Jersey, in the Channel Islands, is both fascinating and different. Possibly the most diverse of all the islands in an historical and cultural sense, Jersey is the ideal choice when it comes to self catering holidays which give the visitor the freedom to explore at will. This type of holiday is ideal for those who desire a really relaxing break. Jersey seems to have an atmosphere of its own and the island often seems more French than English.

There are no noisy dirty cities on the island so a self catering break can be the perfect antidote for anyone wishing to escape from a stressed and hectic lifestyle. The pace of life is slow and gentle here and the weather is usually mild and pleasant with no extremes. Breathtaking scenery combined with rural peace and quiet are ensured. However, there is no shortage of things to do. Far from it! Whatever your choice of entertainment, all ages will find plenty of recreation and sporting activities on their doorstep. Jersey's Tourism Department can advise on self catering accommodation including holiday cottages and they are delighted to help the visitor in any way they can.

There are many types of self catering accommodation from which to choose which can range from cottages to apartments and even countryside lodges. Some holiday accommodation on the island is found in secluded hideaways whilst others overlook vast expanses of golden sandy beach.

In St Brelade's Bay there are houses to rent just 30 metres away from the stunning beach. There is use of a spa with an indoor pool too. Within 10 minutes drive are two golf courses. Prices range from about £600 in low season to £1,900 in high season.

At St Aubin a traditional character cottage is offered for around £395 per week in low season to around £895 in high season. Situated on a farm property, facilities include barbecue area, landscaped gardens and croquet lawn. There are sea and country views. Children over 8 years old are welcome. Attractive apartments can be rented at St Martin. Comfortable accommodation is on offer in this converted farmhouse which dates back to the 17th century. The apartments sleep 4 people and prices start from around £300 per week for these apartments.

In Jersey's capital, St Helier, Panama House Apartments offer a base for exploring the town and the island. Just 10 minutes walk from the centre of town and less than 250 metres from the sea front, the apartments are an excellent choice for a self catering holiday. There are over 23 apartments all furnished to a high standard with excellent cooking facilities. Less than 5 minutes drive to shops and 15 minutes drive to St Helier are Beau Rivage Apartments. Prices here start from around £135 per person for 7 nights. Ideally situated with a restaurant which overlooks the sea as well as lively entertainment make the apartments an ideal choice. There is a laundry area too and kitchens all have a dishwasher and microwave. There are en suite bathrooms and good parking facilities.

With prices starting from around £150 per person per week, Les Ormes Lodges are an excellent choice. Near St Brelade's Bay, the lodges have spectacular views across the Bay at St Ouen. There are 24 lodges with restaurant, indoor swimming pool and health club. There is 9 hole golf, indoor tennis, badminton, volleyball, rounders and cricket. There is a beauty salon and hairdresser as well as a crèche which is open in the mornings. Lodges are either semi detached or detached and superbly equipped with all mod cons.

St Peter's Apartments are situated near to the airport and within easy reach of many of Jersey's superb beaches. A supermarket and bar are only 5 minutes walk away. There is an outdoor swimming pool with a bar and barbecue area. Children are well catered for with an outdoor play area, climbing frame and childrens' playroom. The apartments which start at around £145 per person per week offer well equipped kitchens and a lounge with TV and video. The nearest supermarket and bar offering excellent meals are only a five minute walk. The accommodation has varying styles from which to choose including modern style apartments as well as rustic accommodation with wood beams and floors.

Beausite Apartments are part of a hotel complex and prices here start at £220 per person per week. The apartments are on the edge of Gorey village. The Royal Jersey Golf Club is right opposite the site. The Beausite Hotel facilities are available in the price and these include the hotel's indoor pool, charming gardens and health suite. These high class apartments have fully equipped kitchens as well as parking spaces.