The French love affair with cigarettes is well documented, but starting in February French smokers will be barred from lighting up in their favorite cafes, restaurants, and other public spaces.

Reuters reported Oct. 8 that a public-smoking ban that also includes hotels and nightclubs will go into effect Feb. 1, 2007. Even France's popular "bar-tabacs" -- bars that sell tobacco -- will have to comply, although not until Jan. 1, 2008.

Smoking would still be allowed on public streets, in homes, and in hotel rooms.

The French government will pay one-third of the cost of antismoking treatment for anyone who requests it.

Polls show most residents of France support a public-smoking ban.