Lying just off the French coast, Jersey is a unique part of the British Isles offering a distinctive continental flavour, award winning beaches and five thousand acres of wonderland flora and fauna at Jersey National Park. Jersey is also steeped in history. As the only part of the British Isles to fall into enemy hands when it was occupied by German forces, many military posts can still be seen on the isle today. It’s vibrant capital, St Helier, has a pedestrianised centre with sophisticated shops and Victorian street markets. Feel golden sands between your toes at St Brelade’s Bay, uncover German occupation stories at Jersey War Tunnels, learn about the Norman conquest at Mont Orgueil Castle or choose your own jewel at Jersey Pearl. Wander around beautiful parks, watch the comings and goings at the harbour or take advantage of the lower taxes with some retail therapy. Hop on the bus to Jersey Lavender and amble through the sweet-scented gardens. Or head to Jersey Zoo – Gerald Durrell’s animal sanctuary where you can see some of the planet’s most endangered species.