Round The World and other travels

A frequent flyer's collection of trip diaries

July 2008 : The Bailiwick Do : Jersey

Following hard on the heels of the Isle of Man and Orkney, this was my third visit in as many months to one of the smaller islands that comprise the British Isles. Just like the Isle of Man, Jersey is not part of either the UK or Ireland, but enjoys an independent status. Considering its geographic location, it's not surprising that the influence of France is very obvious in the place names. It doesn't do the weather any harm, either   Reflecting both the French and British sides of its culture, Jersey is described on its own banknotes and coins as 'The Bailiwick of Jersey', and this get-together of frequent flyers was in turn known as The Bailiwick Do. Well, why not?

For some, the fun started on Friday evening, but I and several others had to wait for Saturday morning. After a quick rendezvous at the Radisson SAS in St Helier, our first stop was the underground complex known as the Jersey War Tunnels, providing a reminder that the Channel Islands were the only part of the British Isles to suffer invasion and occupation in World War II. We then made our way to a sunny, but windy, St Ouen's Bay for an al fresco lunch. Next stop was the very attractive Corbiere Point, followed by St Brelade's Bay. Although most of the group were ready for a rest by this stage, I managed to fit in short visits to St Aubin, Gorey and La Rocque before returning to the hotel to freshen up for dinner in St Helier.

Sunday was a somewhat quieter day. I had a quick walk around parts of St Helier before joining the group for a further walk up to Fort Regent, and followed this with a drive to Rozel Bay, including some very winding, narrow roads! After a pleasant lunch back at the hotel, it was time to check out and head for the airport.

My return to Jersey after a gap of 22 years had been a very enjoyable experience. My main impression was that, pretty much like everywhere else, the island was a great deal busier than it used to be, but it was good to see that it still retained something of its own character too. Thanks to organiser PhilH and the More Flying Talk crowd for a great weekend

Reason for visit : mFT Do

Based at : Radisson SAS, St Helier