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Language: English
Currency: Eastern Caribbean dollar
Temperature: Average 76-88°F year-round
Square Miles: 39
Approx. Population: 4,500
Montserrat is a small island with Irish heritage and a capital city that lies under volcanic ash. The island continues to host a live volcano in its Soufrière Hills, which came to life in 1995 and scared off about two-thirds of Montserrat's residents. The airport was also destroyed with the volcano, but helicopters and ferries provide transportation for curious tourists to and from Antigua. Although the south end of the island is unsafe for visitors, the lush, tropical northern end continues to attract vacationers to the "Emerald Isle". Most of the beaches have black sand, and you can head to Lime Kiln Bay for snorkeling or to the west coast for scuba diving. If you'd rather spend a day on land, you can hike through rain forests in search of the exotic Montserrat oriole, bridled quail dove, or forest thrush. All tourists are encouraged to check with the Montserrat Volcano Observatory before visiting the island.
With British monetary support, Gerald's Airport opened in 2005. Small planes make the hop from nearby Antigua at least four times a day. Ferry services also operate to and from Antigua.
Weather Overview
Montserrat's climate is tropical year-round with average temperatures ranging from 21°C (70°F) to 28°C (83°F) in the cooler period between December and February. From May to October, temperatures fall between 23°C (74°F) and 31°C (88°F). Rainfall averages 152cm (60in) a year and is heavier during the hurricane season (July to November). Although the volcano hasn't erupted since 1997, visitors would be wise to carry an ash mask with them at all times and to keep the radio set to ZJB (91.9FM) for announcements.
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