What are the do's and dont's of smoking in China.?
I'm going to Xi'an for five weeks, and I would like to know the smoking "protocol," if you will. Where is it acceptable to smoke, where can one buy cigarettes, what are the regulations regarding the sale and possession of cigarettes, etc...
It would be terrific if you could provide information prevalent specifically to Xi'an, but if that's impossible, general Chinese smoking custom would be greatly appreciated.
Best Answer - Chosen by Asker
Smoking is the national past time in China...if you got them- smoke them. There is generally no smoking sections or restrictions...and remember if you don't see a sign you can smoke.
Throw out that "women smoke less" because it's only for Chinese women and not even a rule.
The problem might be finding your brand. They have a few western brands (Marlboro & Camel mainly) but they are often harder to find and more expensive then the Chinese brands (although there are "good" Chinese brands that cost more then you pay for a pack in the US!)
You can smoke in the Taxi, in the hotel, in resturaunts, and most sightseeing places (just remember not to drop your butt at the national treasures it's rude). Most of the resturaunts will not offer ashtrays (unless you are at a nicer one) so if it's a smaller local resturaunt then ashing and dropping your butt on the floor is OK. It's not like the US...everyone in China talks about being healthy but there are no laws enforcing it here. In fact they smoke more then any place I've ever been.
It's also considered good manners to offer cigaretts to friends or people you meet and talk to...it's also kind of rude not to accept them if they are offered. (unless they know you smoke a different 'flavor'- I smoke Menthol so I appologize and tell them I only smoke menthol) If you smoke anything other then regulars then it's even harder to find.
***OH I forgot to warn you (Like the poster above) most Chinese women will make comments (if you are also a woman) about not smoking...thinking it's their duty to warn you...especially students. Ignore them, they don't think before they speak and like to give opinions asked for or not. :P
After about 5 PM I switch from Marlboro Reds to straights, which means some brand of good tasting, unfiltered cigarettes, until I turn in. I' ...
