Skip to content
Few scams

Caribbean

Tourist scams in Montserrat

No specific tourist scams or theft methods are documented for Montserrat in the available information. Reported crime was low in a safety assessment from 2019, but that does not establish current scam rates. Check whether prices are in EC dollars or US dollars, and plan how you will get cash.

    No scams match. Try another word.

    Habits that keep you safe

    Money

    • Ask whether a price is in EC dollars or US dollars before paying. The dollar sign alone may be unclear.
    • Use US$1 = EC$2.70 to check conversions between these two currencies.
    • Carry cash for shops, which may not accept debit cards. The ferry takes cash only.
    • Check the total and count your change before leaving.
    • High shop prices alone do not mean you are being scammed. Goods are generally expensive compared with US and European prices.

    Cards and ATMs

    • Plan cash access ahead: only two ATMs are listed on the island.
    • Do not rely on the Bank of Montserrat ATM for an international account. It is described as unable to make those withdrawals.
    • Allow for the listed US$4.50 flat withdrawal fee at the Royal Bank of Canada. Confirm the fee before accepting.
    • Cover your PIN and do not accept help from strangers while using an ATM.
    • Keep your card issuer's contact details somewhere you can access if your card is lost.

    Where you stay

    • Confirm the currency before booking. Accommodation prices are often quoted in US dollars.
    • Get the full price and payment terms in writing.
    • Keep your booking confirmation and payment receipt.

    Your belongings

    • Keep cash and valuables secure and out of sight.
    • Split your cash so losing one wallet does not leave you without money.
    • Avoid walking through alleyways at night.
    • Keep a separate copy of important travel documents.

    Questions

    Are tourist scams common in Montserrat?

    No specific tourist scams are documented in the available information. A 2019 assessment described very low reported crime, but there is no current scam rate here. Keep normal precautions.

    Are there known scam or pickpocket hotspots?

    No named places are linked to scams, pickpockets or touts. That does not guarantee that theft cannot happen.

    How can I avoid confusion over dollar prices?

    Ask whether the price is in EC dollars or US dollars before agreeing to pay. The currency is the East Caribbean dollar, and US$1 equals EC$2.70.

    What should I check before paying for accommodation?

    Accommodation is often priced in US dollars. Confirm the currency, full amount and payment terms in writing, then keep your receipt.

    Can I rely on paying by debit card?

    No. Shops may not accept debit cards, and the ferry takes cash only. Arrange enough cash for essential spending.

    Will the ATMs work with an international account?

    Only two ATMs are listed. The Bank of Montserrat is described as unable to make withdrawals from international accounts, including UK accounts. Plan another way to access cash.

    Is the Royal Bank of Canada's withdrawal fee a scam?

    The listed US$4.50 flat withdrawal charge is described as a bank fee, with no indication of fraud. Confirm the displayed fee before proceeding.

    Do expensive shop prices mean I am being overcharged?

    Not necessarily. Shop goods are generally expensive compared with US and European prices. Check the marked price, currency and total before buying.

    What precautions should I take after dark?

    Avoid walking through alleyways at night. Keep valuables out of sight and carry only the cash you need.

    What should I do if I lose money or suspect fraud?

    Get somewhere safe, save evidence and report suspected fraud or theft to the police. Contact your card issuer promptly if a card or account is involved, and keep records for any insurance claim.

    Reviewed by