I know that Italy no longer allows smoking in any enclosed areas, but I was wondering what do they feel about cigar smoking in public? Do they frown upon smoking cigars at outside cafes etc. Thanks!
Posted by
Calitri, Avellino, Italy (& US - where I live the majority of the time)
223 posts
I've never actually seen anyone smoke a cigar in Italy before...but I can't imagine that would care in an outdoor spot...smoking is still very common stil even though it is no longer allowed in restaurants and bars.
Posted by
Seattle, WA
1317 posts
Someone was smoking a cigar at the train platform in Florence because the smell made me extremely queasy and it took me awhile to figure out what it was. So I'm guessing it's fine anywhere that is outside.
Posted by
Centennial, CO, USA
1895 posts
Cigars, cigarettes...what is the difference other than the smell? Personally, I hate them both, and move away any chance I get.
I'm so happy that Italy has adapted a no smoking policy inside restaurants. However, the street side tables still allow smoking.
All this personal opinion being stated here....no reason you cannot smoke your cigar anywhere in public.
There is no "frowning" done other than from us non smokers!! So if you need to smoke your cigar....go for it and don't worry about what others will say, think....we'll move if we don't like it - as long as you smoke in an allowed area, and not in the restricted areas for the rest of us!
Posted by
OP
Washington, DC, Washington, USA
110 posts
Well, I like to be considerate of others and don't like sitting down next to someone and light up a cigar because I don't know how they will feel. So I usually try to find a secluded place or a place where there are a lot of smokers. I don't want make someone's experience worse or cause them to move if they were there first. However, I do like to have a cigar after a meal or while I'm walking. I was just wondering how many I should bring because I know I won't buy any in Italy because of the price.
Posted by
San Francisco
13 posts
No, they don't. Last year there were still plenty of old Italian guys smoking stogies outside cafes and the bocci alley with their friends. I have a photo somewhere of a couple of old guys sitting opposite the signorina in Florence with cigars at passagiata.
It is worth remembering that you can buy Cuban cigars in Italy. You'll see them in duty free stores, but also smoking stores in the larger cities.
Cheers,
Mathew
http://www.lodgephoto.com/