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The Channel Islands are a group of small islands, dependencies of the United KIngdom and situated in the English Channel, off the coast of Normandy, France. The 2 principal islands of the group include Jersey and Guernsey.

The temperate climate and picturesque scenery attracts many tourists, who play an important role in the economy of the islands. French and English are the official languages, but the people, especially on Guernsey and Jersey more usually speak English.

Guernsey island is reliant on agriculture and tourism as the principal industries. Flowers, fruits, and tomatoes are the main cash crops raised for export. Guernsey is particularly noted for its breed of cattle called Guernsey cattle. Saint Peter Port is the capital and principal seaport and steeped in history. Population is around 60,000.

The Bailiwick of Guernsey (French: Bailliage de Guernesey ) is a British crown dependency in the English Channel off the coast of Normandy.

As well as the island of Guernsey itself, it also includes Alderney, Sark, Herm, Jethou, Brecqhou, Burhou and other islets. There are 10 Parishes in Guernsey. Together with the Bailiwick of Jersey, it is included in the collective grouping known as the Channel Islands.

English is the only language spoken by a majority of the population, while Dgèrnésiais, the Norman language of the island, is currently spoken fluently by 2% of the population (according to 2001 census). However, 14% of the population claim some understanding of the language and it is taught in a few Island schools. Until the early 20th century French was the only official language. Family and Place names reflect this linguistic heritage.

Victor Hugo wrote some of his best-known works while in exile in Guernsey, including Les Misérables. His home in St Peter Port, Hauteville House, is now a museum administered by the city of Paris.

The national animals of the island of Guernsey are the donkey and the Guernsey cow. The traditional explanation for the donkey (âne in French and Dgèrnésiais) is the steepness of St Peter Port streets that necessitated beasts of burden for transport (in contrast to the flat terrain of the rival capital of St Helier in Jersey), although it is also used in reference to Guernsey inhabitants' stubbornness. The Guernsey cow is a more internationally famous icon of the island.

Guernsey people are traditionally nicknamed donkeys or ânes, especially by Jersey people (who in turn are nicknamed crapauds - toads). Inhabitants of each of the parishes of Guernsey also have traditional nicknames, although these have generally dropped out of use among the English-speaking population.

The Guernsey Lily Nerine sarniensis (Sarnia is the traditional name of the island of Guernsey in Latin) is also used as a symbol of the island.

The island's traditional colour (e.g. for sporting events) is green.

Guernsey had recently been declared an affiliate member in the ICC (International Cricket Council)

Towns in Guernsey (click town name for more information)

Saint Helier

St Peter Port

Driving Advice in Guernsey

Driving is on the left hand side as in the UK mainland but narrow country lanes and local regulations mean that driving in the Channel Islands is different from driving on the Continent or in the UK.

There are many small country lanes so a large car is not advised. There is an Island-wide speed limit of 40mph. In addition, there are 10, 20 and 30mph restrictions in many built up areas. A yellow painted line across the road surface at a junction indicates entry into a major road and you must ensure it is clear before you to pull out. A yellow grid at a junction means do not enter the box unless your exit is clear. There are also many 'Filter in Turns' which means just that. Should you have an accident, however minor, you must report it to a police officer and you must not move your vehicle. In country areas inform a honorary policeman, ask a local where to find them. Seat belts must be worn and children under 14 years must travel in the back, with seat belts. You may come across cattle or people riding horses on country lanes - vigilance is required at all times. Finally, please remember your driving licence for each person driving as you will not be able to drive a hire a car without one.

We offer car hire in the following locations in the Channel Islands

Guernsey Airport, Guernsey City St. Peter Port, Jersey Airport and Jersey downtown and other locations and other locations.