AI Asks MMC - What Is The Etiquette For Smoking Cigars In Public?

We've started a new series where we've turned the tables on AI.  Instead of us asking AI questions, we've tasked AI with asking US questions about cigars!  

 Before we jump into this topic, we want to make one thing abundantly clear when it comes to smoking cigars in public (where smoking is allowed of course)...

BE RESPECTFUL OF EVERYTHING

When we say “be respectful of everything” we literally mean “everything”.  

Cigar smokers in general are very conscious of the fact that not everyone enjoys cigars.  In fact, only about 3.5% of the population actually smokes cigars!  So unless you’re in a cigar lounge or sitting with a group of others smoking cigars along with you, odds are pretty damn good that you’ll be in the minority if you light up a cigar.  

With that being said, let’s take a look at some of the things you can do when smoking a cigar in public to ensure you’re not offending anyone.

Note:  We all know how the world works.  You’re not going to please everyone.  There’s always going to be the distinct possibility that someone in your vicinity is not going to be happy with your cigar.  But again, we’re here to help you do what you can to limit that.

1. Respect non smoking areas

This one goes without saying.  However, let’s take this a step further.  Don’t be that jerk who is sitting there holding up your cigar and taking a pic for social media next to a non-smoking sign.  

Just as you have the right to enjoy a cigar in designated areas, others have that same right to designate an area to be non-smoking.

2. Respect the people around you.

If you find yourself in an area that allows smoking, keep in mind that it’s most likely catering to those who smoke cigarettes.  Cigar smoke is much heavier and thicker than cigarette smoke so you need to be respectful of those around you who may not enjoy it.

When smoking a cigar, be sure to keep your cigar and the cigar smoke away from people.  Be aware of the wind direction so that you can politely blow your cigar smoke in a direction that does not blow directly into someone else’s face.  

Depending on the size of the location you’re in, it’s also a good idea to ask if the people around you mind if you light up a cigar.  Most of the time they’ll tell you to go right ahead because you’ve started off by respecting their space and the fact that they might not enjoy it, simply by asking.

3. Respect the location.

What do we mean by this?  Well, we wouldn’t suggest smoking a cigar outside a hospital, a playground or a school.  First of all, it's a bad look but overall it's simply disrespectful.  The last thing you want to do is give other cigar smokers a bad rep.  Bottom line…don’t be a jerk.

These are 3 great tips but let’s take a look at some examples.  Here are some common places where cigar smoking might be allowed and how you should approach each situation.

- Beach

You might be thinking, “that’s a wide open space so of course we should be fine there!”.  Well, you’d be wrong.  If you find yourself on a beach that allows you to smoke, you’ll still need to be aware of the surroundings.  

Don’t smoke near others.  Move yourself to the back of the beach and away from people.  When you’re on the beach you have zero control as to where the smoke will go.  Not to mention there are plenty of kids around.  

- Events for kids

Baseball games, birthday parties, etc.  It’s not the ideal place to smoke a cigar.  We will say that if you’re at a children’s birthday party and the other adults decide to have a small herf, by all means, light up.  Just don’t be the only one puffing away while the kids are hitting a pinata.  

Note:  if you’re at a children’s birthday party and you’re the only adult, you have more to worry about than if you should smoke a cigar or not.

In terms of sporting events for your kids, there’s simply no legit reason for you to light up anyway.  Just wait until you get home.  Or, if you’re in desperate need of a cigar, go sit in your car and smoke there by yourself.

There are many more instances where you may have the opportunity to smoke a cigar in public, but we just wanted to touch on a few.  You can take these and apply them anywhere.

We know cigar smokers in general are very aware of their surroundings and are as polite as possible when it comes to smoking cigars in public places.  Sometimes things just need to be reiterated.  But as you can see, with each item above, the common theme is BE RESPECTFUL OF EVERYTHING.  This may be hard for some people, but use common sense.

What other thoughts do you have on this?  Comment below and let us know!