Guernsey General Information Area: 63.1 sq km (24.3 sq miles). Population: 59,807 (2001). Population Density: 947.8 per sq km. Capital: St Peter Port. GEOGRAPHY: Guernsey is situated in the Gulf of St Malo, 50km (30 miles) from the coast of France and 130km (80 miles) from the south coast of England. The cliffs on the south coast rise to 80m (270ft), from which the land slopes away gradually to the north. Guernsey is an ideal centre for excursions to the other Channel Islands and France. The islands of Alderney, Brecqhou, Sark, Herm, Jethou and Lihou are dependencies of Guernsey. Government: Dependency of the British Crown. Although Guernsey is British, its history and constitution mean that it is not part of the United Kingdom or the European Union. Head of State: HM Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by Lieutenant-Governor Lt-Gen Sir John Foley since 2000. Head of Government: Bailiff de Vic Carey since 1999. Internally, Guernsey is self governing with its own parliament (the States of Guernsey) and its own laws. Only foreign affairs and defence are handled by the UK, although there are arrangements by which Guernsey laws are approved by the crown. Language: English is the official language. Norman patois is spoken in some parishes. Religion: Church of England, Presbyterian, Baptist, Congregational and Methodist. Time: GMT (GMT + 1 from March to October). Electricity: 240 volts AC, 50Hz. Three-pin plugs in use. Communications:   Telephone Country code: 44, followed by (0)1481. Outgoing international code: 00. Mobile telephone GSM 900. Main network operator is Guernsey Telecoms (website: www.guernseytelecoms.com). Some single and triple band handsets will function. Roaming agreements in operation. Handsets can also be hired. Fax Services are available in hotels and fax bureaux. Internet Public access is available at Internet cafes and in libraries. Local ISPs include Cable & Wireless, Guernsey (website: www.gtonline.net). Post Only Guernsey stamps will be accepted on outgoing mail. The main post office is at Smith Street, St Peter Port. Post boxes are painted blue. Press The local newspapers are The Guernsey Press and Star and The Guernsey Weekly Press. English, French, German, Dutch and Italian newspapers are also available at newsagents. All the main British newspapers are available in Guernsey on the day of publication. Passport/Visa Passport and Visa requirements are the same as those for the rest of the UK. See the United Kingdom section for further information. Money Currency: Guernsey has its own currency but all UK notes and coins are legal tender, and circulate with the Channel Islands issue. Pound Sterling (£) = 100 pence. Notes are in denominations of £50, 20, 10, 5 and 1. Coins are in denominations of £2 (special issue) and 1, and 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 pence. Note: (a) Guernsey still has its own £1 note. (b) Channel Islands notes and coins are not accepted in the UK, although they can be reconverted at parity in UK banks. Currency exchange: Foreign currencies can be exchanged at bureaux de change, in banks and at many hotels. Credit & debit cards: MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club and Visa are all widely accepted. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other services which may be available. Travellers cheques: Widely accepted. Exchange rates: See the United Kingdom section. Banking hours: Mon-Fri 0930-1530. Some banks are open earlier and close later on weekdays. Duty Free The following goods may be imported into Guernsey by persons of 18 years or over without incurring customs duty: 200 cigarettes or 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco; 2l of still table wine; 1l of alcoholic beverages over 22 per cent proof or 2l of fortified wine/sparkling wine/liqueurs; other goods to a value of £145. Note: (a) Animals may be imported into the Channel Islands under the recent ‘Pet Passport’ scheme. For further details, contact an official source. (b) Commercial goods, prohibited and restricted goods, or goods in excess of the personal allowance must be declared. (c) Guernsey is not part of the EU and therefore normal restrictions apply. Prohibited goods: Unlicensed drugs; offensive weapons; obscene or pornographic material; counterfeit goods. Restricted items: Firearms, explosives and ammunition; animals and birds; uncooked meats and poultry; certain plants. Public Holidays Public holidays are as for the rest of the UK (see United Kingdom section) with the following date also observed: May 9 Liberation Day (commemorating the arrival of the British Forces at the end of World War II). Health   Special Precautions Certificate Required Yellow Fever No No Cholera No No Typhoid and Polio No N/A Malaria No N/A Health care: Most doctors and dentists are in private practice and patients are required to pay for any treatment by a GP. This can be at a surgery, at a temporary residence or in the Accident and Emergency Department at the Princess Elizabeth Hospital (PEH) which is operated by the Board of Health, as these services are provided by GPs in private practice. However the Reciprocal Health Agreement only provides for immediately necessary treatment, such as urgently needed treatment for conditions which may arise during a stay. Hospital accommodation and medical services are provided free of charge to UK visitors under the act. There is also a charge for the ambulance service. Medical insurance is strongly recommended. Travel - International AIR: Guernsey can be reached all year round from various locations on mainland Britain, Dinard, Zurich and Amsterdam and at weekends during the summer from Rotterdam, Dortmund and Hanover. Airlines serving Guernsey include British Airways Express, Flybe., Swiss and Aurigny Air Services. Approximate flight times: From Guernsey to London is 35 minutes. International airports: Guernsey (GCI), 6km (4 miles) from St Peter Port. Bus and taxi services are available to the town (travel time – 15 minutes). Airport facilities include ATM, car hire, tourist information, first aid room, shops (including duty-free shop in departure lounge) and light refreshments. Departure tax: None. SEA: Condor Ferries operates car/passenger catamaran services to Guernsey from Poole (travel time – 2 hours 30 minutes), Weymouth (travel time – 2 hours) and St Malo (travel time – 2 hours). A car ferry operates to Portsmouth (travel time – 10 hours 30 minutes). Services also operate from Jersey. Timetable details are available (tel: +33 (02) 2318 0180). Emeraude Lines operates from St Malo, Jersey and Sark. Day excursions are available daily to Herm, Jersey and Sark by boat. Inter-island services are also available from Aurigny Air Services, Condor Ferries and Emeraude Lines. Travel - Internal ROAD: Bus: A comprehensive bus service has recently been revised and serves all parts of the island. A variety of island tours are also available during the summer. Car hire: There are many car hire companies available on Guernsey, with rates that compare favourably with the UK. There is an unlimited mileage allowance. Coach hire for large parties is also available. Bicycle hire: Available from various firms for daily or weekly hire. Regulations: Driving is on the left. Maximum speed limit is 35mph (56kph). Parking is free, although time limits are imposed. If these are exceeded, fines are levied. Documentation: A full national driving licence is required. TRAVEL TIMES: The following chart gives approximate travel times (in hours and minutes) from St Peter Port to the neighbouring Channel Islands. Air Sea Alderney 0.15 - Herm Island - 0.20 Jersey 0.15 1.00 Sark Island - 0.40 Accommodation A full colour brochure of all accommodation is available from the Guernsey Tourist Board (see Contact Addresses section). The Guernsey Government has a scheme for the compulsory inspection and grading of hotels to ensure standards of accommodation are maintained and improved. It is advised to book accommodation in advance during the summer months. HOTELS: A large selection of well-maintained hotels, offering facilities for the single or group visitor, is available. Over 94 per cent of rooms have ensuite facilities. All have at least a washbasin and hot and cold running water. Advance booking is advisable during the summer period. For the brochure mentioned above, contact the Guernsey Tourist Board or the Guernsey Hotel and Tourism Association (GHATA), c/o Guernsey Chamber of Commerce, Suite 3, 16 Glategny Esplanade, St Peter Port GY1 1WN (tel: (01481) 713 583; fax: (01481) 710 755; e-mail: info@ghata.guernsey.net; website: www.ghata.com). Grading: All hotels are graded, being given a number of Stars (with 5 Stars given as the highest grade) according to the facilities offered. Some registered hotels have either not been awarded any Stars or are awaiting their assessment. 1-star: Clean and comfortable accommodation, with a minimum of six bedrooms, three-quarters of which will have en suite/private facilities. Range of facilities will include a lounge area, alcohol licence, lunch availability option and dining facilities for evening meals; 2-star: Accommodation offering more extensive facilities including colour TV and private/en suite facilities in all bedrooms, a lunch availability option and a restaurant serving evening meals; 3-star: The range of facilities increases and includes a laundry service. More emphasis is placed on the quality and comfort of bedrooms, including remote-control TVs. Staffing levels and quality are of a good standard. Full dinner service, light snacks and lunches are available to residents and non-residents; 4-star: Includes hotels with extensive accommodation and smaller luxury hotels, which provide high standards of service and an even wider range of facilities. These include a dry cleaning service and a superior standard of decor, furnishings and fittings in all bedrooms. All en suite/private facilities will include baths with overhead showers. At least one restaurant will be open daily to residents and non-residents, for all meals. A full lunch service will be available in a restaurant, brasserie or similar; 5-star: The highest classification, with an extensive range of facilities and services, including excellent staff, high-quality service and a luxurious standard of decor, furnishings and fittings. All rooms have en suite facilities which include baths fitted with overhead showers, bath robes and bath sheets. All colour TVs offer cable and satellite channels, along with video channels. Additional fax and computer points may be provided. GUEST-HOUSES: These are normally family-run establishments, providing a good standard of accommodation in a homely atmosphere. This can be based on full-board, half-board or bed and breakfast, according to the visitor’s requirements. A number of these have residential liquor licences. Grading: All are graded under the Diamond Scheme with one diamond offering basic comfort and five diamonds offering the best service. SELF-CATERING: Units are graded one star to five stars according to size, number of persons accommodated, standards and amenities offered. CAMPING/CARAVANNING: There are four official campsites at various locations around the island. Full details are available from the Tourist Office. Visitors are not permitted to bring caravans into Guernsey. Introduction Guernsey has a quieter charm than Jersey, with fewer of the trappings of mass tourism, and is a tranquil alternative to its larger neighbour to the southeast. Like Jersey, though, it has a strong culture of annual special events like the ‘Battle of Flowers’ floral carnival which takes place each August. ST PETER PORT: The island’s capital retains much of the character of a traditional fishing village. The church dates in part from the 12th century, while the 17th-century oldest house, now a National Trust shop, stands in Cornet Street. The Priaulx Library contains a large browsable collection of historical records. Nearby, Castle Cornet overlooks the harbour. Built during the reign of King Stephen, it bears influences from many eras, through to the German occupation of World War II. It also contains the Royal Guernsey Militia Museum, a Maritime Museum and attractive gardens. Hauteville House, on the south side of St Peter Port at the top of the hill, was once the home of Victor Hugo. It was here that he wrote The Toilers of the Sea (which is set in St Sampson). His statue stands in Candie Gardens, as does the main Island Museum, and a small botanical gardens. THE COAST: Guernsey has an extensive array of beaches ranged all around its coastline. Within walking distance of St Peter Port are those of Havelet Bay and Belle Grève Bay. On the West Coast lies Fortress Rousse, an 18th-century tower now open to the public. Fortifications are scattered all around the coast – among them are Ivy Castle near Le Bouet, a Norman stronghold, and Vale Castle at St Sampson. In the north of the island are L’Ancresse Bay and Grande Havre, both with big sandy beaches. Further afield, and popular with surfers, is the northwest-facing Vazon Bay, with its huge sweeping sands. At the western end lies Roquaine Bay, which boasts two beaches as well as the Fort Grey Maritime Museum, focusing on the many shipwrecks that have occurred off Guernsey. At the northern end of the bay, Lihou Island is home to flocks of seabirds, and is accessible to walkers at low tide. On the south coast, steep steps reach the beach at Petit Bôt, and Moulin Huet Bay is a sheltered location for sunbathers. The cliff paths around the island make for interesting walks. The Water Lanes leading to the shore, particularly at Moulin Huet and Petit Bôt, are highlights among these. Dolmens (neolithic tombs) are common on Guernsey. Among them are Déhus Dolmen, near the yacht marina in the Vale, and La Catioroc, on a mound overlooking Perelle Bay (reputedly once a witches’ meeting place). INLAND: In the north of the island at Sausmarez Park, the Folk Museum has an extensive collection of old farming equipment and Victorian domestic furniture. The wartime German Underground Hospital at St Andrew is now a tourist attraction, and the German Occupation Museum at Forest gives an insight into island life during World War II German occupation. Also located in German tunnels is the island’s Aquarium. The Little Chapel at Les Vauxbelets is thought to be the smallest church in the world, with space for a priest and a congregation of two. Guernsey’s only stately home open to the public is Sausmarez Manor at St Martin. Sport & Activities Watersports: Guernsey’s location and mild climate provide good opportunities for beach holidays and water sports, particularly swimming and sailing. Amongst the best beaches are Petit Bôt, Vazon Bay, Cobo and l’Ancresse. Fishing tours on chartered boats are also available. Diving excursions and courses are offered by the Guernsey School of Diving (tel: (01481) 247 664) and other organisations. Contact the Guernsey Tourist Board for details (see Contact Addresses section). Golf: Guernsey has two 18-hole golf courses and one 9-hole course. The 18-hole course at La Grand De Mare was designed by Fred Hawtree and is particularly suitable for beginners and intermediate players. Visitors wishing to play must have a handicap certificate from a recognised club. Guernsey’s second 18-hole course is at the Royal Guernsey/L’Ancresse Golf Club in the north; a current handicap certificate from a recognised club is required. St Pierre Park’s 9-hole course is good for putting practice; a handicap is not required. Other: Due to its small size, cycling holidays are popular in Guernsey. Excursions to the neighbouring islands of Herm and Sark as well as to France are possible via frequent ferry links. Walking tours can be organised throughout the Channel Islands, with trails along the cliffs providing dramatic scenery and beautiful views. Contact the Guernsey Tourist Board for details (see Contact Addresses section). Social Profile Food & Drink: Guernsey is famous for its food and the island has a wide variety of restaurants ranging from traditional French and English cuisine to Italian, Indian and Chinese. The local speciality is shellfish, with freshly caught lobsters, crabs and scallops forming the basis of many dishes. Other Guernsey specialities include Guernsey Gâche - pronounced ‘gosh’ (a fruit loaf usually served with local butter) and Gâche Melée (a local apple cake). Table service is normal in restaurants, with counter service in bars. There are two self-service restaurants in St Peter Port. A wide variety of alcoholic beverages are available and spirits, beers and wines are relatively cheap compared to the mainland. Eating out is also excellent value for money as there is no VAT. Bars may open Mon-Sat between 1030 and 2345, Sun 1200-1530 and 1800-2300 (currently visitors have to eat to buy a drink on Sunday evenings; however, these regulations are being reviewed). Nightlife: Discotheques are located in St Peter Port, whilst live music and cabarets are organised by some hotels during the summer season. The Beau Sejour Leisure Centre at St Peter Port contains a cinema, theatre, bars and cafe. Shopping: There is no VAT but a Guernsey Bailiwick tax is imposed on certain goods such as spirits, wines, beers and tobacco. Prices of luxury goods are cheaper than in the UK, although the overall cost of foodstuffs is higher. Special purchases include Guernsey’s local pottery, knitted sweaters crafts, gold and silver jewellery and candles. Shopping hours: Mon-Sat 0900-1730 (there may be limited Sunday opening). Special Events: Below are a selection of special events due to be celebrated in Guernsey during 2003. For full details and exact dates, contact the Guernsey Tourist Board (see Contact Addresses section): Jan 19-26 Guernsey Open Bowls Tournament. May 9 Liberation Day. Jun 8 Guernsey Classic Vehicle Show, St Saumarez Park. Jun 22-28 Guernsey Square Dance Festival, Beau Sejour. Jun 28-Jul 4 NatWest Island Games. Jul 12 North Regatta, St Sampsons Harbour. Jul 25 Harbour Carnival (annual event, including ladies dinghy race, men’s tug of war, manpowered flight and tombola), St Peter Port. Jul 26-Aug 2 St Peter Port Carnival. Aug 2 Rocquaine Regatta, Rocquaine Bay. Aug 6-7 South Show. Aug 13-14 West Show, St Pierre du Bois. Aug 20-21 North Show and Battle of Flowers (finale of summer shows), Saumarez Park, Castel. Aug 27-31 Horse of the Year Show. Nov 2-4 Volleyball Open. Social Conventions: Handshaking is the customary form of greeting and normal social courtesies should be observed when visiting someone’s home. It is not usual to start eating until everyone is served. If invited to someone’s home, a small present such as flowers or chocolates is appreciated. Casual wear is acceptable in most places. Smoking is not allowed on buses. Tipping: Ten to 12 per cent is normal, except where a service charge is included. Business Profile Economy: Finance, tourism and light industry are the main components of Guernsey’s economy. The island has gradually been developed as an offshore financial centre and the financial sector now accounts for 60 per cent of government revenues. Various institutions are incorporated on the island to take advantage of its favourable tax and corporate disclosure requirements. However, along with Jersey, the island’s government agreed in 2002 to join an EU-wide campaign to improve international financial transparency and stamp out tax evasion. Flowers and tomatoes are the main horticultural exports and enjoy international recognition. Tourism's relative importance has been far outstripped by the financial sector. Business: Businesspeople are generally expected to dress smartly, with a suit and tie for men. Appointments should be made and business cards are customary. Business is conducted in English. Office hours: Mon-Fri 0900-1700. Commercial Information: The following organisation can offer advice: Guernsey Chamber of Commerce, Suite 3, 16 Glategny Esplanade, St Peter Port GY1 1WN (tel: (01481) 727 483; fax: (01481) 710 755; e-mail: director@chamber.guernsey.net; website: www.chamber.guernsey.net). Conferences/Conventions: Guernsey’s main conference venue, the Beau Sejour Centre, has a maximum seating capacity of 1500 with 2646 sq m (28,482 sq ft) of exhibition space and banqueting for 900 people or a reception area for 2000 people. Many hotels also offer conference space. More information can be obtained from Conference Guernsey (tel: (0118) 934 5542). Climate The most popular holiday season is from Easter to October, with temperatures averaging 20-21°C (68-70°F). These months give an average of 200 and 260 hours of sunshine. Rainfall is mainly during the cooler months. The sea is 17°C (63°F) on average during the summer. Required clothing: Normal beach and holiday wear for summer, with some warmer clothing as there are often sea breezes. Warm winter wear and rainwear are advised. History and Government History: In the 11th century, the Channel Islands (les Isles Normandes), of which Guernsey is one, were part of the Duchy of Normandy. When William, Duke of Normandy, conquered England, the Channel Islands were incorporated into the combined realm of both England and Normandy. King John of England lost mainland Normandy to the French 140 years later but the Channel Islands stayed loyal to England. The French made many subsequent attempts, all of which were repelled, over the ensuing centuries to capture the islands. The Germans were more successful, albeit briefly, during World War II when much of the island’s population was evacuated to England. Guernsey has long enjoyed a large degree of internal self-government, developing its own legal and political institutions. The British government is responsible for Guernsey’s external relations. Government: The British monarch is head of state, represented locally by a Lieutenant Governor. Internal affairs are governed by the island’s parliament, the States of Deliberation. The ‘States’, as it is commonly known, has 57 members divided into three groups: 45 deputies elected directly by universal suffrage; ten representatives of the douzaines or parish councils and two representatives from the small neighbouring island of Alderney. The most recent elections were held in 2000. No political parties are represented at Guernsey elections. Copyright © 2003 Columbus Publishing Ltd.