Montserrat

Introduction to Montserrat

Montserrat is a lush, mountainous island in the Caribbean Sea, located in the Leeward Islands. It is also found in the chain of islands that are sometimes called the Lesser Antilles. The Caribbean island of Montserrat was given its name by Christopher Columbus in 1493, after a mountain of the same name located in Spain. Today, Montserrat is often given the nickname of the Emerald Island of the Caribbean, because the island's large slopes are covered by lush green tropical vegetation, and through the connection to Ireland of many of its early settlers.

Montserrat is currently an overseas territory of the United Kingdom. The United Nations Committee on Decolonization includes Montserrat on the United Nations list of Non-Self-Governing Territories.

Montserrat's Georgian-era capital city of Plymouth was destroyed and two-thirds of the island's population forced to flee abroad owing to the eruption of the Soufriere Hills volcano that began on July 18, 1995. The eruption continues today on a much reduced scale, the damage being confined to the areas around Plymouth and the southeast coast near the now-destroyed H.W. Bramble Airport. An exclusion zone, open during the day, extends from the south coast of the island north to parts of the Belham Valley and provides visitors with a spectacular view of the volcano and the destruction it has wreaked upon the town.

Cultural notes about Montserrat

Many of the last names are of Irish origin, as the Irish and African slaves intermarried. Many of the place names on the island are also Irish. Upon entry, the passport is even stamped with a green shamrock. The crest on the flag has Lady Erin (Ireland) on it as well as the ancient Irish harp.

Official Canadian government advisories for travelling to, in and around Montserrat

Most Canadian visitors to Montserrat do not experience problems. There are no serious security or safety concerns. Activity at the Soufriere Hills Volcano could increase suddenly, and dangerous conditions develop quickly. The dome of the volcano collapsed in July 2003 . However, the volcano is still considered dangerous, and the possibility of ash falls exists. Entry into the southern part of the island and the southern coastal waters is prohibited due to ongoing volcanic activity. Areas south of Iles Bay Hill and west of Pelican Ghaut are a designated Exclusion Zone. Ash masks should be worn in ashy conditions. Prolonged exposure to volcanic ash can cause serious health problems.

The risk of theft and street crime is very low. Exercise normal safety precautions and ensure personal belongings and travel documents are secure.