Moving the Channel Islands...

[Jemhc]

We are considering moving to either Guernsey or Jersey (altough leaning more towards Guernsey) in the new year.

Has anyone on here done the move and have any advice?

We did look briefly into this, when DC were smaller, and thought we could achieve it as DH's occupation meant we could qualify as 'licensed' (though we'd not have control of timings, and would have to wait for a post to come up, then DH would have to secure it).

For various reasons, we abandoned the idea. But a good tip was to go and spend a week or more there, in winter ;rain/fog/perhaps travel delays getting off the island, see it when holidaymakers aren't there, do you think you'd fit as an incomer permanent resident?)

I did back in 99 - so a good while ago!

Have you or your DH got a job there or family?

DH is the final stages of two interviews (one in Guernsey and one in Jersey), both would allow us to live in local housing, on a long term permit.

I will be job hunting, as I work in the finance sector, I should be ok.

I loved living in Guernsey. Perfect place to bring up a family. I visit often. The only issue is getting off as it is expensive and sometimes you can be fog bound.

I actually love the winter there - even when there is a layer of fog as it's mysterious and magical.

Jobs are plentiful and well paid - which they need to be as it's an expensive place to live.

Depending on the age of your children you may want to look in to the changes in high schools as they have got rid of the grammar school and are moving to all secondary

It is a beautiful place and provides a lifestyle that is slower paced than here

I thought this was about the islands moving !

I'm from Guernsey. Live in the UK at the minute but moving back shortly. It's a big lifestyle change, some people come over on licence and never really settle in, but if you're prepared for the high cost of living and the more relaxed pace you'll be fine. If you have any practical queries, feel free to drop me a message. All the best with your move if you decide to go for it.

Do you have children?

We are leaving the CI and returning to London as the way of life isn't for us. I can see why some people love it and our other expat friends are very happy here.

@DreamingofSunshine

Do you mind me asking what you didn't enjoy? We're looking at a move to Jersey with a 4yo. We loved the island and are hoping that it will mean an improvement in our work life balance (compared to London), better quality of life etc.

Thanks

I was in Guernsey which is different, but I found the lack of diversity a problem for us, and we missed how much there is to do in London. In the winter when there's fog it can be tough to get off the island, and I didn't like how quiet it was--although I appreciate that it's the same in most holiday destinations out of season.

Ultimately we are city people and prefer that lifestyle. We're just as happy walking around Hyde Park as we are the beach.

Guernsey resident here! I work in the finance sector with friends who like me are born and bred and licence holders. Guernsey is smaller than Jersey so has a different feel to it. People are very friendly and we have good schools and colleges. Island has done away with the 11 plus and is moving to a 2 school model. However there are 3 fee paying schools with excellent reputations. Lots of places to eat out and if you like the outdoor lifestyle there is lots to do. Finance sector pays well - this has impacted house prices which are expensive. Groceries and fuel are also expensive. No VAT and 20% income tax rate. Good air links to London and daily ferries to UK and France. Definitely come over for a week or even a long weekend to get a feel for the Island. You can also message me if you have any questions and I will try to help!

I was surprised by the amount of Catholic Churches and schools in jersey. That would be an issue for me education wise

Where do you live now? Beautiful coastline, but a bit of a cultural desert. I think the islands are great for those with small kids - personally I would prefer Jersey over Guernsey as Guernsey is just so small. Draw a Jersey (or Guernsey) size shape over the area where you live now and imagine being restricted to that area. You can't go anywhere without seeing someone you know (which can be lovely, but also has its downsides) and it can be frustrating having to live in allocated accommodation and effectively being barred from investing in your own place and choosing your own home. Cost of living is high and not great if you have any major health issues. The lack of diversity is also striking. I know lots of people who love it there, but it takes a particular kind of mentality to live there and I'm not sure it would be for me.

Guernsey is small but glorious!

I was born in Jersey and lived there most of my life, although also lived in the U.K. and other places. Now in SE U.K., life 100% better. Jersey is now very overpopulated, very expensive to live, £600k for a very ordinary semi detached on an estate. The States schools have very many non English speaking children, those that can afford pay for the semi private schools, wealthy people’s usually go to boarding schools in the U.K. There is a lot of drug use. Tax is cheap for multi millionaires, not for others. Health service is dire. Have a look at the third world hospital before you make up your mind.

OP - aware this is an old thread but wondered if you made the move across?
We moved to Guernsey 1.5 years ago so still feel like we’re settling in. Would be interested to hear your thoughts!

Did you move to guernsey?