Since January 1st 2010 smoking is no longer allowed in restaurants and bars in Northern Cyprus. North Cyprus has followed the lead set by many EU governments, the first being Ireland in March 2004.

Although according to many reports Cyprus has the second highest % of smokers relative to population in Europe (the 1st is Holland) but much lower levels of cancer and heart disease than the UK. The reason for this is thought to be the much healthier diet of the population in Cyprus.

Nearly one month on from the ban, Lincguide caught up with James Hayhow (pictured above right with his wife Nursal) owner of the excellent Monks Inn, Famagusta (and cocktail maker extraordinaire) to find out what, if any, difference the smoking ban in North Cyprus has made to him.

Lincguide: Has the smoking ban in Cyprus made much difference to trade in the last few weeks at Monk’s Bar?
James: Not really but the atmosphere has changed now people are outside more.
Lincguide: Do you think it will be a good thing for North Cyprus?
James: Anything that will improve peoples health is good, but this Government should put huge taxes on the cigarettes to make them four times the current price. That would stop people smoking and not just move them into the street.
Lincguide: Are customers happy about the ban?
James: No, not really they have to go outside now, it will be ok in the summer but sometimes it can be a bit chilly this time of year.
Lincguide: What about the staff?
James: They are very happy the atmosphere is much cleaner and clearer now, none of the staff smoke so they are pleased with the new law. I don’t think it will stop people smoking but maybe less people will have to put up with passive smoke.

Its probably still a bit too early to tell if the ban will make a significant difference to life in Northern Cyprus, unlike life in the UK, the beautiful weather in Northern Cyprus means more time is spent outside and if you smoke the ban probably wont affect you too much if you really want to do it. However it is good to see the Government taking the initiative with this ruling and it can only send out a positive message to everyone living in Northern Cyprus. The question still remains though on how strictly the ban will be enforced.

Footnote:
Good news if you like a flutter and a smoke. The Casinos In Northern Cyprus have been allowed to specify designated Smoking areas inside their premises. They may make you broke, but at least you can smoke.