Dipping into a new bay, getting lost in country lanes, sleeping under the stars or foraging for wild edibles are just a few of the ways islanders are being encouraged to explore their island this summer.
Visit Jersey is inviting islanders to try something they’ve always wanted to try, or haven’t for a very long time, and to share their experience with the launch of a dedicated ‘Rediscover Home’ campaign.
Using the hashtag #rediscoverhome, it is hoped that many islanders will flood social media on the first day of summer with reminders of just how incredibly special, and unique, Jersey is.
Visit Jersey have created a Rediscover Home hub to give islanders some inspiration for activities and promote special offers from local suppliers.
Pictured: Islanders are invited to try something they’ve always wanted to try, or haven’t for a very long time.
The hub will be updated through the summer with new content shared by locals and new offers. Visit Jersey will also provide more inspiration through an all-island door drop, kindly supported by Jersey Post, and ads.
The new campaign comes in response to the covid-19 crisis.
Last year, 800,000 visitors came to the island, spending around £280m. But travel restrictions due to the pandemic have seen tourist and hospitality companies hit hard in 2020, with people only able to enter and leave the island by air for medical or compassionate reasons.
Earlier this week, Jersey Hospitality Association boss Simon Soar warned that some businesses could close as a result.
It's for that reason there's now a push to get islanders out and about, appreciating what's on offer locally, and investing in the economy.
Speaking about the new campaign, Visit Jersey's Head of Marketing, Louise Ashworth said: “This is a moment in time for all of us in Jersey, as we start to reconnect with loved ones and begin to start enjoying the many wonderful experiences Jersey has to offer.
“In showcasing all that is special about our island home we are reminded that you don’t have to travel thousands of miles for big adventures; there’s magic to rediscover right on our doorstep.”
1. Rise with the sun
Begin your day with a sunrise view. As the light peeps over Mont Orgueil Castle tuck into hot tea and pastries. Sunrise on Saturday 20 June is at 05:03 so set your alarm clock early!
Head to Val de la Mare at first light to enjoy the booming tweets and chirrups of the dawn chorus. Hug a tree or two whilst wondering through the arboretum and woodland. The dawn chorus is most vocal from an hour before to an hour after sunrise.
Discover a bay you’ve not dipped in before and get yourself wet from head to toe. From the sandy south to pebbly north, which one will you splash into? High tide is at 18:41 and 18:56 on Saturday 20 June.
Enjoy a two-wheeled adventure through St Peter's Valley. Or get lost, discover somewhere new and embrace the gorgeous green space around you.
Feel the splash of the Plémont waterfall on your face before heading off on a cave adventure. As you step through the cave, what mysteries will you uncover? With low tide at 13:24 on Saturday 20, lunchtime will be the best time for cave exploring.
Forage for wild edibles in Jersey's natural larder. Discover seaweed and berries, fungi and sea herbs on a tour as you forage safely for your supper. Make sure you check with an expert that your finds are edible before tucking in!
When’s the last time you built a sandcastle? Create your own show-stopping creation. All you need is sand, water and buckets of imagination. With low tide at lunchtime on Saturday, you’ll have plenty of time to create something spectacular.
With the fabulous revival of the humble honesty box, discover one or more near you to support, and select some home-grown delights for your supper. Check out the Jersey Honesty Box page to discover the daily delights on offer this Saturday.
Head to St. Ouen’s bay for sundown. Pack your picnic or pick up a take-away and enjoy a moment of calm as the last rays of sun disappear. The sun sets at 21:17 on Saturday 20 June.
Grab your duvet for a night under the stars. Pitch in your garden, upgrade to glamping or marvel at the Grosnez night sky before heading home to bed. Why not download a free stargazing app and enjoy discovering new constellations in Jersey’s night sky? If you see a shooting star, make a wish.
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