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Official name: Montserrat
Capital city: Plymouth
Languages spoken: English
Population: Around 5,000
Currency: Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD)
Time zone: GMT-4
Driving side: Left
Climate: Tropical, with warm temperatures year-round, cooled by trade winds; rainy season from June to November with risk of hurricanes
Montserrat, a British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean, is often called the “Emerald Isle of the Caribbean” due to its lush green hills and Irish heritage. Much of the island was devastated by volcanic eruptions in the 1990s, which buried the capital, Plymouth, in ash. Today, the exclusion zone around the Soufrière Hills volcano remains off-limits, but the northern part of the island is inhabited and welcoming to visitors. Tourism now focuses on its quiet beaches, eco-tourism, and resilient community spirit.
Montserrat is a small volcanic island, roughly 16 km long and 11 km wide. Its southern half remains largely uninhabitable due to volcanic activity, while the northern half features safe towns, forests, and coastal areas. The island is mountainous, with Chances Peak, part of the Soufrière Hills volcano, once its highest point before eruptions altered the landscape.
Access is via flights from Antigua into John A. Osborne Airport or by ferry services. Travel within Montserrat is mainly by car, with limited public transport. Visitors should be aware of the volcanic exclusion zone, which is strictly enforced.
As a British Overseas Territory, Montserrat follows UK immigration policy. UK citizens do not need a visa for short visits. Other nationals should check entry requirements in advance. There are no foreign embassies on the island; the nearest UK diplomatic mission is in Antigua.
The Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD) is the official currency, shared with several neighbouring islands. US dollars are also widely accepted. ATMs and banking facilities are limited, so visitors should carry sufficient cash.
Montserrat has limited medical facilities, with a small hospital in St John’s and basic healthcare available. Serious conditions may require evacuation to Antigua or further afield. Travellers should ensure they have comprehensive medical insurance including evacuation cover. Bottled water is recommended, although mains water is generally treated.
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