Mélange Travel & Lifestyle Magazine April 2017 | Page 311

Montserrat Volcano
Observatory
The Montserrat Volcano Observatory
was established in 1995 after the last
major eruption and is today tasked with
earthquake monitoring and monitoring of any
deformation such as the size of growing lava
domes. As well as monitoring these activities
the observatory is also tasked with briefing
the government, several times a week, on
the volcano’s safety and also prepares a daily
update for the local radio station.
© Montserrat Volcano Observatory
Plymouth
Although Plymouth, prior to 1995, was the
island’s capital, today it more resembles the
ancient Greek city of Pompeii as it was totally
destroyed by the eruption. Visitors today can
see the roofs of abandoned cars and houses.
This once thriving capital has now been
reduced to a ghost town, void of even any
animals or birdlife but reminders of its once
joyous past can be witnessed by the remains
of aging clothes and toys and in businesses
old type writers, books and stationery.
Jack Boy Hill
Jack Boy Hill is a popular attraction as it
offers great views of the volcano and, with
the help of the telescope located there,
visitors can also view the sea and the old
abandoned airport below. Although located
in perhaps the island’s harshest landscape, a
small park strewn with bougainvillea makes
an ideal spot for a picnic.
Photo Credit: Tripadvisor Traveller