Nearly 800 years of self-government have helped to create a unique character and culture that is only a short journey from mainland UK and the continent of Europe. The main attractions most often mentioned about by visitors have something to do with the special friendly atmosphere and the pleasant climate. Of course, other reasons range from the good food and excellent sports and entertainment facilities to the miles of award winning sandy beaches, rugged coast and countryside. The States of Guernsey is the Government, with some of the proceeding still in French The Island's economy is based mainly on the finance industry with tourism playing a major secondary role . The local currency is the sterling but Guernsey mints its own notes and coinage.
Stamps are also unique and collected by philatelists all over the world.
Guernsey averages almost 2,000 of sunshine a year, snow and frost a rarity. Some of the Island's flora and fauna cannot be found anywhere else in the British Isles. Victor Hugo finished writing Les Miserables during his exile on the Island. Pierre Auguste Renoir painted 154 canvases whilst holidaying here. His favourite place was Moulin Huet Bay.