Other useful information

As an integral part of the French Republic but close to the North American continent, Saint-Pierre and Miquelon has its own unique characteristics that reflect both its French heritage and the North American context. This section aims to provide practical information regarding some of the archipelago's unique characteristics.

Currency

The currency in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is the euro (€). Banks can exchange foreign currency, although most businesses accept the Canadian and American dollar. It is also possible to use travellers' cheques or credit cards for purchases. All businesses include taxes in the prices displayed.

Time zone

Saint-Pierre and Miquelon is 3 hours earlier than Greenwich Mean Time (GMT-3). Thus, when it is 10 a.m. in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, it is:

• 2 p.m. in Paris, France;
• 9:30 a.m. in St. John's (Newfoundland and Labrador);
• 9 a.m. in Halifax (Nova Scotia);
• 8 a.m. in Montréal (Quebec).

Business hours

In Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, businesses and offices are closed between 12 p.m. and 1:30 p.m., except restaurants, of course. Businesses and offices are normally opened Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Some businesses may be closed on Saturday afternoon and Sunday. The typical time for dinner is 8 p.m. There are no fast-food restaurants on the archipelago.

Electrical outlets

Electrical outlets in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon are 220 volts, 50 Hz. Therefore, imported or portable appliances and electronics require an outlet adaptor and, in some cases, a voltage converter.