has a long history, and is home to some fascinating heritage sites. It is one of the last remaining remnants of the medieval Dukedom of Normandy.
Guernsey was part of the Duchy of Normandy until the last Ice Age. The island has enjoyed a special relationship with England since 1066. During World War II, it was occupied by the Nazis. After the war, the residents chose to stay.
The weather on the island is temperate. In summer, the temperature is around 20 degC. While winters can be cold, there is little snow.
Jersey
Jersey is an island in the English Channel. It is one of the largest of the Channel Islands.
It is situated between the countries of England and France. The main town is St. Helier. In addition to its historical castles, it has numerous beaches.
The island is an ideal location for relocation. A well-regulated business infrastructure and high quality health services are available. This makes the area ideal for those looking to protect their wealth.
Jersey has a temperate climate. Cool summers and mild winters are accompanied by rare frost. There are also plenty of reptiles, frogs and kingfishers. Other wildlife includes toads, terns, white-toothed shrews, clown-faced puffins, and wall lizards.
Alderney
Alderney is the northernmost of the Channel Islands. It is situated between the shores of Normandy and England. The island is a part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey. The small island is a British Crown dependency.
Since the early Middle Ages, Alderney has been a part of the Norman domain. In 1554, Henry VIII of England undertook fortification works on the island.
During World War II, the Germans occupied Alderney. They built several fortresses on the island, and created several underground air-raid shelters. Several of these bunkers are still abandoned.
Today, the only way to reach Alderney is by plane. The only flights are direct from Southampton.
Sark
Sark is a small island located in the English Channel. Sark is known for its quaintness and its natural beauty. The island is surrounded by dark cliffs and rugged coastline. It is the smallest of the four main Channel Islands.
Sark has a population of about 500. There are three small harbours. A popular tourist attraction is the Dixcart Bay. This bay is a wonderful place to relax and take in the sights.
Visitors can ride a horse and carriage to enjoy the beauty of the island. You can also cycle. For those who would like to visit, you can also book a guided tour.
Dgernesiais and Jerriais
Jerriais and Dgernesiais are two different languages that are spoken on the Channel Islands. The two languages are related, but they are also separate.
Although the islands have had a long association with Norman French, they are now part of the Crown possessions of the United Kingdom. English is the official language. However, both of the Channel Islands have their own dialects.
Jerriais is the traditional language of Jersey, and has some mutual intelligibility with Guernesiais. This is partly due to the influence of English, but there is also some Latin and Norse.
A number of projects are being undertaken to preserve these languages, and their use in everyday life. These include Le Don Balleine, which is funded by the Jersey States.
Watersports
The Channel Islands Boating Center Watersports Camp is about more than the usual suspects. It also stands to reason that the CIBC is a jack of all trades when it comes to watersports, including but not limited to: power boating, surfing, sailing, kayaking and stand up paddle boarding. As such, the camp is a great place to introduce your kids to the many water ways to enjoy the good life. Not to mention that it teaches you the best ways to stay safe on the water and that your kids will be well taken care of in the process. In addition, there is a family day at the docks where parents can relax and take in some of the many fine restaurants the island has to offer. Likewise, there are a plethora of activities to keep the kids busy and entertained all day long.
