The Solomon Islands archipelago is scattered in the southwestern Pacific, east of Papua New Guinea. The group comprises most of the Solomon Islands (those in the northwest are part of Papua New Guinea), the Ontong Java Islands, Rennell Island and the Santa Cruz Islands, which lie further to the east. The capital, Honiara, is situated on Guadalcanal Island, which also has the highest mountain, Mount Makarakombu, at 2,447m (8,028ft).

The Solomon Islands are a remote and unspoilt travel destination, with a slowly developing tourist industry. The superb marine life in the surrounding waters makes the islands a diver’s paradise. Guadalcanal, Malaita, Choiseul, New Georgia, San Cristobal and Santa Isabel are the main islands. Honiara, the capital on Guadalcanal, has a museum, botanical gardens and Chinatown. Villages and scenic drives are within easy reach. Popular tours include the WWII battlefields and various carving villages on the islands of Rennell and Bellona.

27,556 sq km (10,639 sq miles).

566,842 (official estimate 2007).

20.6 per sq km.

Honiara. Population: 56,000 (UN estimate 2003).

Constitutional monarchy. Gained independence from the UK in 1978.

English is the official language. Pidgin English and over 80 different local dialects are also spoken.

More than 95% of the population are Christian; the rest mostly hold traditional beliefs.

GMT + 11.

A casual atmosphere prevails and European customs exist alongside local traditions. Informal wear is widely suitable although women often wear long dresses for evening functions. Men need never wear ties. Women, in general, should dress modestly and appropriately, noting that certain areas may be ’taboo’ and exclusively reserved for men. It is customary to cover thighs. Visitors are discouraged from wearing beachwear and shorts around towns and villages. Swearing is a crime and can lead to huge compensation claims and even jail.

230/240 volts AC, 50Hz. Australian-type flat three-pin plugs are in use.

Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare since May 2006.

HM Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by Governor-General Nathaniel Waena since 2004.