Gadling

For years writers like John Le Carre have used the famous French cigarette the
Gauloise in
their stories. But now it seems they may have to find another brand for their characters. The
Times reports that the famed dark and
heavy smoke from the Gauloise may be going the way of, um, well, going away.

Demand for the cigarette, made by the French company Altadis is “falling off a cliff” as Parisian smokers opt for
lighter brands like Marlboro. The name Gauloises comes from the word Gaul, as in “You have the gaul to smoke Gauloises
in my house!? (just kidding…it comes from the place name), and quickly became a trademark of Frenchness, like
snootiness and body odor (just kidding again!!). The cigarette may not disappear entirely, as a company in Spain will
continue to make them, but for now Mr. Le Carre and others might find another smoke for their characters to
puff.

Here’s a food piece found on CNN dot com on the
Pyongyang Restaurant in
Vladivostok, Russia
which serves quite a bit of North Korean fare and just as much propaganda. Though the
dishes sound rather appealing with typical items like kimchi, bibimbap, and several noodle dishes my appetite turns
with an unpleasant sort of feeling. According to the article the owner, Kim Song Oh has no problem expressing her
opinions towards Americans and the country even while they dine in the establishment. She speaks English very little,
but serves her comments in Russian where she tells patrons she hates America and her views on the meddling of the
country in Korean politics. Fair enough, but it wouldn’t exactly appeal to me if I were a tourist just trying to
enjoy unique Korean cuisine. Knowing this in advance could save you the trip, but if you’re curious and put all
politics aside you can probably have a wonderful meal. You wouldn’t have to worry too much about her views as she
stays pretty tight lipped on several subjects and if you’re American she’ll always say, “Nice to meet you.”