Really enjoyed my short time in Paris. I generally think that Europeans have gotten so many things right that we Americans are still struggling with. But… what is with all the smoking, still, in 2026? Someone should tell them it’s bad for you. 🚬
@manton must be Paris. I felt the same when I visited Rome, it was crazy. Weirdly here in Spain it feels like something from the past.
@manton Hehe, I think the same when I visit the U.S. It really varies from country to country. Here in Sweden, about 6% of people are smokers, compared to 11% in the U.S. We do love our snus, though. 😊
@sod Well, that’s interesting! Maybe it’s more noticeable to me because smoking is not allowed anywhere near restaurants here in Austin. In Paris, it’s hard to find a sidewalk cafe with someone not smoking.
@manton In fairness, cigarette manufacturing is something else the Europeans have long cotton right. Their cigarettes are actually far less lethal and additive free compared to American ones.
@manton There are still a lot of people smoking world wide, the French just can't be bothered to mandate where and when you can smoke (free will) like down a back alley.
@alexandra @numericcitizen @KimberlyHirsh @patrickrhone.bsky.social @Eyebeemania @vladcampos @robbyred.bsky.social @manton @sod @alexito4
Reminds me of an old Jack Handy line, “I would never suggest the kids should smoke, but if you already do, it’s pretty good, huh?”
@numericcitizen @manton It’s a European thing. Even here in Cyprus many people smoke.
Many people are aware that cigarettes are bad for you because of the added chemicals. Therefore many now roll their own cigarettes using untreated tobacco which is healthy because it has no added chemicals.
Personally I smoke a pipe because pipe tobacco has zero chemicals and is good for your health. Nicotine is a very effective anti inflammatory and good for heath without chemicals.