There’s a reason why Montserrat is called the Emerald Isle of the Caribbean, and why it’s the only place outside of Ireland to officially recognize St. Patrick’s Day.  That reason is the strong Irish roots that grow on this gorgeous island in the West Indies.

The Irish in Montserrat, West Indies dates back to the 17th century, when Irish servants from nearby St. Kitts escaped their masters and found freedom on the volcanic island of Montserrat.  Their legacy is still felt island-wide, and in fascinating ways.

Names such as Sweeney, Ryan and O’Brien dominate in the local population.  The people of the two islands also share a love of stories and talking.  There are lots of local restaurants and pubs on Montserrat where the evening ends in song and in laughs, just like it does over in Dublin.

When you arrive in Montserrat, your passport is stamped with a green shamrock, and the national flag of Montserrat features a woman who symbolizes Ireland, carrying a golden harp, another symbol of the Celtic homeland.

Both islands also share a love for everything green and growing, and people take advantage of their lush climates to grow rich and beautiful gardens.  Of course, the gardens of Montserrat are more tropical in nature, featuring glorious frangipani and palm trees. You may also detect a slight Irish lilt when you talk to the people of this island.

Language experts say that the local language here, Montserrat Creole, has a lot in common with southern Irish English, as it does with other Creole dialects from nearby islands.

Of course, Montserrat is at its most Irish every March, when it elevates the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day to an entire week of parties, songs, parades and celebrations.

Why not come explore holidays in Montserrat for yourself?  Hurry and book a Montserrat villa before the wearin ‘of the green and experience this wonderful Caribbean island with a fascinating Irish twist.