Western Atlantic Ocean.

GMT - 4 (GMT - 3 from first Sunday in April to last Sunday in October).

53.74 sq km (20.75 sq miles).

65,000 (official estimate 2005).

1209 per sq km.

Hamilton. Population: 1100 (1991).

Bermuda consists of a chain of some 180 coral islands and islets lying 1046km (650 miles) off the coast of Cape Hatteras. The seven largest of the islands are linked by bridges and one causeway to form the principal mainland. There are no rivers or streams and the islands are entirely dependent on rainfall for fresh water.

Bermuda is a British Dependent Territory. Its bicameral legislature – the Senate with 11 appointed members and the 40-member House of Assembly, elected by universal adult suffrage for a five-year term – is responsible for most internal affairs, although foreign policy and security matters are decided by the Governor (John Vereker, since 2002) who is appointed by and represents the British monarch. He in turn appoints the majority leader in the House of Assembly as Premier; the latter appoints the Cabinet.

British Crown Colony since 1684. Gained internal autonomy in 1968. Head of State: HM Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by Governor Sir John Vereker since 2002. Head of Government: Premier W Alex Scott since 2003. Recent history: Bermuda is a British Dependent Territory. Its bicameral legislature – the Senate with 11 appointed members and the 40-member House of Assembly, elected by universal adult suffrage for a five-year term – is responsible for most internal affairs, although foreign policy and security matters are decided by the Governor (John Vereker, since 2002) who is appointed by and represents the British Monarch. He in turn appoints the majority leader in the House of Assembly as Premier; the latter appoints the Cabinet. Alex Scott, the Prime Minister, took office in July 2003. He succeeded the Progressive Labour Party's Jennifer Smith following a revolt by party members who refused to serve under her. Mr Scott's PLP supports independence from Britain, and the Premier has called for a national debate on the issue.

English is the official language. There is a small Portuguese population. Other languages are spoken by Bermuda's residents originating from around the world.

Anglican, Roman Catholic, AME and Seventh Day Adventist and other Christian denominations.

Many of Bermuda's social conventions are British influenced, and there is a very English ‘feel’ to the islands. It is quite customary to politely greet people on the street, even if they are strangers. Casual wear is acceptable in most places during the day, but beachwear (including short tops and 'short' shorts) should be confined to the beach. Almost all hotels and restaurants require a smart casual dress in the evenings; check dress requirements in advance. Non-smoking areas will be marked. Drinking alcohol in public outside of a licensed premise is prohibited.

110 volts AC, 60Hz. American (flat) two-pin plugs are standard.