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- Destinations
- Caribbean
- Montserrat
Montserrat
The beautiful island of Montserrat has a distinctly explosive
history that has ensured its tourist potential has remained
relatively undeveloped. It seems quite clear the earth is trying to
rid itself of this small Caribbean island, as its recent history is
a list of major natural disasters. A hurricane swept over the
island in 1989, damaging 90 percent of the buildings. Then a
volcano erupted in 1995 after staying dormant for hundreds of
years. It then erupted again two years later, covering the capital
city in 39 feet (12m) of ash and mud and limiting the 39 square
mile (63km) island to a much smaller inhabitable safe zone. Most of
the 12,000 inhabitants got the message and emigrated.
For those that stuck behind, a new tourism industry is
rebuilding and visitors are now eager to take tours of the active
volcano. An ominous dome over the volcano's crater rebuilds and
periodically collapses sending great plumes of ash into the air.
Much of the island is within the 'volcanic exclusion zone' where
islanders have determined it is unsafe to visit. This includes the
old capital of Plymouth which is only viewable from afar. However
the volcano has given tourists a great twist on typical tropical
beach activities. Divers can see unique coral formations that have
grown healthier from the volcano's substrates. Sun lovers can relax
on soft volcanic sand at a number of beaches. Even nature walks
have lush vegetation from the fertilized soil.
The country often refers to itself as the Emerald Isle, denoting
links to its Irish settlers escaping religious oppression. The
Caribbean is an unlikely place to celebrate St. Patrick's Day but
the national holiday highlights the island's charm. Unlike
Columbus, who sailed right past the islands, visitors to the
Caribbean should make this a place to explore. Flights from Antigua
and St. Maarten arrive daily.
Information & Facts
Customs
By all accounts, Montserrat might be one of the easiest places
for western travellers to visit, with many tourists reporting that
they felt like they couldn't have offended the locals they
encountered, even if they'd wanted to! While, of course, this
theory shouldn't be tested by visitors to the 'emerald isle of the
Caribbean', travellers can look forward to a pleasant mix of
typically European manners and customs, and a laid-back, relaxed
and accepting social atmosphere. Visitors should be aware of the
dangers posed by the Soufriere Hills Volcano, and make sure they
stay out of restricted areas. Ask permission before taking
photographs of locals, although more often than not, they will
indulge your request with a suitable pose.
Duty Free
Travellers to Montserrat 17 and older may bring with them up to
200 cigarettes/50 cigars, 40 ounces (1.14 litres) liquor, six
ounces (168g) perfume, and gifts valued to XCD250.
Passport Visa
All foreign passengers to Montserrat must hold return/onward
tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next
destination, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses
while in the country. Note that visa exemptions are for a maximum
period of three months, although extensions are possible, by
applying to the Immigration Department. NOTE: It is highly
recommended that your passport has at least six months validity
remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel
destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to
those stated by travel agents and official sources.