Martinique Key Facts

Location

Caribbean, northernmost of the Windward group of islands.

Time

GMT - 4.

Area

1,100 sq km (424.7 sq miles).

Population

390,000 (UN estimate 2003).

Population Density

354.5 per sq km.

Capital

Fort-de-France. Population: 93,000 (UN estimate 2003).

Geography

The French Overseas Department of Martinique, a volcanic and picturesque island, is the northernmost of the Windward Caribbean group. The island is noticeably more rocky than those of the Leeward group, with beaches (of fine black or white or peppered sand) surrounded by sugar, palm, banana and pineapple plantations.

Government

Martinique is an Overseas Department of France and as such is an integral part of the French Republic.

Head of State

President Nicolas Sarkozy since 2007, represented locally by Prefect Yves Dassonville since 2004.

Head of Government

Claude Lise, President of the General Council since 1992.

Recent History

The prefect on Martinique represents France, and the island sends four representatives to the French National Assembly and two to the Senate. The 45-seat General Council and the 41-seat Regional Council administer the island's local affairs; both are elected every six years.

Language

The official language is French; a Creole patois is widely used.

Religion

The majority of the population is Roman Catholic.

Electricity

220 volts AC, 50Hz.

Social Conventions

The atmosphere is generally relaxed and informal. Casual dress is acceptable everywhere, but formal attire is needed for dining out and nightclubs.
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