The Channel Islands are a group of islands off the south coast of Britain, and the north west coast of France. Although nearer to France than Britain, they are loyal to the British crown. However, they are self governing countries, with their own goverments (One for Jersey, another for Guernesy and the other islands). They are famed for wonderful beaches, an excellent climate (regularly topping the UK sunshine records) and shopping. As the islands are self governing, they have no VAT and, as the islands are not part of the EU, Duty Free is available. They also issue their own currency and stamps, although British Pounds, and (in general), French Francs are accepted.