Twenty-five kilometers offshore from the Burin Peninsula floats a small piece of France. The islands of St-Pierre and Miquelon are not just French-like with their berets, baguettes and Bordeaux they are France, governed and financed by the tricolore. Locals kiss their hellos and pay in Euros, sweet smells waft from myriad pastry stalls, and French cars crowd the tiny one-way streets. It's a world apart from Newfoundland.
When shopping in the country, you'll find lots of items made locally. You will have no problem finding gifts for your loved ones as well as treats for personal spoils.If you are wondering what to purchase here, you’re in the right place. To help you find that perfect memory or keepsake from your trip, here is our guide to shop in Saint Pierre and Miquelon.
It is important to note that stores are only open Monday - Friday 10-noon and 2-5pm. This is partly why you need a week so you can coordinate all that you want to see and do on the islands.Restaurants open at 7:30pm at the earliest in the evening as islanders traditionally have late suppers like in France.
You always need a reservation so be sure to have your hotel make you one. Both me and my friend spoke limited french but for the most part those who work in the tourism industry speak both english and French. In the cases where an individual speaks little english you can usually make do with what little English they know and what little French you know.
People is very friendly in St Pierre and Miquelon. They all speak English. The food is fantastic everywhere you go. The only thing to keep in mind is that the majority of the stores close at lunch time. On French holidays, restaurants, bakeries are closed too so your only choice is to eat at the Hotel if there is a Restaurant at the Hotel.
