Hookah Store And Lounge Etiquette
As the tradition of smoking hookah has spread around the world, some of the historical etiquette has been lost or transformed to suit new cultures. In every country the proper etiquette differs a little, and some cultures view etiquette as being less important than others. This article simply explains the basic principles of hookah store and lounge etiquette around the world. These tips are for those who travel and want to make sure they are staying within the bounds of local accepted practices in the countries they visit.
A hookah store or shisha bar is quite an upmarket place in most countries. In the United States the pipes are popular with younger people, so smoking has become a lot more casual. But in countries where the hookah is a traditional part of the culture, and has been for centuries – like India or Turkey – it should be approached with respect. That means dressing well and composing yourself when at the hookah lounge.
It's common in Western countries for the pipe to be placed on a table. Don't be surprised to find in other countries that you end up smoking the pipe on the floor. This is a more traditional way of smoking and it is a tradition that should be respected, even if you find it uncomfortable or unusual.
The hand you use to smoke the pipe is also important. Many countries where the hookah has become a huge part of the culture are Middle Eastern countries that have particular taboos and traditions relating to the use of the left and right hands. You are supposed to hold the hose in your right hand. Remember this so you don't end up offending anyone.
As touched on above, you should keep yourself composed and respectful when in a hookah store or lounge. It's viewed as impolite to become unruly or too loud at a hookah bar. The idea is to be social, but not out of control. Don't ruin the experience for other people at the lounge.
Also, be wary of smoking cigarettes. In some places it's fine to smoke a cigarette at a hookah lounge, but there are a few things you should avoid doing. Don't light cigarettes from the hookah charcoals as this is considered to be a sign of ignorance and inexperience by many seasoned hookah smokers. Likewise, don't tap ash from a cigarette into the charcoal.
A hookah store or shisha bar is quite an upmarket place in most countries. In the United States the pipes are popular with younger people, so smoking has become a lot more casual. But in countries where the hookah is a traditional part of the culture, and has been for centuries – like India or Turkey – it should be approached with respect. That means dressing well and composing yourself when at the hookah lounge.
It's common in Western countries for the pipe to be placed on a table. Don't be surprised to find in other countries that you end up smoking the pipe on the floor. This is a more traditional way of smoking and it is a tradition that should be respected, even if you find it uncomfortable or unusual.
The hand you use to smoke the pipe is also important. Many countries where the hookah has become a huge part of the culture are Middle Eastern countries that have particular taboos and traditions relating to the use of the left and right hands. You are supposed to hold the hose in your right hand. Remember this so you don't end up offending anyone.
As touched on above, you should keep yourself composed and respectful when in a hookah store or lounge. It's viewed as impolite to become unruly or too loud at a hookah bar. The idea is to be social, but not out of control. Don't ruin the experience for other people at the lounge.
Also, be wary of smoking cigarettes. In some places it's fine to smoke a cigarette at a hookah lounge, but there are a few things you should avoid doing. Don't light cigarettes from the hookah charcoals as this is considered to be a sign of ignorance and inexperience by many seasoned hookah smokers. Likewise, don't tap ash from a cigarette into the charcoal.
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