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Location
Western Atlantic Ocean.
Time
GMT - 4 (GMT - 3 from first Sunday in April to last Sunday in October).
Area
53.74 sq km (20.75 sq miles).
Population
66,536 (official estimate 2008).
Population Density
1,238 per sq km.
Capital
Hamilton. Population: 1,000 (UN estimate 2008).
Geography
Bermuda consists of a chain of some 180 coral islands and islets lying 1,046km (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.
Government
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 Ewart Brown since 2006.
Recent History
Bermuda is a British Dependent Territory and is said to have one of the world's oldest parliaments, dating from 1620.
Ewart Brown ousted the previous prime minister, Alex Scott, in October 2006. Brown also runs the tourism and transport portfolio. Alex Scott succeeded the Progressive Labour Party's (PLP) Jennifer Smith in July 2003 following a revolt by party members who refused to serve under her. Mr Scott's PLP championed independence from the UK, a line followed by Brown. The PLP won for a third-straight term after the elections held in December 2007.
Ewart Brown ousted the previous prime minister, Alex Scott, in October 2006. Brown also runs the tourism and transport portfolio. Alex Scott succeeded the Progressive Labour Party's (PLP) Jennifer Smith in July 2003 following a revolt by party members who refused to serve under her. Mr Scott's PLP championed independence from the UK, a line followed by Brown. The PLP won for a third-straight term after the elections held in December 2007.
Language
English is the official language. There is a small Portuguese population. Other languages are spoken by Bermuda's residents originating from around the world.
Religion
Anglican, Roman Catholic, Seventh Day Adventist and other Christian denominations.
Electricity
110 volts AC, 60Hz. American (flat) two-pin plugs are standard.
Social Conventions
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.