Language English (with a slight Irish accent) Currency The US Dollar and the Eastern Caribbean Dollar Land Area 39 square miles Landscape Lush green and mountainous Highest point Chances Peak (3,000 feet) Population 4,000 (11,000 before the volcano) Climate 24°C in winter and 31°C in summer; constant sea breeze

Montserrat is situated about 40 km SW of Antigua in the Leeward Islands and is part of the British West Indies. The island can be reached by ferry or helicopter from Antigua. Montserrat has much of volcanic interest, not the least being the Soufrière group of peaks with two volcanoes and the islands highest point, Chances Peak, at 3000 feet. One volcano still smoulders following its violent eruption in the late nineties. Although the eruption left part of Montserrat uninhabitable, self-catering accommodation and some bed and breakfast facilities are available. The people have a warm and hospitable nature and English is their language. The traditional Caribbean atmosphere pervades the island which has a delightful average temperature of 78°F. The sea temperature drops from 84°F to a low of a mere 74°F. The beaches are of black volcanic sand. Unfortunately, the famous Great Alps Waterfall was destroyed by the eruptions, but there are many others, even if less significant, to be found amongst the splendid tropical flora.