The following are answers to some frequently asked questions about our island of Montserrat. Many of these facts are good to know when visiting and equip you to enjoy your stay in our lovely island. To find out more about Montserrat, visit the link below.
How do I get to Montserrat?
There are Non-stop flights from Canada, the United States, the UK as well as numerous islands throughout the Caribbean to Antigua & Barbuda. From Antigua, daily flights are available to Montserrat on SVG Air and Fly-Montserrat.
What travel documents are required for entry into Montserrat?
United States and Canadian travelers require a valid passport and airline ticket.
What is the size of Montserrat?
Montserrat is 13 miles long and 7 miles wide, and about 40 square miles (105 square km).
What is the population of Montserrat?
Approximately 5,000.
What is the language of Montserrat
Predominantly English and a local dialect.
What is the capital of Montserrat?
Plymouth (abandoned in 1997 due to volcanic activity). However, Government Offices and major commercial activity are now located in Brades.
Government
Montserrat is a British Overseas Territory with a British Governor and a locally elected Government led by the Premier.
What currency is used in Montserrat?
Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC) is the local currency. United States Dollar (USD) is accepted island-wide. The Exchange rate: $1 USD = $2.68 XCD.
Banking
There is one bank in Montserrat, Bank of Montserrat. Not all businesses accept credit cards therefore you may need the services of a bank to exchange currency or to withdraw money using your credit or debit card. Currencies that can be exchanged are Pound Sterling, the US Dollar, the Canadian Dollar, and the Barbados Dollar.
What is the cost of departure taxes?
Passengers making same-day connections by air to Montserrat (within 24 hrs) are exempt from paying the Antigua Airport Tax (EC$101.25/US$37.50). The departure tax is normally EC$35/US$13 for passengers departing Montserrat for Antigua by air and is included in the ticket price.
What is the time zone for Montserrat?
Same as Eastern Standard Time in summer, and one hour ahead in winter. We’re 4 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (-4 GMT) and 5 hours behind Britian during British Summer Time.
What is the weather in Montserrat?
Winter and Summer temperature ranges between 24 and 32 celcius (76 to 88 F) with a constant breeze from the sea and mountains. The peak hurricane season is from early August through the end of October.
What are the major telephone providers?
Flow and Digicel are the major telephone service providers. All accomodations are equipped with WIFI / internet services.
What side of the road do people drive in Montserrat?
Driving is on the left-hand side of the road, and a valid driver’s license and a temporary Montserrat driver’s license are required.
Clothing to wear
Light casual clothing, but do pack some long pants and sturdy shoes if you intend to hike.
Drinking water
Montserrat has one of the purest supplies of drinking water in the world and it is perfectly safe to drink from the tap. Bottled or mineral water is also available in grocery stores.
Drugs
Even soft drugs like marijuana are illegal, and there are stiff penalties for those caught in possession.
Electricity
All accomodations carry both 110V and 220V outlets.
Hospital/ Health Services
The main hospital is called Glendon Hospital and is located in St. John. Doctors in private practices are also available as well as private dentistry. Air ambulance services are available to Antigua and neighbouring islands from Flymontserrat.
Is the volcano safe?
According to the Montserrat Volcano Observatory, the Volcanic Hazard level remains at 1 which means that activities at the Soufriere Hills volcano is low. The volcano is monitored 24/7 by expert scientists.