The island has developed over time, with most of the urban area in the central region and along the south and west river banks.

Precipitation is not heavy, but the islands usually develop deep snowbanks in the winter.

The island is rural in character and, compared to the main island Malta, less developed.

For 251 years, under Danish rule, the islands developed as sugar growing, slave holding estates.

Over the years the island developed a significant naval power.

Over the years, each island developed its own distinctive recipes, and home-made sauces are still common.

Early on, however, many such islands developed a united social and political structure, usually under the leadership of a strong monarch.

However, the island is developing a growing tourist industry in the form of whale shark viewing.

But the island never developed enough to house that many people.

They say pro-commonwealth sentiment runs high on the mainland, especially among older voters who saw the island develop under its present status.