Central America.

GMT - 6.

21,040 sq km (8124 sq miles).

6.7 million (official estimate 2005).

318.67 per sq km.

San Salvador. Population: 504,700 (city); 1.78 million (metropolitan area) (official estimate 2005).

El Salvador is located in Central America and is bordered north and west by Guatemala, north and east by Honduras and south and west by the Pacific Ocean. Most of the country is volcanic uplands, along which run two almost parallel rows of volcanoes. The highest are Santa Ana at 2365m (7759ft), San Vicente at 2182m (7159ft) and San Salvador at 1943m (6375ft). Volcanic activity has resulted in a thick layer of ash and lava on the highlands, ideal for coffee planting. Lowlands lie to the north and south of the high backbone.

Executive power in the Republic of El Salvador is vested in a President, elected by universal adult suffrage every five years. He is assisted by a Vice President and a Council of Ministers. Legislation is formulated by the 84-member Asamblea Nacional, elected by universal adult suffrage every three years.

Republic. Head of State and Government: Elias Antonio Saca since 2004.

The official language is Spanish. English is widely spoken.

83 per cent Roman Catholic; there are also some other Christian denominations. There is a growing population of evangelical Protestants.

Visitors should not point their finger or their foot at anyone. First names should not be used to address someone unless invited to do so. Conservative casual wear is acceptable. Photography: Sensitive (eg military) areas should not be photographed. A handshake is always offered as a greeting. Men and women who already know each other greet with a kiss on the cheek. Siesta is still a tradition from around 1200-1400.

115 volts AC, 60Hz. El Salvador accepts five types of plugs; flat blade plugs, three round pins arranged in a triangle, two parallel flat pins with ground pin, v-shaped flat prongs and two round pins.