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Guernsey is one of the “Channel Islands”, the other principle islands being, Jersey, Alderney, Hern and Sark. Although the Channel Islands are part of the British Isles, they are not part of the United Kingdom, or the European Union. This means that the Islands’ Governments do not have to levy VAT, and they have their own currencies (linked to Sterling now but up to the 1930s linked to the French Franc.)
The connection with France can be easily observed in place and street names. The Islands were occupied by the Nazis after the fall of France, and relics of the occupation can be seen in fortifcations and facilities from the second world war. Some people managed to escape before the occupation, including the whole population of Alderney, who were evacuated to Weymouth.
A regular ferry service runs to Weymouth and St Malo, linking Guernsey and Jersey to Britain and France. Local ferry services provide a link between islands.
The picturesque harbour of St Peter Port (top right) is used both for pleasure craft, and commercial traffic.
From a high point in the town (second and third right) the harbour and Castle Coronet can be seen, as well as the spire of Town Church.
The bottom picture shows the view across the harbour to the castle with Sark in the distance.
Guernsey has its own Government, legal system, currency, postage stamps, highway code, banking system and police force.
Visitors from the European Union can buy “duty free” goods, subject to their own counties import regulations.
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