Saint Pierre and Miquelon may be tiny islands off the coast of Newfoundland in Canada, but they’re a French overseas territory with a strong sense of culture and tradition. For travelers wanting to experience a slice of France close to North America, it’s important to understand the local customs and etiquette. The islands’ culture is influenced by mainland France, but also by the historical role the islands have played in fishing and trade. To make sure your visit goes smoothly, here are some tips on how to interact with locals respectfully.
Greetings
When greeting people in Saint Pierre and Miquelon, expect a formal and courteous approach. French customs are dominant here. A handshake is the usual way to greet someone for the first time. If you are more familiar with someone, you might be greeted with “la bise” — the practice of giving light kisses on each cheek. However, this isn’t as common among strangers. If you’re unsure, offering a handshake is always safe.
Politeness is a key element in social interactions. Always start with a “Bonjour” (Good day) or “Bonsoir” (Good evening) depending on the time of day. You’ll notice that locals place importance on greetings, especially when interacting with store owners, waitstaff, or people in a professional setting. Skipping a greeting can feel rude.
Titles and Formal Address
Address people as “Monsieur” (Mr.) or “Madame” (Mrs.) followed by their last names in formal settings. Until someone invites you to use their first name, it’s best to stick to formal address. In more casual settings, you can shift to first names, but it’s polite to wait for the cue from the locals.
Dress Code
The general dress style in Saint Pierre and Miquelon leans towards being conservative but stylish. Islanders take pride in dressing well, especially when out in public. While you don’t need to wear business attire, you should avoid overly casual clothing like flip-flops and beachwear outside of the coast or a beach setting. Smart casual clothing is appreciated when dining out or attending any local gatherings.
If you’re visiting a church or religious site, it’s important to be respectful with your attire. Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and legs. This is especially true if you attend a religious service. Avoid wearing beach or hiking gear into these more formal environments.
Seasonal Considerations
The islands experience four distinct seasons, and the weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers. Even in the summer, evenings can be chilly. If you’re visiting in the colder months, expect strong winds and frequent changes in weather. A good jacket and warm layers will be essential even if the sun is shining when you set out for the day.
Dining Etiquette
Dining in Saint Pierre and Miquelon follows similar customs to dining in France. When invited to eat at someone’s home, it’s polite to bring along a small gift — a bottle of wine (French wine is often appreciated), or a box of chocolates. If dining at a restaurant, be prepared to linger over your meal. Meals here are often seen as a social occasion, and rushing through them is not common practice.
Table manners follow French traditions. Don’t start eating until your host begins, and remember to say “Bon appétit” before digging in. Keep your hands visible on the table but don’t rest your elbows. Eating slowly and savoring the dishes is encouraged. Locals appreciate good conversation alongside the meal, so don’t rush through the courses.
Restaurant Tipping
Service charges are often included in restaurant bills. That said, it’s common to leave a small tip as a sign of appreciation. Normally rounding up the bill is enough, or leaving a 5-10% tip for extraordinary service. Do not feel pressured to tip large amounts, but a token of gratitude is always welcome.
Social Norms
Saint Pierre and Miquelon might be small, but respecting personal space and privacy is just as important as in larger regions. Loud or over-the-top behavior is uncommon here, and people appreciate a more restrained, polite attitude in public settings. Don’t speak too loudly in cafés or restaurants and avoid disruptive behavior in communal or public areas.
Smoking in public places like restaurants, indoor bars, and enclosed areas is prohibited, just like in mainland France. If you smoke, make sure you are following the designated areas and rules. Ask locals or look for signs that will direct you where it is acceptable.
Conversation Topics
Conversation is typically calm and polite. Political discussions can sometimes become heated, especially when talking about France’s policies, but as a visitor, it’s wiser to avoid these topics unless a local brings them up. Saint Pierre and Miquelon’s political landscape is more aligned with France than North America. If you’re engaging in conversations, locals enjoy discussions around marine activities, nature, and life on the islands.
Religious Customs and Traditions
The population of Saint Pierre and Miquelon is primarily Catholic, and religious customs are observed, although not always in a strict way. If you are attending a local religious event or entering a church, modest attire is a must. Catholic holidays are celebrated here with some fervor, and many businesses may close down during these periods, especially around Christmas and Easter.
If you attend any local festivals, remember to be respectful of any religious elements that may be included. While the population is open and welcoming, outward displays of disrespect for religious practices are frowned upon.
Public Holidays and Festivities
National celebrations like Bastille Day (July 14) are a big deal in Saint Pierre and Miquelon, often with parades, music, and fireworks. You’re likely to experience a holiday atmosphere with outdoor activities in the city squares and local eateries offering special menus. It’s a great way to partake in the local culture, but it’s also important to respect traditions and follow the local lead during these festivities.
Gift Giving Etiquette
If you are invited to someone’s home, a small gift is a nice gesture. Wine, chocolates, or flowers are typically appreciated, but make sure not to bring chrysanthemums, as they are associated with funerals. When offering and receiving gifts, do so with both hands. Gifts are generally opened when received but don’t be surprised if your host sets them aside to open later.
Non-Verbal Communication
Non-verbal communication in Saint Pierre and Miquelon is generally subdued. Locals value personal space and may not use as many hand gestures as in some other cultures. That said, a smile and maintaining eye contact while speaking are appreciated. Crossing your arms or slouching can give off an unfriendly vibe, so sit or stand upright during conversations.
When interacting with locals in stores or cafés, don’t immediately jump into asking for what you need. Begin with a polite greeting. Skipping this can be seen as rude or disrespectful. A simple “Bonjour” can work wonders in starting a smoother conversation.
Behavior in Formal Settings
If you are invited to a formal event or a business meeting on the islands, punctuality is important. It’s common to arrive a few minutes early and wait for the host to begin any formalities. When entering a meeting or formal event, greet everyone in the room, and don’t forget the importance of an initial polite greeting followed by a handshake. Formality is still appreciated in professional settings, even if the islands feel relaxed.
Business dress tends toward the conservative side. Men should typically wear a collared shirt with trousers while women may wear dresses, skirts, or formal pants. It’s always better to be slightly overdressed rather than too casual in a formal setting.
Practical Tips for Interacting with Locals
While French is the dominant language, many locals also know some English. That said, attempting to use a few French phrases, even if only to say “Merci” (Thank you) or “S’il vous plaît” (Please), can go a long way in building rapport with locals. Don’t worry if your French is not perfect — locals respect the effort.
Saint Pierre and Miquelon are tranquil and close-knit communities. Word travels fast here, so it’s better not to cause any unwanted attention by behaving in a way that feels too brash or flashy. Respect the slower pace of life, and you’ll likely receive a warm welcome in return.
Lastly, showing interest in the local culture, especially fishing or local history, will endear you to many. People on the islands are proud of their heritage and are usually open to sharing stories with those who genuinely want to learn.
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