I recently wrote an article about Germany, saying, tongue in cheek, that one of the reasons Germany is a great place to live is that it is still possible to smoke in the pubs. Of course, that is not a reason that Germany is a great place to live - there are many other more valid reasons. But as I got so many livid responses to that one line, I thought I would clarify.

Every German state has different laws, and yes, as of July 1, 2008, every state has banned smoking in public buildings, offices, restaurants and bars to one extent or the other. It is a topic in the news here on a regular basis, they show empty pubs and restaurants and the gastronomy business in Germany is suffering.

It is still possible to smoke in many pubs and restaurants though. Many states allow "smokers clubs", (pubs and restaurants that still allow smokers) or allow rooms to be set aside for smokers. Even Bavaria, which has the strictest non-smoking laws in Germany, has decided to allow smoking in the tents at Oktoberfest.

Over the past few years, anti-smoking groups have made great strides in Germany but the courts have several cases before them that still need to be decided. In a country where 1/3 of the adult population smokes, the smoking ban has created quite a stir and will undoubtedly continue to be an issue. Non-smokers can be pleased that most places are smoke-free and people that do smoke can still enjoy a cigarette after dinner or with their drink in smokers clubs or designated rooms.