Magdalen Islands
 

My wife & I are planning a trip to the Magdalen Islands. Can anyone offer advice on accomodations and activities? How widespread is the use of Englsh? Thanks in advance.

Hi George,<BR><BR>We (a group of 5) spent a week at the Magdelen Islands last Summer for the first time and loved it. Depending on what you like for accommodations, renting a cottage or a house is in my opinion a very good option there. It will cost you between CA$450 and CA$700 depending on size and location. We stayed on the main island (Cap-aux-Meules); it is not the most typical of the island and it is the busiest (if you can call this place busy), but if you stay in the same place for a week it is very central, and it will be easier to visit the rest of the islands by taking day trips (and the nice bakeries and shops are all close by). The island of Havre-aux-maisons is pretty central too, and more picturesque. If you plan a one-week rental in July or August I suggest that you make reservations at least by the end of March, as this is a very popular travel destination. You should also book the ferry well in advance for the summer months (they take reservations right now). <BR><BR>As for activities, you HAVE to see Entry island, very remote and unique. The sand crafters shop on the island of Havre-Aubert is impressive too. Other popular activities are kayaking, kite flying (http://www.aerosport.ca), diving, boat tours, etc. <BR><BR>As for the use of English, you will hear mostly French and you will probably enjoy your trip more if you can understand some French, but most people in the tourism industry will be able to communicate in English. And two of the islands have an English population (Entry Island and Grosse &Icirc;le).<BR><BR>Have a good trip!

Thank you very much for your very helpful recommendations. I will keep these in mind in making our plans. <BR>The reason for the question about the use of English was that, although I can usually manage, I wouldn't consider myself fluent in French. We've made a number of trips throughout Quebec: Montreal, Quebec City, Gaspe' Peninsula, etc. and never had many problems. In 1999 we drove from Quebec City to Tadoussac and then drove around Lac Saint-Jean. In many towns along the Lac it was difficult to find anyone who spoke English. The people were very friendly &amp; hospitable but my lack of French was sometimes a problem.<BR>Again, thanks for your help.

I would also like advice. My husband and I want to made a three-day or so trip to Magalen in early June this year. Any advice on hotels and activities (and possible weather!) would be welsome.

Welcome to Fodors. This thread is from 2003, suggest you start your own.