If you are wondering what the Belediye announcements were about this week, they were telling everyone that tomorrow sees the expansion of smoking restrictions in Turkey.  From Sunday 19th July 2009 it is against the law to smoke inside bars, cafes and restaurants.  Ignoring this law risks a 62TL fine.

The announcements also said that it is not permitted for cigarette retailers to have these goods visible outside their shop.

KTLN sought advice on the situation regarding rooftop restaurants and other partially enclosed establishments.  Our understanding is that if 3 out of 4 sides/walls are open, this is classed as outside and therefore exempt.  If two sides/walls or more are not open it is classed as indoors, and smoking is not allowed.

No doubt we will soon find out how the law is to be interpreted and applied in Kalkan.