Any island in the world which draws on a motto such as Quocunque Jeceris Stabit- 'Whichever way you throw me I stand,' as a symbolic statement of character, must be regarded as out of the ordinary. The Isle of Man, located in the Irish Sea and covering some 33 square miles, has indeed been able to retain its rugged and unique identity right up to the present. With roots that reach back to 8th century Vikings, 12th century Norwegian kings and successive Scottish, Irish and English conquests, the island is a veritable goldmine for those with a fascination for times past.

A crown dependency, belonging neither to the UK or Europe, the island boasts the world's oldest parliament in continuous use, called Tynwald. Through the centuries the island was a renowned smuggler's haven and in more recent times a tax haven for the rich and famous. However, through the course of time, treaties and agreements have eroded these historical vestiges of the island's singular and ancient judicial status, and the Isle of Man is better known today for its tremendous scenic beauty, railways (steam and electric), the famed TT motorcycle races and a host of attractions that will please young and old alike.