Cigar smoking has always been associated with a sense of sophistication, often depicted in films as a hallmark of the refined gentleman. Cigars have been a symbol of style and elegance for many years. Their charm has never faded even when the world changed in many ways. In fact, they've seen a resurgence among young ones who find a unique appeal in the ritual of cigar smoking.
Historical Panache
The cigar has a rich history that dates back to the indigenous peoples of the Americas, who smoked tobacco wrapped in plantain or palm leaves. With time, cigars became associated with high social status, their sweet smoke synonymous with the elite.
The historical significance and the aura of timeless tradition surrounding cigars have not waned. Many young individuals are drawn to this mature and classic lifestyle, often seen as an antidote to the ephemeral and capricious trends of modern society.
Craftsmanship and Connoisseurship
The craftsmanship in creating a high-quality cigar attracts certain people. They say it's art. And they appreciate the meticulous care that goes into the cultivation of tobacco, the rolling of a cigar, and the variety of flavors and aromas that a well-made cigar can provide.
Like a fine wine or a craft beer, cigars have an avenue for connoisseurship and a deep appreciation for quality and expertise.
The Ritual
The ritual of cigar smoking - cutting, lighting, and slowly enjoying a cigar - is a meditative experience for many. It encourages contemplation, conversation, and community. The special cigar lounges and clubs still exist for cigar lovers to get together to share in an experience.
Less Glamorous Facets of Cigar Smoking
Health Risks
Smoking is bad for health, no doubt. Even if you don't inhale, cigars can cause mouth, throat, esophagus, and lung cancers. They can also lead to heart disease and other serious health problems.
Cost Factor
Cigars can be expensive. Some cigars cost a lot of money. Over time, the cost of buying cigars, accessories, and storage items can add up. This can be a financial burden, especially if you smoke cigars often.
Cuban Cigars:
- Cuban cigars are often considered some of the best cigars in the world due to their high-quality tobacco and craftsmanship.
- Prices for Cuban cigars can range from around $10 to $50 per cigar or even more for limited editions or highly sought-after brands.
Premium Non-Cuban Cigars:
- There are many premium cigars from countries like the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and Honduras that are also of high quality.
- Prices for these cigars can range from around $8 to $30 per cigar, depending on the brand and quality.
Mid-Range Cigars:
- These are decent quality cigars that offer a good smoking experience without the high price tag of premium cigars.
- Prices can range from around $4 to $10 per cigar.
Budget or Cheap Cigars:
- Budget cigars are typically machine-made and use lower quality tobacco.
- Prices can range from under a dollar to around $3 per cigar.
Bundles and Factory Seconds:
- Bundles of cigars or factory seconds (cigars with minor blemishes or inconsistencies) can offer a cost-effective way to enjoy smoking without spending a lot.
- Pricing can vary widely but expect to pay a fraction of the cost of premium or mid-range cigars.
Online Retailers and Discounts:
- Purchasing cigars online or taking advantage of discounts and sales at local tobacco shops can also affect the price.
- It's possible to find deals that significantly lower the cost per cigar.
Addiction
Cigars have nicotine which is addictive. Though less common, it’s possible to become addicted to cigars just like cigarettes. Addiction can control your life and it's hard to break free from it.
Social Stigma
Nowadays, smoking is not seen as favorably as before. There are fewer places where you can smoke because of laws. Some people don’t like the smell of smoke and may avoid being around it. This can affect your social life.
Mess and Smell
Cigars can create a mess. The ashes and butts need cleaning. The smell of cigar smoke is strong and can stay on your clothes, hair, and furniture. Not everyone likes this smell and it can be hard to get rid of.
Environmental Impact
Cigar smoke can pollute the air. Growing tobacco for cigars also has an impact on the environment. It uses land, water, and pesticides. This can harm the environment and the people who live near tobacco farms.
Limited Smoking Areas
Many places have restrictions on where you can smoke. These laws are to protect others from secondhand smoke. It can be hard to find a place to enjoy a cigar, especially in public places.
Aren't Cigars So Strong?
Cigars are indeed stronger than cigarettes in terms of flavor and nicotine content. Typically, cigar smokers do not inhale deeply into their lungs like cigarette smokers do. Here's why:
- Flavor and Experience: Cigars are primarily about savoring the flavor. When smoking a cigar, people draw the smoke into their mouths and enjoy the taste and aroma, then exhale it without bringing it deep into their lungs.
- Strength: Cigar smoke is much richer and more robust than cigarette smoke. Inhaling cigar smoke can be very harsh and can cause a strong burning sensation. It can also lead to coughing and discomfort.
- Nicotine Content: Cigars deliver nicotine, but the intent is not always to ingest as much nicotine as quickly as cigarettes. However, even without inhaling, the nicotine can be absorbed through the lining of the mouth.
- Health Concerns: Inhaling cigar smoke can be particularly harmful due to its strength and the large volume of smoke produced by cigars. Even without inhaling, there are health risks associated with cigar smoking, but inhaling increases the risks of several diseases, including lung and heart diseases.
Men Who Smoke Cigars - Smell Good or Bad?
People either love or hate the cigar/cigarette smell, just like blue cheese, cilantro, and things like that. People who don't smoke but love the smell tend to love the smoke, fresh still in the air, or that can cling to their lover's skin, hair, and their rooms.
Not many of them like the "stale" smell, especially tar, the residue left behind in the smoker's mouth.
Why Some Find the Smell Sexy
Some guys are attracted to guys who smoke cigars, and it may be because of the combination of personal scents (pheromones) and the cigar smoke. They can create a unique aroma profile that some find appealing. It's just similar to how some eau de colognes smell different from person to person. It's the man's unique body chemistry.
With that said, there's no scientific evidence that the mixture of cigar smoke and pheromones is perceived as "masculine and sexy". Factors such as cultural conditioning, personal experience, and individual biology all play a role in how scents are perceived, making it a complex topic to study.
In summary, while there's evidence for the roles of both pheromones and aromatic compounds in attraction and perception, the specific interaction between cigar smoke and pheromones, and its effect on perceived attractiveness, would need more focused research to draw definitive conclusions.
To Smoke or Not To Smoke
When you see your loving man enjoying a cigar, appearing cool, and smelling enticing, the idea of joining them might cross your mind. It's natural to want to share interests and activities with someone you are attracted to.
Exploring New Horizons
Trying new things can be exciting and beneficial for personal growth. Smoking a cigar can be a new experience, a chance to explore a new taste and a social setting. However, it's not just about lighting a cigar and puffing away. There's a whole culture around cigar smoking, which might intrigue you or provide you with new topics of conversation with your lover.
Health Implications
On the downside, smoking cigars is not a healthy choice. Nicotine is addictive, and the health risks associated with cigar smoking include cancer, heart disease, respiratory issues, and more. Even if you don’t inhale, the risks are still there. It's a factor that you can't ignore when considering taking up this habit.
Costs
As I already mentioned above, smoking cigars can be expensive. The cost of cigars themselves, plus accessories like cutters, lighters, and humidors can add up. If budget is a concern, this new habit could strain your finances over time.
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Social Implications
Being part of the cigar-smoking crowd can open up social opportunities, especially if your lover is already a part of this group. It could also make your lover feel happy that you are taking an interest in something they enjoy.
Having said that, we all know not everyone appreciates the smoke and aroma of cigars, and you may find that your friends or family members are less than thrilled with your new habit.
Your Preferences
If after trying it, you discover you genuinely enjoy smoking cigars, then it's a shared interest with your lover. But, if you find that you dislike the taste, smell, or how it feels, then it's not a good idea to force yourself to continue.
Deciding to smoke cigars is a personal choice that should be made with consideration of the pros and cons. It's about what feels right for you, what you are comfortable with, and what aligns with your values and health considerations. Your lover's enjoyment of cigars does open a door to a new experience, but whether to step through that door is a decision that only you can make for yourself.
