Bermuda consists of a chain of some 180 coral islands and islets lying 1046km (650 miles) off the coast of Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, in the Atlantic Ocean. Its coastlines are characterised by small bays with beaches of fine pale pink coral sand and surrounding vivid blue-green waters. Inland is an abundance of subtropical plants and flowers. Hamilton is Bermuda's capital city, situated at the end of Hamilton Harbour on the inner curve of the ‘fish hook’. Small ferries operate in the Hamilton Harbour area, and the larger ferries travel through the Great Sound to the West End. The Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo is located in Flatts Village in Hamilton Parish. At the far eastern end of the chain of islands is the 17th-century Town of St George, Bermuda's first capital, and which was awarded status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site from the UN in December 2000. The Town’s narrow lanes and historic landmarks appear much as they did more than three centuries ago, and can boast of many excellent pubs, restaurants and shops. Bermudans specialities include Bermuda lobster, shark hash and fish chowder laced with sherry peppers and rum, and local drinks of Dark 'n Stormy, which consists of Goslings Bermuda Black Seal rum, and Rum Swizzle. There are restaurants, cafes, bars and taverns to suit all pockets and tastes. Most hotels and cottage colonies offer evening entertainment; the local musicians usually feature the well-known and popular calypso, soca or reggae.

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.

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.

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

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.