A CLOUD of fragrant smoke rises above a group of youths sitting on black couches. One of them takes a puff and passes the pipe toher friend. This Middle Eastern custom of smoking fragrant tobacco, called the sheesha, is traditionally favoured by middle-aged Arab men.
But in the quiet lanes off Arab Street, it's attracting young smokers. And the concern is that they're too young. Under the Smoking Act, those under 18 are not allowed to smoke tobacco products, which includes sheesha. But a bigger problem is that some of these teens don't think puffing on the apple- or grape-flavoured tobacco is considered smoking.
They seem lulled by the candy-like flavour, aromatic smell and lack of aftertaste. And unlike pubs and clubs, under-18s are not restricted from entering restaurants which serve sheesha.
There are three places near Arab Street which serve sheesha - Cafe Le Caire, Maz Mazza and Samar.
And one of them isn't comfortable with the too-youthful crowd which comes in droves during the weekends. In the Middle East, sheesha smokers are usually above 30. In Singapore, it's the young who want to try it...
The owner said he tries his best to check the ages of his young customers. haahaahaa Some say they don't have their ICs with them. Others try to get it off their friends who are old enough to smoke. All three operators maintain that they have stringent checks to prevent under-18s from smoking sheesha.
But, said the owners, only those who look too young will be asked for identification . Under-18s who are seen taking a puff from their older friends will be told to leave.
In all three places, there were no signs telling patrons they had to be above 18 to smoke sheesha - although ironically there is a no-cigarette-smoking sign posted at Maz Mazza. Neither are there signs explaining that sheesha, just like any other tobacco-related substance, is harmful to health.
So, aren't the operators concerned that some patrons might think that sheesha-smoking is not really smoking? They've got to be pretty dumb if they don't think it's smoking..
Singaporeans are well-travelled and many have tried smoking sheesha overseas. They know what it is.
Some ppl said this isn't smoking. It's a cultural experience. It also helps you relax. It's like aromatherapy. Cigarettes stink but sheesha doesn't. So what do u have to conclude?..;P
and she speaks @17:20
ALL ABOUT ME
*dearieaNa
*1985
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..ADORES..
*oF course my family
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