THE SMOKING BAN DEBATE CONTINUES

I have to say that I am a bit surprised at how much of a debate the smoking ban has become.  This seems to be a very important issue to some Westerners, while other people feel there are bigger problems to deal with.  Down in Soi Cowboy, the smoking ban has been enforced in every bar.  Smokers can be seen having a cigarette outside the bars in Soi Cowboy.  Some smokers are openly displaying their disdain for the new law.  Meanwhile, non-smokers are arguing that it is high time that smoking is banned in all bars right across Thailand.  Non-smokers are clearly saying butt out!  On the other hand, there are smokers who feel hard done by after all these years.

In Nana Plaza, the authorities have not enforced the smoking ban.  Non-smokers should be aware of this fact.  However, in Angelwitch Go-Go Bar they have banned the Thai staff from smoking inside the bar.  This is something of a compromise to the situation.  Customers are allowed to smoke in all of the four Rainbow Bars.  Therefore, rival go-go bars do not want to lose customers to them.  The smoking ban has to be a rule for all if it is going to work. (more…)