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A Channel Island Jersey

By: Douglas Scott Click author's name for more of his/her articles

The Channel Islands are situated a few miles from the coast of France but over seventy miles from the United Kingdom. Jersey lies in the Bay of Mont St Michel and is the largest of the Channel Islands. It measures ten miles east to west and six miles north to south. From the parapets of Mont Orgueil Castle to the gentle sweep of the bay beyond, its hard to imagine a more peaceful and tranquil island. Transport to Jersey is accessible by train ferry or air.

It has been an island for approximately eight thousand years. Jerseys landscape and the character of its people are forged by centuries of battles, exploration, struggle and reinvention, leaving behind a unique legacy of history, culture and heritage.

The earliest evidence of human activity in the island dates to about two hundred and fifty thousand years ago. Bands of hunters used the caves at La Cotte de St Brelade as a base for hunting mammoth. There was sporadic activity in the area by nomadic bands of hunters until the introduction of settled communities in the Neolithic period, which is marked by the building of the ritual burial sites known as dolmens. Archaeological evidence shows that there were trading links with Brittany and the south coast of England during this time.

William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy, invaded and captured England in 1066. The French king later invaded and captured Normandy in 1204. The Islanders chose to stay subject to the Crown of England. in return for their loyalty, the Islands were allowed to retain their own government and even today they are not legally part of the United Kingdom or the European Union.

Tax laws have made the Channel Islands a major financial centre and home to many wealthy British people. Duty free goods are sold on ferries to the Channel Islands, but not on ferries to France.

A holiday in Jersey is advisable twelve months of the year. It has been a favourite with the discerning holiday explorer. Visiting part of the British isles with an independent spirit all its own, you wont need passports and there is no need to change money. There is accommodation to suit all. It offers wide flexibility. It is good value for money and quality throughout. It is a great place to see and spend a holiday or a short break because it offers sandy beaches, castles and history.

Article Source: ABC Article Directory

About The Author: Douglas Scott writes for Car Rentals The Car Hire Specialist. and is a free lance writer for The Villa Rental Site