Go Green in the Caribbean

Montserrat is known as the “Other Emerald Island” for its strikingly lush, green scenery that resembles Ireland, and the numerous residents of Irish decent. 

The largest draw to Montserrat is the active volcano from which lava freely flows on a regular basis.  Vacationers interested in viewing the volcano will find an excellent view at the Montserrat Volcano Observatory, from which tours of the area can be arranged.  Other popular attractions include the Cultural Centre in Little Bay and National Trust in Olveston, which features rotating exhibits about the history of the island, and a botanical garden.

For more information about Montserrat, visit the official Web site of the Montserrat Tourist Board.

Getting There

Travelers hoping to visit Montserrat should fly into VC Bird International Airport in Antigua, then make a connecting flight aboard Fly Montserrat.  Airlines that fly into VC Bird International include Air Canada, American Airlines, British Airways, Caribbean Airlines, Condor, Continental Airlines, Delta, US Air, and Virgin Atlantic.  Visitors also have the option of chartering small air crafts from other islands in the Caribbean.

Ferry services between Antigua and Montserrat also exist for those who do not feel comfortable not flying commercial, or who prefer to take the scenic route. Fare costs ED$150 each way, and ferry services are limited to once a day, Wednesday through Thursday.

Entry Requirements

Proof of citizenship is required for visitors to enter Montserrat.  Though a passport is recommended, US, Canadian, and British citizens need only present an official form of identification such as a driver's license.  Visitors may be asked to present a return or onward ticket, proof of accommodations, and proof of sufficient funds to sustain one for the length of their stay.

Climate

Consistent breezes from the sea keep Montserrat's already pleasant climate cool and comfortable.  Average temperatures throughout the year range from 76 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit, with 50 to 80 inches of rainfall common each year.  The rainy season strikes between July and November. 

Geography

Montserrat is located in the Lesser Antilles region of the Caribbean Sea, just 27 miles southwest of Antigua.  The island has a total area of 39 square miles, though it is increasingly growing in size due to deposits made by the active volcano Soufriere Hills  Volcano.  The volcano is located on the southeast coast of the island, which has been blocked off by the government for safety purposes.  Montserrat also has two islets, Little Redonda and Virgin, and Statue Rock. 

Health and Safety

Private practice facilities and clinics are scattered throughout the island, though the main hospital, St. John's Hospital is equipped to handle most emergencies.  If a medical emergency arises that cannot be handled by St. John's, the patient can be Air Ambulanced to Antigua.  

Tap water in Montserrat is perfectly safe to drink, and in fact is thought to be some of the purest in the world.  Still, visitors who do not feel comfortable drinking from the tap can purchase bottled water at local shops.

People

The people of Montserrat are comprised largely of African ancestry, though retired Anglo-Irish expatriates make up a part of the population as well.  The official language on the island is English, but many locals speak in a Creole dialect.  Islanders tend to be friendly and welcoming, and will react kindly to the friendly greeting of a tourist.