SP became French in the 1800's, population is around 6000. There are two other nearby French islands in the prefecture, Miquellon and Langlade, both are much larger that SP but much less populated. St Pierre is about 5 miles wide. It is amazing the large number of motorcycles and cars for an island with probably less that 20 miles of main roads, guess they like going around and around. They get a new minister/mayor sent in from Paris every four years, doctors are rotated in from Paris for a few years. Health care is free and some special care patients are flown to Paris. Higher education is provided free and many are sent to Paris for college and most return after graduation. It must require a major French subsidy to maintain these territories.
We are staying in the Hotel Robert (pronounced row-bear). It's not very fancy as you can see but the best in town. It's old but comfortable and clean, one of it's claim to fame is that Al Capone spent a short time here during Prohibition. The island had a reputation in those days as a good site for smuggling.
Had a pretty sunny day today and took a tour around the island, had another fine french dinner.
Pics, view of the heart of St Pierre from hill, the Ile de Langlade in background and Hotel Robert
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