Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha, British overseas territory in South Atlantic Ocean
This overseas territory consists of three main islands scattered across the South Atlantic, each showing different landscapes. Every island has its own coastal shapes, volcanic terrain and settlements that cling to steep slopes or rest along flatter coastal stretches.
Portuguese sailors discovered these islands in the early 16th century on their routes to India. Later Britain took control and used one of the islands as the place of exile for Napoleon after his defeat.
Each island hosts small communities that follow their own customs and organize daily life around the rhythms of the ocean. Residents speak English and on some islands you hear Creole expressions that developed over generations.
Each island has its own local administration and uses the Saint Helena pound in daily transactions. Ships provide the main links between the islands and the outside world, with crossings that can take several days.
Tristan da Cunha lies farther from any inhabited place than any other island group in the world. The nearest neighbors live roughly 2400 kilometers away, which adds to the sense of isolation.
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