Travel companies are making a push for better breathing.
While smoking has long been acceptable in certain social circles, the effects of smoking on your health are undebatable. Now, the “social acceptance” is becoming a social disgrace, thanks to travelers who are fighting back on second-hand smoke.
The airlines started the non-smoking ban in the 1980s. According to reports, Northwest Airlines was the first U.S. airline to ban smoking on all flights in 1988. The other airlines followed suit and soon, travelers were boarding healthier flights. In recent years, hotel groups including Marriott, Ritz-Carlton, Westin, Sheraton and Comfort Suites have banned smoking from their premises (Click here for smoke-free hotels across the US, via USA Today).
Now, rental car companies are imposing a healthier mode of transportation. Starting next month, Avis Rent A Car and Budget Rent A Car vehicles in the United States and Canada will be smoke-free.
“We receive more customer requests for smoke-free vehicles than any other ‘special request.’ This new policy is designed to ensure that we are enhancing the comfort of our customers, which is a top priority at Avis and Budget,” said Larry De Shon, executive vice president of operations for Avis Budget Group, in a press release.
Before you light up thinking no one will notice, consider this: hotels and car rental agencies will fine you for puffing.
For example, Radisson hotels will charge a guest $250 for smoking in a room and the Westin charges a $200 cleaning fee, according to a USA Today report.
Avis and Budget have established new inspection processes and, according to its website, will charge customers a “cleaning fee” if the vehicle is returned with even the slightest hint of tobacco odor.
We want to know what you think: Do you agree with travel companies charging smoking fees?
© Cheapflights Ltd Melanie Nayer
