The Resurrection of Montserrat
For centuries, visitors to Montserrat had discovered what the locals already knew: the "Emerald Isle" was a paradise. Here in the British West Indies, clear mountain springs watered the terraced banana plantations. Trade winds cooled the quaint colonial streets of Plymouth, the capital.

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The slumbering volcano called Soufriere Hills rose above the descendants of African slaves and Irish and English immigrants who called Montserrat home. One morning nearly 15 years ago, the paradise they knew ended. A visit today reveals a new beginning. Read the full story.

Fly to Gerald's Airport from Antigua onboard WinAir. fly-winair.com

Stay in the Heavenly Suite at the top of a spiral stair case at Gingerbread Hill on the West coast of the island. Owner and documentary filmmaker David Lea can provides vibrant historical commentary for your stay in the hills, as if the 360-degree views of the ocean, mountains and rainforest weren't colorful enough. Rates start at $35. volcano-island.com

Observe the capital city of Plymouth from the deck of a boat on the Island Tour with The Green Monkey Inn & Dive Shop. The tour, which costs $220 for four people and includes a pass by the Soufriere Hills volcano, is currently the only way to view the ruins of Plymouth. divemontserrat.com

Be sure that you will be safe on the island thanks to the Montserrat Volcano Observatory. Established after the first eruption of Soufriere Hills in 1995, the MVO became government affiliated in 1995 and moved to a purpose-built facility in 2003. These days, the MVO monitors volcanic activity and promotes geological education on the island.

Donate to causes that still contribute to the rebuilding of Montserrat, including The Red Cross (664-491-3895) and Meals on Wheels, (664-491- 2567). For a full list of charitable organizations that help Montserrat and how to contact them, see below.

Learn more at visitmontserrat.com.