Group trips to Guernsey

Guernsey is in the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) zone. However, it observes daylight saving time, so from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October, it's on British Summer Time (BST), which is GMT+If it’s 12pm in the UK, it will be the same time in Guernsey. If it’s 12pm in New York, USA, it will be 5pm in Guernsey during standard time or 6pm during daylight saving time.

In Guernsey, you can pay using cash, credit, and debit cards. Most major cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. It's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller shops and markets, as they might not accept cards. ATMs are available, but check if your bank charges for international withdrawals. Contactless payments are also common, making transactions quick and easy.

Guernsey uses the Guernsey Pound as its currency. The Guernsey Pound is on par with the British Pound Sterling, so 1 GBP equals 1 Guernsey Pound. You can exchange currency at local banks, post offices, or currency exchange services on the island. Keep in mind that UK banknotes are widely accepted in Guernsey, but Guernsey notes might not be accepted in the UK.

In Guernsey, you can pay using cash, credit, and debit cards. Most major cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. It's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller shops and markets, as they might not accept cards. ATMs are available, but check if your bank charges for international withdrawals. Contactless payments are also common, making transactions quick and easy.

Tipping in Guernsey is not mandatory, but it's always appreciated. In restaurants, if you experience good service, leaving around 10% of the bill is a nice gesture. Tipping in bars, cafes, and for taxi drivers isn't expected, but rounding up or leaving some change can be a friendly way to show your appreciation. If you receive exceptional service, feel free to tip more.

In Guernsey, Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and other public places, so you should have no trouble staying connected. Since Guernsey is not part of the Schengen area, using roaming services might incur additional charges depending on your provider. We suggest you consider buying a local SIM card or an e-SIM data plan for your stay. Providers like Sure and JT Telecom offer reliable services. This way, you'll have mobile data access whenever you need it.

In Guernsey, the main language spoken is English. However, you might also hear some local expressions in Guernésiais, the traditional Norman language of the island. Here are a few colloquial expressions you might come across:

• Hello: Bonjour (though English is commonly used)
• Thank you: Merci
• Goodbye: Au revoir

While English will get you by everywhere, spotting these phrases can be a fun way to connect with the local culture.

In Guernsey, the plugs used are Type G, which are the same as those used in the UK. They have three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. The voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. If you're traveling from a country that uses different plugs, you might want to bring a universal adapter to charge your devices.

In Guernsey, the main religion is Christianity. The island has a variety of Christian denominations, with Anglicanism being quite prominent. Religious holidays such as Easter and Christmas are widely celebrated on the island. There are no specific dressing requirements related to religion for visitors, so you can dress comfortably according to the weather and occasion.

When packing for Guernsey, consider the island's mild climate and seaside charm. Here's a handy list to help you prepare your backpack:

• Clothing:
  • Light layers like t-shirts and sweaters
  • A warm jacket, especially for cooler evenings
  • Comfortable pants or jeans
  • Swimwear for beach days
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sandals for the beach
  • Waterproof shoes for rainy days
• Accessories and technology:
  • A backpack for day trips
  • Sunglasses and a sunhat
  • A power bank and phone charger
  • A camera to capture the scenery
• Toiletries and medication:
  • Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
  • Basic toiletries like toothbrush and shampoo
  • Travel-size first aid kit
  • Common travel medication like pain relievers and motion sickness tablets

Guernsey has a maritime climate, which means it generally enjoys mild weather year-round.

• Spring (March to May): Temperatures range from 8°C to 15°C, with occasional showers.
• Summer (June to August): Warm and sunny, with temperatures between 15°C and 20°C.
• Autumn (September to November): Mild and wet, with temperatures from 10°C to 17°C.
• Winter (December to February): Cool and rainy, temperatures range from 5°C to 10°C.

The best time to visit is during late spring or summer when the weather is warm and pleasant.