Just so we're clear, I'm referring to the Channel Island, not New Jersey in the USA. The Bailiwick of Jersey is one of five main islands in the English Channel, which is geographically, closer to France than it is to England.
Without a passport (mine was being renewed), but still with a desire to keep my New Year’s Eve streak alive, I selected a destination that I had never been to, that was technically within the UK and that was known for its Jersey Royal oysters. I thought 'why not give it a shuck?!'.
I only went for two nights, and I only visited the port town of St Helier (the seaside capital). St Helier was named after a Belgian hermit who was beheaded by Viking raiders in 555 AD. Legend holds that he picked up his own head and walked to the shore.
St Helier is considered the gateway to the Channel Islands, with its working port and nearby regional airport. It is the most populous town on the island of Jersey, with around 33,500 residents living in just over four square miles.
The old town is a lovely blend of English and French history, with narrow pedestrianized streets.
ACCOMODATION:
I stayed about a 10-minute drive from the airport at a hotel called The Club Hotel & Spa. I chose this hotel because of its luxury spa, proximity to the old town and its Michelin Star & 5 AA Rosette Restaurant.
DINE:
Jersey is world-famous for its fresh, seasonal produce and shellfish. The island boasts great dairy produced by their local Jersey cows, Jersey Royal potatoes grown exclusively on the island (seasonally) and also offers fresh oysters, lobster and the islanders' favorite – Jersey crab. I recommend dining at the following places:
Dinner the first night was consumed at Quayside Bistro & Grill, in Liberty Wharf. As Jersey's largest seafood restaurant, it caters for all but specializes in fresh fish. I had a bunch of yummy oysters, and I also really enjoyed the scallop, crab, melon and pancetta dish, with a balsamic glaze.
For lunch the next day, I ate at Colmar, inspired by the grand brasseries and great boulevard cafés of Paris. They served delicious local ingredients combined with classic French cuisine. I particularly liked the Jersey Oysters poached in Beurre Blanc with dill oil and the warm beetroot and grilled goats cheese salad.
The only other meal I ate out was on New Year's Eve, at Club Hotel´s restaurant, Bohemia. This restaurant is Jersey´s highest rated Michelin starred restaurant and bar. I had more oysters with red wine vinegar and shallots, and I also really liked the pan-fried Jersey scallops with apple and watercress.
DO:
I only really had one full day, and my intention was to relax, pamper myself and come back from the trip rejuvenated and ready to start off the new year.
As such, I spent most of my time at The Club Spa. I had a massage and a facial and then indulged in the saltwater indoor swimming pool, salt cabin and herbal steam room.
I did go for a little wander though and I got to see a glimpse of Elizabeth Castle, which is an island fortress that's 15 centuries old and covers 24 acres. It is only open to visitors in the summer; it's closed November - April. This Renaissance fortress is accessible by foot at low tide and castle ferry at high tide.
St Helier is a prosperous financial center and a popular VAT-free shopping destination for visitors looking to buy perfume, spirits, luxury watches and other jewelry. Given the prevalence of oysters, it makes sense that Jersey is also known for pearls.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
Immigration: If you are flying to/from the UK, a passport is not required, just a photo ID and you will not need to clear customs on either end.
Currency: Pounds Sterling is the legal tender, but they have their own banknotes, which are classed as 'accepted tender' elsewhere in the UK. People do accept it elsewhere in the UK, but they don't have to, so don't forget to spend your last Jersey pounds before you leave.
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