Two Days in St Pierre, FranceThe island of St Pierre (and its neighbor Miquelon) is the last remnant of the old French Empire in North America. Until the early 20th century, its economy was primarily based on fishing. American Prohibition changed all that however. The island would grow wealthy by liquor smuggling to the U.S. This industry was so lucrative that from 1920 to 1933, approximately 300,000 cases of contraband alcohol were shipped from the island daily. Day 1 of your visit begins when you clear French Customs and Immigration. After you clear Customs, cross the street to the Tourist Information Office (Place du General de Gaulle BP 4274). Arrange your lodging if you haven’t already done so. Ask for a map of the town and book a tour to Sailor’s Island (Ile Aux Marins). This ghost town tour provides you with some insight into the lives of the population in past years. For more insight into the fishing and Prohibition history of the island, visit the Heritage Museum (Musée Heritage) and the Prohibition Museum (Musée de la Prohibition) in the Hotel Robert. Look for the picture of Al Capone in the latter. Rumor has it that he maintained an office on the island. At some point you may be hungry for lunch. Why not have a picnic near the water? Purchase cheese, meat, bread, wine and fruit from some of the local shops. Later, enjoy a fine French dinner in one of the local restaurants. On Day 2, walk around the town and enjoy the view from the Batterie de la Pointe and Lighthouse Point. Wrap up your visit with some shopping before you enjoy a leisurely French lunch. By the time you finish your meal, your boat back to Newfoundland should almost be ready to depart.
1) Find
St Pierre Information
here.
3) Avoid visiting the island on a Saturday. The stores close by noon. 4) Remember to bring your own corkscrew for your picnic. 5) The island is 30 minutes behind Newfoundland.
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