Cigar Smoking Etiquette

Smoking cigars may be a great source of delight in your life, but the gracious smoker acknowledges that not everybody appreciates a good cigar.  With anti-smoking causes still in full swing, the importance of relishing a good cigar while not violating others cannot be accentuated enough.  Remember that while you are smoking a cigar, it can be difficult to judge the smell that others are receiving.  And don't forget that cigar smoke can leave a powerful residue on clothing, furniture, and even the walls!  In order to enjoy your stogie without a heavy conscience, learn to become a considerate and courteous cigar smoker.

If you live with non-smokers, try to come up with a well-ventilated area of your home where you can smoke comfortably.  Although it may be inviting to shut yourself in an office or bedroom, it isn't a good idea to smoke in an enclosed area unless it has a window.  Make sure you have comfortable access to the window.  Don't ever smoke in a closed area.  If you do you are likely to inhale the noxious air from your own cigar.  If possible, go outside to smoke.  Relax on the porch, or any other clear area where you can smoke comfortably.  Get as far away as possible from non-smokers, particularly children and the elderly.  Remember that cigar smoke contains many carcinogens that can be easily inhaled by non-smokers.

If you must smoke a cigar outside your dwelling, remember that a courteous and respectful smoker will only light up where legally permitted.  Do not light up where smoking is clearly prohibited.  The polite cigar smoker will also make sure to smoke in the company of other smokers.  If you are with someone who doesn't smoke, ask his or her permission.  If they consent, be tactful about it.  Make sure the smoke isn't blowing in their direction.  If possible, sit near an open window or space. Also make sure the air conditioner or air current isn't moving the smoke their way and make sure no one around you is eating.  Secondhand smoke from a discourteous smoker is a good way to ruin someone's meal. 

A courteous cigar smoker will also be aware of their ashes.  If you have to smoke outside your home, make certain to dispose of your ashes in a safe appropriate container.  Remember that ashes can easily blow away, especially in lower quality cigars.  Neither litter with ashes nor let them blow near anybody around you. 

All this cigar talk is makes you want to run down to the drugstore and buy one right now doesn't it?  But are drugstore cigars a good buy?