Caribbean, northernmost of the Windward group of islands.

GMT - 4.

1,100 sq km (424.7 sq miles).

390,000 (UN estimate 2003).

354.5 per sq km.

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

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.

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

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

Claude Lise, President of the General Council since 1992.

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.

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

The majority of the population is Roman Catholic.

220 volts AC, 50Hz.

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