France: Smoking Ban is Breath of Fresh Air in French Cafes

Jan 06, 11:13 AM

France reinvented itself with a new ban on smoking in cafes, restaurants and night spots, the most drastic measure yet to curb the habit in a country where cigarettes were long a potent lifestyle symbol.

Some diehard smokers blamed health-obsessed Americans for starting the trend. But others were delighted by being able to sip or serve a strong espresso without finishing the day with clothes smelling of second-hand smoke.

"It's a new art of living," Health Minister Roselyne Bachelot insisted on a visit to a cafe.

With the ban, France joined the ranks of European countries and more than two dozen U.S. states that have enacted anti-smoking restrictions. In 1994, California became the first U.S. state to ban smoking in restaurants and bars.

Turkey's parliament on Wednesday was debating a proposal to ban smoking in all enclosed public areas, such as bars, restaurants and coffeehouses.

In France, a New Year's Day reprieve allowed revelers their last legal drags in public places before the law took effect, the latest measure in a progressive crackdown that began 15 years ago.

Some called it the end of an era in a nation that long portrayed the cigarette as a sign of freedom, rebellion, individualism or even intellect, indeed, a certain idea of the country.

"They're banning tobacco practically like it's cocaine," said Jean-Yves Oussedik, drawing on his pipe -- and braving a near- freezing chill -- on the sidewalk terrace of cafe Les Deux Magots, a famed Left Bank institution. Outdoors is now the only place where smoking is allowed at cafes.

Under the measure, those caught lighting up inside face a fine of more than $90, while owners who allow smoking face a nearly $200 fine.

(c) 2008 Tulsa World. Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved. France: Smoking Ban is Breath of Fresh Air in French Cafes
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