As a non smoker I would rather be stuck in a room with a bunch of smokers than stuck in a room with a bunch of drunks.

Tough smoking laws or the lack thereof do not determine the destination for me. However, it does determine the hotel I stay in and the restaurant I will eat in.

And I am an ex-smoker (almost 13 years) and live in California, which is now heaven in regards to its smoking laws as compared to some other states! (Thankfully, most are catching on!)

Crefloors -

Sorry - I was discussing health hazards against random strangers in public places. If drunks become too unplesant in a public places they are removed - I've never seen a smoker removed for puffing away too much - until these laws were enacted. And yes, I know that drunk drivers are a major issue - but this is a driving/legal issue which is finally being dealt with.

I know alcoholics can make the lives of their families hell - we have a family member who cannot/will not be rehabbed and is unfortunately now estranged from the rest of the family - but again - this is not the "fault" of alcohol - and there is no reason for others not to enjoy wine in moderation because one person cannot manage his addictive illness.

nytraveler....I'm sorry also...obviously you struck a "cord". I agree with you and didn't meant to snap at you.