MileHacker Logo
Resources & References

Resources & References

Digital Resources

Essential Apps

  • Google Maps

    Download offline maps for Montserrat. This aids navigation, especially with limited mobile data.

  • WhatsApp

    Widely used for local communication; useful for contacting accommodations, guides, or taxis.

  • Weather App

    A reliable weather app aids in monitoring local forecasts, especially during hurricane season.

  • Flow/Digicel Montserrat

    Websites provide local SIM card and mobile plan information for connectivity.

  • SVG Air / ABM Air

    Check their websites for flight schedules and bookings between Antigua and Montserrat.

Useful Websites

  • Montserrat Tourist Board

    Search for "Visit Montserrat official" for information on attractions, accommodations, and events.

  • Montserrat Volcano Observatory (MVO)

    Search for "Montserrat Volcano Observatory" for current volcano activity and safety information.

  • Jaden Sun Ferry

    Find schedules and booking information for ferry services between Antigua and Montserrat.

  • Social Media

    Follow official tourism accounts or local news outlets on platforms like Facebook for real-time updates.

  • Podcasts & Digital Content

    Search YouTube or podcast platforms for documentaries or travel vlogs about Montserrat's story.

Print Resources

Guidebooks and Maps

Dedicated guidebooks for Montserrat are limited. Comprehensive Caribbean guidebooks might include a small section. A detailed physical map for navigating roads is useful.

Books on Montserrat

"Volcano: The Story of Montserrat" by Carol Lee insights into the volcano's impact. "A History of Montserrat" by Howard Fergus for broader historical context.

Local Publications

Local newspapers or community bulletins provide insights into current events and daily life.

Emergency & Medical Information

Contacts & Hospitals

  • Emergency Numbers (Police, Fire, Ambulance): Dial 999.
  • Glendon Hospital: Located in St. Johns, Montserrat.
  • Glendon Hospital Contact: +1-664-491-2552.
  • Your home country's embassy for the Eastern Caribbean (Barbados/Antigua) covers Montserrat.

Lost Documents & Natural Disasters

  • Report lost passports to the Royal Montserrat Police Service (dial 999 for non-emergencies).
  • Contact your embassy for replacement travel documents after reporting.
  • Familiarize yourself with hurricane preparedness from local authorities.
  • Follow all instructions from the Montserrat Volcano Observatory regarding activity.

Further Reading & Exploration

Documentaries & Films

  • Search for documentaries about the Soufrière Hills volcano eruption.
  • These films often provide personal accounts and historical footage.
  • Gain a visual understanding of the volcano's impact on the island.
  • Explore films for profound narrative insights.

Music & Art

  • Explore Montserratian calypso music, reflecting island life.
  • Traditional folk songs tell stories of the island's heritage.
  • Listen to these genres to connect with the local rhythm.
  • Experience the cultural fabric through sound.

Online Communities

  • Traveler forums offer practical advice from other visitors and locals.
  • Websites like TripAdvisor forums provide platforms for questions.
  • Facebook groups dedicated to Montserrat travel offer shared experiences.
  • Connect with fellow travelers and island enthusiasts.

Important Travel Notices

Emergency Reminders

Save Contacts

  • Save emergency numbers in your phone before you travel.
  • Police, Fire, Ambulance: 999.
  • Glendon Hospital: +1-664-491-2552.
  • Your home country's embassy contact information.

Physical Copies

  • Write down all emergency numbers on a physical card.
  • Keep this card securely in your wallet.
  • Physical copies are a backup for digital access issues.
  • This aids in case of phone loss or battery drain.

Volcano Safety

  • Always respect all warnings and boundaries regarding the volcano.
  • Do not enter the exclusion zone without authorization.
  • Only enter with a licensed guide and proper permits.
  • Volcano safety is for your well-being.

Staying Connected

Local SIM Cards

  • Consider purchasing a local SIM card from Flow or Digicel.
  • Local SIMs offer better rates for calls and data.
  • Often more economical than international roaming.

Offline Maps

  • Download offline maps (e.g., Google Maps) before your trip.
  • This aids navigation in areas with limited mobile signal.
  • Your travel continues smoothly, even without internet.

Travel Insurance

Coverage Benefits

  • Arrange travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
  • Look for policies that include trip cancellation coverage.
  • Consider coverage for potential natural disasters.

Provider Suggestion

  • World Nomadsis a recognized travel insurance provider.
  • Research policies to find the right fit for your trip.
  • Read policy details carefully to understand coverage.

Financial Readiness

Cash & Cards

  1. Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates.
  2. This avoids card suspension due to unusual activity.
  3. Always have Eastern Caribbean Dollars (XCD) or US Dollars.
  4. Small denominations are useful for local businesses.
  5. Many small establishments are cash-only.

Driving Permit

  1. Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) if renting a car.
  2. This is important if your domestic license is not in English.
  3. The IDP acts as a translation of your valid driver's license.
  4. Check the requirements for Montserrat specifically.
  5. Secure your IDP well in advance of your trip.

Connectivity & Exploration

Offline Navigation

Download offline maps for Montserrat on your phone before you travel.

Cultural hints

Familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette for respectful interactions.

Online Learning

Skillshare offers courses on photography to document your trip.

Volcano Observatory Information

Explore the Montserrat Volcano Observatory's official website for current alert levels and public access information. This source is for understanding restricted zones.

Montserrat Travel Logistics

Essential Documents

Passport & Visa

  • Passport Validity

    Confirm passport validity: at least 6 months beyond your intended stay.

  • Visa Requirements

    Research visa requirements for your nationality; apply if needed.

  • Return Tickets

    Have return or onward tickets for immigration.

Health & Insurance

  • Vaccinations

    Update routine vaccinations; consult a healthcare professional for Caribbean recommendations.

  • Travel Insurance

    Arrange travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and natural disasters.

  • Vaccination Records

    Gather vaccination records; keep digital and physical copies separate.

Booking & Research

Booking Timeline

Book international flights to Antigua and onward flights or ferry to Montserrat three months out. Book main accommodations early.

Pre-Trip Research

Explore Montserrat's history, especially the volcano's impact. Familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette.

Digital Preparation

Download offline maps. Research local SIM card options or international roaming plans to stay connected.

Home & Personal Preparations

Securing Your Home

  • Stop mail and newspaper deliveries.
  • Arrange for pet care if needed.
  • Inform a trusted person of your itinerary and emergency contacts.
  • Ensure all windows and doors are locked.

Packing & Devices

  • Pack climate-appropriate clothing and activity-specific gear.
  • Charge all electronic devices and power banks.
  • Purchase any local currency or small denominations of US Dollars.
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics to save energy.

Arrival & Departure

Arrival Steps

  • Present passport, completed immigration form, and return ticket.
  • Collect your luggage after immigration.
  • Look for official tourist information at the airport or ferry terminal.
  • Arrange transportation from entry point to your accommodation (taxis available).

Departure Reminders

  • Purchase souvenirs in advance of your final day.
  • Inquire about postal services or courier options for shipping items.
  • Check your flight or ferry schedule the day before you leave.
  • Leave your accommodation tidy and check for forgotten items.

Customs Note

Be aware of customs regulations for items you plan to bring into your home country. VAT refund procedures are not applicable in Montserrat.