Western Pacific Ocean.

GMT + 12.

181.4 sq km (70 sq miles).

61,815 (CIA 2007).

298 per sq km.

Majuro. Population: 25,000 (UN estimate 2003).

The Marshall Islands consist of two almost parallel chains of atolls and islands, which lie west of the International Date Line. Majuro Atoll is 2,285km (1,428 miles) west of Honolulu, 1,624km (1,015 miles) east of Guam and 2,624km (1,641 miles) southeast of Tokyo. The eastern Ratak (Sunrise) Chain consists of 15 atolls and islands, and the western Ralik (Sunset) Chain consists of 16 atolls and islands. Together these two chains comprise 1,152 islands and islets dispersed over more than 1,900,000 sq km (500,000 sq miles) of the central Pacific.

Republic since 1990. Gained self-governing status (in free association with the USA) in 1986.

President Litokwa Tomeing, since 2008.

President Litokwa Tomeing was elected in January 2008, replacing Kessai Note who served two terms since 2000.

Marshallese and English are the official languages.

Christian, mostly Protestant.

110 volts AC, 60Hz. Plugs are USA two-pin style.

Informal dress is usual for both business and social occasions. Scanty clothing (including topless bathing) is considered offensive. Use of islands, paths, beaches etc may require permission in many areas; it is best to check locally.