Overview of Montserrat

Quick Overview

This small British territory is a bit of a special case. Originally settled by Irish people, the island resembles Ireland or Scotland more than the Caribbean. It experienced a massive eruption of its volcano, Soufrière, which began in 1995. As a result, the entire southern part of the island was devastated—among other things, the capital Plymouth was abandoned, the population was evacuated or emigrated, and the southern zone was closed (or heavily regulated) to the public.

Today, Montserrat has lost half its inhabitants, part of the island remains off-limits, and its economy—including tourism—is still struggling due to ongoing volcanic activity. Its former capital, Plymouth, lies in ruins and was temporarily replaced by the village of Brades before the new capital in Little Bay was completed. In short, Montserrat is unlike any other destination in the region.

Key Facts

• Type of place: territory.

• Location: in the Caribbean, a few kilometers northwest of Guadeloupe.

• Latitude/longitude: 16.45' N, 62.12' W.

• Local time: Heure : 7361

• Capital(s): official: Plymouth ("official"), Brades (interim), Little Bay (upcoming).

• Nature of the state: British Overseas Territory.

• Official language: English.

• Currency: Eastern Caribbean dollar.

• Population: 5,315 inhabitants (2018).

• Area: 102 km².

• Density: 53 inhabitants/km².

• Highest point: Chances Peak (915 m).

• Lowest point: sea level.

• Coastline: 40 km.

• Driving: on the left.

Tourism

Due to the island’s past and ongoing challenges, tourism is almost nonexistent (barely 9,000 visitors in 2018), though day trips are organized from the neighboring island of Antigua, which serves as a hub for Montserrat in areas like international transport.

Travel Essentials

• Destination: for beginner travelers.

• By air: France-Montserrat for 700 to 1,100 € round trip.

• Entry requirements: passport.

• Currency to bring: US dollar.

• Exchange rate:

• Daily "backpacker" budget:

• Best for accommodation:

• Best for getting around:

• Risks: low health risks and relatively low security risks.

• Best time for climate/crowds/prices: ideally avoid the rainy season, especially August to late October, which is hurricane season.

• Interests (out of ★★★★): Nature ★★/ ★★★; Adventure ⊘; Culture ★; Relaxation/holidays ⊘/ ★

Addresses in France

Tourist Office: online only (in English).

Addresses in Belgium, Switzerland, and Quebec

Socio-Economic Statistics

• "Quality of life":

• GDP per capita:

• Average monthly income:

• Inflation: +1.2% (2017)

• "Official" unemployment: 5.6% (2017)

• Population below the poverty line:

• Life expectancy: 74.8 years (2018)

• Migration rate per 1,000 inhabitants: 0 (2017)

• Population growth: +0.43% (2017)

• Literacy rate:

• Urban population: 9.1% (2017)

• Press freedom: 35/180 (rank in 2017)

• Political regime:

Sources: World Bank, Human Development Indicators, RSF, The Economist, The World Factbook