Nature and natural produce has been the main source of income for this island with a feeble economy. But Montserrat has been ravaged by the fury of nature as well. A major volcanic eruption in early 1997, followed by a number of eruptions six years later, has disrupted the island's economy.

Before the eruption, the income for the island was generated through exports of agricultural produce, food processing industries and e-commerce and financial services. After the eruption the island became completely dependent on British aid - starting with a bundled sum of $125 million. The island's economy is fast reaching a point of no return.

The East Caribbean Dollar is the official currency but US dollars are widely circulated and freely accepted. The rate of exchange is approximately EC$2.70 = US$1.00. Notes are in denominations of 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in the denominations of $1 and 25, 10, 2, and 1 cents. US dollars, Canadian dollars, Travellers Cheques and Credit/Debit cards are also accepted. An exchange rate for the East Caribbean Dollar can be found at Oanda.com, the currency site.

You will find the American Express agent at Travel World International Limited, located at Davy Hill.  Tel: (664) 491-2713/4.  Fax (664) 491-2715.

Electronic components, plastic bags, apparel, hot peppers, live plants, cattle.

Machinery and transportation equipment, foodstuffs, manufactured goods, fuels, lubricants, and related materials.

No vaccination is required unless transiting or coming from an infected area within SIX MONTHS of arrival. Persons known to have come from any country which has suffered cholera, yellow fever or smallpox epidemics must have vaccination certificates.  Drinking water is perfectly safe from the tap, but bottled, purified and mineral water is available.

Traditionally, Montserrat's December Festival is one of the higlights of the year and provides a showcase of thee island's culture and performing talent. The festival is held during the last two weeks in December, usually heightening on New Year's Day with a big street parade.

Population: 4,482 (2001 Census) dropping from 10,639 (1991 Census), due to the volcanic activity which has ravaged the island since 1995.
Area: 102 square kilometres
Capital: Plymouth was the capital, but it was abandoned in 1997 due to the volcanic eruption. Temporary government buildings have been built at Brades Estate, in the Carr's Bay/Little Bay area.
Time Zone: GMT/UTC -4 hours 

To view the current time in Montserrat, click on this link to TimeAndDate.com.

Proof of citizenship is required. A valid passport is recommended for all visitors; however, U.S., Canadian and British citizens may present a Driver's License or official ID card as proof of citizenship. Entry visas may be required of visitors from other countries such as Cuba and Eastern Bloc Countries, and can be obtained from British consulate offices. An onward or return ticket is required by all persons who are visiting Montserrat. Caricom citizens can travel on an official ID card, which must bear a photograph of the individual.

Winter and summer temperatures average between 76° and 88° (F) with constant breezes from the sea and mountains. Rainfall averages 60" a year. Casual lightweight clothing is recommended; a light jacket or sweater is advisable for the late evening in the winter months. Sneakers/trainers or rubber-soled shoes are practical for hiking and mountain climbing.

Click on this Weather link to view the current conditions in the Caribbean near Montserrat..

The International Dialling Code for Montserrat is +644. To dial overseas from within the country, dial 011 followed by the relevant country code and phone number.

Emergency numbers for Police, Fire & Ambulance within the country are 911.

The mobile network in Montserrat is TDMA and is not compatible with GSM handsets from other countries. You can hire handsets once you reach the island from C&W Caribbean Cellular.

The entire telecommunication facility for Montserrat is provided by Cable and Wireless (W.I) Ltd. You can contact them at their office in Sweeneys, on weekdays between 8.00 am and 4.00 pm. Call them at (664) 491-1000 or fax them at (664) 491-3599.

National and International Direct dialling facilities, fax and telex services are available from the coin and card phones, strategically placed around the island. 1-800 toll free dialling is also available.