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Location
English Channel, off the northern coast of France.
Time
GMT (GMT + 1 from the last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).
Area
63.1 sq km (24.3 sq miles).
Population
65,573 (2007).
Population Density
1,039 per sq km.
Capital
St Peter Port.
Geography
Guernsey is situated in the Gulf of St Malo, 50km (30 miles) from the coast of France and 130km (80 miles) from the south coast of England. The cliffs on the south coast rise to 80m (270ft), from which the land slopes away gradually to the north. Guernsey is an ideal centre for excursions to the other Channel Islands and France. The islands of Alderney, Brecqhou, Herm, Jethou, Lihou and Sark are dependencies of Guernsey.
Government
Self-governing dependency of the British Crown.
Head of State
HM Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by Lieutenant-Governor Vice-Admiral Sir Fabian Malbon since 2005.
Head of Government
Bailiff Geoffrey Rowland since 2005.
Recent History
No political parties are represented at Guernsey elections. Internal affairs are governed by the island's parliament, the States of Deliberation.The last elections were held in April 2004.
Language
English is the official language. Norman patois is spoken in some parishes.
Religion
Church of England, Presbyterian, Baptist, Congregational and Methodist.
Electricity
240 volts AC, 50Hz. Three-pin plugs in use.
Social Conventions
Handshaking is the customary form of greeting and normal social courtesies should be observed when visiting someone’s home. It is not usual to start eating until everyone is served. If invited to someone’s home, a small present such as flowers or chocolates is appreciated. Casual wear is acceptable in most places. Smoking is banned in enclosed public places.