There's a new 'free' Bubbly in Paris

Free fizzy, sparkling water. From a fountain?

The idea came from the Italians and started in Milan. The Italians (who are known as the world’s biggest consumers of sparkling water) installed 215 fountains in the country’s northern regions. So, it only makes sense that their neighbor, France, would try out the popular idea. The French consume about 40 gallons of bottled water per person each year, one of the highest per capita amounts not only in Europe, but also in the world.

The  new water fountains are part of an operation to promote tap water (in a country that invests a lot to preserve its quality), keep Paris green and discourage the use of plastic bottles. Inaugurated in 2010 by Eau de Paris, the first fountain is located in the Jardin de Reuilly. There are more fountains on the horizon, with at least 3 more planned by the summer of 2014.

Leave it to the French, 

Eau la la!

First public sparkling water fountain, unveiled

BTW, if you happen to be walking or biking through Paris and find yourself in need of some free water click here for map of fountains in Paris.