A Visit to Saint-Pierre/Miquelon

Saint-Pierre/Miquelon

Do you want to go to France without crossing the Atlantic Ocean or Pacific Ocean?  If so, try this French archipelago off Newfoundland, Canada that can be accessed by plane or ferry from Canada.

By air its just a short flight on Air Saint-Pierre’s small, French-registered turboprop, from Halifax to the French islands of Saint-Pierre et Miquelon was relatively surprising – an all French crew. It was like being on a plane in France. 

Expecting a quiet archipelago with an equally quiet French flavor I found instead a vibrant quirky community with a long, complicated history that shapes daily life. Sitting just off the coast of Newfoundland, the islands are the final remnant of France’s former North American empire, and their past is visible everywhere—from the fishing docks to the government buildings flying the tricolor French Flag.  A visit to the museums showcases the history of these two islands.  Most residents are predominantly of French descent, mainly proud Basques and Bretons. Saint-Pierre is a quaint and compact town, while Miquelon is larger, quieter, and more exposed to the Atlantic.

The narrow isthmus connects the two islands. The people identify strongly with France—using the euro, following French law, and often sending students to the French mainland—yet their daily reality is shaped by North Atlantic conditions. Buttery croissants and quiche, just like in France, can be purchased at quaint bakeries or patisseries.  As I walked along the cobbled streets of Saint-Pierre on my final day, I passed the war memorial, the harbor, and the steep streets lined with brightly painted houses and French colonial architecture. The night before, I could hear sounds from a lively bar up the street.

Going to Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is absolutely worth it.  I'd love for you to experience it also!