Guernsey Travel Information

Guernsey is a small island located in the English Channel, near the coast of Normandy, France. The island is part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey, a British Crown Dependency. It is known for its stunning landscapes, picturesque harbors, and rich history. With a mild climate, scenic coastline, and lush countryside, Guernsey is a popular destination for tourists seeking a unique and relaxing vacation. Here are the top 10 things to do in Guernsey:

1. Visit St Peter Port

St Peter Port is the capital of Guernsey and a charming harbor town with a long history. The town has a mix of Georgian and Victorian architecture and is home to many shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can take a stroll along the harbor, admire the view from Castle Cornet, or visit one of the many museums and art galleries.

2. Explore Castle Cornet

Castle Cornet is a historic castle located in St Peter Port. It has a long and fascinating history and has been used as a prison, a garrison, and a museum. The castle offers stunning views over the town and harbor and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.

3. Walk the Coastal Paths

Guernsey's coastline is dotted with scenic walking paths, offering breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding countryside. The island's mild climate makes it a perfect destination for walkers and hikers. Some of the most popular walks include the coastal path from St Peter Port to Perelle, and the cliff path from Vazon Bay to Portelet.

4. Visit the Guernsey Museum and Art Gallery

The Guernsey Museum and Art Gallery is located in the capital, St Peter Port, and offers a fascinating insight into the island's history and culture. The museum is housed in a 19th-century building and showcases exhibits on the island's history, including its occupation by the Germans during World War II, as well as a collection of art and artifacts from the region.

5. Take a Boat Trip to Sark

Sark is a small island located just off the coast of Guernsey and is well worth a visit. The island is car-free and offers a unique blend of unspoiled natural beauty and charming traditional architecture. You can take a boat trip from St Peter Port to Sark and explore the island's quaint villages and rolling hills.

6. Visit the Little Chapel

The Little Chapel is a tiny, doll-sized chapel located in St Andrew's parish. It is decorated with broken china, seashells, and other colorful materials and is a popular tourist attraction. The chapel is considered one of the smallest in the world and is well worth a visit.

7. Visit the Occupation Museum

The Occupation Museum is located in St Peter Port and offers a fascinating insight into the island's history during World War II. The museum showcases exhibits and artifacts related to the German occupation of the island and provides a unique perspective on this important historical event.

8. Enjoy the Local Cuisine

Guernsey is known for its delicious cuisine, which combines traditional British dishes with local seafood and produce. Some of the must-try dishes include Guernsey gâche (a type of fruit bread), Guernsey Bean Jar (a stew made with beans, meat, and vegetables), and Guernsey Black Butter (a sweet spread made with apples, cinnamon, and other spices).

9. Visit Hauteville House

Hauteville House is a historic house located in St Peter Port that was once the home of French writer Victor Hugo. The house has been preserved and turned into a museum, showcasing many of the author's personal belongings and works. Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and learn about the life and works of one of France's most famous writers.

10. Enjoy a Beach Day

Guernsey is home to many stunning beaches, including Vazon Bay, Petit Bot Bay, and Pembroke Bay. These beaches offer a peaceful and relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to relax or an active day at the beach, Guernsey has something for everyone.

Climate

Guernsey has a mild, maritime climate, with cool summers and mild winters. The average temperature in the summer months (June to September) is around 16°C to 18°C, while the average temperature in the winter months (December to February) is around 8°C to 10°C. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months being October and November.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Guernsey depends on your personal preferences and interests. If you enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking and exploring the coast, the summer months (June to September) are the best time to visit, with warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours. If you prefer a more relaxed and peaceful vacation, the spring and autumn months (April to May and September to October) are a good option, with milder weather and fewer crowds. The winter months (December to February) can be a bit colder and wetter, but the island still has plenty to offer, with cozy pubs, historic sites, and beautiful landscapes to enjoy.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

Guernsey has a variety of hotels to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly options to 5-star luxury hotels. Many of the hotels in Guernsey offer stunning views of the sea and are located in quiet, peaceful areas, making them perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Bed and Breakfasts

Bed and breakfasts are a popular option for travelers looking for a more personal and intimate experience. These small, family-run establishments offer a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere, and many of them are located in picturesque villages and towns around the island.

Self-Catering Accommodation

Self-catering accommodation is a great option for those who want more freedom and flexibility during their stay in Guernsey. These options range from apartments to holiday homes and cottages, and many of them come equipped with full kitchens, making it easy to prepare your own meals.

Camping and Caravan Sites

For those who prefer a more outdoor-oriented experience, camping and caravan sites are available throughout Guernsey. These sites offer a range of facilities, including toilets, showers, and electrical hook-ups, and are a great option for families and nature lovers.

Buses

Guernsey has an extensive bus network that covers most of the island, making it a convenient and affordable option for getting around. The buses are modern, reliable, and run regularly, with a variety of tickets and passes available to suit your needs.

Taxis

Taxis are readily available in Guernsey and are a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage. Taxis are available at taxi ranks, or you can book one in advance.

Bicycles

Cycling is a popular and environmentally-friendly mode of transportation in Guernsey, with a network of bike paths and lanes that make it easy to get around. Bicycles can be rented from several shops around the island, and are a great way to see the sights and enjoy the scenery.

Cars and Motorbikes

Renting a car or motorbike is a convenient option for those who want to explore Guernsey at their own pace. There are several car rental agencies on the island, and visitors can rent a car or motorbike for a day or several weeks. Please note that visitors should be aware of the local traffic laws and rules of the road before driving in Guernsey.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.