Despite being off island for a little over two weeks, I couldn’t help but continue my weekly instalment
I find my first week off island spent in the stunning city of York. Like our beloved island, York is steeped in history, culture and hospitality, and enjoys a vibrant tourism economy. This isn’t my first time here, as my wife is from York, I have found myself visiting here regularly for a number of years, and like Jersey, I continue to find aspects of the area I havent enjoyed properly before.
The one part that has stepped out to us on this trip beyond others, is the accessibility of family friendly (ie play areas etc) dining establishments we enjoy back home, compared to our beautiful island, there seems to be a lack of the family orientated venues over here.
This has made me reflect on the differences between the two places as a whole to understand if we are missing out on a trick, or is it just supply and demand in both locations that have led to the offerings. York has seen their drinking scene develop and blossom over the last few years, as Jersey did about 12 years ago, not only that, but an increase in small independent eateries have seen the hospitality offerings greatly improve the offering here in York. It’s also a move away from the typical chain venues that populate a lot of UK cities. Jersey hasn’t been too dissimilar to this either. In my mind we have (for a long time) enjoyed a lot more independently run establishments compared to popular destinations round UK. We have seen an abundance of places utilising fresh local produce and making sure their guests can enjoy the best they can offer.
I cant help but reflect between the two, and find them both brimming with superb hospitality and offerings for the tourist and local consumer.
We are spending part two of our trip away in Somerset and I am keen to see what differences make up that part of the trip. Either way, it should be insightful to say the least!
It’s now time to return to that holiday beer that’s been staring at me for the last 20 minutes. See you in a week!
Simon Soar, CEO – Jersey Hospitality Association