Jersey is part of the British Isles, it is neither part of the United Kingdom nor a member of the European Union. It is a self-governing Kingdom and has its own parliament called the States (from the French ‘etats’) as well as its own laws, traditions, culture, cuisine, passports, car registration plates and postage stamps. As a holiday Island it is best known for its very agreeable and relaxed pace of life, along with a wealth of attractions and places to stay. While there are other differences, there are also the reassuring familiarities – such as driving on the left and English currency, although Jersey still has its own pound notes. <br> Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands – 45 square miles - and lies 100 miles from the south of mainland Britain and just 14 miles east of the French Coast. St Helier, the ‘capital’ of Jersey is home to around a third of the Islands population and is bustling with life. It offers a wide variety of accommodation, holiday attractions, cafes, inns and restaurants and is popular with both residents and visitors. It is also home to the many banks and financial institutions which provide both revenue and employment for the Islands economy, along with the Tourism Industry. <br> Your holiday can be whatever you want it to be. There is something for everyone whatever their age. Miles of enchanting scenery and cliff walks, fascinating museums such as Hamptonne Country Life Museum – an authentic reconstruction of Jersey life in the 17th century. Historical sites including the 13th century Mont Orgeuil Castle in Gorey and The Jersey Wars Tunnels – a vivid reminder of the occupation of the Island during the Second World War. <br> An abundance of breath-taking beaches and not forgetting the renowned Jersey Zoo founded by Gerald Durrell, with over 100 hundred species of animal, many of them among the rarest in the world. If the children are bored of the beach and the museums keep them busy trampolining, go-karting, skateboarding, 10-pin bowling, crazy golfing and from June 2003 indulge them at all new Water Park featuring a range of pools and rides. The main shopping centre is based around King Street and Queen Street in St Helier and is packed with stores of High Street brands and local specialities, with the added attraction of lower prices than on the UK mainland. <br> The Central Market sells fresh Jersey produce of all kinds and the nearby Beresford Market specialises in locally caught fish, including crab and lobster. Locally caught seafood, an endless supply of fresh local produce and brigades of talented chefs ensures that there is a significant and varied choice of cuisine around the island. From popular Tea Rooms to Country Inns, Bistros and Brasseries to A la Carte and Fine Dining Restaurants, there really is something for everyone. From quiet country pubs to lively bars and nightclubs, Jersey caters for all ages and tastes. Check out what’s on at the Jersey Opera House, the Jersey Arts Centre or St James where the entertainment ranges from a programme of professional and amateur theatre, music and dance and comedy to the Ballet and top artistes.