I'm told that the cigs are different in Europe. From what I'm told they're much more toxic here. Also, there is a more active lifestyle Europe (for one thing, people walk more) and the diet is completely different. Smoking is a real health issue here in North America because we combine it with so many other unhealthy habits.Originally posted by Britters@Jan 21st, 2004 - 2:26 am
Cute picture...I like that one!
As for the whole smoking deal; people make a much bigger deal out of smoking in the US then they do in most of Europe. TO them smoking is natural, and no one really cares. In fact the idea of NON-Smoking area's is controversial for many places, which could be a big part of why Caroline and Stephanie see no problems with smoking. So whether it is looked down upon in the US, it's not there and it's no big deal.
Also in many places in Europe there is no set age for when buying or selling Cigarettes is ok, so they can't really punish people for selling to minors as they do in Canada and the US (Age 18 in most US States...)
Where I live there is no smoking in public spaces and some semi-private ones too (like there are condos where you can't smoke in the building). There are age restrictions in places in Europe too, btw. Here it is 18.
Anyway, it is a gross habit. I know because I used to do it.
Sean