TND West

The Channel Islands are made of two jurisdictions that are not technically part of the United Kingdom. Tourism and agriculture have been the main economic industries and along with many a Guernsey hotel, this island is also known for the lightening industry as well as the greenhouse and horticultural advances. Beginning in the late 1980′s, Jersey’s economy became more based in banking and financing. Both islands issue their own currency, but Scottish and British currency circulates throughout the economy as well. Both export a range of farm and agricultural produce as well as a variety of crafts and artistry. Guernsey has also made an appearance in the history of literature. Herman Melville references a man from Guernsey in his novel, “Moby Dick”. And the famous “Les Miserables” was written by Victor Hugo, who spent many years on Guernsey during the time he lived in exile.

All of the Channel Islands are steeped in history and Guernsey is no exception. An interesting fact is that the islands were at one time attached to the mainland of France, until the end of the Ice Age. Archaeological discoveries have been made by scientists over the last one hundred and fifty years that reveal the existence of human life that dates back to the New Stone Age, about five thousand years B.C. These are believed to have been those traveling from Spain. The evidence of neolithic culture is found throughout the digs on the island, including burial chambers that remain very well preserved. The largest one is located close to the L’Ancresse Golf course on the island, and has stones capping the site which are a meter thick and 5 meters in length, which brings one to wonder just how they managed to move such massive stones to this location and in the particular position atop the grounds. Many other sites are located close to the Saint Peter Port. This is an island in which those interested in history and archaeology will find fascinating.

The country of Singapore is made up of the main land, and also more than fifty surrounding smaller islands.  Most of these smaller retreats offer vacation spots that are set away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland, with incredibly peaceful beaches, great expanses of blue waters in which to swim or scuba dive, and laid back, and easy going charm.  One of these spots is Sentosa Island just a few miles off the shore of mainland Singapore.  Sentosa hotels range from the quiet and quaint beach side accommodations, to resorts filled with the amenities one finds in resort locations, access to golf,  spas and massage therapists, and five star restaurants.

Even if ones main vacation is on the mainland, one would be refreshed and forever satisfied with a day trip to the smaller island.  There are options for those interested in all of the water sports, as well as hiking trails through beautiful landscapes, sites of historical significance, museums and a very happening night life filled with entertainers and performers from around the world.  Singapore’s Oceanarium is located on Sentosa as well as the Lagoon of Dolphins where even those not certified, have the opportunity to swim with, feed, and even training the pink dolphins indigenous to the area.

Sentosa was once a military head-quarters for the British, but during the early 1970′s the island was transformed into a paradise, that provided not only enjoyment for many, but employment as well.  It is quite difficult to categorize the island, as it provides everything for all types of personalities.  While the island is peaceful, the hot night life of the mainland is just minutes away, via a ferry boat, a car or the spectacular views offered by taking the cable cars.  Millions of tourists travel each year to Sentosa, to find that peace, that nature that is set amongst culture and history, manicured gardens and even some fountains that do dance.  Many will find exactly what they are looking for on the island, and will have memories that bring back specific moments, that will linger and continue to enrich their lives.