DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS (DETAILS 3) (Not Designated as Hedging Instruments [Member], USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011
Unrealized and Realized Gains (Losses) Recognized in Earnings for Derivatives Not Designated As Hedges [Line Items]
Unrealized and realized gains (losses) recognized in earnings for derivatives not designated as hedges	$ 6,898	$ 22,874	$ 14,470	$ 11,467
Currency Collar Options [Member] | Foreign Exchange Gains (Losses) [Member] | Underwriting Portfolio [Member]
Unrealized and Realized Gains (Losses) Recognized in Earnings for Derivatives Not Designated As Hedges [Line Items]
Unrealized and realized gains (losses) recognized in earnings for derivatives not designated as hedges	0	2,630	0	3,327
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member] | Net Realized Investment Gains (Losses) [Member] | Investment Portfolio [Member]
Unrealized and Realized Gains (Losses) Recognized in Earnings for Derivatives Not Designated As Hedges [Line Items]
Unrealized and realized gains (losses) recognized in earnings for derivatives not designated as hedges	6,697	(4,361)	815	(13,461)
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member] | Foreign Exchange Gains (Losses) [Member] | Underwriting Portfolio [Member]
Unrealized and Realized Gains (Losses) Recognized in Earnings for Derivatives Not Designated As Hedges [Line Items]
Unrealized and realized gains (losses) recognized in earnings for derivatives not designated as hedges	$ 201	$ 24,605	$ 13,655	$ 21,601