Montserrat Tourism: How To Travel Safely To The Volcanic Island?
You have probably here about Montserrat tourism. It is an Eastern Caribbean Island that was not an ideal destination because of a volcanic eruption that occurred in 1995. Soufrière Hills Volcano eruption covered and destroyed two-thirds of the island, including the capital city of Plymouth with thick layers of ash and silt.
Most of the country’s population migrated to the US and UK because of the natural disaster. The areas which were destroyed are called the Exclusion Zone which was not accessible to anyone without a guide.
Starting Journey of Montserrat Tourism
Montserrat Tourism
That was almost 30 years ago, and Montserrat has made a comeback with their tourism economy. With a small population of about 5000 people made of natives and immigrants from the neighboring islands who came to help rebuild the island after the first volcanic eruption. Everyone is friendly and the island is very safe when it comes to crime.
Tourists from all over the world are fascinated by the mysterious and startling contrast of landscapes created by the volcanic eruptions in Montserrat. The original capital city of Plymouth is the only area in Zone V- the Exclusion zone that is accessible to visitors who wish to see the buried city.
The island has a siren warning system in place to alert people to any volcanic activity that might have an impact elsewhere on the island. Every day at noon the siren goes off as a test. According to many US Travel websites, travelers are advised to exercise normal precautions in Montserrat.
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How To Travel Safely To The Volcanic Island?
Montserrat Volcanic Island
Considering that the island’s volcano is still active, how can an adventurous travelers stay safe during their stay in Montserrat?
1. Have an emergency plan - Ensure that while you are in Montserrat you are always aware of the communications of the island’s Disaster Management Coordination Agency which oversees emergencies. Have all your travel documents, extra cash, and emergency contacts on hand always.
2. Sign up for STEP -The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free program that enables Americans living and traveling abroad to register their trip with the closest embassy or consulate of the United States. This program would be very helpful for the consulate to locate you in a situation of disaster.
3. Travel Insurance- Get a comprehensive travel insurance plan that includes policies in place that include coverage for medical airlifts.
How can travelers or travel companies help improve tourism in Montserrat?
This seems to be a straightforward question and answer like “promoting Montserrat more” but the island’s recovery also includes art and cultural expression. The volcanic eruption displaced many of the natives and a lot of the cultural heritage unique to the island was lost.
Travelers can contribute to improving tourism in Montserrat by showing interest in discovering the culture to fuel the inspiration of the locals. They can develop their culture, evolve with the times, and grow as unique islands.
Travel Companies can also promote travel during Montserrat’s festivals and carnivals. Montserrat is exceptional among the Caribbean islands for the artistic and cultural options it offers.
Final Words
We think this article will help you to know about tourism in Montserrat and how to travel safely to a volcanic island like this. If you want to know something specific about Monsterrat tourism you can ask it in the comment section. To get such kinds of travel guides stay connected with Good Caribbean.
