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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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