Population: 140,000
Time zone: GMT
Currency: Sterling
Language: English
Int. dialling code: +44
Religion: Predominantly Christian
Tourist board
Robin Searle
Features Editor, Travel Trade Gazette
www.ttglive.com
"I discovered the Isle of Wight only recently, and have my wife to thank for the introduction. Since then, I've fallen in love with it and I will always find myself chilling out as the ferry makes its way from Lymington to Yarmouth.
"There's plenty to keep you entertained if adrenaline sports or music are your thing, but for me it's the stunning coastline, relaxed pace of life and some great pubs and restaurants that create a winning combination."
Think of the Isle of Wight and myriad images will come to mind. Whether it's the gentle crossing of the Isle of Wight ferry, the mercurial talents of Jimi Hendrix at the 1970 Isle of Wight Festival, or simply the natural beauty that is so abundant, the island has much more to offer than the average British county. Lying off the south coast of Hampshire and separated by the Solent, the Isle of Wight boasts a rich and captivating history.
Visitors will have the opportunity to discover dinosaur remains, Roman ruins, and learn about the significant developments of the island during more recent periods including the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Today, the Isle of Wight attracts tourists of all ilk, from families enjoying a traditional break and music fans attending the regular music festival, to watersports enthusiasts and those fascinated by scenic landscapes and rugged coastline.
Dinosaur Isle: The Isle of Wight is widely considered to be the finest site in Europe for dinosaur remains. Dinosaur Isle is the UK's first purpose-built dinosaur museum, housing a vast array of fossils and life-size reconstructions of the 15 species that inhabited the region, exhibits that take you on an unforgettable walk through history.
Alum Bay: Alum Bay is the perfect example of the island's natural beauty. Of particular interest to geologists are the multi-coloured sand cliffs, while tourists are attracted by the spectacular views across to The Needles - a collection of three distinctive chalk stacks that rise sharply from the water - and the clifftop amusement park, Needles Park.
Blackgang Chine: Blackgang Chine is the site of a now-destroyed coastal ravine and home of the eponymous amusement park. The site itself has a fascinating history, with the giant 500 foot ravine being the location of the Claredon shipwreck, home to a giant whale skeleton, and where a number of dinosaur remains have also been discovered.
Did you eat at a fantastic restaurant or stay in a wonderful hotel on the Isle of Wight? Maybe you discovered a hidden sight or you have a UK travel tip that you want to share with other visitors?