Essential travel info for Montserrat

Electricity

The electrical current is 230 volts, 60Hz. They use two-flat-pin plugs and three-pronged plugs with two flat pins and one round pin (Plug types A and B).

Language

English is the official language.

Money

The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar (XCD), which is fixed to the US dollar at 2.70 XDC to 1 US dollar. US dollars are also widely accepted in the territory. Visitors will find limited but modern banking facilities; most major credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants and supermarkets.

Tipping

A five percent tip over and above normal service charges will show appreciation for excellent service at restaurants. Porters are given one dollar per bag and cleaning services are often tipped at two to three dollars per night. Taxi drivers will expect a 10 percent tip and it is a good idea for passengers to arrange a flat rate from the start. All tour guides appreciate gratuity, which should be between 10 and 20 percent.

Health

The most common ailment for visitors is traveller's diarrhoea, which is easily avoided by following basic food procedures. Travellers should drink only bottled water, or boiled, disinfected and filtered tap water, eat only hot foods, and avoid street food and uncooked, or unwashed fruits. It is recommended that travellers get an update on an MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine, a diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, and get vaccines for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and a yearly flu shot. Those travelling from a yellow fever zone will be required to produce a certificate of proof of receiving a yellow fever vaccine. Taking along a set of basic medication and insect repellent is necessary because visitors are at risk of dengue fever. All medication should have a doctor's letter in explanation of medical problems and medications required for treatment. There are adequate medical facilities, but visitors should expect to pay in cash regardless of whether or not they have medical travel insurance.

Safety

Crime against tourists is rare but basic travel precautions are still necessary, such as carrying valuables rather than leaving them in hotel rooms if there is no safe. Road conditions can vary greatly around the country, so visitors should be careful when driving after dark and in the mountainous regions, where there are steep, narrow and winding roads. Volcanic ash on the roads can cause slippery driving conditions.

Coastal waters can be dangerous as riptides are common, so beachgoers should follow the instructions and warnings of local authorities. Divers should note that tour operators may not adhere to international standards and that, if they dive (or participate in any water sport), they should choose a well-established and reputable company that has insurance. They should also ensure that their travel insurance covers the relevant recreational activities.

Local customs

Visitors can look forward to a pleasant mix of typically European manners and customs, and a laid-back, relaxed and accepting social atmosphere. However, they should be aware of the dangers posed by the Soufriere Hills Volcano, and make sure they stay out of restricted areas. The penalties are harsh for anyone caught with drugs of any kind.

Homosexuality is legal under Montserrat law, but there is no provision for marriage or civil partnerships between same-sex couples, and they aren't recognised in law. Locals throughout the island are very conservative, meaning that while people are generally tolerant of homosexual couples, they don't approve of public displays of affection between same-sex couples.

Doing business

Business is done in English.

Duty free

Travellers who are 17 and older may bring up to 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars, 40 ounces (1.14 litres) of liquor, six ounces (168g) of perfume, and gifts valued to XCD 250.

Communications

The international access code for Montserrat is +1. Travellers can purchase local prepaid SIM cards for unlocked phones or use eSIMs if their cellular providers support it on their networks. WiFi is available at hotels.

Passport & Visa

All foreign passengers to Montserrat must hold return or onward tickets, the necessary travel documentation for their next destination, and proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in the country. Visa exemptions are for a maximum period of six months, though extensions are possible by applying to the Immigration Department. It is highly recommended that travellers' passports have at least six months' validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry requirements

US citizens must have a passport that is valid at the time of entry. No visa is required for stays of up to six months. Those traveling to Montserrat on a cruise may use another Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) compliant document.

British citizens must have a passport that is valid for the duration of their stay in Montserrat. No visa is required for stays of up to six months.

Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for the expected duration of their stay in Montserrat. No visa is required for stays of up to six months.

Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for the expected duration of their stay in Montserrat. No visa is required for stays of up to six months.

South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for the expected duration of their stay in Montserrat. No visa is required for stays of up to six months.

Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for the expected duration of their stay in Montserrat. No visa is required for stays of up to six months.

New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for the expected duration of their stay in Montserrat. No visa is required for stays of up to six months.

Montserrat