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Montserrat: The Emerald Isle of the Caribbean

Discover Montserrat: A Caribbean island of volcanic landscapes, resilient culture, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Montserrat, known as the "Emerald Isle of the Caribbean" due to its Irish heritage and lush landscapes, is a unique island shaped by volcanic activity. While the Soufrière Hills volcano's eruptions in the 1990s devastated much of the island, Montserrat has rebuilt and offers visitors a blend of natural beauty, historical insights, and resilient culture.

A brief summary to Montserrat

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Local tips

  • Check the Montserrat Volcano Observatory (MVO) website for the latest updates on volcanic activity before your visit.
  • Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace, but be aware of the steep, winding roads and remember to drive on the left.
  • Visit Rendezvous Bay, Montserrat's only white-sand beach, accessible by boat or a challenging hike.
  • Consider taking a boat tour along the west coast to see the buried city of Plymouth from a unique perspective.
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Getting There

  • Air

    The most common way to reach Montserrat is by flying into V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU) in Antigua. From there, connect to Montserrat's John A. Osborne Airport (MNI) via a short flight with local carriers like Fly Montserrat or ABM Air. The flight is approximately 20 minutes. A one way ticket will cost around US$100.

  • Ferry

    Alternatively, take the ferry from Antigua to Montserrat. The ferry departs from the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium dock in Antigua and arrives at Little Bay in Montserrat. The ferry trip takes approximately 1.5 hours. Note that the ferry service is seasonal and schedules may vary. Contact the Access Division for current schedules and booking information. A one way ticket will cost approximately EC$275/US$102.

  • Taxi

    Upon arrival at John A. Osborne Airport or the ferry terminal in Little Bay, taxis are readily available. Taxi fares from the airport to accommodations in the northern part of the island typically range from $8 to $29 USD. It's advisable to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Bus

    Local buses, which are actually colorful mini-vans, operate along the main road from Salem to Lookout, passing through Brades and St. John's. The fare is around EC$3 (just under US$1.25) between any two points along the route. Buses will stop anywhere along the main road.

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Discover more about Montserrat

Montserrat is a captivating Caribbean island with a dramatic story of volcanic rebirth. The island's landscape is dominated by the Soufrière Hills volcano, which became active in 1995 after centuries of dormancy. The eruptions reshaped the island, burying the capital city of Plymouth under ash and forcing a large-scale evacuation. Today, Montserrat offers a unique travel experience. Visitors can witness the power of nature at the Montserrat Volcano Observatory, which provides insights into the volcano's activity and the island's geological history. The northern part of the island, deemed safe for habitation, has been revitalized, with new infrastructure and a growing tourism sector. Explore the lush rainforests, hike scenic trails, and discover the resilient spirit of the Montserratian people. Rendezvous Bay offers the island's only white-sand beach, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Visit the Hilltop Coffee House & Family Center, a non-profit cafe serving as a museum and art gallery. Montserrat is a destination that combines natural wonders with a compelling human story, making it an unforgettable Caribbean experience.

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