If you were planning on coming over to Monte Carlo to enjoy a cigar while taking your chance at the roulette tables, better do it before Saturday. Monaco is introducing a smoking ban in enclosed public spaces on 1 November, so you'll no longer be able to enjoy your cognac and Montecristo at the table after dinner. If you must light up, you'll have to join the rest of the smokers on the street corner.
The ban applies to bars and restaurants and will be enforced by inspectors who can fine proprietors up to a huge 2250 euros if they break the law. That's quite a lot more than the 150 euros fine that a similar misdemeanor would attract in France. Luckily, the majority of restaurants in Monaco have terraces outside, so if we have a mild, dry winter, smokers may have a little time to adapt.
