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Local Expert: Kate Cyr

Transplanted New Yorker learning to love my new home in Paris...

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January 07, 2008
Local News

In Effect.

Smoking Ban in Effect as of January 2nd, 2008.

As of January 2nd, the final step under a 2006 law prohibiting smoking in public places, came into effect.  Smoking is no longer tolerated indoors throughout France, forcing people outside. Are people complying and adjusting to the change? Yes and Paris is a livelier place because of it.  

There are people up in arms but the few smokers that I know, are quite happy to step outside. The rest of us are ecstatic because this ban has given us the chance to experience more of this city. No longer do we have to decide on where to go for coffee, drinks or a meal based on air quality alone. Food and atmosphere are once again valid criteria for decision making.

One has to dodge cigarette smoke more regularly while walking along the sidewalk but, the buzz that is created by bunches of people outside chatting, is welcoming - especially on a dark winter evening.

Read more here:
iht.com

Note: Smoking is allowed in outdoor cafés and special indoor hermetically sealed areas, furnished with air-extraction systems and subject to extremely rigorous health norms.

Those caught lighting up inside will face fines from 83 to 100 euros (some sources say up to 450 euros) while owners who turn a blind eye to smoking in their establishments face a 135 to 750 euro fine.

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