Breathing in a fresh? New Year -- Part II

Traditional Chimneys from the Aragón region of Northern Spain -- smokeless in July

Dear Citizens of the World!

The new year has started and the ban on smoking seems to be holding up -- but not without some problems.

I am happy to report that we were able to go out for dinner last week and we got home without smelling like smoke! This is no small feat in Spain. On a cold Saturday evening, the sidewalks were packed with smokers... a good sign that the ban is working.

Most bars and cafes seem to be following the rules, but the first time I went into a café in January (partly to support the ban by spending more money in cafés and restaurants... and partly because I just wanted a coffee) was a no-go. As soon as I entered the cafe, a women lit up a cigarette and practically blew the smoke at me. Slightly shocked and frustrated, I turned around and left.

Like all changes in society, it will take time to take root and for the holdouts to accept the change. Not so far in the past, teachers used to smoke in class and trains were travelling clouds of smoke. However, these measures, which were met with lots of resistance in the past, are considered normal now. The same will happen with the restaurants.

As restaurants adapt (outfitting terraces with heaters), so shall society adapt.

May your dinner and coffee be smoke-free!

- The United Statesian

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